Honda have announced the long awaited Crosstourer - a V4 Adventure Sports Tourer aimed straight at the likes of BMW's R1200GS, Yamaha's Super Tenere 1200 and Moto Guzzi's Stelvio/NTX 1200. Triumph have followed Honda with the Tiger Explorer 1200. Thankfully it is the Yamaha that is the "weakest link" in this company as their offering is the only bike using primitive chain and sprocket final drive - and in this sector that is a major failing.
So what do I think of the CrossTourer? It's OK. Now I recognise that is damining it with faint praise, but, I say it as I see it. The CrossTourer is the bike that they should have released a year ago when they gave us the VFR1200, and in truth, it should have been here at least 3 years ago. The CrossTourer has been released into a crowded market place dominated by the BMW R1200GS. Why would any GS wannabe buy any other bike than the BMW when the alternatinves are all the same money or more. Yamaha tried selling the Super Tenere 1200 on the internet only and initial sales were good even though you couldn't get a test ride, but now, now that owners have had a chance to tell it "warts and all" and it appears it isn't as good as the bike the press free-loaders (sorry, motorcycling journalists) lead us to expect & believe.... it's not doing so well.
So what is my problem with the CrossTourer? Nothing really, it's what I expected from Honda, but in a way, that's the issue. I wanted Honda to deliver just that little bit more. The pricing is top line but to ask BMW price for a bike that doesn't have the proven record that the BMW has established is (in my mind) either optomistic or foolhardy. European bike manufacturers are currently riding high, dominating sales and yet still the Japanese beleive they can charge premium prices. Sorry, but I don't think it will work and I expect discounts and 0% finance to be available before the end of 2012. If they had offered us the CrossTourer from 2008 at £9,750 (GBP) then I believe they could have marched into BMW GS territory, but 4 years late and at £12,000? Ask yourself, am I an adventure bike rider or...?
Saturday 3 December 2011
Honda VF1200F updated
A year ago I created a bit of a stir with my comments about the newly released VF1200 describing it as the bike that nobody wanted with so many limitations that it was fit for nobody, and presumably nobody bought it because only a year after it was released Honda have announced a heavily revised vesion for sale in 2012.
A year ago I said:-
1. that the fuel tank was too small - well the tank size has been increased.
2. that the styling was wrong - that has been revised
3. that the rev hungry V4 didn't suit - Honda have revised the low-mid range for more torque (i.e. grunt)
4. that the seat wasn't good enough for the type of riding this bike was designed for - so Honda have now fitted an ergonomically designed seat
On top of that there is now:-
* Traction control
* Redesigned facia/dash with more information
* LED indicators
and an updated DCT system is an optional fitting.
I recently met with Honda at their stand and talked with Fiaona Cole about their current range of bikes and she was adamant that Honda are reacting to feedback, that Honda UK have never been so busy with releasing new and updated models. I am a Honda fan having had mostly Honda motorbikes since the mid 1970s so I am glad that at last Honda is addressing the UK bike market with bikes people want and that are "fit for purpose".
To all of those that contacted me a year ago saying that I was wrong I have just one response... "I told you so!" It wasn't perfect then, and indeed, it's not now, BUT (and it's a big BUT) it is much better and much better suited to it's purpose.
A year ago I said:-
1. that the fuel tank was too small - well the tank size has been increased.
2. that the styling was wrong - that has been revised
3. that the rev hungry V4 didn't suit - Honda have revised the low-mid range for more torque (i.e. grunt)
4. that the seat wasn't good enough for the type of riding this bike was designed for - so Honda have now fitted an ergonomically designed seat
On top of that there is now:-
* Traction control
* Redesigned facia/dash with more information
* LED indicators
and an updated DCT system is an optional fitting.
I recently met with Honda at their stand and talked with Fiaona Cole about their current range of bikes and she was adamant that Honda are reacting to feedback, that Honda UK have never been so busy with releasing new and updated models. I am a Honda fan having had mostly Honda motorbikes since the mid 1970s so I am glad that at last Honda is addressing the UK bike market with bikes people want and that are "fit for purpose".
To all of those that contacted me a year ago saying that I was wrong I have just one response... "I told you so!" It wasn't perfect then, and indeed, it's not now, BUT (and it's a big BUT) it is much better and much better suited to it's purpose.
Friday 25 November 2011
On 3 wheels
While I'm on the subject of MCL and the surprises of the show I have to say that the biggest surprise (on a positive note) was seeing the Aprilia Fuoco and Piagio MP3 range of, what I can only describe as, 3 wheeled super scooters. However I can't help but think that Piagio group have missed a trick by not putting a Gilera GP800 engine and running gear into one of these 3 wheeled chassis. THAT would be worth riding.
MCL at the NEC
Last Saturday I went to the Carole Nash Bike Show at the NEC at the invitation of Honda. Me, Phil and Colin met with Fiona Cole (lovely, efficient, Honda PR person) and collected our free passes for the day and later spent some time with her in discussion over a cuppa. And it made a nice change to be listened to and our opinions garnered rather than the usual verbose renderings about how the latest super fast plastic crotch rocket is going to change the world.
And the evidence was on the stand. The new NC700 based range of bikes, the Crossrunner and the Crosstourer (I'm ignoring the new Fireblade) are all evidence that Honda has taken it's corporate head out of the sand and is back in business producing inovative bikes that reflect the demands of the modern motocyclist. I/we had a great day out. The show was loads better than the last one I visited 3 years ago (and by all accounts the 2 I missed were abismal). Walking round the 3 large halls and checking out the stands and displays one could sense that the motorcycle industry, while having a rough time of things of late is actually starting to fight back and looking to win our hard earned money by producing products that more people will buy.
Honda UK should stand up and take a collective bow accompanied by a pat on the back. School report should read "has at last woken up to the possibilities... ". I hope this revival continues because it promises to be quite exciting IF they can get thier pricing structure right.
