Noddyblog

2006-06-02T15:37:00.000+01:00

sorry it's been a little while since I blogged.
Well Cornwall was a success - the grandparents had a great time which is good. the journey back was long but we survived! It seems so long ago now - time seems to be flying. Work has been busy which has been a real answer to prayer. Decided after a week off that I was jumping the gun a bit and should stick out my current job till I know what's happening with the police.
Had a weekend with Thom in Northern Ireland which was really nice - though we spent most of the weekend sleeping as we were all suffering with cold. Thom seemed to get on well with the 'in laws' and didn't tell too many bad jokes. Thom front is still frustrating - it seems to get more so as he gets closer to God as I can see he's 'nearly there' I know I can't do anything to force it through though so must trust in the Big Man, which isn't easy to do when the heart's involved. It's a beautifully sunny day - had a nice pub lunch today - it's a hard life. Going to bunk off in a bit to go to Beeston for a music rehearsal as I'm singing at a wedding tomorrow - it isn't for anyone I know just a couple from Cornerstone who needed some musicians. Right well I suppose I'd better go and find something to do for the last few minutes

2006-05-12T13:01:00.000+01:00

Well It's been a fair while since I blogged. I suppose I got a bit bored with it, but hey the Sun is shining and I have no work to do (as usual) so I might as well.
It's funny but it feels like life has hardly moved on since my last blog. I'm still no closer getting into the police - could be next year before I start and I'm still struggling with the Thom issues, oh yeah and work is still dull. Actually I'm looking for another job. Feels a bit like admitting failure but I just need to be more stimulated. I'm currently applying for a control room operator job for Derbyshire police - I'll keep you posted on that one. The Thom situation has been a struggle, I've been trying hard to do the right thing but haven't been able to tear myself from him - I guess it's hard to do when you're in love. He's progressing on the Christianity front though, we now do a Bible study together each night over the phone - in fact we did two last night because he is so enthusiastic about it, makes me ashamed really that I've lost a lot of that enthusiasm in my faith. Going through the Bible with him has definitely taught me lots. In many ways he has made a commitment to Christ but he's just looking for that final 'connection' I suppose. Oh yeah I forgot to mention, he's started his training for the MET - he's now on week three. The long distance this is bearable at the moment as he's coming back at weekends but not sure how things will pan out in the future - there's a chance I'll end up transferring down their any way though as they say they might be able to accept my application as the Notts one isn't going anywhere. Next week I'm taking the grandparents down to Cornwall, Abigail and Rob, Dad and Pauline are coming too - hopefully we'll all have a good time, though I must admit I'm not looking forward to all that driving.
Me and Thom are going to belfast last weekend in May, it's the first time he'll have met dad and Pauline, we're both looking forward to it.
Apart from that can't think of much to update you on - oh yeah I'm now a green belt in Kickboxing and an Acting Special Sergeant.
Right I've waffled on for long enough, I'll write again after the Cornwall trip.

2006-01-24T11:42:00.000Z

sorry I've been a bit of a hopeless blogger in the last few months - not sure why, just laziness I suppose.
I'm full of cold yet again so feeling rather shattered and unmotivated today - I think I'm going to go home to bed at lunch time.
Well I had a tough weekend, I've been stressing about the Thom situation for the past few weeks so decided that I had to break it off. It was a really hard decision to make but I have peace that I've done the right thing. I always had a policy of not going out with non-Christians so by breaking that I wasn't being true to myself and my faith. I think Thom's found it hard, afterall how can I expect him to understand but fortunatley we're still communicating well and he's still earnestly looking into Christianity. Sometimes the questions he asks and the things he says about Christianity sound like something a mature Christian would say let alone a non-believer. I've found some of it rather challenging actually in regards to how he talks about prayer and spending time with God etc. I have real hope that in his own time he will come to true faith - a day when i will join heaven in celebrating! I know that him becoming a Christian won't mean an instant fix on our relationship but I do have hope that all will work out for the best.
I've had a bit more of an update on the police situation. They've run out of money again so I won't be having my fitness test till the next financial year (which will be from April) so because of that delay I probably won't be starting my training till the Autumn. I feel ok about it, I do trust completely in God's timing - I'll just have to try and work my hardest in the mean time despite the frustrations.
Right well I'm going to go as I feel really rough.
Take care yall

2006-01-05T14:03:00.000Z

sorry I've not blogged in a while, things have been a bit of a whirlwind.
Despite all my doubts and fears I found out before Christmas that not only did I pass my centrex Police assessment but I got the highest marks! Obviously i was dead chuffed and it really compensated for the fact that I managed to crash my car the day before (lapse of concentration=me not giving way at mini roundabout=old guy crashing into the side of me). The car is still in the garage but fortunately I've got a courtesy car so it hasn't caused too much disruption. I still have no idea when I'll actually start my training as a copper. I've got to wait for my fitness test and have all my medical and security forms processed. I reckon it'll be about 6 months. It makes things rather awkard though as i can't plan any holidays or anything.
I had a lovely Christmas in Northern Ireland with the family. Dad and Pauline's new house is amazing - it definitely has the wow factor. Aunty Mim, Grandmother and Grandfather were over too and I saw Pauline's extended family on boxing day which was nice. Unfortunately for the family they were subjected to me being a bit of a soppy mess as I managed to fall in love over Christmas, Tom is a special constable, we did a few shifts together in the two months before christmas and kinda fell head over heals. There is just one major snag for the both of us - he is'nt a Christian. So having a policy not to go out with non-Christians is rather awkward. he's seriously looking into Christianity though and seems to be making exciting progress, he's reading loads of books and is going to attend an Alpha style course in February. We've decided that we'll give it till April and if it isn't right and/or if he can't make the commitment to Christ etc we'll have to walk away. Before you think I'm a monster he came up with April not me and we've been very open and honest in our discussions about it all. We're both praying that it'll work out obviously as we're rather besotted with each other. I'll keep you posted.
Right I'd better go and find something to do!

2005-12-08T09:40:00.000Z

sorry I've not blogged for a while - not felt very inspired.
well Tuesday was D-Day - my Centrex police assessement. It was really horrible and I have absolutely no way of knowing how well/badly I've done. I'll probably get the results in the New year. The assessement lasted 5 hours. We started with two written exercises which were writing two proposal documents as if you were a customer servcies rep - i didn't finish the first one and the second one wasn't very good. We then had maths test. Then we had four roles plays which were horrendous - I think I did really badly in the first two. Then we had an interview which lasted for 20 mins (4 questions 5 mins each) the questions were horrible and couldn't even use examples from my application form. All in all I didn't feel that i was able to show all my skills - whether it was enough to pass I don't know. Everyone who came out of there felt the same...not a nice experience at all. I'm just going to have to try and forget about it until I get the results.
This week has been manic and I'm exhausted. Out every night again, tomorrow is our Specials Christmas social, sat is cool kids carols (at church) sun afternoon rehearsing for mulitmedia carols, then the servcie then about 30 people are coming round to mine - I have no idea when I'll be able to get my house sorted, decorations up and food shopping done. I'm so glad I've got monday off as I'll need it to collapse in a heap.
On Sunday I'm doing my first ever solo at cornerstone and I know I've got a cold developing so really praying hard that my voice lasts.
I have absolutely no work to do this morning which is so frustrating!!!

2005-11-16T15:11:00.000Z

Well I'm having an incredibly boring day not helped by the fact that despite two early nights I'm still absolutely exhausted after the weekend in London. I had a fantastic time in London, I met Andy's new girlfriend June who is stunning and just so lovely! we ate at her Thai restaurant which was amazing food. On Sunday we watched the rugby in the pub, had Sushi in the evening and then went out. It was a friend of Mike's birthday do so we went to a bar/club/boat on the thames which was cool. unfortunatley I didn't get to bed till about 2.30 and had to be up at 7.30 I kept waking every half hour as I was paranoid about not waking up in time. I managed to get to horse guards parade at 8.45 unfortunately it was only after 2hours and crying in front of a stunning Met officer that I figured out I was in the wrong place and couldn't get where I needed to be. I found grandma just in time for the one minute's silence. The parade was very moving and I'll definitely go again next year. Prince Charles smiled at me as he walked past - I'm not a Royalist really but I do have respect for how he handled him self and showed honour to all in the parade.
Apart from that not much going on - me and Nicola have to start the process of fighting for the sgts post this week - it's far from ideal and our superiors aren't too happy we're both going for the same place but I still feel like I've made the right decision.
Tonight I'm going to Debenhams to attempt some Christmas shopping - I'm not exactly looking forward to it!

2005-11-08T09:23:00.000Z

Well I had a rather good weekend actually. Had a quality shift on Friday night - loads of red jobs and even a miny scrap which was fun - also got asked out by the bloke we were scrapping with (once he'd calmed down) he said he'd leave his wife and girlfriend for me - I'm suprised I turned him down really. On Saturday I had a really relaxing day - didn't get out of my PJ's till 2! did a bit of cleaning and xboxing then did firework patrol in the evening. Very nearly had a brilliant scrap with about 30 youths but boringly they decided to disperse!
On Sunday morning I looked after a bunch of miserably babies at church then had a very greedy lunch with Pete, slept in the afternoon (which is becoming a bit of a Sunday habit) then sang in the evening and then went to Pete's for dinner.
last night I went Kickboxing which I really enjoyed - I'm definitely improving, managed to kick somone in the head and then I managed to do a spinning hook kick!
Apart from that I'm still waiting for my assessment data and pack I know some people got theirs last Friday so I'm beginning to get a little bit stressed as it's less than a month to go now!

2005-11-03T13:20:00.000Z

I did actually blog on Monday however my computer decided to mess up at just the wrong moment and I couldn't be bothered to type it all again!
Well the weekend was hectic but good. had an amazing shift on saturday - lots of speeding to jobs and a scrap - fortunately/unfortunatley I didn't get into the scrap myself but it was definitely an interesting one - unfortunately the officer I was crewed with broke his thumb so he'll be off work for at least 6 weeks - I felt awful for him.
On Sunday i went to see grandma for her birthday - Masha and Dave came too which is good.
Monday had kick boxing where I over did it and nearly feinted - I did spar with Ian the instructor and didn't get bashed too much though so I'm definitely improving.
Tues night Nicola came round, there's likely to be another sgts job so hopefully that problem's sorted.
Last night I stayed in and didn't really do much - I even had a go on the Xbox, I attempted to play Halo for the first time but couldn't quite figure out the moving and looking thing being on two different controls - not easy. It was very weird chilling - it was good though.
Tonight I'm leading Bible study - we're going through the ten comandments and I get to do 'do not commit murder'.
Yet again I have managed to land the role of Special Social Coordinator - we're going for a meal this year (one of 4 socials I'll be attending) which should be nice - hopefully I wont' get too stressed organising it all.
I have absolutely nothing to do today as everyone else is off - again- so I'm going to sit and do some practice police recruitment tests - shh don't tell anyone!

2005-10-27T14:10:00.000+01:00

i'm amazed at how time is flying at the moment - It's november next week - and it's soon be 2006 - it feels like we only celebrated the new millenium last year!
Well Henry has been a real source of entertainment - I do really like him and he's been entertaining but I don't think I'll get one of my own just yet - I've been hardly able to see him with being out too much.
Had specials training last month. They've asked me to apply for special sargent which I am thrilled about but could cause problems as they only need one for St Anns and Nicola who is at the same station as me joined the same time and would probably want to do it too. She's having a rough time as she found out she failed her assessement for S.Yorks yesterday - dont' want this to make things worse for her. What to do!!!! it also bothers me that I might take on the role and then leave after a few months to join the regulars - then again if I dont' get into the regulars I'll really want the sgt post to keep me occupied for the next couple of years - what a dilema!!!

