I was checking out Sarah’s updated blog, and just decided to check out Jenna’s blog, which is linked to Sarah’s blog. I haven’t checked out Jenna’s blog since last December, but there was just something calling me to click on the link to her blog.
Jenna is whom I got my haircuts from in America, and used to work for Paul Mitchell – The Academy in McLean, Virginia. She is amazing, and looks amazing too; not seeing her and not getting my haircut from her are probably among the things that make me sad that I don’t live in the US anymore.
Anyway, I found out that Jenna has several new posts since I last checked her blog, and I discovered several new things. First, Jenna got a tattoo, which looks quite nice; and that she ran away to Texas after just having lots of shite in her life. Mainly, A) having a bastard of a boyfriend (thankfully he is gone now); B) her car broke again; C) her Christmas was not very good; D) she lost my job, apparently it was nothing she did; E) she’s still job searching; F) she has basically no income; and G) the icing on the cake: her parents told her that she’s pathetic, and that she’s as big as a house.
Oh my Jenna, I’m SO sorry that life has been quite tough lately, but don’t worry things will get better, I promise. And the latter upsets me the most: YOU ARE NOT pathetic and big as a house. You are amongst the most outgoing, fun, and vivacious people I know... What brought tears to my eyes even is that she also said on her blog that the only good thing she had to say was that the fabulous Sarah and me sent her a Christmas card in the mail and she literally fills with tears; and that she has it now to read whenever she’s down, which is a lot lately...
Not to worry, I’ll be praying for you, everything always works out for the best. And remember, my Jenna, YOU’RE TOTALLY HOT (NEVER LET ANYONE TELL YOU ANY DIFFERENT) AND I HAVE A HUGE CRUSH ON YOU! SHUT UP ME... SHITE, SHITE, SHITE: I DIDN’T JUST SAY THAT!!!
Me go now...
Sunday, 25 November 2007
Saturday Family Night
Yesterday, for Saturday Family Night we didn’t do much, and everyone was just off doing their own thing. We really didn’t do anything, I don’t know why, but just didn’t do anything.
Thursday, 22 November 2007
England Sucks...
...No, not the country; the football team. Yesterday, England lost 3-2 to Croatia during vital match in bloody rainy weather at the new Wembley Stadium.
Now England doesn’t qualify for Euro 2008 next year that could affect their World Cup chances, and has never happened in over 25 years! Thankfully, they sacked the England coach today, who they’ve only had for the past 18 months and has done an utter rubbish job. Oh well, there’s always next time...
Now England doesn’t qualify for Euro 2008 next year that could affect their World Cup chances, and has never happened in over 25 years! Thankfully, they sacked the England coach today, who they’ve only had for the past 18 months and has done an utter rubbish job. Oh well, there’s always next time...
Monday, 19 November 2007
Carers Update
Where do I start? Well, it’s going marginally well... The day carer going ok so far, as long as nothing goes wrong and they don’t turn into Mr. Hyde. But, I’m having a lot of trouble and stress w/ the night carers, just not very competent: spilling my piss all over my trousers and pants; spilling a whole glass of water on me and leaving me drenched clothes over night for 10+ hours; severely coughing and sneezing all night in my room; trying to sleep w/ carer’s very stinky feet (as they take shoes off at night); having to put up w/ carer’s damn loud mobile phone ringing all throughout the night every 10 min. and hearing carers’ snoring at night, even though it’s a Walking Night Care Duty (both the a breach of the care company policy; and more. And that was all in the first four nights! :-(
Also, I am finding it quite emotionally hard to adjust to the carers, as my parents have entirely taken care of me for the past 22 years. However, I am very hopeful that things will get better...
Also, I am finding it quite emotionally hard to adjust to the carers, as my parents have entirely taken care of me for the past 22 years. However, I am very hopeful that things will get better...
A Wicked Night with Friends
Yesterday, Mum’s best friend (Zainab), Mum’s school friend (Razia), and Razia’s son (Irfan) and daughter (Saneya) came over for dinner.
It was so much fun: we ordered pizza and we all just couldn’t stop laughing. Sarah and Saneya kept teasing Irfan because he’s getting married next July, and I was giving Razia and Saneya ideas to add to his wedding portfolio; and Razia and Mum told Irfan all their wedding horror stories/what-not-to-dos.
Overall, I think everyone had a very nice relaxing and light night. And I really enjoyed myself, and only wish that life gave us more opportunities to take time out and laugh w/ our loved ones!
It was so much fun: we ordered pizza and we all just couldn’t stop laughing. Sarah and Saneya kept teasing Irfan because he’s getting married next July, and I was giving Razia and Saneya ideas to add to his wedding portfolio; and Razia and Mum told Irfan all their wedding horror stories/what-not-to-dos.
Overall, I think everyone had a very nice relaxing and light night. And I really enjoyed myself, and only wish that life gave us more opportunities to take time out and laugh w/ our loved ones!
Saturday, 17 November 2007
Saturday Family Night
No Saturday Family Night tonight b/c poor Sarah and Sana have come down w/ a severe flu. And being the great brother that I am I didn’t want to have a Saturday Family Night tonight w/o them...
Thursday, 15 November 2007
The Mighty Boosh Returns (Series 3)
The Mighty Boosh Season 3 finally is here tonight at 22:30 on BBC THREE! I’M BLOODY EXCITED AND CHUFFED, AND AM GOING TO WATCH IT W/ SARAH!
Fortunately, my friends in America can watch the first episode of The Mighty Boosh Series 3 online on BBC THREE at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/comedy/mightyboosh/ and click on “Watch the next episode now” on the top center of the screen. AND WATCH IT NOW OR FEEL MY WRATH! Enjoy...
Me go now = calling Sarah = Boosh about to start! Peace...
Fortunately, my friends in America can watch the first episode of The Mighty Boosh Series 3 online on BBC THREE at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/comedy/mightyboosh/ and click on “Watch the next episode now” on the top center of the screen. AND WATCH IT NOW OR FEEL MY WRATH! Enjoy...
Me go now = calling Sarah = Boosh about to start! Peace...
First Day of Carers
The first day w/ my first 2 carers went quite well. Mostly, Mum and me just show them all the different needs to take care of me.
The rest of the day we just watched Batman Begins and just took it easy. And the night carers should start at 20:00 for the next 12 hours, until the day carers arrive at 08:00.
Hopefully, things will get better for my quality of life, and the carers will definitely help Mum out SO much, especially at night since she turns me over ever 15 min for the last 22 years b/c I cannot turn over by myself. The latter make me VERY happy and cry the most!
The rest of the day we just watched Batman Begins and just took it easy. And the night carers should start at 20:00 for the next 12 hours, until the day carers arrive at 08:00.
Hopefully, things will get better for my quality of life, and the carers will definitely help Mum out SO much, especially at night since she turns me over ever 15 min for the last 22 years b/c I cannot turn over by myself. The latter make me VERY happy and cry the most!