And the evidence was on the stand. The new NC700 based range of bikes, the Crossrunner and the Crosstourer (I'm ignoring the new Fireblade) are all evidence that Honda has taken it's corporate head out of the sand and is back in business producing inovative bikes that reflect the demands of the modern motocyclist. I/we had a great day out. The show was loads better than the last one I visited 3 years ago (and by all accounts the 2 I missed were abismal). Walking round the 3 large halls and checking out the stands and displays one could sense that the motorcycle industry, while having a rough time of things of late is actually starting to fight back and looking to win our hard earned money by producing products that more people will buy.
Honda UK should stand up and take a collective bow accompanied by a pat on the back. School report should read "has at last woken up to the possibilities... ". I hope this revival continues because it promises to be quite exciting IF they can get thier pricing structure right.
Honda NC700X
A while back I wrote quite disparagingly about the VFR1200 and how, in my opinion, it was the bike that nobody wanted, nobody needed and which instead of being all things to all men was absolutely nothing to virtually everybody. Well, it seems that Honda haven't quite lost the plot. In fact, quite the opposite. It appears that Honda may actually have been listening to comments made by me and others like me and we have the evidence here and now. The Honda NC700X, NC700C and Integra are all built on the same platform and share a lot of common components including an engine that is derived from splitting a Honda Jazz 1400cc car engine in two.
Want to know more of the technicalities then visit Kevin Ash's web site, Ash-on-bikes but in my view Kevin is spot on. This is the bike that meets most bikers needs most of all most of the time. Technically it is a quiet revolution as it marks a giant step away from producing motorbikes that drink like a fish and screams like a demon to produce unusable amouts of power to feed egos the size of Mars belonging to people with balls the size of pin heads.
I saw these new bikes on the Honda stand at MCL at the NEC Birmingham last Saturday and the only fault I could find was that Honda have stuck to a chain final drive (which on the Integra looks well out of place). Having started with a car engine to produce the power you'd at least have expected them to use car technology to deliver the power.
Integra - that was a Japan only, grey import, car. I'm not sure that Honda had to go that far down the intrgration route with their car division...
Want to know more of the technicalities then visit Kevin Ash's web site, Ash-on-bikes but in my view Kevin is spot on. This is the bike that meets most bikers needs most of all most of the time. Technically it is a quiet revolution as it marks a giant step away from producing motorbikes that drink like a fish and screams like a demon to produce unusable amouts of power to feed egos the size of Mars belonging to people with balls the size of pin heads.
I saw these new bikes on the Honda stand at MCL at the NEC Birmingham last Saturday and the only fault I could find was that Honda have stuck to a chain final drive (which on the Integra looks well out of place). Having started with a car engine to produce the power you'd at least have expected them to use car technology to deliver the power.
Integra - that was a Japan only, grey import, car. I'm not sure that Honda had to go that far down the intrgration route with their car division...
Thursday 10 November 2011
Reviewed & Connected
I had to take Tuesday afternoon as annual leave to attend a Nursing Care Review at the home where dad is now resident to ascertain with the local Social Services Care Manager, the local Primary Care Trust (PCT) Nursing Care Assessor and a Senior Nurse at the home, myself and mother. Starting at 14:30 we the review covered every aspect of the care provision for Dad as well as an assessment as to how he had settled in, his general health and demeanour. At the end I was able to raise some concerns mother and I had from the first 5 - 6 weeks of his residence.
The net outcome of this meeting is that Dad has been assessed as receiving the level of care appropriate to his needs and apart from a couple of incidents, that we are happy that his needs are being met. Because he chooses to spend most of his time in his own company we will look to provide more entertainment for him in the form of a DAB radio so that he can listen to classical music and talking/audio books so that he can listen to stories.
Yesterday (Wednesday) a phone line was installed so that he can now make and receive calls to keep in touch with family. Because of the BT charge plan he is on he will only be able to make landline calls as calls to mobiles are charged at a rediculous rate. The up side is that it includes a BT Home Hub so that visitors with laptops or mobile computing devices can connect to the internet if there is content they want to show him. I'll be upgrading my laptop to one with a built in camera so that hopefully we can get him into live video chat with family in America (I know Chris will love to see Dad in real-time).
The net outcome of this meeting is that Dad has been assessed as receiving the level of care appropriate to his needs and apart from a couple of incidents, that we are happy that his needs are being met. Because he chooses to spend most of his time in his own company we will look to provide more entertainment for him in the form of a DAB radio so that he can listen to classical music and talking/audio books so that he can listen to stories.
Yesterday (Wednesday) a phone line was installed so that he can now make and receive calls to keep in touch with family. Because of the BT charge plan he is on he will only be able to make landline calls as calls to mobiles are charged at a rediculous rate. The up side is that it includes a BT Home Hub so that visitors with laptops or mobile computing devices can connect to the internet if there is content they want to show him. I'll be upgrading my laptop to one with a built in camera so that hopefully we can get him into live video chat with family in America (I know Chris will love to see Dad in real-time).
Saturday 5 November 2011
Health, Wealth & Happiness
Everything is relative and everything is interrelated, and at the moment there's a lot of change happening in our world. Dad has gone into full time residential care because mother simply could not cope with either the physical or mental demands put on her by caring for him. That's hardly surprising, he is 79 and she is 76. So now I find myself in the position where I have to run their affairs as well as those of my own family.
Except it doesn't stop there. We have a very similar problem with Sue's parents. Her dad has gone down hill rapidly over the last few months and was taken into hospital Monday this week after blacking out and not coming round for some time. Fortunately there was a "nurse" in attendance at the time, she called for paramedic assistance, and they called the ambulance. Some hours of waiting around in A&E saw him into the MAU, from there he was transferred to a ward in another local hospital (I suppose that was where there was a bed available). He's been kept in and is likely to be there some weeks for assessment of his and Sue's mother's condition and capabilities, but it looks very likely that he will be sent into full time care.