2005-10-20T09:48:00.000+01:00

I had a great weekend with the girls. Rebekah, Ruth and Helen came over from NI. We ate loads of good food when shopping and when out to some bars. Unfortunately they didn't have the nicest welcome to Nottingham club life as a bar maid rudely refused to serve Rebekah because she couldn't understand her accent! Ruth also got ID'd and they were being really arsy saying her driving license didn't look right - I very nearly got my warrent card out but it was ok in the end.
The beginning of this week hasn't been too bad work wise but today is going to be very dull. Next week will be even worse as the entire team are having the week off with it being half term. i'll have to bring a book in.
I'm looking forward to a new arrival into the house tonight. i've met him once before, incredibly cute and low maintenance. He's called Henry and he'll be staying for a week - it's Mark and Rachel's hamster! by the end of the week I'll either want a hamster of my own or be put off pets for life - I'll let you know how we get on.

2005-10-13T11:20:00.000+01:00

God is good, he knew it wouldn't be good for me to rage so training was cancelled last night :)
So i had another restful night on the sofa. I'm feeling a bit better today. Hopefully I'll be well at the weenend as I've got some school friends coming over from Northern Ireland.
something amazing and totally unexpected happened this morning. I received a letter from Nottinghamshire Police calling me to attend assesment centre at the beginning of december - I had really given up hope of my application going any further with them. So I've got a lot of studying and prep to get started on now. Many people fail the assesment stage - don't know what I would do if I was one of them.
I feel a bit guilty about this happening so suddenly though in terms of my current job, i'll feel like I'm letting them down if I leave within the year, but then again this has been my dream for so long I have to trust in God's timing I suppose.

2005-10-12T12:20:00.000+01:00

I'm full of cold yet again, what fun. It's unlikely I'll be well enough for my grading tomorrow so I'll have to wait another 3 months before I can take my orange - at least I'll have honed my skills a bit by then. I'm just fed up of being ill 3 out of 4 weeks.
I've got specials training tonight. I'm not looking forward to it. I absolutely love going out on shift but there are elements of the administration and how they treat us that are really beginning to wind me up. No wonder they have problems with morale. I know it's daft to get wound up about money but I should have received my £70 boot allowance in April but still haven't got it and probably won't becuase they've run out of money! I have a feeling I'm going to have to be a bit vocal with my superiors tonight and tell them how I feel about everything - bring on the rage of nay! rare to occur but scary when it does.

2005-10-06T14:33:00.000+01:00

Well I still have nothing to do which is getting a bit frustrating. They keep telling me things will soon get really busy I'm just getting a bit impatient - it's all becuase of the restructuring that's gonig off - people are focused on keeping their jobs rather than starting new projects etc. Oh well I'm sure it will pick up soon.
My day didn't start very well - some guy decided to go into the back of the car - fortunatley there was no damage as we were crawling at lights - my neck feels a bit stiff but I think that's paranoia rather than anything else.
Last night we had a house group pub quiz which was good fun but having yet another late night has left me rather exhuasted. Got house group tonight - I'll probably still go as i don't feel Christian activities should suffer because of social ones but I'd much rather go to bed!
Something strange happened this morning - it's a usual practice for me to wake up at 6.30 and then reset my alarm to wake up at 6.45 so I feel I get a bit more of a lie in. Normally I fall straight back to sleep and have a dream until I wake up. This morning I went back to sleep - and didn't dream - very weird I can't remember the last time i slept without dreaming like that - here's hoping for longer periods of dreamless sleep!

2005-10-05T11:58:00.000+01:00

Last night I was throwing coppers onto the floor and grappling with them on the ground - it's a hard life. Don't worry I've not let my sexual frustrations get the better of me - it's self defence training that my mate Keith is running. Hopefully it'll give me a few more skills that will prevent me from getting my head kicked in should the situation arise.
I've got my next kick boxing grading next Thursday - hopefully I'll be an orange belt then.
I got my car serviced yesterday - cost me a whopping £225 as I had break disks and pads replaced. They messed up the tracking though so I've taken it back today - hopefully it won't cost me any more money.
Tonight I'm going to a pub quiz with house group and Masha (Dave is away for work) so hopefully that'll be good.
Apart from that I'm my usual busy self (just not at work). I'm quite disappointed at how slow things are at work at the moment - I was hoping to be busy not just surfing the net all day. Maybe this is God's way of telling me not to give up on the police just yet.

2005-09-26T14:53:00.000+01:00

I had an absolutely quality day yesterday at the Superbikes. My mate simon picked me up on his Kawasaki and then we went to Donnington. We saw 4 great crashes - amazingly all the riders walked away from them unhurt! It's definitely given me back my love of bikes which I somewhat lost after my accident - wish I had a bike that worked now!
Apart from that I haven't got any exciting news to report. I'm trying to prevent a cold which keeps threatening me - so far so good but I do feel exhausted. I'm not really in the mood for kick boxing but seeing that I didnt' got last week because of the shift I did I should go. I've not done any proper exercise for a long while.
I'm hoping I'll be well tomorrow as my copper mate Keith is running a self defense class with a load of other coppers. Me grapling with a room full of men - what fun!"
Work's been a bit slow over the past few days - I even went home at 12.30pm on Friday cos there was nothing to do. My boss assures me it will pick up by the end of this week as the team will be getting there new work programme and I may be getting some stuff passed on to me which would be good - I'd much rather be busy!
Right well I suppose I'd better go and find something to do.

2005-09-16T10:09:00.000+01:00

The police do on Tuesday was great fun although I've managed to get in the middle of some police politics which really isn't good. Went to MacDonalds at midnight and ended up having really interesting converstaions about personality types etc.
On wednesday I headed off to my first ever NHS conference. We stayed at a rather huge conference centre in North Nottingham - it was nice but very soleless the food was great though. And then we had meetings all day yesterday. I didn't understand much of it but I feel I have a better understanding of the work the team does which was the aim of me going I suppose. I was the lowest level person there though so felt a little embarrassed at times when people asked me who I was and what I did.
Last night I was thoroughly exhausted by the time I got home so instead of going to house group I went to bed. Not ideal for me to miss it but rather essential with all the lack of sleep I've had recently.
I'm doing a shift tonight. It probably won't be a late one as I don't like the shift that come on at 12 so I probably won't stay on - saying that I've got my pocket book to do from the last shift so I may have a fair bit of paperwork to catch up on.
On Saturday I have a few errands to run - my house to clean (which is a bit of state) my lawn to mow and my hedge to cut (so not much then on my day off!). In the evening I'm going for dinner with keith (my friend from the police) who wants to grill me about Christianity so I'd appreciate your prayers on that. I've been swatting up on Evolution in case he brings it up - a great resource is a small leaflet that John Blanchard has written on it - gives loads of factual evidence as to why the theory of evolution is fundamentally flawed so I'd recommend it if you've not read it.
I've recently taken to eating pistachio nuts - they are highly addictive yet it's amazing how different they taste according to where they come from. A t the moment I prefer sainsbury's as they're a bit saltier - just thought I'd share that important information with you.

2005-09-13T13:40:00.000+01:00

Well seeing that my sister has nagged me I'd better start blogging again.
It's been a whirlwind the past few weeks.
Had a fantastic week with the boys in Cyrpus, good accommodation, good food, good weather, good snorkely and great fun.
I started my new job the day after I got back. It's going really well. today has been rather quiet but compared to my old job there's more to do and the role should develop as I get to know the NHS and the systems better. It's definitely made me feel more positive which is great otherwise the police situation would really get me down. Derbyshire police wont' be opening up till at least this time next year and I haven't a clue about Leicester - going no where fast!
Tonight I'm out for a police social which should be rather amusing. Fortunately I'm taking tomorrow morning off as we're going to a conference tomorrow night - we get to stay in hotel, have a free dinner etc. It's quite a swanky place with all the usual leisure facilities including a pool. It'll be nice to act like and executive for a couple of days.
Right well I suppose I'd better go and find something to do.

2005-08-25T13:11:00.000+01:00

leg waxing is painful! but the results are good. Just need to pack now then I'm all set for the holiday.
I'm not as good on the x-box as i thought I was - definitley need to get some practice in!
Last day at work tomorrow - weird - probably won't be able to blog after that but we'll see how flexible they are in my new job.
i sent 34 emails yesterday to my internet friend Simon - rather disturbing really (don't worry he was replying I'm not stalking him)
Tonight I'm going kick boxing - I feel like I haven't been for ages. Hopefully it'll be good.
Right better go and type up some more sermons.

2005-08-24T13:34:00.000+01:00

Sorry I haven't written for a while - I've been distracted emailing a random bloke called Simon who I met on a Christian dating website :) Dodgy I know but he's a biker so how could I resist.
Friday was cracking - got to use my hand cuffs for the first time and later on I got to use my leg restraints - great fun!
On saturday I went to the cinema with Pete, Dave and Dave's friend Marina. We saw the Island which despite bad reviews was actually quite good (and Ewan Mcgregor looks very yummy in it).
On Sunday I helped with Sunday school - went for a pub lunch, slept, then went to church and sang.
On Monday I went to the grandparents with Mike who was up for a couple of days, and Dave joined us after work which was nice.
Last night I went to the gym - still not feeling ready for bikini wearing but hey ho time has run out.
Tonight I am getting my legs waxed (joy) then I'm going to go and nick Pete's X-box which he's left for me and I'm going to spend hours away from reality.
Tomorrow I'm going kickboxing and then packing - can't believe I'm going to Cyprus on saturday - it's come round so quick after three months of waiting.
Oh yeah forgot to mention I had a massive bunch of flowers delivered for me today and a box of chocolates. The card simply says 'thanks' and nothing else so I've no idea who they are from - I assume it's someone from church. Needless to say I blushed - don't know what I'm going to do with the flowers - it's a massive bouquet.

2005-08-18T14:04:00.000+01:00

I've just had my leaving lunch at work. I'm not leaving till next week but everyone is away then so we've had it today. Rather a surreal experience but lovely. Peter (minister) made a very nice speech, we had lovely food and then played table football. They bought me an amazing juicer/smoothy maker so I'm looking forward to experimenting with that.
I don't think it's sunk in quite yet that I am actually going - probably won't be until I finish work. Change is always weird.

2005-08-15T11:58:00.000+01:00

These are so funny I had to share them with you. They're taken from actual GCSE answers.

1. Ancient Egypt was inhabited by mummies and they all wrote in hydraulics. They lived in the Sarah Dessert and traveled by Camelot. The climate of the Sarah is such that the inhabitants have to liveelsewhere.
2. The Bible is full of interesting caricatures. In the first book of the Bible, Guinessis, Adam and Eve were created from an apple tree. One of their children, Cain, asked, "Am I my brother's son?"
3. Moses led the Hebrew slaves to the Red Sea, where they made unleavened bread which is bread made without any ingredients. Moses went up on Mount Cyanide to get the ten commandments. He died before he ever reached Canada.
4. Solomom had three hundred wives and seven hundred porcupines

10. Julius Caesar extinguished himself on the battlefields of Gaul. The Ides of March murdered him because they thought he was going to be made king. Dying, he gasped out: "Tee hee, Brutus."
15. Queen Elizabeth was the "Virgin Queen." As a queen she was a success. When she exposed herself before her troops they all shouted "hurrah."
16. It was an age of great inventions and discoveries. Gutenberg invented removable type and the Bible. Another important invention was the circulation of blood. Sir Walter Raleigh is a historical figure because he invented cigarettes and started smoking. And Sir Francis Drake circumcised the world with a 100 foot clipper.
17. The greatest writer of the Renaissance was William Shakespeare. He was born in the year 1564, supposedly on his birthday. He never made much money and is famous only because of his plays. He wrote tragedies,comedies, and hysterectomies, all in Islamic pentameter. Romeo and Juliet are an example of a heroic couplet. Romeo's last wish was to be laid by Juliet.