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
Carers Update
Guess what? My hoist finally just arrived from Sweden and I found out earlier that my first carers are starting at 08:00 tomorrow. This means I will now be receiving fulltime carers (2 at time, in 12 hour shifts): twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, three hundred and sixty-five days a year...
So, HURRAH!!! I am so happy and excited! And the possibilities in my life just look 0.0396875 of a centimeter brighter than yesterday. :-)
So, HURRAH!!! I am so happy and excited! And the possibilities in my life just look 0.0396875 of a centimeter brighter than yesterday. :-)
Saturday, 10 November 2007
Saturday Family Night
We just watched “Meet The Robinsons” directed by Steve Anderson that stars Jordan Fry, Harland Williams, Tom Kenny, Steve Anderson, Angela Bassett, Tom Selleck, and Nicole Sullivan for Saturday Family Night. And it was so wicked!
“Meet The Robinsons” is basically about Lewis, a 12-year-old orphan, who is a complete genius. At his school science fair he meets a 13-year-old boy named Wilbur Robinson who tells Lewis he is from the future (to the year 2037, 30 years forward), and at first Lewis doesn’t believe him, but Wilbur then takes him into the future where Lewis get struck. Lewis soon discovers what family is all about, and that he does have people that care about him...
It is a brilliant film, and I'm just not doing it justice. And I just love the film mode of transportation in the future: bubbles. What a wicked way to get around, I’d love it!
Overall, “Meet The Robinsons” is a bloody hilarious film, and I highly recommend it! ***FOUR STARS***
“Meet The Robinsons” is basically about Lewis, a 12-year-old orphan, who is a complete genius. At his school science fair he meets a 13-year-old boy named Wilbur Robinson who tells Lewis he is from the future (to the year 2037, 30 years forward), and at first Lewis doesn’t believe him, but Wilbur then takes him into the future where Lewis get struck. Lewis soon discovers what family is all about, and that he does have people that care about him...
It is a brilliant film, and I'm just not doing it justice. And I just love the film mode of transportation in the future: bubbles. What a wicked way to get around, I’d love it!
Overall, “Meet The Robinsons” is a bloody hilarious film, and I highly recommend it! ***FOUR STARS***
Monday, 5 November 2007
Guy Fawkes Night Greeting
Happy Guy Fawkes Night!
[
"Guy Fawkes Night (more commonly known as Bonfire Night and sometimes Fireworks Night) is an annual celebration on the evening of the 5th of November. It celebrates the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot of the 5th of November 1605 in which a number of Roman Catholic conspirators, including Guy Fawkes, attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament.
It is primarily marked in the United Kingdom, but also in former British colonies including New Zealand, parts of Canada, and parts of the British Caribbean. Festivities are centred around the use of fireworks and the lighting of bonfires."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guy_Fawkes_Night
]
Guy Fawkes =
[
"Guy Fawkes Night (more commonly known as Bonfire Night and sometimes Fireworks Night) is an annual celebration on the evening of the 5th of November. It celebrates the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot of the 5th of November 1605 in which a number of Roman Catholic conspirators, including Guy Fawkes, attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament.
It is primarily marked in the United Kingdom, but also in former British colonies including New Zealand, parts of Canada, and parts of the British Caribbean. Festivities are centred around the use of fireworks and the lighting of bonfires."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guy_Fawkes_Night
]
Guy Fawkes =
Saturday Family Night
Two days ago, for Saturday Family Night Mum invited Asad and his new wife, his parents, Asad’s new wife’s family, Mum’s school friend Zainab and her husband, and Mum’s other friend Razia and her family for a celebratory wedding dinner for Asad and his new wife...
Anyway, I hope you all are well and in good health, and I’ll be adding more posts as soon as I’m able. Talk to you soon.
CHEERS!
Your friend always,
The Red Haired Londoner
Anyway, I hope you all are well and in good health, and I’ll be adding more posts as soon as I’m able. Talk to you soon.
CHEERS!
Your friend always,
The Red Haired Londoner
Wednesday, 31 October 2007
Some Recent Photos
Here are a few photos from 2 days of the wedding of Mum's freind's son. More photos hopefully coming soon, Sarah willing... Enjoy...
From 21 October 2007 (I hate the way I look in these photos, as I came later than everyone else, and my Dad did my hair and not Sarah like usual):
Me =
Me and Sarah (my older sister extraordinaire) =
Sana (my younger sister), me, and Sarah =
From 27 October 2007 (I LOVE these photos, as I look bloody hot might I add, and Sarah did my hair w/ her wicked GHD Straightener; IT'S BLOODY AMAZING, trust me, everyone MUST get a GHD Straightener):
Me and the Groom, Asad (Katherine - you met him back in July) =
Me and Mum's Other Friend, Razia =
L to R - Sufian (my younger brother; Razia; me; lady in Hijab (daughter of woman to her left); Mum's school friend, Zainab; and Razia's daughter (far right) =
Zainab, Zainab's daughter (hijab lady) and her baby son, and Zainab's son's daughter =
Sufian, Mum, and Sarah =
Me and Dad =
Me and Razia's Son =
Dad, Me, and Razia's Husband =
Dad, Me, Zainab's Husband, and Razia's Husband =
Sana and Sarah Looking Fab =
Me and Sarah =
Me w/ Big Eyes =
And Sarah Stealing My Hotness =
I hope you all like them. Tell me what you think...
From 21 October 2007 (I hate the way I look in these photos, as I came later than everyone else, and my Dad did my hair and not Sarah like usual):
Me =
Me and Sarah (my older sister extraordinaire) =
Sana (my younger sister), me, and Sarah =
From 27 October 2007 (I LOVE these photos, as I look bloody hot might I add, and Sarah did my hair w/ her wicked GHD Straightener; IT'S BLOODY AMAZING, trust me, everyone MUST get a GHD Straightener):
Me and the Groom, Asad (Katherine - you met him back in July) =
Me and Mum's Other Friend, Razia =
L to R - Sufian (my younger brother; Razia; me; lady in Hijab (daughter of woman to her left); Mum's school friend, Zainab; and Razia's daughter (far right) =
Zainab, Zainab's daughter (hijab lady) and her baby son, and Zainab's son's daughter =
Sufian, Mum, and Sarah =
Me and Dad =
Me and Razia's Son =
Dad, Me, and Razia's Husband =
Dad, Me, Zainab's Husband, and Razia's Husband =
Sana and Sarah Looking Fab =
Me and Sarah =
Me w/ Big Eyes =
And Sarah Stealing My Hotness =
I hope you all like them. Tell me what you think...
Saturday, 27 October 2007
Saturday Family Night
This evening, we just attended one of Mum’s friends son’s wedding for Saturday Family Night. We all looked hotter than all the other guests. Photos coming soon, whenever Sarah gets them to me.
Sunday, 21 October 2007
Saturday Family Night
Yesterday evening, after I got back from the ROH we watched the third episode of “Robin Hood” on BBC 1, and then I watched the final of the Rugby World Cup in Paris between England and South Africa.