And all this takes time, our time, to resolve their situations, to get on top of their affairs and take command of their financials. Working out what their income is - because the care homes have to be paid for out of their income and the mothers (who are remaining at home) have to manage on a much reduced income, and that means cancelling the luxuries like Sky TV, milk and papers delivered to the house, direct debits to charitable organisations and loads more besides. Then there's the ferrying of the mothers to see their spouses, which has to fit into visiting hours and around our full time jobs...
And so it goes on. I suppose it will eventually settle down, but right now, it doesn't look or feel like it.
Except it doesn't stop there. We have a very similar problem with Sue's parents. Her dad has gone down hill rapidly over the last few months and was taken into hospital Monday this week after blacking out and not coming round for some time. Fortunately there was a "nurse" in attendance at the time, she called for paramedic assistance, and they called the ambulance. Some hours of waiting around in A&E saw him into the MAU, from there he was transferred to a ward in another local hospital (I suppose that was where there was a bed available). He's been kept in and is likely to be there some weeks for assessment of his and Sue's mother's condition and capabilities, but it looks very likely that he will be sent into full time care.
And all this takes time, our time, to resolve their situations, to get on top of their affairs and take command of their financials. Working out what their income is - because the care homes have to be paid for out of their income and the mothers (who are remaining at home) have to manage on a much reduced income, and that means cancelling the luxuries like Sky TV, milk and papers delivered to the house, direct debits to charitable organisations and loads more besides. Then there's the ferrying of the mothers to see their spouses, which has to fit into visiting hours and around our full time jobs...
And so it goes on. I suppose it will eventually settle down, but right now, it doesn't look or feel like it.
Tuesday 27 September 2011
Helen Ley Centre update
I took mother to see dad in the respite centre Sunday afternoon and it appears that the centre will close at the end of November after all as the prospective buyers have pulled out and there is only a week left for anybody new to save the day - which is very unlikely. The government cuts in funding mean that this much needed facility will close making the residents "homeless" and not providing much needed respite to carers of long term MS sufferers like Dad. Fortunately Dad will be going into long term residential nursing care in Derby close to home from 1st October but others will not be so fortunate.
Olu Deniz, Turkey
Sue and I returned yesterday from a week's break in Olu Deniz, Turkey. We'd never visited Turkey before and we were very pleasantly surprised. We had a relaxing week, soaking up the sun, and as we were all inclusive we didn't go short in the food and drinks department either. In our week we experienced a Turkish bath & massage with facial, the Blue Lagoon day trip, a 6 island cruise, "Bargains & Bays" excursion (morning in the weekly market in Fetyhe and afternoon cruise)
The the coach return trip on the Tuesday's "Bargains & Bays" excursion stopped at a gold/jewellery outlet where Sue had her rings cleaned (for free) and I bought her a ring with her birth stone set on 14 carat gold. The highlight of our stay was Suzie doing a tandem paragliding flight on Saturday morning before we returned home that afternoon. She started from the top of a local mountain at 6,500 feet above sea level and landed on the beach.
Additional activities included lots of walking, lounging round the pool, general socialising the ubiquitous shopping for bargains. As a holiday destination we found Turkey to be very agreeable and it exceeded our expectations.
The the coach return trip on the Tuesday's "Bargains & Bays" excursion stopped at a gold/jewellery outlet where Sue had her rings cleaned (for free) and I bought her a ring with her birth stone set on 14 carat gold. The highlight of our stay was Suzie doing a tandem paragliding flight on Saturday morning before we returned home that afternoon. She started from the top of a local mountain at 6,500 feet above sea level and landed on the beach.
Additional activities included lots of walking, lounging round the pool, general socialising the ubiquitous shopping for bargains. As a holiday destination we found Turkey to be very agreeable and it exceeded our expectations.
Sunday 11 September 2011
Helen Ley Centre
Yesterday lunchtime dad was collected by the private ambulance to take him for his final visit to the Helen Ley Centre near Lemmington Spa. Due to cutbacks in council funding there will be no more trips, and this one is costing mum & dad over £2,300 just to ensure mum gets the rest she has been looking forward to. Dad won't be returning home at the end of the trip either as we have made arrangements for the private ambulance to deliver him to a residential nursing home just down the road. Mum can't cope any more with caring for dad, so this is the only way to keep them alive and well. Not sure yet what routine mum will settle into but if she wants she can visit dad daily, no restrictions, and have her meals with him (if she wishes) at a cost of £1.50 a meal. It wasn't an easy decision to make but one that had to be made, and the timing is as late as it could have been as the last 2 years of caring for dad have taken at least 4 years off her life and she looks like an old lady now - she didn't 2 years ago.
Mum came to have Sunday roast lunch with us today and the difference that just one good night's sleep has made was visible so this new arrangement will (hopefully) work for both of them.
Mum came to have Sunday roast lunch with us today and the difference that just one good night's sleep has made was visible so this new arrangement will (hopefully) work for both of them.
Sunday 28 August 2011
Celebrating success
Our friend Carole was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and was quickly admitted and operated on. The news that the operation was a complete success deserved celebrating so the four of us, Suzie, myself, Carole and Giuseppe went out to the Denby Lodge Steak House for an evening meal. So here are some photos from that evening...
As you can see, Carole is looking well which is a great relief to us all.
As you can see, Carole is looking well which is a great relief to us all.
Tuesday 9 August 2011
Health check
Today I had my annual check-ups for asthma and diabetes with Julie & Marion (respectively) at OMC and that in all measures except one I am fitter and healthier than this time last year.
Blood pressure 140 / 68 (down from 168 / 83 just 3 weeks ago and from 164 / 80 last year).
Glucose 6.4 (down from 6.7, over 7.0 is a cause for concern).
Platelets 171 (healthy is 150 – 450, normal is 170+, last reading 3 weeks ago was 127).