23. Abraham Lincoln became America's greatest Precedent. Lincoln's mother died in infancy, and he was born in a log cabin which he built with his own hands. Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves by signing the EmasculationProclamation. On the night of April 14, 1865, Lincoln went to the theater and got shot in his seat by one of the actors in a moving picture show. The believed assinator was John Wilkes Booth, a supposedly insane actor. This ruined Booth's career.

27. Beethoven wrote music even though he was deaf. He was so deaf he wrote loud music. He took long walks in the forest even when everyone was calling for him. Beethoven expired in 1827 and later died for this.

2005-08-15T10:06:00.000+01:00

Against all the odds the BBQ was a success on Sat night. There were moments of great hillarity as we huddled under the gazebo under torrents of rain. Only 8 people came but in the end that worked out really well as we all just had a laugh as a big group rather than having lots of seperate little groups. We were being rather loud and silly till about 2.30am (poor Debbie!) we ended up doing loads of monty python qoutes - and then watched monty pyton - quality. I had two marriage proposals and lots of hugs so it was definitely a feel good evening :)
Unfortunately I didn't get much sleep as a bout of food poisoning meant I had to race to the toilet every half hour - nice! I've still got bad stomach pains which isn't good.
On Sunday Pete cooked me a lovely lunch, he then headed off back down south and I went back to bed! In the evening I was singing at church and Keith, one of the coppers came which was great - he didn't seem too uncomfortable with it all.
Well this is my last ever Monday at Cornerstone as I'm taking next monday off. It hasn't really sunk in that I'm finishing next Friday - weird. Need to do some serious dieting over the next two weeks in preparation for my holiday - I've eaten too many potatoes recently - not good!

2005-08-12T11:55:00.000+01:00

Well last night was another busy night.
Got home and mowed the lawn and wrestled with a thorny hedge. Took the stuff to the tip, then went to B&Q bought bark chippings and a BBQ. Got fish & chips (naughty I know - especially as I shall be wearing a Bikini in 2 weeks time!) ate fish and chips. Went into garden and put down bark chippings (while it was raining). collapsed in a heap. So from the point I left work I only sat down while eating my dinner! My efforts in the garden in preparation for tommorrow's BBQ will probably be wasted as it's forecast thundery showers so we'll all be huddled in my house rather than enjoying the garden. Oh well I have no control over the weather so I suppose I shouldnt' stress about it.
I'm looking forward to tonight's shift - we're going to be harrassing taxi drivers in town - what fun!

2005-08-10T10:48:00.000+01:00

Last night I watched Britains 10 worst and 10 Best places to live. Some how I wasn't suprised when Nottingham came second worst behind Hull. Apparently the QMC hospital deals with more gun shot wounds than anywhere else in the UK. The strange thing is that it really doesn't bother me, I do really love Nottingham. Yes it has major crime problems but they genuinely don't affect good people (well apart from burglaries). It's generally the case that those already involved in crime will be shot, not your average Jo bloggs on the street.
I'm absolutely exhausted today - still not sleeping great. I'm getting the hours but I'm having loads of mad dreams - not particularly horrific but they're not letting me get good rest.
Oh well you've got to keep going I suppose.

2005-08-09T16:54:00.000+01:00

Last night I got kicked in the head by a gangly 13yr old - I think I need to improve my sparring guard! Still loving kickboxing but they're certainly not holidng back and treating me like a beginner any more - thank the Lord for pads and mouth guards.
Well tonight I am going to the gym for a couple of hours, then I have a shed load of cleaning and washing to do. My house always goes to pot when I have DIY to do, also need to finish off the sealent on the lino in the toliet and do a few touch ups on the paint job -oops.
Tomorrow I'm popping over to the grandparents after work to pick up a small gazebo they've bought for me (ideal for my bbq on sat).
I'm not sleeping very well at the mo so I'm rather knackered - roll on the weekend as I always say.

2005-08-08T14:53:00.000+01:00

God is so good! We left the house at 8.30am on Saturday to travel down to Poole. The journey was going incredibly well and then two hours before the wedding we hit traffic. Needless to say we were 1/2 an hour late for the wedding (which started at 1.30) and missed all the important bits. So why is God so good? Well normally I get incredibly stressed about being late, added to this the three other people in the car had yet to change into their wedding outfits. This led to God prompting the three to change in the car whilst moving. Oh it was very funny - just the thing to keep me light hearted in that stresfful situation. It even involved swapping over drivers so my mates husband (who had been driving part of the way) could change as I drove.
On the way back we new we couldn't have the same hillarity due to the fact we didn't need to change so whilst stuck in traffic yet again God provided the most chav tastic cars to pass by as we abled on in first. How how I laughed at the incredibly huge spoliers on old ford escorts and dustbin sized exhausts on novas - it was great. That is why God is so good - he kept us safe and entertained on two very long car journeys!
The wedding itself was nice although dampened by my extreme exhaustion. I've been to so many weddings now they seem rather formulaic which is a bit of shame but there we go.
Well this morning I laid the lino in my bathroom toilet - again the edges aren't great but after I'm put down translucent sealent I'm hoping nobody will notice. I'm quite proud that my stubborn and independent nature has paid off once again. I've even become a dab hand at removing doors and putting them back on again by myself! Who needs a man when you've got skills like mine!!!!
My network is down at work so I have internet but nothing else so I literally can do no work today - or check my emails - rather frustraing, may have to go home early at this rate - what a shame. Kickboxing tonight and then a bit more diy and tidying to do.

2005-08-05T11:53:00.000+01:00

Queen of the lino yes I am - just one more room to do. I'm very please it looks really good :)
I'm absolutely exhausted and my back keeps snapping - all due to a rather vigorous Kick boxing session. My mate who is 22 stone! came - he really enjoyed it but nearly snapped someone in two with an incredibly powerful kick! We did loads of sparring, I had the pleasure of being punched in the stomach and on the nose - brought a tear to my eye I can tell you!
Off to poole tomorrow - not packed or anything but I'm only staying over on sat night so hopefully it won't take too long to get myself sorted.
Right better get on - typing up Peter Lewis's handwritten sermons on Revelation at the moment!

2005-08-03T10:07:00.000+01:00

I'm a bit achy today and rather knackered. Did another hour and a half gym session then did a half hour tae-bo session with Gemma. Tonight I'm going to the cinema and not doing any exercise! I also have a bit more glossing to do tonight before I can think about doing the lino. I also need to life the carpet tiles in the loo and check the condition of the floor - could lead to an interesting set back if i need to put hard board down?!?. The bathroom should be ok as there's some old lino style tiles that should provide a smooth surface. We shall soon see.
Finally got a confirmation email about my new job - definitely starting on the 5th. Beginning to look forward to it now - hate to say it but looking forward to that new wage too - fed up of being in debt.
I don't know if I confessed this before but I signed up for a free christian dating thing a couple of months ago - it's called fusion101. I joined for a laugh really and most of the people on there certainly are strange. I got chatting to a Northern Irish cop who seems very down to earth etc, not stunning but not terrible looking. Anyway we've been chatting casually for a while, I don't really want anything from it - it's just something to do when I'm bored at work. Unfortunately he now wants my mobile number and I don't know what to do! Any suggestions?

2005-08-02T10:25:00.000+01:00

Well I collected my new lino yesterday - all I need to do now is figure out how to lay it! I've taken thursday afternoon off, I plan to conquer it!
Hopefully it'll look nice when it's down, hard to tell when it's rolled up in your hallway.
I realised last night that I'm at a wedding this weekend in Poole, I've known about it for a year but somehow it didn't register in my brain so had made loads of other plans for the weekend -what a muppet. At least I have a large collection of wedding outfits now so it won't be a problem finding something to wear.
I think I've found someone to buy my motorbike, it's been stressing me out so would like to get it off my hands. It'll sell for peanuts as it's in a bit of a state but hopefully the new owner will be able to restore it to its former glory. I'm giving any money I get for it to dad - I'm just hoping it covers what he spent to get it over here! what a waste.
I literally have nothing to do at work, this isnt' good, very hard to find things that make me look busy! My replacement came in for her first afternoon yesterday, she seems to be able to pick things up quickly so I don't think there will be any problems. I still haven't had confirmation of my start date for the new job, I'll need to chase that up!
Had fun at kick boxing last night, I'm definitely getting stronger and more agile, have a few bruises and scrapes from sparring but nothing major. A mate from the police is coming with me on Thursday, he's about 16stone and is a 6 Dan (which is incredibly impressive) so I have a feeling I'm going to die!
Right well better go and find something to do.

2005-08-01T12:15:00.000+01:00

Well what have I been up to over the past few months?
* Handed in my notice (I finish end of Aug) and got a new job lined up working as a PA in the NHS
* Passed my competancy questions for Nottinghamshire police for them to then decide they have no vacancies so my application will be binned
* Got my Yellow Belt in Kickboxing
* Did loads more shifts, including one in an armed response vehicle, and one plain clothed operation in the city centre
* Have been taking iron tablets so no colds and lots of going to the gym :)
* Have booked a holiday to Cyprus at the end of August
And I think that's about it.
I spent the weekend painting the bathroom and ajoining toilet room ready for lino that is arriving this week. It'll be nice to have it all finished off, especially as i have a bunch of coppers coming round for a BBQ in a couple of weeks.
No other interesting goss to tell you I'm afraid, life is plodding along nicely. Can't wait for my holiday and my new job!

2005-05-23T10:09:00.000+01:00

I had a great weekend.
Friday's shift was fab. Well it started with my second body which wasn't great but I only saw the back of him and it was only a day or two old so nothing too grim (apart from the smell when the sgt moved him). After that we were blue's and 2'sing all over the place which was great fun. The copper i was with was excellent as he got me to do all the radio stuff which was great for building my confidence. I also called someone about an incident and updated control about it which was good.

On sat I met a friend for lunch in town and then in the evening went with Dave and Masha to see Star Wars. It was so incredibly funny - the film wasn't meant to be but I was in fits. There were lines taken directly from Galaxy Quest (star trek spoof) and elements of a spoof star wars film that a couple of TVB band members did in my house in NI when I was 16 (basically lots of the emperor saying...good, goood!) Lucas cannot direct traffic! - the way he cut between scenes was like something we'd create on powerpoint at church! I'm glad it wasn't mindnumbingly dull like episodes 1 and 2 though. I'd definitely recommend it if you're looking for this years best comedy.
On Sunday I sang at Church in the morning and then had people round for lunch. It's nice being able to cook for a group rather than just myself. They even did all my washing up for me - bonus. back to church in the evening and then home for dinner and a can of strong bow :)

Today I have yet another boring day of work ahead of me, a doctors appointment at 5 to try and sort something out about all these colds I'm having, and kick boxing in the evening.

2005-05-10T16:48:00.000+01:00

Well Masha's hen do was a success.
We went for a picnic lunch then headed back to my house where we drank wine, played twister and then had a beautician come round to give us some relaxing treatments which worked really well.
In the evening we went for a meal and then out clubbing. I gave Masha 5 tasks to do throughout the evening which were very entertaining for us :)
I'm still full of cold and nearly feinted in Kick boxing last night which is not good. I was supposed to be going to a step class tonight but don't think it would be sensible so I'm going to have a night in front of the tele.