It was a very good match, but sadly it ended up 15-6 with South Africa winning :-(. Oh well, there’s always next year...
It was a very good match, but sadly it ended up 15-6 with South Africa winning :-(. Oh well, there’s always next year...
Day at The Royal Opera House
Firstly, on Friday I finally was able to dye my hair red again since last December. Hooray! I think the front part of my head is a bit too dark, so I’m probably going to re-dye it again next week. But, Sarah said that the back of my head turned out bright and looks good.
Anyway, yesterday Sarah and me went to the Royal Opera House (ROH) to see the Royal Ballet perform La Bayadère (that I bought two several week ago). We barely made on time, as Dad drove us and “The City” is always hell to get to...
It was in the Main Auditorium, and we were sitting in the Stalls Circle. And I was expecting it to be really vast (which it is), but b/c of the layout it felt quite cozy and you can connect a lot w/ everyone around you and on the stage, despite their being an audience capacity of several hundred in the Main Auditorium.
The basic background is: “La Bayadère – ‘The Temple Dancer’– is a full-length 19th-century ballet classic. The story of love, murder and vengeful judgement by the gods is set against colourful exoticism of India. A beautiful temple dancer is in love with a warrior, but becomes a victim of her jealous rival and of the High Brahmin. There are powerful moments for the two opposing ballerinas, evocative ensembles and a stunning solo as a bronze idol comes vividly to life. The most famous part of all – beautifully staged in this Royal Ballet production by Natalia Makarova – is the sublime, sustained ‘Kingdom of the Shades’, whose moonlit scene of a seemingly endless train of ballerinas is a magical recreation of another world.”
Overall, it was very good and costumes were really beautiful. And I enjoyed it greatly, and everyone must visit the ROH at least once in their life to see a major ballet and opera production! And I hope Sarah liked it too, but knowing her I think she liked the male ballet dancers the most b/c she kept going on about their bums in their tights. Well, as long as Sarah’s happy... Although, I think it take a lot of guts to be a male ballet dancer b/c in today’s day and age they still have to put up with some people’s ignorance and stigma about being a ballerina. However, it takes so much leg strength and flexibility to perform 6 days a week; and I suppose the up the upside is that they get to be in many “interesting” positions with their female counterparts...
For more info about La Bayadère check out the synopses at: http://info.royaloperahouse.org/Synopses/index.cfm?ccs=1169&cs=3205
Bye for now.
P.S.: Photos coming soon
Anyway, yesterday Sarah and me went to the Royal Opera House (ROH) to see the Royal Ballet perform La Bayadère (that I bought two several week ago). We barely made on time, as Dad drove us and “The City” is always hell to get to...
It was in the Main Auditorium, and we were sitting in the Stalls Circle. And I was expecting it to be really vast (which it is), but b/c of the layout it felt quite cozy and you can connect a lot w/ everyone around you and on the stage, despite their being an audience capacity of several hundred in the Main Auditorium.
The basic background is: “La Bayadère – ‘The Temple Dancer’– is a full-length 19th-century ballet classic. The story of love, murder and vengeful judgement by the gods is set against colourful exoticism of India. A beautiful temple dancer is in love with a warrior, but becomes a victim of her jealous rival and of the High Brahmin. There are powerful moments for the two opposing ballerinas, evocative ensembles and a stunning solo as a bronze idol comes vividly to life. The most famous part of all – beautifully staged in this Royal Ballet production by Natalia Makarova – is the sublime, sustained ‘Kingdom of the Shades’, whose moonlit scene of a seemingly endless train of ballerinas is a magical recreation of another world.”
Overall, it was very good and costumes were really beautiful. And I enjoyed it greatly, and everyone must visit the ROH at least once in their life to see a major ballet and opera production! And I hope Sarah liked it too, but knowing her I think she liked the male ballet dancers the most b/c she kept going on about their bums in their tights. Well, as long as Sarah’s happy... Although, I think it take a lot of guts to be a male ballet dancer b/c in today’s day and age they still have to put up with some people’s ignorance and stigma about being a ballerina. However, it takes so much leg strength and flexibility to perform 6 days a week; and I suppose the up the upside is that they get to be in many “interesting” positions with their female counterparts...
For more info about La Bayadère check out the synopses at: http://info.royaloperahouse.org/Synopses/index.cfm?ccs=1169&cs=3205
Bye for now.
P.S.: Photos coming soon
Friday, 19 October 2007
“Eva Longoria: the fire my loins.”
This is what Andrew C. Young, an Adjunct English Composition Professor at Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC), once wrote on the white board during a lecture to demonstrate something in grammar, which I don’t remember exactly what, but it was a really good and funny point. I was in Andy’s Spring 2006 ENG 111 class at NVCC - ANNANDALE CAMPUS, and I’m so glad I got into his class: he is the best English Professor I’ve ever had, if not the best teacher I have ever had! Andy is fresh out of Uni, and has so much passion for what he does and his classes were always very interesting and entertaining; and he’s currently an Adjunct English Professor at NVCC - WOODBRIDGE CAMPUS. Plus, he’s just really quite humorous, and Sarah and Katherine REALLY like him too; and I won’t tell you what they said after they first met him, not unless I have a death wish. But, as from the ingenious “Fawlty Towers” in immortal words Manuel, “I’m from Barcelona. I know NAW-thing.”
Anyway, today I finally got a reply back from Andy after I e-mailed him several times, apparently he didn’t received any of previous e-mails. I’m very happy that he replied back b/c I want to stay in touch w/ him since he’s a really wicked person… And Andy is one of the major reasons I am strongly considering getting a Bachelors Degree in English Language (w/ Honours of course) when I am finally able to start Uni in September 2009; I think I would do really well in it. Well, I have to go now and reply to Andy’s e-mail.
CHEERS!
- The Red Haired Londoner
Anyway, today I finally got a reply back from Andy after I e-mailed him several times, apparently he didn’t received any of previous e-mails. I’m very happy that he replied back b/c I want to stay in touch w/ him since he’s a really wicked person… And Andy is one of the major reasons I am strongly considering getting a Bachelors Degree in English Language (w/ Honours of course) when I am finally able to start Uni in September 2009; I think I would do really well in it. Well, I have to go now and reply to Andy’s e-mail.
CHEERS!
- The Red Haired Londoner
The “Joy” of Apple
Hurrah! In a little over 7 days, 2 hours Apple, Inc.’s new operating system “OS X Leopard” (OS version 10.5) will arrive, and I am so buzzing w/ excitement! I cannot wait…
But, I’m most likely going wait until I save up enough to buy a new MacBook Pro before I get “OS X Leopard” b/c my PowerBook is dead since my family dropped it six times and have been using Sarah’s PowerBook since January; that’s a story for another day. I just am trying hard to save as much as I can, but it’s really hard here b/c London always has so many great events I want to attend. And I don’t care about the politics around or about Apple, all I care about is that Apple keep making wicked products that are the dog’s bollocks… You know what they say: Once You Go Mac, You’ll NEVER Go Back!