Cholesterol down 0.3 to 4.3 (normal healthy is 5.0 or less)
All other blood readings showed a similar improvement across the board (i.e. a shift of 0.3 for the better) and my weight is down from 15st 9lb to 14st 13ld, a loss of 10 pounds, and the biggest change they have seen in my weight since I had Sarcoids back in 2004/5. Marion checked my feet – healthy verdict.
The only poor reading was my breathing capacity (lungs) at 360 cms which is down from 450 cms last year and which should be over 600 cms for a healthy person, but, Julie’s notes show that last year I was on the brown Beclazone inhaler which I haven’t used since I last saw her. No need to restart using it unless I feel significantly more breathless than I usually do now.
All things considered, I am one happy chappy.
Blood pressure 140 / 68 (down from 168 / 83 just 3 weeks ago and from 164 / 80 last year).
Glucose 6.4 (down from 6.7, over 7.0 is a cause for concern).
Platelets 171 (healthy is 150 – 450, normal is 170+, last reading 3 weeks ago was 127).
Cholesterol down 0.3 to 4.3 (normal healthy is 5.0 or less)
All other blood readings showed a similar improvement across the board (i.e. a shift of 0.3 for the better) and my weight is down from 15st 9lb to 14st 13ld, a loss of 10 pounds, and the biggest change they have seen in my weight since I had Sarcoids back in 2004/5. Marion checked my feet – healthy verdict.
The only poor reading was my breathing capacity (lungs) at 360 cms which is down from 450 cms last year and which should be over 600 cms for a healthy person, but, Julie’s notes show that last year I was on the brown Beclazone inhaler which I haven’t used since I last saw her. No need to restart using it unless I feel significantly more breathless than I usually do now.
All things considered, I am one happy chappy.
Thursday 4 August 2011
Where does time go?
It has been over a month since I last posted on this blog - no I haven't lost interest but time has flown by and myself and the family have just been so busy.
First, we have all been so busy at work. I've been settling into my new role, my manager has resigned and moved on and new managers mean new ideas on how things should be done. Sue has had her role confirmed as permenant (it was 2 year fixed term) and is undertaking a number of site visits in her attempts to make significant cost savings for Derby City Council. Mark got promoted after just 6 months at BMI and that has brought added duties and responsibilities. Andy has been working long hours and hard to achieve maximum bonus, trying to boost his savings for when he joins Rolls Royce in September on their apprenticeship scheme (when the money will drop significantly).
Outside of work - well I went off on my motorbike touring across France to the annual European meeting of Honda Deauville owners at Riegel in Germany (a full write-up is underway and will be posted on my website sometime). At the same time I had to arrange for a joiner/carpenter to sort out a soft patch of flooring in mother's entrance hall, resolved with additional noggings. We have had a scare with mother having to be checked for cancer of the colon which thankfully hasn't returned (she had it back in 2005) and she has been given the all clear (next check-up in 5 years time). We have had to do the reseach in readiness for Dad going into a residential nursing home - he's on the list and gets a place when one becomes available. We have also had Sue's sister Janice up to stay with us for a few days so that the two of them could sort out some respite day care for their Dad and he now goes into a care centre each Thursday (which he loves) so that Sue's mum can have a break (there's nothing wrong with him, they are both just old). Sue has/is been helping our friend Carole who has just had a successful operation to remove a breast cancer tumour and her nymph gland, but thankfully that was a total success and she now has to take a course of pills (instead of chemotherapy) so she will be off work for a long time.
On top of that, we've had the decorators in and the master bedroom has been completely re-done with new paint, paper, carpet, curtains, bedding and lighting. Also took the opportunity to dispose of some of the clutter both in the master and 4th bedroom (now my office). Still got some trips to do to both the amenity tip and the local charity shop but I've got to get that room cleared and sorted so that it is properly my office - don't hold your breath.
Following a recent trip to my dentist I went down with a rather nasty case of Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) which resulted in a sunny Sunday afternoon being wasted on a trip to the local emergency, out of hours clinic, followed by a trip to see my GP and 2 days off work (no work = no pay). Thankfully I am now just about over that, but it was rather painful at the time.
Andy has today flown out to Lanzarotte with his girlfriend and her family for a week in the sun. Mark has just found out that he has to take 3 weeks leave by the end of September and Sue and I are hoping to get away for a week in September - we were planning to go on holiday with Carole & Giuseppe but that is going to depend on Carole's recovery. Sue has got a long weekend this weekend as she's taking Friday & Monday as leave and is hoping to spend time with Carole.
Add to all that the usual household chores, gardening, shopping and socialising and it's been a busy few weeks and really does make you wonder where does time go? It's not until you look back like I am in writing this blog post that you start to realise how much we cram into our lives these days.
First, we have all been so busy at work. I've been settling into my new role, my manager has resigned and moved on and new managers mean new ideas on how things should be done. Sue has had her role confirmed as permenant (it was 2 year fixed term) and is undertaking a number of site visits in her attempts to make significant cost savings for Derby City Council. Mark got promoted after just 6 months at BMI and that has brought added duties and responsibilities. Andy has been working long hours and hard to achieve maximum bonus, trying to boost his savings for when he joins Rolls Royce in September on their apprenticeship scheme (when the money will drop significantly).
Outside of work - well I went off on my motorbike touring across France to the annual European meeting of Honda Deauville owners at Riegel in Germany (a full write-up is underway and will be posted on my website sometime). At the same time I had to arrange for a joiner/carpenter to sort out a soft patch of flooring in mother's entrance hall, resolved with additional noggings. We have had a scare with mother having to be checked for cancer of the colon which thankfully hasn't returned (she had it back in 2005) and she has been given the all clear (next check-up in 5 years time). We have had to do the reseach in readiness for Dad going into a residential nursing home - he's on the list and gets a place when one becomes available. We have also had Sue's sister Janice up to stay with us for a few days so that the two of them could sort out some respite day care for their Dad and he now goes into a care centre each Thursday (which he loves) so that Sue's mum can have a break (there's nothing wrong with him, they are both just old). Sue has/is been helping our friend Carole who has just had a successful operation to remove a breast cancer tumour and her nymph gland, but thankfully that was a total success and she now has to take a course of pills (instead of chemotherapy) so she will be off work for a long time.