2005-05-03T10:19:00.000+01:00

I am absolutely exhausted - it probably has something to do with working a total of 26 hours for the police over bank holiday weekend (with a cold). Yesterday's shift was supposed to finish at ten, eleven at the latest - but I didn't get off till one. I left the station at 3.30pm for an imediate job and didn't return to the station till midnight, it was literally one red job (highest 999 grading) then another, then another, I didn't have anything to eat or drink and didn't have the opportunity to go the loo. Having said all that it was an amazing shift though and wouldn't have missed it for the world. We ended up dealing with a major incident - obvioulsy can't say much about it, we thought it was going to be another murder but the person pulled through thankfully. I saw it all in it's technicolour glory.
Again I got loads of positive feedback and one of the coppers told the inspector I shoud get some special recognition for the way I handled the situation which obvioulsy inflated my ego somewhat. I had two different coppers over the weekend tell me that I was really competant and that people dont have a clue I'm a special so that's been really encouraging.
Well I haven't really much else to say as I didn't really take the time to do anything else over the weekend - daft really as I know I need to get some rest but when there are only 3 coppers on a shift (when there should be 8) and I know they could do with the help, it's hard to stay at home and do nothing.

2005-04-27T12:14:00.000+01:00

I am queen of ecxell this morning - it's very exciting - well a girl's got to get her kicks from somewhere.
I had a fabulous weekend in NI - it was lovely seeing the family, getting tipsy with them and talking about 'adult things' very funny indeed. It was very tiring though so was glad to get into bed at 9.30 on Sunday night.
On Monday I was presented with my red belt and certificate at KickBoxing. I also ordered my gloves, gum shield and foot guards so I'll be able to do some serious sparring soon!
Apart from that not much else going on.
Going to the gym after work and then to the pub with some Specials - what fun.

2005-04-20T09:27:00.000+01:00

I phoned up recruitment yesterday - the forms are being marked at the end of May so I may hear something about the first stage of my application in June - speedy or what?!?!?!?!
I had a phonecall last night asking if I could do duties at the weekend in town. There's been several stabbings and stuff recently in city centre and the regulars can't handle it so they're bringin us in to add more police presence. Stupidly I've volunteered to do next sat night (completely forgetting it's a bank holiday weekend) so I think I'm going to get into my first scrap (or two).

2005-04-18T12:16:00.000+01:00

Well another manic weekend has been and gone.
Friday's shift was ok but a little dull. I ended up having to stand outside a house for 2 1/2 hours while we waited for the council to come and make it secure... what fun!
On Saturday I went to see Grandma and Grandpa in Leicester - Abigail and Rob were able to come which was great. We had a cracking carvery lunch (kinda blew my no potato diet) In the evening I went to a BBQ that one of the coppers from St Anns had organised. I ended up giving Paul (the guy that's unofficially been tutoring me) and his missus a lift home - he was giving me driving lessons all the way home which was rather comical.
On sunday I looked after babies in the creche in the morning and then went to my house group leaders for lunch. They put on a massive sunday lunch for 17 of us (again my no potato diet was blown) which was lovely. I then went home and had a nap - I was great but messed me up in the evening as I couldn't get off to sleep till about one. I didn't go to church in the evening as I felt I needed time out so I had a nice can of strongbow in front of Bill and Ted's excellent adventure - great stuff.

2005-04-15T10:43:00.000+01:00

Well I am now officially a red belt in Kick boxing. I had my grading last night, i got the highest score out of all the red belts and it was the only merit so I'm dead chuffed.
I'm in a right grumpy mood today though - i don't really know why but I keep snapping at everyone. I'm just finding work really frustrating at the moment.

This weekend is going to be fairly hectic (what's new?). I'm doing a shift tonight, then I'm seeing the grandparents in leicester tomorrow. I've got a shift BBQ on Sat night and church stuff on Sunday. I'm feeling rather exhausted to be honest but hey ho that's life.
Right well I suppose I'd better go and find some work to do.

2005-04-11T09:46:00.000+01:00

Well I had a pretty good weekend - though I'm actually knackered now and could do with another couple of days off!
I had friday night off so I went to the gym, came home and watched mindless tele - great! on Sat I drove down to Oxford for Bekah and Joel's 5th wedding anniversary and drove back again. Got home for 7 though which meant I had another night off - bizarre! I watched Doctor Who with a can of Strongbow - what could be better?

Yesterday I went to church in the morning then did a shift from 2-10pm.
It was quite an interesting shift. I started out with an officer who asked me how the service had been that morning which got us talking about church and stuff which is cool. We were called to an RTA, control told us that a 6yr old had been knocked off her bike by a car and could be unconscious. you can imagine the thoughts that were running through my head as we travelled to that one - fortunatley it was a false alarm and she didn't have a scratch on her.
After that I was teamed up with another officer. we were about to go to a job when one of the coppers who had just gone off duty called in to say he'd seen a prostitute who was breaking her bail conditions (she wasn't supposed to be in Notts) so she was arrested. It turned out that she'd broken an ASBO too so I arrested her for that. We had to interview her which was really interesting - the only problem was I was down the custody suite for over 5 hours! it takes so long to sort out such a simple job. All good experience though.
Right I'd better try and motivate myself to do some work.
I hate mondays!

2005-04-05T11:20:00.000+01:00

I am in so much pain todayl. I got a right beating at kickboxing. I haven't been for about 2 months and everyone has improved greatly in that time so they were rather vicious when sparing. I've got an absolutely hideous bruise on my leg where some woman kicked me and quite a few bruises on my arms. I ache all over - I'm so out of shape. I enjoyed it though and I'm doing my first grading next thursday which is rather exciting.

I'm going to the gym after work tonight - I can't wait, it's been far too long! I know I'll be out of shape but it'll be good to get back into it.

My shift last friday was good, no practical jokes were played so I got away with it. It was quite a busy night, had to run out in the middle of dinner and blue's and two's it to a job which was rather exciting. It's funny what's normal to me now, when a first started a night like Friday would have kept me buzzing for ages but not any more. It's not a bad thing, just an observation about what you get used to.

2005-04-01T11:26:00.000+01:00

I'm feeling far more like me today which is great, I've even been singing songs in foreign accents and playing April Fools on people :) . It's probably to do with the fact that I went to bed at 7.30 last night! I did a bit of reading and got to sleep at 9 - just the kind of relaxing I needed I think.

I have a feeling I'm going to be the brunt of many practical jokes on shift tonight but I'm looking forward to it.

Abigail, I know this is probably a stupid question but in those Bill Pullman books you gave me how do you read daemon? I want to get the pronounciation right in my head.

2005-03-31T11:25:00.000+01:00

I went to divisional training last night. We were talking about applications to the trainers, one of which marks the application forms (which I've just handed in). He said that three weeks ago he finished marking forms from July 2004!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This has not made me a happy bunny. Combined with exhaustion, PMT, and darn creche rotas (which are evil) I'm a bit of a grumpy butt today.

I did have some fun last night though. we were taught how to use the new leg restraints. They're used for people you've already cuffed and are on the ground, but are kicking their legs out. It takes three officers to apply then. One to kneel on the offenders shoulder, another officer then dives on the legs (which was the fun part) and the third officer applies the long velcro strips. They are very effective. They were also talking about tazers last night- all operation officers in Nottingham will have them in the next three years. They are a scary piece of equipment - barbs shoot out of the gun, attach themselves into the skin of the offender and then 50,000 volts are pumped into them. I'm sure they'll be effective but I have a feeling some officers will enjoy 'playing' with them a bit too much.

Right I'd best get on as I have loads to do.

2005-03-29T11:49:00.000+01:00

I realise that I haven't blogged in a while. I was thinking of taking a bit of sabbatical but Jen's comment has spurred me on to keep going :) it's nice to know there are people out there reading my waffle.

Last week I was at Word Alive (Spring Harvest) in Skeggy. My house group went so we took over about three chalets. I was staying with two couples and their 2 year olds (two girls) it was lovely staying with them but the early mornings weren't great. I got ill again. I've had this cold cough thing for about 2 months now, everytime I get a little bit tired it comes back - bit of a pain. May need to go back to the doctor about it. The week was good, the teaching was on Daniel and it definitely spurred me on to stand up for what I believe in and not to be ashamed of what I believe in.

While I was away I got a call from the copper who's sort of been tutoring me asking me if I wanted to go to the sgt's leaving do on the Sunday - I saw it as a fantastic opportunity to evangelise. So I went on Sunday, it started at 2.30 in the afternoon! I drove in because I wanted to go to church in the evening. I then joined them again after church which led to good conversations (which was my intention) the sgt was amazed that I believed in no sex before marriage (a very strange concept indeed for Notts police which pretty much like soddom and gomorrah) so we talked about that, we also talked about why good people suffer etc. I also had another cop at the end of the evening saying that he wanted to talk to me more about it when he was sober. I'm doing a shift with that section on Friday night so hopefully there'll be more converstations.

I had a really frustrating shift yesterday. I was intending to do 2 til 10 but ended up going home at 5 because no body was prepared to take me out with them. Sitting in a station for 2 hours doing nothing (i had a bit to do the first hour) is a complete waste of my time and doesn't benefit anyone. I always seem to sit around the station for hours doing nothing when that section is on - doesn't happen with the others so I'm not going to bother going on when they're on again.
On a more positive note I've had my second positive performance report for when I spotted a stolen car so that's been a further encouragement. My application is all in and sorted now so I'm just trying to forget about it becuase it could be months before I hear anything.

Right well I'd better get on with some work. Comments are always welcome :)

2005-03-07T15:11:00.000Z

My house mate has just texted to let me know that my bathroom is finished!!!!!! yippeee I can have a shower tomorrow, I'm so excited!!!!

2005-03-07T10:05:00.000Z

You know I'm poorley when I actually take the step of ringing the doctors and making an appointment...I'm seeing them tomorrow. I know he'll probably just tell me it's a cold and I need to stock up on vitamins but this cough is really getting me down and is rather painful so I thought I'd better try and do something about it.

I felt rotten all weekend...but it didn't stop me doing a full night shift on Saturday night :) yes I know I'm a nutter but I'd planned to do it for ages and I didn't want to miss out. I had a great night, I spotted a stolen car and I had my second arrest. It was for ABH and I had to do the caution and everything which was really nerve wracking. The guy was actually really nice and compliant so he made me job a whole lot easier. I'm amazed I actually said it all right..at 5 in the morning...dosed up on paracetamol!!!!

I'm still working away at my application form. I thought It was pretty much finished till I showed it to some officers on Saturday night. I need to make a few changes, I was glad of their help though.

Right well I suppose I'd better try and get on with some work, should be tucked up in bed really but can't afford any more time off work :(

2005-03-02T10:07:00.000Z

It's official Gwen Staffani is driving me round the bend. I saw Abigail in Sheffield on Saturday and we managed to get 'If I was a rich girl' stuck in our heads...every day since then it's been on the radio - will I never be able to escape!!!!

I think Abigail was suitably impressed with my driving on Saturday...unfortunatley on Sunday it all went to pot and leaving my station (I had been there doing paperwork) I nearly crashed into a police car (and yes I did know the officers inside) because I turned right at a set of lights thinking there was a filter...and there wasn't. I'm just used to turning at those lights at 3 in the morning after a shift...I am so embarassed!