In addition, this is Joy:
Joy is a Mac Genius. And I think she has bloody amazing facial structure, and that she’s so hot! So, I really want to go to the Apple Store on Regent Street quite soon to see if I can find Joy or any other hot Mac Geniuses; thus, that way I can chat them up and show them a good time… Wish me luck! ;-)
But, I’m most likely going wait until I save up enough to buy a new MacBook Pro before I get “OS X Leopard” b/c my PowerBook is dead since my family dropped it six times and have been using Sarah’s PowerBook since January; that’s a story for another day. I just am trying hard to save as much as I can, but it’s really hard here b/c London always has so many great events I want to attend. And I don’t care about the politics around or about Apple, all I care about is that Apple keep making wicked products that are the dog’s bollocks… You know what they say: Once You Go Mac, You’ll NEVER Go Back!
In addition, this is Joy:
Joy is a Mac Genius. And I think she has bloody amazing facial structure, and that she’s so hot! So, I really want to go to the Apple Store on Regent Street quite soon to see if I can find Joy or any other hot Mac Geniuses; thus, that way I can chat them up and show them a good time… Wish me luck! ;-)
Sunday, 14 October 2007
Saturday Family Night
Yesterday, for Saturday Family Night we celebrated just Eid. We didn’t really do much since everyone was taking it easy doing their own things.
I just watched some football (soccer), my favourite sport in the world, the Euro 2008 match between England and Estonia, which was very exciting: a great match where England easily won 3 – 0. Now England will take part in the crucial qualifier for the final against Russia on Wednesday in Moscow that should be quite a nail biting match… After the match, I watched the second episode of Series Two of “Robin Hood” on BBC One, and it REALLY good. Forget everything you’ve seen and read about “Robin Hood”, this “Robin Hood” is so stylish, cool, and very funny; and Marian’s not got bad facial structure either and kicks major arse too. The whole show and all the characters are just the dog’s bollocks! Read more about it at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/drama/robinhood/.
After “Robin Hood,” we sat together to eat one of Mum’s entirely homemade, fresh lasagna around 20:00. But, as soon as Mum was about cut the first piece the doorbell rang. We all just sighed deeply and we couldn’t believe our luck. Some guests had just decided to show up w/o seeing if we were home or not. I utterly loathe people who just show up at your door w/o even calling, and I especially loathe people who call and when there’s no answer just turn up (that one of our guests actually did once) b/c you don’t know what the other people are going through, what they’re doing, how they’re feeling, and/or if they’re up to seeing guests; and that’s why my family never do it ourselves. Anyway, the guests entered the room while we all were sitting around a giant tray of lasagna (an awkward moment indeed), so after the guests sat down we had to share the lasagna w/ them (oh bugger). But, it was bloody amazing nonetheless. And after the guests left, we watched the RUGBY WORLD CUP 2007 FRANCE, and match to get into the final between ultimate archrivals England and France in Paris. Rugby is quite an interesting sport, which is really growing on me. It was such an enthralling game, and both teams play very well. In the end, England upset France 14 – 9: brilliant!
Overall, I had a nice time and the day went really well. It’s really to a have family time, especially when Mum makes great food! Other than guests having to show up when they’re not wanting…
I just watched some football (soccer), my favourite sport in the world, the Euro 2008 match between England and Estonia, which was very exciting: a great match where England easily won 3 – 0. Now England will take part in the crucial qualifier for the final against Russia on Wednesday in Moscow that should be quite a nail biting match… After the match, I watched the second episode of Series Two of “Robin Hood” on BBC One, and it REALLY good. Forget everything you’ve seen and read about “Robin Hood”, this “Robin Hood” is so stylish, cool, and very funny; and Marian’s not got bad facial structure either and kicks major arse too. The whole show and all the characters are just the dog’s bollocks! Read more about it at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/drama/robinhood/.
After “Robin Hood,” we sat together to eat one of Mum’s entirely homemade, fresh lasagna around 20:00. But, as soon as Mum was about cut the first piece the doorbell rang. We all just sighed deeply and we couldn’t believe our luck. Some guests had just decided to show up w/o seeing if we were home or not. I utterly loathe people who just show up at your door w/o even calling, and I especially loathe people who call and when there’s no answer just turn up (that one of our guests actually did once) b/c you don’t know what the other people are going through, what they’re doing, how they’re feeling, and/or if they’re up to seeing guests; and that’s why my family never do it ourselves. Anyway, the guests entered the room while we all were sitting around a giant tray of lasagna (an awkward moment indeed), so after the guests sat down we had to share the lasagna w/ them (oh bugger). But, it was bloody amazing nonetheless. And after the guests left, we watched the RUGBY WORLD CUP 2007 FRANCE, and match to get into the final between ultimate archrivals England and France in Paris. Rugby is quite an interesting sport, which is really growing on me. It was such an enthralling game, and both teams play very well. In the end, England upset France 14 – 9: brilliant!
Overall, I had a nice time and the day went really well. It’s really to a have family time, especially when Mum makes great food! Other than guests having to show up when they’re not wanting…
Saturday, 13 October 2007
Eid is Here
Eid Greetings! Today is Eid, a celebration to mark the end of Ramadan.
I wish you all a very happy Eid...
I wish you all a very happy Eid...
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
Ramadan is Here
Ramadan Greetings! The first day of Ramadan began last Thursday, and it’s between 13 September and 12 October.
[
From Wikipedia:
“Ramadan is an Islamic religious observance that takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, when the Qur'an was revealed. The name "Ramadan" is taken from the name of this month; the word itself derived from an Arabic word for intense heat, scorched ground, and shortness of rations. It is considered the most venerated and blessed month of the Islamic year. Prayers, sawm (fasting), charity, and self-accountability are especially stressed at this time; religious observances associated with Ramadan are kept throughout the month.
Ramadan is divided into three ten-day parts, or ashra (Arabic for ten). They are named Rahmah (mercy of God), Maghfirah (forgiveness of God), and Najah (salvation), respectively. Laylat al-Qadr, which falls during the last third, commemorates the revelation of the first verses of the Qur'an and is considered the most holy night of the year. Ramadan ends with the holiday Eid ul-Fitr, on which feasts are held…”
“…The most prominent event of this month is the daytime fasting (sawm) practiced by most observant Muslims. Every day during the month of Ramadan, Muslims around the world get up before dawn to eat and perform their fajr prayer. They break their fast when the fourth prayer of the day, Maghrib (sunset), is due.