On top of that, we've had the decorators in and the master bedroom has been completely re-done with new paint, paper, carpet, curtains, bedding and lighting. Also took the opportunity to dispose of some of the clutter both in the master and 4th bedroom (now my office). Still got some trips to do to both the amenity tip and the local charity shop but I've got to get that room cleared and sorted so that it is properly my office - don't hold your breath.
Following a recent trip to my dentist I went down with a rather nasty case of Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) which resulted in a sunny Sunday afternoon being wasted on a trip to the local emergency, out of hours clinic, followed by a trip to see my GP and 2 days off work (no work = no pay). Thankfully I am now just about over that, but it was rather painful at the time.
Andy has today flown out to Lanzarotte with his girlfriend and her family for a week in the sun. Mark has just found out that he has to take 3 weeks leave by the end of September and Sue and I are hoping to get away for a week in September - we were planning to go on holiday with Carole & Giuseppe but that is going to depend on Carole's recovery. Sue has got a long weekend this weekend as she's taking Friday & Monday as leave and is hoping to spend time with Carole.
Add to all that the usual household chores, gardening, shopping and socialising and it's been a busy few weeks and really does make you wonder where does time go? It's not until you look back like I am in writing this blog post that you start to realise how much we cram into our lives these days.
Wednesday 15 June 2011
New car
I forgot to mention that Suzie has a new car - well, new to her. A pre-owned Peugeot 207cc in white that is less than 9 months old and fitted with all the toys has replaced her 6 year old Tigra. I'll put up some pictures on the family website when I get back from Germany.
Initially, while it was the car she wanted she was also a bit wary of driving it but as she's now done a trip to Manchester (to see Take That in concert at the Man City ground) she's now fallen in love with it and has no regrets about the change.
Initially, while it was the car she wanted she was also a bit wary of driving it but as she's now done a trip to Manchester (to see Take That in concert at the Man City ground) she's now fallen in love with it and has no regrets about the change.
To the 4 winds
Last Saturday Dad went into respite to ive mum a 3 week break. Unfortunately he was vomiting on arrival but this was put down to a combination of factors - he'd just had lunch when the private ambulance turned up to collect him, it was a different driver and the journey was extended due to traffic. However, the staff soon had him cleaned up and resting
So this Saturday sees the family scattering off to do their own 'thing'. I'm off to do a bit of motorcycle touring of France en route to Riegel in Germany. Andy & Emma are off to Lanzarotte for a week while Suzie & Mark are taking in a show in London (Jackson's Thriller) on a day trip. Hopefully Mark will take his grandmother to see AJ in respite on Sunday ahead of Joh & Angie's visit to see Mum the following weekend.
So this Saturday sees the family scattering off to do their own 'thing'. I'm off to do a bit of motorcycle touring of France en route to Riegel in Germany. Andy & Emma are off to Lanzarotte for a week while Suzie & Mark are taking in a show in London (Jackson's Thriller) on a day trip. Hopefully Mark will take his grandmother to see AJ in respite on Sunday ahead of Joh & Angie's visit to see Mum the following weekend.
Thursday 26 May 2011
Super Injunctions
Superstars have been taking out these so called "super injunctions" and MPs in parliament have been naming names, flouting their priviledges and people in the know have been using social networking sites from Scotland and the USA where the injunctions. part of British law, has no meaning or effect.
Now the judiciary has said that the basis for privacy laws needs to be reviewed and the government has said that they will ensure such a review is performed, BUT, that it is "difficult to draw a line between an individual's right to privacy and the media's right to publish news worthy items".
No it is not!
What happens between a husband and spouse (also read "civil partnerships") is private and should be protected in law. But the moment either of the partners has an affair outside the marriage/partnership then that is public domain news. Sir Fred Goodwin, Ryan Giggs, Andrew Marr, etc... should all expect the privacy laws to work for them in their "home life" but an affair is outside "home life" and as such is outside the laws on privacy.
Simples!
Now the judiciary has said that the basis for privacy laws needs to be reviewed and the government has said that they will ensure such a review is performed, BUT, that it is "difficult to draw a line between an individual's right to privacy and the media's right to publish news worthy items".
No it is not!
What happens between a husband and spouse (also read "civil partnerships") is private and should be protected in law. But the moment either of the partners has an affair outside the marriage/partnership then that is public domain news. Sir Fred Goodwin, Ryan Giggs, Andrew Marr, etc... should all expect the privacy laws to work for them in their "home life" but an affair is outside "home life" and as such is outside the laws on privacy.
Simples!
Monday 23 May 2011
Congratulations
Suzie has completed an intensive 3 day course, terminating in an examination for the Prince2 Foundation certification. While she is still waiting on formal notification, she has already been told unoffically that she has passed. It will immediately help her in her new role as she helps drive change in the local authority where she works. We are all very proud of her and our congratulations are both deep and heart felt, well done Suzie! Congratulations!
While I'm posting good news, our Mark is also to be congratulated as he has just completed his 6 month probation period by securing a promotion into his first managerial role, rewarding his hard work and the sweeping changes he has already brought to the Revenue Management section in which works. Well done Mark! Congratulations to you too!
While I'm posting good news, our Mark is also to be congratulated as he has just completed his 6 month probation period by securing a promotion into his first managerial role, rewarding his hard work and the sweeping changes he has already brought to the Revenue Management section in which works. Well done Mark! Congratulations to you too!