My bathroom still isn't finished...it's really beginning to annoy me now as I know it's not a big job to get it finished...all I need is the screen putting up and the bath panel on...the plumber has gone awol and I'm really getting sick of having to have a bath each morning.

Tonight at training we're revising our Unarmed Defence Tactics...I'm looking forward to it as I think we're going to get practice using the new leg restraints...bring it on! My application form is pretty much finished now. I'm going to get some officers to check it on Saturday (i'm doing a full night shift) and then I'll get it ready to send in.

2005-02-23T16:42:00.000Z

Well I'm back - and I've brought the weather with me. I had a fantastic time in Russia - I've put a couple of photos in my online album for you. It was a very relaxing week and Masha really pampered me. We drank about 5 bottles of wine over the week and watched nearly 30 episodes of sex in the city :) Masha paid for me to have my hair done - it took four hours but was well worth it - people at work said it made me look very glamorous.
I've been back at work for two days and am finding it a bit of hard work motivating myself to get everything done. Everyone's been great though - really made me feel like I was missed which is nice.

Some exciting news is that Notts police are opening recruitment on 7th of March so I'm going to work on my form tonight - I'm rather nervous about it all now that it's being opened again - very scared of my application failing again. If I fail again at any point I have to wait six months before I can apply again (and that's only if they're open at that time!).

Right well I suppose I'd better get on and get ready to go home.

2005-02-10T09:46:00.000Z

over the past week I have counsellled three female friends who have had varying relationship issues - i feel this is slightly odd seeing that I've been single for nearly two years and my longest relationship to date is 8months. Since when did I become an expert on giving advice??? I'm so glad I'm leaving the country for Valentines, I can ignore the whole sordid affair.
I travel down to Guildford tomorrow to stay overnight at my grandparents then I fly out to Moscow on Saturday morning. I haven't packed yet and I'm going to do a shift straight after work tonight...not sure when I'm going to have the time to sort out my stuff...looks like I won't be getting much sleep!

My bathroom is now fully tiled - it's so bright and clean looking, I love it. There's still a few bits to do - like putting fittings back up but it's great. I'm a bit sad that it's finished now as the tiler was the most beautiful man I have ever laid my eyes on, oh well I'll just have to save up so I can have him back to do the kitchen :)

2005-02-03T16:36:00.000Z

Praise the Lord I've made one whole dollar from my Noddyblog shop!!!! someone has bought one of my cheeky monkey T-Shirts - i'm absolutely thrilled. Now all i need to do is sell three thousand more T-Shirts and I can pay for my new bathroom :)

I've felt rotten all week. This is the first full day of work I've done. I've just had a rotten cold really. Hopefully I'll be back to health soon - can't afford all this time wasted. I really hope it doesn't stop me doing a shift tomorrow.

I had a lovely weekend in London seeing Mike, Andy and Viet. We ate loads, drank a bit and did a bit of shopping. I bought a gorgeous pair of knee high boots that I can't afford but seeing that they were £67.50 reduced from £130 I didn't think it was too extravagant.

Right well I suppose I'd better get on with some work.
Buy my T-shirts!!!!

2005-01-24T13:29:00.000Z

Good afternoon
Ugh mondays are so dull - I've been entering names into our new database today - what fun!!!!!

I had a really good shift on Friday night - mostly red calls (ie blues and two's response) which I just love - it's so exciting when you're sitting having your dinner one minute and then everyone's bolting out the door and racing to their cars cos a call's gone out over the radio. We were called to a guy beating up his girlfriend. He had left when we arrived on scene but we managed to get him later. He put up a massive struggle when we arrested him so he had to be CS sprayed. I spent most of the evening after that with the victim while she was making her statement and then I had to write my first witness statement. I was out with a regular that I was out with last week. He's really taken me under his wing and is really great at teaching me stuff so I feel like I'm improving all the time. The only problem is I'm away quite a lot over the next few weeks so I'm not sure when I'm going to be able to go out on shift again.

My bathroom suit is in and I bought the tiles yesterday. I just got a whole load of 15x15 white tiles and then about ten tiles with a simple design on them to add a bit of interest. I've no idea when the tiler is going to come - hopefully it won't be too long cos I can't have a shower till he comes - i can have baths but they're a real faff first thing in the morning - I do love my new bath though - it's a shame I'm not married as you could comfortably fit two in it :)

Right I'd better force myself to get on with some work - I'd give anything to be dealing with criminals rather than databases right now!

2005-01-17T09:03:00.000Z

When I joined the Specials I had a top three of things I'd least like to do - well now I've done them all. I had a child abuse case on my first shift, a rape case just before Christmas and on Friday I saw my first body.

Neighbours had reported that they hadn't seen their neighbour for a little while and there was a strange smell coming from the flat. I arrived with an experienced offer and he could tell in the landing that she was dead. The smell was horrendous - really got to the back of your throat. The officer I was with boshed the door down and went in. Fortunately they let me stay outside till they knew where it was - the worst thing is not knowing where it is and what state it's going to be in. They found her in the bedroom and then called me in. I really didn't want to do it but I knew I had to really. Fortunately she was lying in bed so it wasn't too bad as most of her body was covered up. It was quite surreal as she didn't look human, they reckoned she'd been there about ten days. It wasn't pleasent but I coped a lot better than I thought I was going too. Fortunately I didn't have to stay my mate Nicola and an other officer had to stay there for 4 and a half hours! they absolutely stank by the time they got to the station.

The rest of the shift was brilliant - we arrested a 14 year old that was wanted for burglary and drug offences, I was quized by three officers for half an hour about Christianity back at the station and at 3am we all sound round eating curry together - it was the first time I really felt accepted by the other officers and part of the team.

I'm absolutely exhuasted now as I went out on Saturday night too and got to bed at 4am. I have absolutely horrendous blisters on my toes from too much dancing so not sure if I'm going to be able to go kickboxing tonight.

Right after all that talk of dead bodies I'm going to go and get myself a sausage and egg cobb for my breakfast - my monday morning treat :)

2005-01-04T15:29:00.000Z

Well I hope you all had a good Christmas and new years.
I survived and that was the main thing.
I managed to meet up with loads of friends from home which was great and I spent New Years with Anna in a club where she was DJ'ing which was cool - the highlight of the evening was getting someone chucked out though cos he was annoying me.
Dad and Pauline got me a digital camera which is fantastic - just what I wanted.
I spent most of my spare time scanning in negatives from Abigail's wedding photos - I've put two of them in my online photo album (link top right)
I've also designed some new stuff for my shop - incredibly someone from the USA bought one of my cheeky bo infant T-shirts - sadly for me I hadn't put any comission on it but hey ho nice to know there's some toddler out there wearing one of my designs!
Hope you are well.

2004-12-22T13:15:00.000Z

Next year I'm either going to go away for Christmas (to somewhere hot and sunny) or I'm going to police the streets of Nottingham - I can't be bothered with it any more!!!

I've put a couple more photos online for your parousal.

Well I have a list of stuff to achieve before tomorrow (including packing) but I can't see it happening.
A plumber was supposed to come and sort out my shower but that's not happening either.
I'm knackered!
Hopefully I'll get a good rest when I'm at home.

Haven't really got any other news.

Merry Christmas
Bah Humbug

2004-12-16T09:31:00.000Z

my boiler is dodgy and my shower decided to fall off the wall yesterday - Merry Christmas to me - Bah Humbug I hate being a grown up. I need to marry a plumber because finding one is near impossible! aagghh

2004-12-06T13:06:00.000Z

Well go karting went well it was good fun and my team came second out of our group so I didn't do horrendously. Unfortunately only two people thanked me for organising it so I'm not going to bother going to all that trouble again, that's for sure.

The evening do was good but we managed to lose all the specials half way through the night as they decided to go to the Bell Inn which is an old man's pub and it wasn't really our scene; so me, Nicola and three regular officers ended up going to bluu where there was much fun to be had with sugar and ice cubes - enough said!

We all ended going back to Nicolas and I got 2 hours sleep as I was nattering with the sarge until the early hours of the morning. I had a dodgy throat before sat night but needless to say by the time it got to choir rehearsal on Sunday afternoon I sounded like Marge Simpson. I went to bed at 7.30 last night and woke up at 8.30 - don't worry I wasn't late for work my boss said I could come in at 10.30 as I worked late on Friday.

So I'm completely knackered and still have a dodgy throat but all in all it was a good weekend.

2004-12-03T15:13:00.000Z

two new photos available - see link top right

2004-11-30T16:03:00.000Z

Ok I know I haven't written for ages but I must admit it's difficult when I feel like I'm simply talking to myself - i like it when people anknowlege my existence - but hey ho I know everyone is busy and I need to start seeing this as a simply diary rather than a form of communication.

Life continues to be manic and tiring but I am happy and content which is great.
I'm still loving my policing but am not feeling impatient that recruitment isn't open yet which is rather suprising knowing me and my personality.

Organising this weekend (Specials events) continues to be a nightmare but there's a good crowd going so it should be fun, hopefully it will be worth all the effort.

I went to the gym this morning which is good considering I didn't go at all last week. Last week was probably the most tiring and stressful week that I've had since I've worked here I was a bit grumpy to be honest but hey ho can't be sweetness and light all the time.

I had a fantastic weekend with Rebekah, Helen and Ruth from home. We ate huge amounts of food, drunk wine and did loads of shopping (and talking). We were going to go out on saturday night but were so tired after shopping stayed in instead - boy are we getting old. It was funny at the airport as me Ruth, and Rebekah were discussing our relative broken engagements - I think the bloke sitting next to us was rather disturbed.

Oh yeah and I'm now a chocolate brown brunette - boy do I love change! I'll try and get a photo organised.

2004-11-16T09:50:00.000Z

I am in a fair bit of pain last night - had an hour and a half of Dave kicking me (literally) - boy he's strong! It was a good laugh though and he made me dinner so I bear no grudges. I think i'm getting better but still probably look like a ballett dancing hippo!

tonight I have nothing planned (amazing) so I'm going to sort out some paperwork, phone my family and go to Tescos! Actually that sounds like i have a lot planned but you know what I mean.

I have now become the organiser of social events for the City Division on Nottingham's specials - it's nothing official but I seem to be organising our Christmas social! It'll be interesting to see if I can pull it off.

2004-11-15T13:53:00.000Z

Last night I dreamt that I sang 'My Jesus My Saviour' for an audition for X Factor - as far as I can remember Sharon Osborn and Simon Cowell were quite impressed - Louis Walsh didn't appear in my dream so he's obviously not as important in my subconscious - odd.

Well I had a lovely weekend. We had a concert thingy at Church on Friday night which was a lot better than I thought it was going to be.
On Saturday I met Marcus and Andy from Uni for lunch - Andy paid - nice one and then in the evening I went to the cinema with Pete and Dave and Dave's brother James. James kept asking loads of questions about Christianity which was really cool - as a result Dave and James came to church on Sunday morning. It was a bit of a hard hitting sermon but I was glad they came. We then went for lunch, had a bit of a walk and then watched Takeshi's Castle which is a hillarious Japanese programme on Challenge Tv. I then sang in the evening service which went well. So all in all a relaxing weekend.

I went to the gym this morning which went well - I'm getting used to the 6.30 get ups! Tonight Dave is coming with me to Kickboxing so that should be a laugh.

2004-11-11T09:33:00.000Z

Ben Folds has been postponed till June 2005 darn it!

Went to the gym again this morning - how proud am I !!!!

2004-11-10T11:37:00.000Z

Ok so I've been a bit silly
The concert is next thrusday and not this thursday oops.

i went to the gym this morning before work - how impressive is that!