During Ramadan, Muslims are also expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam as well as refraining from lying, stealing, anger, envy, greed, lust, sarcastic retorts, backbiting, and gossip. Obscene and irreligious sights and sounds are to be avoided; sexual intercourse during fasting hours is also forbidden. [Qur'an 2:187] Purity of both thought and action is important. The fast is intended to be an exacting act of deep personal worship in which Muslims seek a raised level of closeness to God. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the inner soul and free it from harm. Properly observing the fast is supposed to induce a comfortable feeling of peace and calm. It also allows Muslims to practice self-discipline, sacrifice, as well as sympathy for those who are less fortunate, intending to make Muslims more generous and charitable…”
“…In addition to fasting, Muslims are encouraged to read the entire Qur'an…”
And “…Ramadan is also a time when Muslims are supposed to slow down from their worldly affairs and focus on self reformation, spiritual cleansing and enlightenment and establish the link between the God almighty and themselves by prayer, supplication, charity and showing good deeds, kindness and helping others…”
]
I’m not going to be fasting (and have never been able to), despite me always wanting to greatly, due to my health and my physical condition deteriorating drastically if I do so, but am going to take part in as many other religious activities as I can. Thus, I apologise in advance if I’m not able to add any new posts within the next month, as I’ll probably be quite busy in prayer and w/ all the Ramadan activities. I wish you all a very happy Ramadan that’s filled blessing and peace.
Love,
The Red Haired Londoner
[
From Wikipedia:
“Ramadan is an Islamic religious observance that takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, when the Qur'an was revealed. The name "Ramadan" is taken from the name of this month; the word itself derived from an Arabic word for intense heat, scorched ground, and shortness of rations. It is considered the most venerated and blessed month of the Islamic year. Prayers, sawm (fasting), charity, and self-accountability are especially stressed at this time; religious observances associated with Ramadan are kept throughout the month.
Ramadan is divided into three ten-day parts, or ashra (Arabic for ten). They are named Rahmah (mercy of God), Maghfirah (forgiveness of God), and Najah (salvation), respectively. Laylat al-Qadr, which falls during the last third, commemorates the revelation of the first verses of the Qur'an and is considered the most holy night of the year. Ramadan ends with the holiday Eid ul-Fitr, on which feasts are held…”
“…The most prominent event of this month is the daytime fasting (sawm) practiced by most observant Muslims. Every day during the month of Ramadan, Muslims around the world get up before dawn to eat and perform their fajr prayer. They break their fast when the fourth prayer of the day, Maghrib (sunset), is due.
During Ramadan, Muslims are also expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam as well as refraining from lying, stealing, anger, envy, greed, lust, sarcastic retorts, backbiting, and gossip. Obscene and irreligious sights and sounds are to be avoided; sexual intercourse during fasting hours is also forbidden. [Qur'an 2:187] Purity of both thought and action is important. The fast is intended to be an exacting act of deep personal worship in which Muslims seek a raised level of closeness to God. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the inner soul and free it from harm. Properly observing the fast is supposed to induce a comfortable feeling of peace and calm. It also allows Muslims to practice self-discipline, sacrifice, as well as sympathy for those who are less fortunate, intending to make Muslims more generous and charitable…”
“…In addition to fasting, Muslims are encouraged to read the entire Qur'an…”
And “…Ramadan is also a time when Muslims are supposed to slow down from their worldly affairs and focus on self reformation, spiritual cleansing and enlightenment and establish the link between the God almighty and themselves by prayer, supplication, charity and showing good deeds, kindness and helping others…”
]
I’m not going to be fasting (and have never been able to), despite me always wanting to greatly, due to my health and my physical condition deteriorating drastically if I do so, but am going to take part in as many other religious activities as I can. Thus, I apologise in advance if I’m not able to add any new posts within the next month, as I’ll probably be quite busy in prayer and w/ all the Ramadan activities. I wish you all a very happy Ramadan that’s filled blessing and peace.
Love,
The Red Haired Londoner
Tuesday, 11 September 2007
Despair for My Wheelchair
Today, I found out that my electric wheelchair is utterly dead and irreparable, as it’s stopped working since July and had someone check it out a couple hours ago…
My wheelchair is my life, my legs: and I’m in so much anguish upon hearing this dreadful news! I cannot just go to a store and buy another electric wheelchair, as I can’t sit in it b/c I require a custom specialized seating system and a lot of extra special features on an electric wheelchair.
I’m bloody so anxious and freaking out, and I just don’t know what to do. WTF? I DON’T WANT TO IN BED AND/OR STUCK AT HOME FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE!
My wheelchair is my life, my legs: and I’m in so much anguish upon hearing this dreadful news! I cannot just go to a store and buy another electric wheelchair, as I can’t sit in it b/c I require a custom specialized seating system and a lot of extra special features on an electric wheelchair.
I’m bloody so anxious and freaking out, and I just don’t know what to do. WTF? I DON’T WANT TO IN BED AND/OR STUCK AT HOME FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE!
Monday, 10 September 2007
My Quality of Life
A few weeks ago, I was told the London Borough of Redbridge’s Primary Care Trust (PCT) has approved full funding for me to have in home care by carers. Subsequently, a lady from an independent care agency contacted me and did about a 4 hour detailed evaluation to see what kind of care I need at home. Then, she typed up a report adding up the cost, and sent it back to the PCT for approval. And recently the PCT approved the report and for me to have carers 24/7 at home; specifically, to have two carers in the day and two carers at night every single day of the year to care for me, due to the complexity of my needs…
This is BRILLIANT news! You have no idea what this means for me. Finally, after of over a year of fighting w/ so much bloody BS and bureaucracy, I will soon be able to get the care I deserve. It will mainly help my Mum out a lot as she has been my main carer for 22 years, especially at night b/c I’ve never been able to turn myself over and she is the one who usually turns me over all throughout night (and my health has got to point where I need to be turned every 15 minutes during the night and my wonderful Mum is the one who usually does it). Moreover, it will give me a lot more independence, and dramatically improve my quality of life.
The carers will hopefully begin working around the end of October, and I’m very optimistic that things will start to get better. I just pray that I’m able to begin doing the all the things I really want soon (once I get the carers) b/c my health is not going to get (and is not getting) any better, and I’m just bored out of my mind being stuck at home all the time not able to express myself in any shape or form. Plus, I still have so much I need to achieve in my life…
This is BRILLIANT news! You have no idea what this means for me. Finally, after of over a year of fighting w/ so much bloody BS and bureaucracy, I will soon be able to get the care I deserve. It will mainly help my Mum out a lot as she has been my main carer for 22 years, especially at night b/c I’ve never been able to turn myself over and she is the one who usually turns me over all throughout night (and my health has got to point where I need to be turned every 15 minutes during the night and my wonderful Mum is the one who usually does it). Moreover, it will give me a lot more independence, and dramatically improve my quality of life.
The carers will hopefully begin working around the end of October, and I’m very optimistic that things will start to get better. I just pray that I’m able to begin doing the all the things I really want soon (once I get the carers) b/c my health is not going to get (and is not getting) any better, and I’m just bored out of my mind being stuck at home all the time not able to express myself in any shape or form. Plus, I still have so much I need to achieve in my life…
Sunday, 9 September 2007
Never Have an Affair
This evening, Mum, Sarah, and I watched The Painted Veil directed by John Curran and stars Naomi Watts, Edward Norton, and Liev Schreiber. I wasn’t keen on watching it, but Mum really wanted to see it, so I thought I’d check it out.