Wednesday 4 May 2011
Deauvilles ride-out May 1st
Sunday, May 1st saw the 5th anniversary ride-out around the Derbyshire Peak District. This is an event that I inaugurated, planning the route using a number of tools, and make available to participants in advance so that those with Sat Navs can pre-load the route making it easier to keep the group together. This year though I had the assistance and input during route planning of my mate Phil Swain, as it was a route he'd previously introduced me to which I reversed and modified to start at Cromford Mill and end at The Fishponds in Matlock Bath. The day was bright and sunny but with a very stiff breeze, which made riding over some of the higher points of the route very interesting. Anyway here are some photos I took:-
And here are some more taken by Steve Adcock:-
An enjoyable day marred only by a glitch with my bike's HISS system which (as has happened previously) cured itself after a few minutes but resulted in me gaining Rachel as a pillion for a few miles until we caught up with her husband Nev after he'd left her at the roadside when he went chasing after Phil Swain (who, as the leader, was unaware of my problem). On the day, including myself, we had in attendance 3 Phils, 3 Steves, 2 Colins, Nev & Rachel, Dave and Marie. That's nine bikes, Deauvilles except for Nev's Pan European. A great day's riding taking in the Churnet Valley Railway and a lunchtime stop at the CVR's Tea Rooms - very nice.
And here are some more taken by Steve Adcock:-
An enjoyable day marred only by a glitch with my bike's HISS system which (as has happened previously) cured itself after a few minutes but resulted in me gaining Rachel as a pillion for a few miles until we caught up with her husband Nev after he'd left her at the roadside when he went chasing after Phil Swain (who, as the leader, was unaware of my problem). On the day, including myself, we had in attendance 3 Phils, 3 Steves, 2 Colins, Nev & Rachel, Dave and Marie. That's nine bikes, Deauvilles except for Nev's Pan European. A great day's riding taking in the Churnet Valley Railway and a lunchtime stop at the CVR's Tea Rooms - very nice.
Sunday 24 April 2011
I have a job
On Monday I had an interview at 11:00 at Capita on The Wyvern, Derby. On leaving I phoned Duncan MacDonald at the agency who had got me the interview to supply my feedback, that I thought the interview had gone well. I then got into my gear ready for a ride on the motorbike and was just about to leave when the phone rang. It was Duncan, and they wanted me back for a 2nd interview at 16:00. I asked "Which day?" and Ducan replied "Today".
So at 16:00 I was back there for the 2nd round, which turned out to be a "test". Twenty minutes to prepare, then 8 - 10 minutes to present, followed by some questions. Again I went straight home to phone Duncan, but no sooner was I in the door than my phone rang and there was Duncan with his news. They'd already spoken and I was being offered a Senior Analyst role. "Did I want it?" Excuse me, silly question! Minutes later I had an email outlining the offer, which was followed by a further email the next morning, this time with attachments that are the usual Ts & Cs, but with that all important start date - 9th May 2011.
So it appears that I have a job. Relieved? You'd better believe it. Chuffed? Too right I am.
So at 16:00 I was back there for the 2nd round, which turned out to be a "test". Twenty minutes to prepare, then 8 - 10 minutes to present, followed by some questions. Again I went straight home to phone Duncan, but no sooner was I in the door than my phone rang and there was Duncan with his news. They'd already spoken and I was being offered a Senior Analyst role. "Did I want it?" Excuse me, silly question! Minutes later I had an email outlining the offer, which was followed by a further email the next morning, this time with attachments that are the usual Ts & Cs, but with that all important start date - 9th May 2011.
So it appears that I have a job. Relieved? You'd better believe it. Chuffed? Too right I am.
Microlight flight
My two lads, Andy & Mark, treated their dad to a microlight lesson with a voucher from Adventure001.com as a Christmas present and today was the day I used that voucher. We drove over to Ashbourne airfield on Darley Moor under overcast and grey skies. Dave was my pilot for the day and I had a 30 minute flight which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was everything I was expecting it to be, nice and smooth and really quite graceful, so here are some pictures that Suzie took at the start and end of my flight:-
I had been wanting to do a microlight flight for some time and my expectation was high beforehand, and I wasn't disappointed, so a big THANK YOU to my lads for treating their dad to such a fantastic Christmas present. I will probably do that again sometime.
I had been wanting to do a microlight flight for some time and my expectation was high beforehand, and I wasn't disappointed, so a big THANK YOU to my lads for treating their dad to such a fantastic Christmas present. I will probably do that again sometime.
Saturday 23 April 2011
Essential maintenance
Spring has seen me catch up on some essential maintenance on the Deauville. Front forks were removed and the old fork oil drained and fresh oil carefully measured and duly poured in, forks reassembled, given a quick rub down and sprayed with Hammerite Smooth Silver before refitting. That started the process off.
Then a Motad full stainless steel exhaust system was fitted. It is so much lighter than the standard Honda system and will probably last long past the rest of the bike. Deauvilles have a reputation of going on forever, but, outlasting stainless...? Anyway, here's a picture I took when I was still at FIS just after it had been fitted.
Newly fitted Motad exhaust on view.
With all the time I've had on my hands I've put some effort into cleaning the bike up so it looks even better now than in this picture and if you want to leanr more and see more pictures then visit My Family website.
Then a Motad full stainless steel exhaust system was fitted. It is so much lighter than the standard Honda system and will probably last long past the rest of the bike. Deauvilles have a reputation of going on forever, but, outlasting stainless...? Anyway, here's a picture I took when I was still at FIS just after it had been fitted.
Newly fitted Motad exhaust on view.
With all the time I've had on my hands I've put some effort into cleaning the bike up so it looks even better now than in this picture and if you want to leanr more and see more pictures then visit My Family website.
Thursday 14 April 2011
Job Interviews
Well the best thing I can say is that I'm certainly getting some practice in. It's 2 weeks today since I last worked, so that means that I've now been jobless for 2 weeks - simples! The sequence has been...