2004-11-09T10:17:00.000Z

Well Friday went ok.
I did look the world's biggest muppet in my jacket but hey ho such is life. There wasn't any trouble which is good as there was a firearm warning marker! I ended up directing traffic - I was on my feet for about 5 hours so I was very achey by the time we finished.

I went out on Saturday night with a couple of friends from church. It was the first time I've been out clubbing without any male friends - a very different experience. So many dodgy blokes were dancing round us etc - some even were giving us marks out of ten as we walked past! - my evil glare was well practiced - apart from that it was a good night.

On Sunday I had a Chinese lady round for lunch - part of a church link up scheme. It was good but I felt a bit out of my depth as it turned out that she's been going to the JW's - obviously she didn't know what they were about - thought they were also Christians - I was pretty useless at explaining to her what they are about - I definitely need to lean more about it - I definitely wasn't equipped to deal with her questions.

Yesterday I met with my financial advisor - not the nicest way to spend 2 hours when you have no money but hey ho a necessary evil.

Well that's all for now I think - if you're bored at work type 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' into Google and click on 'I'm Feeling Lucky'

Abigail - is there a plan for Thursday night? What time does the gig start?

2004-11-02T08:41:00.000Z

Hi Yall
Well yesterday I went to kick boxing and today I have two bruised, swollen knuckles - how cool is that! I still have a long way to go before I look like I know what I'm doing but it's great fun - and definitely great exercise.

My shift on Friday went well but wasn't as exciting as the previous week. I only stayed on till midnight cos I didn't want to exhaust myself like I had done the previous week. They've asked me to do bonfire night on Friday - this is not exactly something I want to do as it involves being stuck in the middle of a huge crowd, with lots of noise and confusion - i also have to wear my 3/4 length flourescent jacket which is just horrible. Oh well somebody's got to do it I suppose.

Only one week and 2 days to Ben Folds - yippee - can't wait.

2004-10-25T10:06:00.000+01:00

I am so tired this morning - I think it's the weekend catching up with me.
I had an absolutely fantastic night shift on Friday. It was the first time I felt like a proper copper. I had to run up 6 flights of stairs in a tower block cos a girl had slit her wrist and was kicking off - it took 4 officers to hold her down - there wasn't much I could do so I ran back down the stairs to wait for the ambulance - I then had to run back up the stairs! I managed to trip up the stairs so I now have a massive bruise on my shin - very embarassing. Later on in the evening we were passing by the outskirts of the town centre and a group stopped us cos their mate had just been assaulted - to cut a long story short me and Nicola - another special were running around the Hockely area of Nottingham chasing the offender who was rather aggressive and covered in blood - great fun - we then had to run around some more to find the victim who had decided to move! Fortunately we found him and some other officers got the offender. It was the first time I used my radio properly - usually I just book on and off but we were directing other officers to where the offender was etc. It was a bit overwhelming but the officer we were with said we did a good job so that was cool. Loads more happened but I'm sure you don't need me waffling on about it. I got home at 4.30 that night ( I had been awake since 7 in the morning and done a full days work before the shift) but for some reason I only slept till 9 on Saturday morning - It was probably the adrenaline buzzing round.

On Saturday I had a lovely lunch with Masha, Dave, Mark and Rachel (friends from uni) at my local pub. Masha is going back to Russia this weekend so I won't see her till I go to Moscow in Feb so it was nice to spend some time with them.
I then went home and slept for 3 hours. Then my friend Ros came round for a chat and we watched the emperors new groove (which has to be the best Disney film ever!). She left at 10 cos I felt knackered and ready for bed but after an hour I still couldn't sleep so I phoned my best mate Mike and chatted with him for an hour - so I got to bed about midnight.

On Sunday I went to Church and sang for Easy Access (a seekers service which we run every October for 6 weeks) and then drove to Oxford. My prayer partner and her husband have just moved house so me and Ros went down to help them clean etc. It was really nice seeing them but a bit tiring. I was very glad to have Ros with me as she drove on the way back - I think it would have been rather dangerous for me to drive on my own.

So that's my weekend - very tiring but great!

2004-10-21T13:06:00.000+01:00

Well yesterday wasn't too bad, went to the gym with Masha after work. My arms are really achy today but I suppose that's to be expected. I've still got a way to go before I would class myself as being fit but I'm getting muscle definition on my arms which is cool.

In the evening I had a phone call from Abigial - she'd been involved in a car accident on Tuesday night on the M1. Thankfully she wasn't too badly hurt, just a bad bruise on her abdomen, it could have been much worse. It's rather scary knowing that something worse could have happened - life is certainly unpredictable.

Well tonight I am going to give blood and then I'm going to house group, yippee.

2004-10-19T10:41:00.000+01:00

Well I had a pretty darn good weekend. Dad and Pauline arrived Saturday lunch time, we had a lovely day which ended up with a meal in a Thai restaurant with Abigail and Rob. I felt a bit of a Goosberry being out with two lovey dovey married couples but it was enjoyable none the less. My passing out parade on Sunday went really well. The Assistant Chief Constable was great and it was good chatting to him in the inspection. My dad took photos so hopefully I'll be able to put them in my online album for you all to see. In the afternoon Rob and Abigial headed back to Sheffield and me and Dad mowed the lawn which was long over due. In the evening we went to Church, it was the first time I'd been a normal congregation member for months so that was nice (as opposed to singing etc).

Yesterday I drove dad and Pauline to the airport at 5 in the morning! I took the day off so that I could recover! It was a good day really, I met Masha for lunch, we had chinese which was nice, and then I finished off the garden and took stuff to the tip. I then went to my second kick boxing class which was great fun (apart from one over zealous teenager who grabbed me by the through instead of pushing me under the chin for one defensive move!) I ache quite a lot today - nothing a session of Tae-Bo tonight can't fix!

Well in a couple of hours I'm going to the dentist for the first time in 2 years. Hopefully it wont' cost me too much. I had to sign up with a private dentists as there simply aren't any NHS ones taking on patients at the moment.

Well I think that's all my news for now.

Remember - Eat fast - die full!

2004-10-15T10:53:00.000+01:00

I'm feeling rather happy today. It's strange as nothing out of the ordinary has happened to make me feel that way and I'm quite tired. Obviously I'm not complaining is just a bit odd for me to be cheery on a Friday morning! I gave a girl a lift to college this morning. She broke both her ankles about 5 weeks ago in a horse riding accident. I am so terrible when it comes to driving wheelchairs, I nearly tipped her out going over a bump - not good!

2004-10-14T09:13:00.000+01:00

It's funny, when I was a teenager I could spent 16 hours a day watching telly, not motivated to do much. Now I feel like my life is rushing by me and I don't want to waste a minute of it. It's not a negative feeling but I suppose the need to be 'doing' all the time can be fairly exhausting. Last night my divisional training was cancelled, my LAO thinks it's becuase of the murder, all available officers are being used for that. So I had another night of nothingness ahead of me, so I ended up cleaning the kitchen and going to Tescos. Tescos at 9pm on a wednesday is fantastic as there's hardly anyone there. Oh dear how sad am I! Surely this isn't how most normal 23yr olds live?

I'm trying to decide whether to do a night shift tomorrow or not. I'm not sure what the station's going to be like - I hate the thought of getting in the way - on the other hand they may appreciate me being there if everyone's swamped with the murder case - dilemma. There's also the point about sleep, I have to pick dad and Pauline up from the airport the next day so should I have an early night - aagghh just can't make up my mind. I mentioned this at team prayer meeting on Tuesday - My minister is of the opinion that I'm getting addicted to police work and should have a night off. I agree that the adrenaline rush can be quite exciting but I hardly think I'm becoming a 'police junky', after all I haven't done a night shift for a couple of weeks - some of my intake are out every other night - I'm averaging once a fortnight - would appreciate some input on this one - what should I do?

2004-10-12T11:05:00.000+01:00

Last night my 28 yr old house mate decided that she wanted to cook sausages and mash for tea - there was only one slight problem - she didn't know how to make mashed potato - I was completely stunned - when she said she didn't know how to cook I didn't realise how bad the situation was - looks like I'm going to have to give her some basic cookery classes! (she also asked me how to make instant gravy!)

In theory I should be doing tae-bo tonight but I have yet another cold so I'll probably have a quiet night in watching more of my asian TV (for some reason I pick up the Asia tv channel through terrestrial tv). I don't understand a word of it but it's great, I love all the bollywood stuff - far more entertaining that British TV.

2004-10-11T11:20:00.000+01:00

Well on Friday night dad and Pauline stayed over before the headed back to NI on Sat. I wanted to take them round St Anns to show them where I do my policing, I wanted to reassure them that it wasn't as bad as they thought it was. Unbeknown to me, a 14 year old girl was shot dead in St Ann's on her way home from Goose Fair the night before, so I think it was a good job I didn't take them to go and see a murder scene. It's bizarre how something like that can happen in a place I know. It hasn't made me any more apprehensive about working there but I can undertand how my family might feel.

I've now completed all my Specials training which is quite exciting as it means I get my weekend's back. Next Sunday is my passing out parade which should be a laugh.

Apart from that nothing strange or startling is happening in my world. I've not done much work yet - not very good at motivating myself after a 7 day week!!!

2004-10-08T13:26:00.000+01:00

At 7pm last night I suddenly realised that my father and his wife would be staying in my bed tonight - needless to say my room was in an absolute state - so what followed was 45mins of frantic cleaning (I had house group at 8) My house is now in a state suitable for family (I hope) They're just staying overnight before heading up to Scotland tomorrow to catch a ferry home.

This weekend I have training, not really looking forward to it as it's with a group I don't know and for some reason I have to wear my uniform - woolen trousers riding up your arse just isn't a nice experience! Oh well at least it's the last weekend i have to train, it's my passing out parade next Sunday. Dad and Pauline are flying over for it next weekend - I feel terrible that they're making such an effort for a 2hr ceremony! It'll probably be a laugh though.
Rob and Abigail return from honeymoon tomorrow - hopefully they've had a good time. Most of the reception photos have come back - I looked gormless in every single one but hey they're ok for a laugh. Hopefully Abigail's official photos will be nicer - it's such a shame I can't smile for the camera.

I'm trying to sort out a holiday at the moment. I would just love to have a week in Tunisia at the beginning of november. Unfortunately I can't find anyone who can go with me - I can't really afford it but hey what's another 300 quid on the credit card! Hopefully I'll be able to find someone who has got enough holiday left.

Still haven't had any inspiration in regards to dad's birthday - I'm not feeling particulary creative so I need something I can buy (preferably off the internet as I have no time to go shopping) - help!

2004-10-06T15:00:00.000+01:00

Well things have been fairly uneventful the past couple of days. I spent most of Sunday and Monday in bed with yet another cold. I watched Paycheque which was absolutely terrible (many spoof gags could be made out of that film) and Callendar Girls which was great (yes it's girly and made me cry but hey I've got to act my gender some times).
I've also been cathing up on some Father Ted episodes ( I have the entire collection on DVD). Sam shares my appreciation for Father Ted which is cool.
Apart from that not much going on, because I've been poorly I've not done any kick boxing, tae-bo or gym so I'm not feeling too good about myself.
Abigail and her new hubby come home this weekend. Hopefully the reception disposable camera photos will have come back by then. Seeing that I have not got one single photo from the event, I'm hoping Abigail won't mind me nicking a couple.

Ok so here's a question for you - what should I buy my dad for his 52 Birthday (keep in mind he doesn't like sport, he had a wedding list last year and I don't want to buy him a jumper or slippers!) Suggestions gratefully accepted!