Man, look can be so deceiving; this is actually a good film. The Painted Veil is about a young woman called Kitty Garstin (Watts), a pretty, shallow woman from a well-to-do London family who’s under pressure from her parents to find a husband. She marries Dr. Walter Fane (Norton) who’s an earnest, socially awkward doctor on leave from China (soon after she meets him at a party), despite her not loving him. The Fanes move to Shanghai, where Dr. Fane is working at a government lab studying infectious diseases. Kitty, then soon bored, meets Charles Townsend (Schreiber), a married British diplomat who is a serial womanizer, and has an affair with him. When Walter discovers this, he gives her an ultimatum: come with him to the Chinese interior to assist with a cholera epidemic relief effort for which he has volunteered, or face a divorce on the grounds of her adultery. Thus, Kitty turns to Townsend to convince him to divorce his wife and marry her. When Townsend, not to Walter's surprise, refuses to leave his wife for Kitty, she chooses to travel with her husband. And that’s when it starts to get really interesting.
This is a visually stunning film that’s a bit slow to begin with, but well worth watching if not for brilliant scenery and intense acting alone. It makes think and deeply touches you. Overall, The Painted Veil is a very striking film, and I highly recommend it. ***FOUR STARS***
Man, look can be so deceiving; this is actually a good film. The Painted Veil is about a young woman called Kitty Garstin (Watts), a pretty, shallow woman from a well-to-do London family who’s under pressure from her parents to find a husband. She marries Dr. Walter Fane (Norton) who’s an earnest, socially awkward doctor on leave from China (soon after she meets him at a party), despite her not loving him. The Fanes move to Shanghai, where Dr. Fane is working at a government lab studying infectious diseases. Kitty, then soon bored, meets Charles Townsend (Schreiber), a married British diplomat who is a serial womanizer, and has an affair with him. When Walter discovers this, he gives her an ultimatum: come with him to the Chinese interior to assist with a cholera epidemic relief effort for which he has volunteered, or face a divorce on the grounds of her adultery. Thus, Kitty turns to Townsend to convince him to divorce his wife and marry her. When Townsend, not to Walter's surprise, refuses to leave his wife for Kitty, she chooses to travel with her husband. And that’s when it starts to get really interesting.
This is a visually stunning film that’s a bit slow to begin with, but well worth watching if not for brilliant scenery and intense acting alone. It makes think and deeply touches you. Overall, The Painted Veil is a very striking film, and I highly recommend it. ***FOUR STARS***
Saturday, 8 September 2007
Saturday Family Night
For Saturday Family Night today Sarah just continued to read Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows aloud to me.
Bye for now.
Bye for now.
Regards to Dave
Today, I found out some very sad news. Dave Moreton’s father recently passed away.
Dave is friend and adviser from an independent organisation called Connexions, which helps young people from 14-25 deal w/ all kinds needs like learning, housing, careers, relationships, etc. He is the only one who actually helped me get all my benefits, and he is helping me figure out how I can get into Uni w/o paying £11,000.00 (about $22,000.00) Per Year.
I’m so sorry for his loss. And Dave you have my deepest condolences, and if you need ANYTHING AT ALL please DON’T ever hesitate to ask.
Dave is friend and adviser from an independent organisation called Connexions, which helps young people from 14-25 deal w/ all kinds needs like learning, housing, careers, relationships, etc. He is the only one who actually helped me get all my benefits, and he is helping me figure out how I can get into Uni w/o paying £11,000.00 (about $22,000.00) Per Year.
I’m so sorry for his loss. And Dave you have my deepest condolences, and if you need ANYTHING AT ALL please DON’T ever hesitate to ask.
Sunday, 2 September 2007
Saturday Family Night
Yesterday, for Saturday Family Night Mum and Sarah went to a religious ceremony of the wedding of one of Mum’s best friends son.
So, I just stayed home and watched the first series of HBO’s Rome on DVD, which Sana got me for my birthday. I really liked it; it’s the dog’s bollocks! (But, it’s DEFINITELY NOT for kids) ***FOUR STARS***
So, I just stayed home and watched the first series of HBO’s Rome on DVD, which Sana got me for my birthday. I really liked it; it’s the dog’s bollocks! (But, it’s DEFINITELY NOT for kids) ***FOUR STARS***
Thursday, 30 August 2007
Saturday Family Night
25 AUGUST 2007: On that Saturday, for Saturday Family Night Sarah began to reread Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows aloud to me, as we started to listen to the audio CD of it that she got me, but had to stop b/c she couldn’t believe how bad and old Stephen Fry made every character sound.
I then said that sadly most audiobooks sound like that. Her response was, “Yeah, but he makes every character sound like a drunk Dame Edna!” I would have to agree. Although, I think audiobooks that have dramatization sound better because they have several people reading the text instead of just one person, which gets very monotonous to listen to; however, not many audiobooks are available in dramatization and are also unabridged too. Long live Harry!
I then said that sadly most audiobooks sound like that. Her response was, “Yeah, but he makes every character sound like a drunk Dame Edna!” I would have to agree. Although, I think audiobooks that have dramatization sound better because they have several people reading the text instead of just one person, which gets very monotonous to listen to; however, not many audiobooks are available in dramatization and are also unabridged too. Long live Harry!
Au revoir Katherine
21 AUGUST 2007: After three months my and Sarah’s wonderful friend, Katherine, on that Tuesday left back for America. It was really amazing having her here, and the time just went too fast.
I just feel really bad b/c I was in the hospital the week before she left, and just got out the day before she left; and I did not really get to spend much time w/ Katherine. But, I’m glad that Sarah got to spend lots of time Katherine in the last several days that she was here, and hopefully she’ll come back for more.
I just feel really bad b/c I was in the hospital the week before she left, and just got out the day before she left; and I did not really get to spend much time w/ Katherine. But, I’m glad that Sarah got to spend lots of time Katherine in the last several days that she was here, and hopefully she’ll come back for more.
Me 101
16 – 20 AUGUST 2007: During those five days I was an inpatient at The Royal Brompton Hospital with Mum. I was there to start getting some home ventilation support to help me breathe better at night, which I’ve previously mentioned. My stay at the hospital was quite nice (better than my stay at Charing Cross Hospital), it was quite a trendy place since it was located right in the middle of South Kensington: and my room had a TV, mini fridge, and shower in it too! Although, as usual they needed some blood, this time blood from venous and artery; they took blood w/ a very sharp needle from my right ear lobe for the artery blood test and clamped my ear to stop the bleeding after which gave me a scar on my right ear lobe for several weeks that looked like a hickey or a “lovebite” in the UK (a fact I exploited wholly). And given that my veins are like strings and run faster than the Road Runner when needles are near, the doctor (female) searched for a long while for a good vein. Not finding one it was down to the groin again for some blood: I almost jumped out of my skin as her hands were quite warm and in combination w/ the latex gloves it just does something to a man (especially, when it’s someone w/ somewhat quite good facial structure, in that intelligent/geeky kind of way) whilst she touched me, and let’s say I had to fight very hard to keep King John at bay forcing myself to internally singing “The Tundra Rap” and imagining myself buried in ice. Thankfully, she decided to then get blood from a vein in my left wrist and quickly took some blood because I’m not sure that I would have been able to take much more of the groin prodding…
Overall, the stay went well, and I’ve been using the ventilator ever since at home. The only I don’t like, is the mask as it goes over my face and I just don’t really like anything over my face (I suppose over time I’ll get used it), but the ventilator itself is starting to help me breathe better.