Last week - Monday 1pm - a phone interview, details of which I've already recountered..... (see previous post).
Last week - Tuesday 1pm - a local 1st round interview with candidates to be short listed by the agency for 2nd round interview. I thought it went reasonably well, but, for one reason or another I'm still waiting. Yes, I keep getting updates but not that "You are in/out" call.
This week - Tuesday 1pm - a 20 questions type interview for a role at HSBC in Sheffield. Again I think it went well but I won't hear until after all interviews have been held tomorrow (so that means Monday).
Last week - Today 8:30am - a whole day assessment at an office in Coventry. This one was one I was dreading as on face value I'd not got an ideal fit for their advertised experience needs. However, not one to back down from a challenge I went for it and was right up for it on the day. I enjoyed it. I gave a good account of myself and I don't think I let down either myself or the agency that put me forward (many thanks to Mark at Elan). No, I didn't get to the final 2 but I was in 3rd spot and they have said that they will keep my details on file as they are constantly expanding and growing the business.
So thats 4 interviews, no job offers, but spirits are still up and today was a much needed confidence booster. And there's still another local interview for me to look forward to next Monday at 11am, and I've more in the pipeline that I've applied for and I'm waiting to hear from.
Last week - Monday 1pm - a phone interview, details of which I've already recountered..... (see previous post).
Last week - Tuesday 1pm - a local 1st round interview with candidates to be short listed by the agency for 2nd round interview. I thought it went reasonably well, but, for one reason or another I'm still waiting. Yes, I keep getting updates but not that "You are in/out" call.
This week - Tuesday 1pm - a 20 questions type interview for a role at HSBC in Sheffield. Again I think it went well but I won't hear until after all interviews have been held tomorrow (so that means Monday).
Last week - Today 8:30am - a whole day assessment at an office in Coventry. This one was one I was dreading as on face value I'd not got an ideal fit for their advertised experience needs. However, not one to back down from a challenge I went for it and was right up for it on the day. I enjoyed it. I gave a good account of myself and I don't think I let down either myself or the agency that put me forward (many thanks to Mark at Elan). No, I didn't get to the final 2 but I was in 3rd spot and they have said that they will keep my details on file as they are constantly expanding and growing the business.
So thats 4 interviews, no job offers, but spirits are still up and today was a much needed confidence booster. And there's still another local interview for me to look forward to next Monday at 11am, and I've more in the pipeline that I've applied for and I'm waiting to hear from.
Tuesday 5 April 2011
My first job interview
I had a phone interview lined up for 1pm yesterday. The guy (Paul Stewart) was late ringing me and he went straight for location and the fact that I'm Derby based while the client's work is in London and the south and he just ruled me straight out. I didn't get a chance to sell myself at all. The job was with i-Realise who (from their web site) appear to be very similar to ZEDA Ltd (a previous employer of mine, no longer in existence) and with roles to fill that I felt I could slot right into. But no, I’m in the wrong place as far as he was concerned, unless I was looking to relocate (which I'm not). I tried to put a positive spin on it because I've commuted to Milton Keynes and north London in the past, and serviced clients in Bristol, Crawley, Croydon, Canterbury and the Isle of White. Paul was adamant that it's not possible to commute from Derby to Milton Keynes on a daily basis even though I've done it for nearly 3 years. That I can't best service clients in Kent, Surrey Hampshire, Beds & Berks - even though I've supported clients in North Allerton (up near Middleborough), Bristol, Crawley and Canterbury in the past and all in the same week. Yes, it's a lot of driving but I've been there done that. And as for his claim of clients in Essex - that's where I grew up, and we return there to visit family and friends on an occasional basis. But for him it was a deal breaker and the call lasted all of 5 minutes (if that).
Overall, I'm disappointed mainly because I wasn't given a fair shot at presenting myself and what I have to offer. No discussion of skills or past experience, what I've done, where I've been. No, I don't want to work in central London, but outside the M25 to me is fair game.
So if you are unlucky enough to find yourself having a first time phone interview with Paul Stewart then based on my experience, you are up against somebody with preconceived ideas, misconceptions and a closed mind – not the attributes one normally associates with a recruiter working for an agency and that agencies clients.
Anyway, I've got another interview in Derby today, so I'm hoping that goes better... then another one next Tuesday. All different roles. And yesterday I found another BA role right here on my doorstep at Derby City Council (where my wife Sue works although she knew nothing about it) so I'll be applying for that.
Overall, I'm disappointed mainly because I wasn't given a fair shot at presenting myself and what I have to offer. No discussion of skills or past experience, what I've done, where I've been. No, I don't want to work in central London, but outside the M25 to me is fair game.
So if you are unlucky enough to find yourself having a first time phone interview with Paul Stewart then based on my experience, you are up against somebody with preconceived ideas, misconceptions and a closed mind – not the attributes one normally associates with a recruiter working for an agency and that agencies clients.
Anyway, I've got another interview in Derby today, so I'm hoping that goes better... then another one next Tuesday. All different roles. And yesterday I found another BA role right here on my doorstep at Derby City Council (where my wife Sue works although she knew nothing about it) so I'll be applying for that.
Saturday 26 March 2011
Redundant (again)
Last day with FIS is 31st March. However, right now I'm actually feeling quite positive about the whole episode (which has been drawn out and filled with management lies and deceipt) as I only posted my CV on the usual web sites last weekend and appart from Thursday (which was quiet) the mobile hasn't stopped ringing and emails flying about, requesting more details and promising to submit my CV to all number of places, a couple of which are very interesting, three of which are in banking/finance and a further three in software development - all of which I have a past track record in.
FIS have thrown in a couple of 'outreach' sessions where I'll get advice and guidance on my CV and stuff connected with getting back into work. First session is Tuesday 29th so that will be interesting as I've never had any help of that sort.