2004-09-28T09:30:00.000+01:00

Well my sister is now a married woman, very weird. It was a lovely day, she managed to get all the hysterics out of the way the day before so the wedding day was mostly relaxed and calm. Jen and Rachel did such a fantastic job, they worked so hard putting everything together - true stars! Abigail looked absolutely fantastic, her dress was lovely, very classy. I think us bridesmaids scrubbed up well too, it was a bit freezing though.
I managed to get a fit of giggles during the first hymn, as soon as I managed to regain control Rachel started laughing - not good. The ceremony was quite funny, the vicar was a bit of a Mr Bean character - he also asked that the Lord would bless Abigail and Rob with many children which made everyone who knows Abigail (and her hate of children) laugh to themselves.

Last night was great, I went to a kick boxing class. They're run by a guy I do Specials training with. We had to do sparring which was rather intimidating at first but great fun. It was quite funny because the massive and incredibly strong blokes took it incredibly easy on us but when us girls started on each other it was vicious. The class is for adults and children. I wasn't too sure what I felt about Ian teaching these kids how to fight but seeing the discipline he insists they have, and the control they have I think it's really positive. I won't tell my boss though, don't think he approves of me kick boxing he he. Hopefully God doesn't mind me doing it, It's such good exercise and great fun - it's not about hurting other people but about controlling your body etc.

Last night I had a horrible spider incident. I was about to go to bed and there it was, sitting on my floor - it was massive. I know girls always say that but it was. I managed to get a glass over it etc and took it down stairs. I opened the back door and walked out - to my horror right into a cobweb that had been spun the entire width of the door - aagghh, the stuff of nightmares I tell you!!!

2004-09-14T11:08:00.000+01:00

Well I'm beginning to feel a bit jaded with the whole blogger thing. I suppose it's because I feel I need people to spark off people and everyone seems rather quiet at the moment. It appears that the good old days of 20 comments on a blog article have faded. Maybe it's because I have nothing of interest to say.

I'm going to Newark this afternoon for my 'hair rehearsal' with Abigail and Jen. Hopefully I'll be able to find the place ok. Need to fill up my car with diesal before I go - darn the car and the money I spend because of it!!!
My financial adviser called yesterday. My discounted mortgage needs to be changed in December. This is not something I'm looking forward to. I'm living hand to mouth as it is. I can't really face the prospect of my mortgage payments going up as well. I'm fed up of being a grown up - it's expensive! If things continue the way they are I may have to take up a second lodger. This isn't something I really want to do because my third bedroom is quite a small room and I like having it for guests. I also don't want the house to feel crowded. I'll have to do something though if my money situation stays the same. Darn it I wish I could join the regulars tomorrow - I'd be able to afford to live then!
Oh dear this has turned into a bit of a moan, I'd better shut up before i depress myself.

2004-09-08T13:04:00.000+01:00

ugth, I'm finding it so hard being at work at the moment. I'm finding it incredibly dull - i'm just itching to joing the regulars but I know it will take a while. I'm not very good at being patient.
Me and Sam had fun last night doing Karaoke on her computer, it records your voices - very funny. We made up a song about our biterness over youth club which was very funny but has now been going round my head for most of the day - very annoying!
I'm going to go to the gym after work but apart from that have no plans. BORED BORED BORED
Viet my mate from Uni came up yesterday so we met after work. It's always nice catching up and he even paid for my dinner which was a bonus. I'm so incredibly broke at the moment which isn't funny. I'm over £300 overdrawn and have over £1000 on my credit card. I just have more going out than coming in at the moment - I hate it when I'm in debt - find it really depressing. Not sure how I'm going to get out of this financial slog - can't wait for the police pay, it'll make a nice change :)

2004-09-06T11:02:00.000+01:00

hi Yall
Well I'm back at work after a week off. It was generally a good week. Got a bit done in the garden. Did a day shift with the police and went to Alton Towers with Masha and Dave which was a really lovely day. I went to Sheffield on Friday night, Abigail's hen do was on the Sat - it was a really lovely day and I even got a sparkly cow boy hat! Then I drove back to Notts and did a day shift yesterday cos there was an event on. It was a fairly quiet shift though.
The low points of the week were having a row with my ex who now isn't speaking to me (long story) and losing the keys to my shed which is rather stressful as my bike keys are on the same ring and I also can't open my side gate to put my bins out. Unfortunately the whole polava is related to the fight I had with my ex so I don't know if they'll ever be found - praying very hard that they turn up
Not much else is going on. I really want to get out of this job now - the more shifts I do the more I want to join the regulars - I know I'll need patience though as that will be a long process!
Right well I suppose I'd better get on with something - yawn!

2004-08-23T11:27:00.000+01:00

This is my 100th post - boy I know how to waste time at work.

Well my shift on Friday was another eventful evening as a Special constable. I had to go and tell a woman that her son had been stabbed in Sheffield and while we were there she had a phonecall to say that he had died. We were there for about two hours trying to calm her down etc - I felt a bit helpless really but I coped better than I thought I would in that kind of situation. I spent most of Saturday feeling quite down while I processed it all but I think I'm ok now. My colleagues were very supportive - everyone's joking now that they don't want to do shifts with me because I attract all the big stuff. That's twice now I've had to do stuff that experienced officers haven't done before and I've only done three shifts - what's next????

On Saturday I went to Masha and Dave's for BBQ which was nice. On Sunday I went to church and then drove to Sheffield to see Abigail which is brief but nice. I'll be up again in a couple of weeks for the hen night - boy time is really flying by.

Tonight I am braving the wilds of evil Ikea. I've managed to avoid going there for 2 years, but I'll be brave I'll fight the temptation to spend money I don't have on stuff I don't need simply because It's a bargain!!! I might go to the station later to write up my pocket book from Friday night too. I also need to start working on my application to the regulars - not looking forward to doing those competancy questions again.

Right I'm going to go and do some faffing

2004-08-20T10:34:00.000+01:00

Well despite my attempts to go to bed early last night I still couldn't get to sleep till about 11.30 - not good. I think I'm going to be a danger to the people of Nottingham tonight.
Watched SWAT again last night - I just can't get enough of Colin Farrell in uniform.
Sam brought an injured bird home last night that the kids at youth club had found. Unfortunately it was dead by this morning so we'll have to have a little funeral for it later.
I've decided to spend most of tomorrow in bed and catching up on odd jobs around the house and taking stuff to the tip. I'm going to go to Sheffield on Sunday after church. First time up the Motorway by myself but I should be ok.
Right i should get on.

Interesting fact: girls can't put their elbows together behind their backs
I discovered this while my mates were trying to perve on my chest - apparently it's a well known means of doing so - fortunately I didn't fall for it :)

2004-08-19T15:11:00.000+01:00

Just did this as on Alex's site - it is the most accurate personality test I've done - I don't really like what it says about me but I think it's scarily true - arse!!!!

You are a WECF--Wacky Emotional Constructive Follower. This makes you a Candle burning at both ends.

You work until you drop, and you play until you can stand to work again. You have so much enthusiasm that you can find it hard to control on your own, and you appreciate the guidance that channels your energy and lets you be your best.

In a relationship, you require lots of attention and support. You often over-contribute and end up feeling depleted and cheated. You may benefit from more time alone than you grant yourself.

Your driving force is the emotional support of others--especially affection. You can run on empty for miles if you have positive energy behind you. Without it--as it occasionally must run dry--you are depressive, listless, and difficult to motivate.

You need a lot of affection. Get it any way you can, but never at the cost of your self-respect or well-being.

Of the 974 people who have taken this quiz since tracking began (8/17/2004), 7.8 % are this type.

2004-08-19T14:02:00.000+01:00

I'm incredibly exhausted and incredibly bored but hey what's new.

I spent most of yesterday afternoon decorating the church office. A process that has been going on for over a week now. I just got the walls done and then two hours later we had a massive down-poor including hail stones. Needless to say the recently fixed roof wasn't fixed very well cos is started to leak again and water dripped down my newly painted walls - sods law or what.

In the evening I had divisional training at Central police station. We were doing about Handling Stolen Goods. I find the law quite interesting actually - with all the defences and points to prove etc. I was determined to get an early night last night so I decided not to go to the pub after training like I normally do - however I bumped into Robin from house group outside the station. I offered him a lift home cos he doesn't have a car and ended up going to his for a cup of tea. Me, Robin and Edwin his house mate sat till 11 discussing life the universe, and a member or our housegroup who'se decided to go out with a non-Christian, currently going through re-hab.

I've been out every night this week - and most nights last week. I'm absolutely shattered. I'm supposed to be going out tonight with people from house group but I really think I need a night in and an early night - especially as I'm doing a night shift tomorrow and going to Sheffield on Saturday to see Abigail - I need some rest otherwise I'll be a danger to myself and all those I come into contact with. When I'm tired I turn into the clumsiest person and my driving becomes terrible. This morning I set my house alarm completely forgetting that my new house mate was in her room upstairs, I also think I've got my contact lenses in the wrong way round (ie lense for right eye in left and vice versa). I'm drinking lots of coffee but it's not really helping.

no hope

2004-08-17T09:20:00.000+01:00

last night was Ruth's last night at my house and Sam's first. Ruth took me to a Thai restaurant as a thankyou - it was an absolutely gorgeous meal. We then got Phish Food ice cream (if you haven't tried it you must!) and Anna and the King on DVD so it was a good night.

Mike, Andy and Viet had been up over the weekend. It was really great to see them, I haven't seen them since March. We're getting old though which is quite sad. Instead of going out clubbing we went for a meal and then to the cinema instead. We saw the Bourne Identity which was quite good - the shaky camera sequences got on my nerves a bit though. The thing I really loved about the film was seeing all the places in Russia that I've been too.

Another thing that made me feel old over the weekend was a trip to subway. I got my sandwich, paid etc and there was a girl behind me in the queue. The girl on the till asked her if she had a student card - she didn't ask me or any of the lads - we must look ancient if we can't pass for students any more - how depressing!

2004-08-09T10:41:00.000+01:00

I had an absolutely wicked night on Friday - my first ever night shift. I got to go with a response driver which was really exciting. I attending two domestics, two fights (one was between a prostitute and a customer) and one suicide attempt. I really felt calm the whole night which was pretty incredibly considering the situations I went into - I really felt that God was with me the whole time. I ended up staying on till 3 in the morning cos I was loving it so much. I absolutely loved being in the response cars - racing through town with the lights and siren on - I definitely want to do that - I'll be able to do it after a year in service - even as a special - so cool. I'm definitely going to apply to the regulars. I think applications are frozen for a couple of months but as soon as they're open again I'll go for it. I can't wait for my next shift - I'm also thinking of taking a week off work so I can see how well I cope with the shift pattern. They do two days, two evenings and two nights and then they get four days off which seems pretty cool to me.

Sam my new house mate will be moving in this week - it'll be good to have a bit of company. My uni mates Mike, Andy and Viet are also coming up this weekend. I haven't seen them since March so I can't wait to see them.

Apart from that I'm sitting in the office very tired and hot - I got hardly any sleep last night cos of the heat. Tonight I'm going to have a thrilling evening cleaning and tidying my incredibly messy house.

2004-08-04T09:21:00.000+01:00

I'm fairly bored at work at the moment so I keep finding funny things on the internet like this
you'll need Powerpoint to open it.
There's also this
which is highly addictive - I managed to get to 26 on the leader board!