Overall, the stay went well, and I’ve been using the ventilator ever since at home. The only I don’t like, is the mask as it goes over my face and I just don’t really like anything over my face (I suppose over time I’ll get used it), but the ventilator itself is starting to help me breathe better.
Saturday Family Night
11 AUGUST 2007: Didn’t really have much of a Family Night on that Saturday b/c Mum, Sarah, Katherine, and Sana went to Romford Market for the day; they got back around 19:00 and too knackered to do anything.
So, I just watch some TV the rest of the night until bed. Just took it easy.
So, I just watch some TV the rest of the night until bed. Just took it easy.
Thursday, 9 August 2007
Day with Kim
On 28th July 2007, I met with Kim, who is my friends (and mentors)’s daughter. She is also now my friend for life. Not only was she gorgeous, but she was loads of fun as well. Chris is a lucky man. We were supposed to eat out at a restaurant, but the day ended up being much better. Because of a wheelchair malfunction, Sarah and Kim got pizza, sides, ice cream and soda from Pizza Hut, and some baked treats from my favorite coffee shop and we ate at home. Kim was brilliant, and we ended up watching The Mighty Boosh episodes back to back, and I think she liked them. Or, if she is anything like Sarah and Katherine, she at least liked Noel Fielding.
She ended up staying for dinner, and then my dad and Sarah drove her back to Islington shortly before midnight. We found that Kim has pretty awesome taste in music, and everything else basically. As I wrote to her mum, Kim = Fun.
Can’t wait for her to come back. Sharon, awesomeness runs in your family evidently.
Also, your thank you card is wonderful and gave me just the boost I needed. Love you. And you John! (But platonically!)
Arrivederci for now, ti amo tutti gli miei amici.
She ended up staying for dinner, and then my dad and Sarah drove her back to Islington shortly before midnight. We found that Kim has pretty awesome taste in music, and everything else basically. As I wrote to her mum, Kim = Fun.
Can’t wait for her to come back. Sharon, awesomeness runs in your family evidently.
Also, your thank you card is wonderful and gave me just the boost I needed. Love you. And you John! (But platonically!)
Arrivederci for now, ti amo tutti gli miei amici.
Sunday, 5 August 2007
Saturday Family Night
Yesterday, we didn’t have a Saturday Family Night b/c we had some guests from Manchester. Hopefully, next Saturday will better, as we haven’t had a good Saturday Family Night in ages (other than when Kim visited)…
Saturday, 28 July 2007
Saturday Family Night
Am about to take a shower and get dressed b/c I have to meet Kim at 13:30. Hopefully she can spend the day w/ us. Will fill you all in later.
Bye for now.
Bye for now.
Friday, 27 July 2007
Me and The BBC (Continued)
Just watched the 2012 TV debate on TV, and it was quite interesting. Sana and me were sitting in the corner on left side behind the presenter. They didn’t really show our faces, but you can the tops of our heads and the back of my wheelchair.
Check it out at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/london/content/articles/2007/07/26/2012_tv_debate_video_feature.shtml
Tell me what you think.
Great start to my life’s calling…
Auf Wiedersehen for now.
Check it out at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/london/content/articles/2007/07/26/2012_tv_debate_video_feature.shtml
Tell me what you think.
Great start to my life’s calling…
Auf Wiedersehen for now.
Thursday, 26 July 2007
Harry Forever (Continued)
Ah, OMG! I just finished reading, “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows” by J. K. Rowling… IT WAS BLOODY AMAZING! GREAT, BUT SURPRISING…
Wednesday, 25 July 2007
Stranger Than Fiction
Katherine, Sarah, and me just watched “Stranger Than Fiction” directed by Marc Forster, and stars Will Ferrell, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Dustin Hoffman, Queen Latifah, Emma Thompson, and Linda Hunt. Will Ferrell is so funny, and Emma Thompson’s a genius.
It’s really good, and I greatly enjoyed it. Highly recommended. ***FOUR STARS***
Adiós for now.
It’s really good, and I greatly enjoyed it. Highly recommended. ***FOUR STARS***
Adiós for now.
Monday, 23 July 2007
Me and The BBC
Me and Sana just got back from an event in Stratford that BBC London was holding this evening. BBC London invited me to be in the audience at a TV debate for the London 2012 Olympics; Tessa Jowell (Olympics Minister), Lord Coe (Chairman of the Organising Committee), Ken Livingstone (Mayor of London), and some Conservative MP were there too on the panel.
Also, I got to meet w/ Tessa, who’s REALLY nice, and w/ Lord Coe, who is a right old wanker. But, I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I think Sana did as well. The BCC said they selected me to be in the audience b/c they really liked my questions I e-mailed them, so here they are:
A. What transportation measures are being planned, and will be implemented, for people with physical disabilities (wheelchairs etc) to and from the Olympic sites during the London 2012 Olympic Games? And will you put further accommodations to assist people with disabilities during the Olympic Games?
B. Will all the Olympic site/venues be entirely accessible for disabled people at the 2012 Olympic Games?
C. What are you doing to involve disabled people actively to participate before and during the London 2012 Olympic Games?
What do you think? I didn’t get to ask my Qs during the debate, but thankfully I met w/ Tessa afterwards and got to ask her my Qs then.
The 2012 TV debate airs on Thursday on BBC London, and I’ll tell you how it goes. Overall, it was a BLOODY WICKED experience, and is a BLOODY BRILLIANT start to me becoming the king of the world in PR/Advertising…
Also, I got to meet w/ Tessa, who’s REALLY nice, and w/ Lord Coe, who is a right old wanker. But, I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I think Sana did as well. The BCC said they selected me to be in the audience b/c they really liked my questions I e-mailed them, so here they are:
A. What transportation measures are being planned, and will be implemented, for people with physical disabilities (wheelchairs etc) to and from the Olympic sites during the London 2012 Olympic Games? And will you put further accommodations to assist people with disabilities during the Olympic Games?
B. Will all the Olympic site/venues be entirely accessible for disabled people at the 2012 Olympic Games?
C. What are you doing to involve disabled people actively to participate before and during the London 2012 Olympic Games?
What do you think? I didn’t get to ask my Qs during the debate, but thankfully I met w/ Tessa afterwards and got to ask her my Qs then.