And summer is on the way, so I can always just get on the bike and ride....
FIS have thrown in a couple of 'outreach' sessions where I'll get advice and guidance on my CV and stuff connected with getting back into work. First session is Tuesday 29th so that will be interesting as I've never had any help of that sort.
And summer is on the way, so I can always just get on the bike and ride....
Monday 28 February 2011
Spending cuts hit Helen Lay Centre
Mother has had some communications with the Helen Lay Centre, and it's bad news. Government spending cuts mean that the centre will close at the end of June, which is at the end of the second of Dad's proposed 3 week stay. What will happen after that? I don't know but it doesn't look good. Mum is at full stretch right now and if she doesn't get respite I fear it'll be the start of end of her. With everyone else out at work I'm at a loss as to what the solution is right now, but one thing is sure, it's no good asking social services to help.
Family
This last weekend John & Angie came up from Colchester to stay with Mum & Dad. John had his mind to demolish the shed ready for a replacement, and we'd organised a skip to be delivered on Friday so that when John arrived he and I got stuck in with Angie keeping the cups of tea coming and binning some of the smaller bits that had to go in the skip. John took the lead and I was his labourer (physical labour is something I'm not used to these days). The short of it was that the shed was demolished, site cleared and prepared ready for a concrete base. Loads of stuff went into the recycle bins but most went into the skip. It was hard work but an enjoyable change from computer key presses which passes as "work" in my world.
On top of that little lot (which took all the afternoon daylight hours) I managed my share of the household chores, washed Sue's car,and mine, and the motorbike, as well as a trip to Pinxton taking the in-laws to buy a replacement mobility scooter for father-in-law - that'll be delivered next Saturday.
Sunday for me was a ride-out with the guys to Brimington sheds. Iffy damp weather tried it's best to put a dampener on proceedings but it was still enjoyable and it turned out that those from "up north" had missed a nice dry day, while those of us from Derby and further south missed out on a serious dousing as the heavens opened and it lashed it down. So light drizzle and rain meant we got off lightly.
On top of that little lot (which took all the afternoon daylight hours) I managed my share of the household chores, washed Sue's car,and mine, and the motorbike, as well as a trip to Pinxton taking the in-laws to buy a replacement mobility scooter for father-in-law - that'll be delivered next Saturday.
Sunday for me was a ride-out with the guys to Brimington sheds. Iffy damp weather tried it's best to put a dampener on proceedings but it was still enjoyable and it turned out that those from "up north" had missed a nice dry day, while those of us from Derby and further south missed out on a serious dousing as the heavens opened and it lashed it down. So light drizzle and rain meant we got off lightly.
Catch-up
Oh dear, I've been neglecting the blog again. Too much to do and not enough time to do it. It's been a mad year so far, especially at work, where I'm spending most of my time as a "Test Analyst" which mainly involves getting thrown in at the deep end and having to work it out for myself. And then the management wonder why there is an increasing number of "incidents" in the production environment. An "employee survey" across the globe of FIS employees has informed the management that satisfaction scores in Leicester are the lowest for all FIS offices, at half the global average of 64%, while another of the offices is the UK topped the satisfaction sutvey with an 86% score. It sent out a powerful message and today our MD walked and the replacement took up the reigns.
Additionally, we've had the usual round of annual performance reviews. Except this year we had to use a new system and nobody had been trained on how to use it, including the reveiwing managers. The best bit is that it has absolutely no bearing on the annual pay review or individual rewards packages, so basically it's a waste of time. Aren't they all?
Anyway, we are seeing some changes supposedly to improve efficiency. Like replacing the kettles in the kitchen with a wall mounted urn. As the water is always hot it means less time spent waiting around in the kitchen. A small but significant measure because it points towards the way the new MD is thinking.
Additionally, we've had the usual round of annual performance reviews. Except this year we had to use a new system and nobody had been trained on how to use it, including the reveiwing managers. The best bit is that it has absolutely no bearing on the annual pay review or individual rewards packages, so basically it's a waste of time. Aren't they all?
Anyway, we are seeing some changes supposedly to improve efficiency. Like replacing the kettles in the kitchen with a wall mounted urn. As the water is always hot it means less time spent waiting around in the kitchen. A small but significant measure because it points towards the way the new MD is thinking.
Sunday 9 January 2011
Well done Jack Straw
Headline White girls are 'easy meat' for Pakistani men: Jack Straw under fire for making 'offensive' remarks on sex abuse cases. Read more at The Mail
Now I'm not a racist (see my family website to understand) but I fully believe that Jack Straw should be commended for the accuracy of his comments and powers of observation. Instead, he gets lambasted by the press for his open, honest and professional remarks based on information which he is privy to and supported by recent court cases.
I live with my family in Derby and we see this type of sexual predatory stalking by the young Pakistani males of white females across the city and in local news articles all the time. And they use intimidation as their main tool, especially if the female at the focus of thier attentions is escorted or with anybody. The recent convictions are just the tip of the iceberg.
The press should get their facts right and stop jumping on the wrong side of the news bandwagon and support Jack Straw - more needs to be done and the police supported. Why? Because most of the time as soon as they make any arrests the young males scream the race card and get let off.
Now I'm not a racist (see my family website to understand) but I fully believe that Jack Straw should be commended for the accuracy of his comments and powers of observation. Instead, he gets lambasted by the press for his open, honest and professional remarks based on information which he is privy to and supported by recent court cases.
I live with my family in Derby and we see this type of sexual predatory stalking by the young Pakistani males of white females across the city and in local news articles all the time. And they use intimidation as their main tool, especially if the female at the focus of thier attentions is escorted or with anybody. The recent convictions are just the tip of the iceberg.
The press should get their facts right and stop jumping on the wrong side of the news bandwagon and support Jack Straw - more needs to be done and the police supported. Why? Because most of the time as soon as they make any arrests the young males scream the race card and get let off.
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