2004-08-02T09:48:00.000+01:00

Good morning peeps,
I had such a great time on Saturday, I really enjoyed it. It was incredibly hot though with the stab vest on. I was on my feet walking from 11.30am to 4pm so my calf muscles are absolutely killing me. It was really weird walking round town and being stared at. I also had my picture taken a couple of times, one guy was from portugal and wanted a souvenir and the other was on his stag do - I felt like a bit of a celebrity, it was great.
Yesterday wasn't brilliant, I was absoultely exhausted and Spencer didn't seem very happy with me at Church - there's only so much telling off I can take when I'm absolutely knackered. To be honest I'm feeling a bit down at the moment - It's probably because I'm tired but it's not a road I want to go down again so prayers would be appreciated.
Tonight is my first night in in ages so I'm going to clean and do the washing - I know it's sad but I'm looking forward to it because I hate things being a tip.

2004-07-29T16:09:00.000+01:00

I've got somewhere at last which is exciting but completely terrifying at the same time.
I've got an appointment to meet my sargeant tomorrow night - hopefully he'll be able to sort out loads of stuff for me and get me started on general duties. Also I might be attending a protest march in town on Saturday - that is dependant on how well tomorrow night goes but hey at least I've made some sort of contact. Scary Bickies - prayer much appreciated.

2004-07-29T10:10:00.000+01:00

Hi Yall - it's a lovely summers day and I'm stuck in the office - arse.
Still haven't heard anything from the police - useless isn't the word - I'm just trying to call the station sargent direct now rather that go through my LAO - that doesn't seem to be working either but I'll keep trying. I'm going to have difficulty getting my 40 hours done at this rate!

Me and Masha are having make overs this afternoon- I'm really looking forward to it. We go to this place that does our hair and make up and then we get photos done. Should be a good laugh.

Quote for today:
Guns don't kill people - rappers do!

2004-07-28T09:17:00.000+01:00

Well I managed to get Anna to the airport on time last night - nearly got us killed in the process due to my appaling driving (i was half asleep). but we got there. The really annoying thing was we weren't told her plane was delayed until after she'd gone through to departures so I couldn't wait with her.
Stupidly I didn't go to bed early last night so I'm still knackered - I actually slept in this morning till 8:15 thank the Lord for the car otherwise I would have been late for work. I've got nothing planned for this evening so I'm definitely going to get an early night.
Still haven't heard from the police which is really annoying cos I need to get started on my 40 hours. It's daft that I have the uniform and I'm not being used.
Right well I should think about doing some work.

2004-07-27T09:43:00.000+01:00

oh boy do I feel rough this morning!
My friend Anna from home has been over for a couple of days so we decided to go out clubbing last night. We had an absolutely great time but I'm paying for it now. I've had 5 hours sleep - not good.

I had a lovely day yesterday - me and Anna went shopping. I spent way too much money but it was all sensible stuff (apart from my new boots with a deadly high heel!)

Anna's getting a flight back tonight so I have to manage to drive to the airport without killing us both - I am then planning on going straight to bed as I am an old woman and I can't handle the pace!

2004-07-23T12:42:00.000+01:00

Check out my new link to my photos - there's even a couple of me in my uniform!

2004-07-21T09:32:00.000+01:00

oh how I ache all over this morning. Went to the gym last night for the first time in about three weeks. Masha came with me which is nice - we're also going to go on thursday - hopefully I'll be feeling a bit more energic by then. Felt absolutely exhausted when I woke up this morning - obviously can't handle the pace.
Tonight I have divisional training at Central police station. This is training that happens every fortnight for all the specials in City Division. I'm looking forward to meeting other people and my LAO, hopefully I'll be able to find out who my tutor is by the end of the week.
I'm getting my uniform tomorrow, I'll try and get a picture for all of you to laugh at.

Ok here's the question for today (my attempt to get comments and discussions going)
What is your number one pet hate?

Mine would have to be people leaving their hair in the shower!

2004-07-20T15:09:00.000+01:00

not sure why this: Fart Machine £12.99 (Free Shipping!) On Shop.com appeared at the top of my page - strange!

well today I have consumed:
one bowl of crunchy nut cornflakes
one doughnut
a piece of cake
a few grapes
a turkey and coleslaw sandwich
a yoghurt
half a doughnut.

needless to say I am a big pie muncher!!!!

I'm going to the gym after work so hopefully that will work off half a doughnut. I'm going to take it fairly easy though as I still have a fair amount of snot and not yet feeling 100%.

I organised all my police notes last night - tonight I might bring myself to revise some of them - maybe then I'll feel like I know what I'm doing.

I have £2.61 pence left in my bank account despite raiding my savings and putting in £200 yesterday - damn those standing orders. I need to be paid soon or I'll be in trouble!!!!!

2004-07-19T09:29:00.000+01:00

Well I am officially an old woman.
Last night I went to bed at 8.30pm! and I slept right through till 7 this morning! I obviously needed it. I still haven't shaken off this cold and with training etc I've been feeling rather tired recently.
Well apparently I've now had all the training I need to go on the streets as a police officer - how scared am I!!! I'm feeling totally inadequate to be honest, it's been a long time since I've felt out of my depth. But I suppose that's why I started all this in the first place - for the challenge. I still haven't heard from my tutor which is a bit daft as I'm supposed to be starting this week, I'll have to keep chasing them up.
I saw Spiderman 2 on Saturday. It was definitely better than the first but I wouldn't say it was amazing. It was enjoyable but I wouldn't be bothered to see it again. Saw the trailer for Catwoman which looks quite good.
I'm totally skint at the moment and I haven't been paid because Spencer's been having computer problems - ARSE. I still haven't paid off the carpet - not good. Well I get a paying house mate next month so that should make things a bit easier.

2004-07-16T13:10:00.000+01:00

Hiya
Am very manic at work at the moment.
My shoes for the wedding arrived yesterday all nicely dyed.
Have night off and then doing first aid training tomorrow.

2004-07-15T11:18:00.000+01:00

Just took the animal personality test as recommended on the thingaboutit - turns out:

You are either a Sheep or a Baboon personality.
But you may also be a Beaver personality.

nice

2004-07-15T09:21:00.000+01:00

Hello all
Well I received an interesting email this morning. I thought I was being stationed at Central but they've had too many new recruits recently so I'm being stationed to St Ann's police station. For those of you who don't know Nottingham, St Ann's is the most violent part of the city and is where most murders take place - I'm going to die!!!!!!
What the heck have I got myself in to??? Please pray for me.

2004-07-14T11:13:00.000+01:00

Hi Yall (if there's anyone still out there)
I'm still full of snot but I'm functioning well enough to be at work - I'm not being my usual efficient self mind you.
Well Police stuff is progressing at a fair rate. I'm getting my uniform next Thursday, have airwave training on the Saturday and then that's it - I should be out on the street. It's all completely disorganised though, I still haven't heard from my tutor and there's two different people who think they're my LAO (Local Area Officer). I don't have a clue what's going on. I've made more progress than others on my team though in terms of uniform. Nicola could only get an appointment for the 27th and Chris can't even get through to them to make an appointment. I just wish I knew what I was doing. It's incredibly scary how little training we've had. The phsycial training was fun but will probably be completely useless when I'm actually out on the street.
I'm in the house on my own for most of this week, so I'm being a pathetic lonely single girl and hiring out loads of DVD's tonight will be SWAT - I'm looking forward to drooling over Colin Farrell in uniform! I hate cooking by myself it's so depressing. I need to be careful that i don't get all pathetic and vulnerable as I usually make terrible decisions about men in that state - not that there's many around to get in trouble with.
Right well I suppose I should get my arse into gear and do some work.

2004-07-13T16:36:00.000+01:00

I have been very disturbed by recent events. Mr Wilkins taking the decision to have a blogging sabatical as created devastating after shocks - namely Mr Cassells going into a huff and deciding he won't blog till his gay lover does. Enough of this madness i say! Bring back Illtellyouforwhy dammit- before it's the end of us all!!!!!

2004-07-05T11:49:00.000+01:00

Hello all.
I am writing this from Sunny northern Ireland. Unfortunately I'm not having much of a holiday as I'm poorley. I woke up on Saturday with a sore throat and It's just progressed from there. I'm currently at the stage of coughing up green flem - nice! Well tomorrow night I'm going to Rebekah's to sleep over for the wedding on wednesday. I'm really looking forward to it.

Abigail _ i left a message on your answer phone about wednesday - I haven't had a response from you. Ruth's ok about it - just give her a call so she knows when to expect you. The sheets in the spare room are clean for Rob, I've also left him a couple of friends on the bed to keep him company. I've put towels out for you both. Just leave them on the floor in my room when you've done with them.
I hope you have a lovely day on Thursday - I'm sorry I can't be there.

2004-06-30T09:56:00.000+01:00

Well last night was a success - the weather held which was good and the food was great. A few left overs but nothing major. Ros liked her present - I named a rose after her. I managed to do my back in whilst mowing the lawn like a crazy person, so in a bit of discomfort today.
I'm really glad I'm going to NI next week. I think I've finally reached breaking point in terms of exhaustion - I suppose it was only a matter of time, I'm barely functioning at the moment. It's going to be even worse tomorrow as I have to take Melissa to the bus station for 1.45 in the morning tonight. It's weird to think she's leaving - I can't believe 6 months have been and gone.
talk to me so I stay awake!

2004-06-29T11:23:00.000+01:00

I'm incredibly bored and incredibly tired.
Went to work yesterday and then the gym. Then Melissa forced me to watch 'ever after' (the cinderella film with Drew Barrymore).
Tonight I'm hosting Ros's 30th birthday bash and joint leaving do for Melissa. People are coming at about 6.30. Before they get there I need to have the lawn mowed and the garden generally tidied joy! No rest for the wicked

2004-06-28T08:53:00.000+01:00

I had the best time this weekend - I was basically taught how to kick ass!!!!
Saturday was great, having an instructor who looked like Pierce Brosnan was an added bonus - yum yum yum. Any way saturday was about self defense and restraining people. We got taught pressure points, where to knee people :), arm locks and how to bring people to the ground. It's so fun cos as you're kicking the crap out of people you have to shout "stop resisting" as it's better for public perceptions!

Yesterday was all about CS spray. We spent the morning on theory and watched a video of someone getting sprayed with the stuff - it's incredibly nasty. Basically mucas, snot and tears flow from the body for about ten minutes and the pain lasts for 15-20 mins. We all had to then do general exposure which basically means the trainer sprayed some CS onto a cloth in a box, then we had to stick our head in the box and sniff. It wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be but I definitely wouldn't want a face full of the stuff. The particles stick to your skin and are reactivated by water and rubbing - the very two things you want to do to relieve the pain and heat that it creates. Unfortunately the likelyhood is that I will be exposed to it as there is usually cross contamination in 80% of cases (ie officers getting caught in the spray back or simply copping it rather than the crim). We spent yesterday afternoon practicing getting out of our holders in the correct position etc. It was more difficult than I thought it was going to be. You have to hold your left hand in a defensive position, reach down with the right, pull up the holder flap pull out the canister, flipping the lid as you pull it out and then position yourself, all the while trying to move back and shout instructions at the aggressor. We then had to practice different scenarios like multiple assailants, officer on the ground, assisting another officer who is in a head lock etc etc etc. We then had to do a practical test where we actually got to spray each other with water - it was good fun actually.

Well I'm not feeling too tired today - but that's probably becuase I got to have a well needed nap last night. Masha's coming at lunch time to do a 2hr interview for her dissertation. I'm going to go to the gym after work, Masha and Melissa are coming with me so it should be good fun. I need to loosen up my muscles after my weekend's exertions.