The 2012 TV debate airs on Thursday on BBC London, and I’ll tell you how it goes. Overall, it was a BLOODY WICKED experience, and is a BLOODY BRILLIANT start to me becoming the king of the world in PR/Advertising…
Saturday, 21 July 2007
Saturday Family Night
For Saturday Family Night today I just watched some TV, as Sarah and Katherine went out. Everyone else is just doing there own thing.
Harry Forever
It’s here! The final installment of the Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling, “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows,” has finally arrived! Sadly though, I have to wait until 24th July to read it b/c apparently the audio CDs are in a different warehouse then the books themselves, which really is so annoying. Oh well, I suppose I will just bury myself under my blanket and not be in contact w/ anything or anyone until 24th July… ;-)
Saturday, 14 July 2007
Saturday Family Night
Saturday Family Night is postponed for tonight b/c everyone’s gone to a wedding of one of mum’s best friend’s nephew. And I am just home w/ dad and Sufian, and I’m just taking it easy listening to the Arctic Monkeys and surfing the Internet.
Au revoir for now.
Au revoir for now.
Monday, 9 July 2007
Dad
Today, my dad arrived from America since he was working there. I haven’t seen him in 5 months, and it’s really nice to see him. Hopefully, he’ll be staying for a while b/c he said that he’s trying to find a job closer to home here in London, as he was in America all by himself. Anyway, I hope everything works out.
Sunday, 8 July 2007
Saturday Family Night
Yesterday, we didn’t really have Saturday Family Night, instead we mixed it up and had more of a Saturday Family Day: to celebrate my birthday we went to Bluewater in Kent (about an hour away), which is the largest mall in Europe. We spent the day there and it was great as it was just us mum, us four kids, and Katherine. I bought myself a REALLY nice pair of jeans from the Levi's store, but I had to return them b/c the waist of one size too small, and I’M STILL WAITING, SARAH, FOR YOU TO BUY ANOTHER PAIR FOR ME…
Later, for dinner we had the best pizza ever in nice pizza place at Bluewater. Once got home we had a BLOODY GOOD Double Chocolate Cake that Sarah got from this amazing handmade bakery place in London. All in all, I had a really good 22nd birthday. I just feel so blessed to know that such great people love me and feel blessed to have such a great life experiencing such great things, especially since the docs predicted I wouldn’t see my fifth birthday.
Later, for dinner we had the best pizza ever in nice pizza place at Bluewater. Once got home we had a BLOODY GOOD Double Chocolate Cake that Sarah got from this amazing handmade bakery place in London. All in all, I had a really good 22nd birthday. I just feel so blessed to know that such great people love me and feel blessed to have such a great life experiencing such great things, especially since the docs predicted I wouldn’t see my fifth birthday.
Thursday, 5 July 2007
Birthday Bliss
TODAY IS MY 22ND BIRTHDAY! HURRAH! We are not really doing much since it is a weekday and everyone is doing their own thing. So, instead we’re going celebrate my birthday on Saturday (7 July).
Also, another reason why we’re not celebrating today is that I’m quite knackered from just getting back from Charing Cross Hospital after having to spend the night for a sleep study. And after I had a sleep study the docs said that my blood oxygen level goes really low and my breathing get fairly shallow at night due to the severity of my Scoliosis and underlying Muscular Dystrophy, and the docs said are referring me to a hospital that is the best in the country for respiratory care. Most likely they are going to put on some kind of home ventilation support to hopefully help me breathe better at night. I am very nervous about this all, but everything always works out for the best.
Also, another reason why we’re not celebrating today is that I’m quite knackered from just getting back from Charing Cross Hospital after having to spend the night for a sleep study. And after I had a sleep study the docs said that my blood oxygen level goes really low and my breathing get fairly shallow at night due to the severity of my Scoliosis and underlying Muscular Dystrophy, and the docs said are referring me to a hospital that is the best in the country for respiratory care. Most likely they are going to put on some kind of home ventilation support to hopefully help me breathe better at night. I am very nervous about this all, but everything always works out for the best.
Tuesday, 3 July 2007
Saturday Family Night
30 June 2007: On that Saturday we watched “Monsters, Inc.” directed by Peter Docter, Lee Unkrich, and David Silverman that stars John Goodman, Billy Crystal, Steve Buscemi, James Coburn, and Jennifer Tilly for Saturday Family Night.
“Monsters, Inc.” was REALLY GOOD, and we all thoroughly enjoyed it… Another great Pixar film; though sadly, Pixar was bought buy Disney, but since Steve Jobs is the main shareholder of the Disney Animation Studio hopefully they can keep up all the brilliant filmmaking. ***FOUR STARS***
“Monsters, Inc.” was REALLY GOOD, and we all thoroughly enjoyed it… Another great Pixar film; though sadly, Pixar was bought buy Disney, but since Steve Jobs is the main shareholder of the Disney Animation Studio hopefully they can keep up all the brilliant filmmaking. ***FOUR STARS***
Me 101
25 to 29 June 2007 – on that week I was admitted into Charing Cross Hospital to have some specialists test done and to meet with all the specialist docs I need, which I haven’t done in over 2 years. And b/c the hospital is right near Harrods in Knightsbridge and you have to go through “The City” to get there, and since it’s would be a pain to go there each time just to take one test, I requested transport to take me there. Anyway, a lot happen during than week, and I’ll do my best to tell you everything.
MONDAY, 23 JUNE: I got up around 07:00 b/c the transport was coming at 10:00 to take mum and me to Charing Cross Hospital. I wasn’t feeling too well with the damn cough and severe mucus I’ve had since October 2006 (that I’m still not recovered from, by the way), but I thought once I got some fresh air and got there I’d feel a bit better. The transport arrived at 10:00, and Sarah got up to put me into my wheelchair, which was in the hallway in front of the main entrance, so I could get into the transport vehicle.
However, the minute Sarah lifted me into my wheelchair I just couldn’t breathe, I felt like my right lung was collapsing as my heart felt like it was racing so fast that it was going explode. And I started panicking; I needed to lie down right away, but there was nowhere to lie down in the hallway, so I just made Sarah lie me down on the floor in the hallway so I could breathe.
Once I could breathe a bit better, I told Sarah to try to get me into my wheelchair again, and I told her to tilt my wheelchair almost all the way back (that made it a bit easier to breath) and I got mum and Sarah to my manually push me out to the waiting transport, since I was still having significant breathing trouble after I got back into my wheelchair.
When the driver saw me he said he wouldn’t be able to take me like this with breathing issues and being tilted and all; and he said we need to rebook transport w/ a stretcher and two-man crew.
So, mum and Sarah wheeled me back inside and laid me down. And it was such a pain to rebook transport (b/c it usually takes about 3 days to book transport), but they finally found transport that they said would pick us up later that day. The transport w/ stretcher arrived at last around 16:00, and took mum and me to Charing Cross Hospital. It was quite an “interesting” journey, as the two-man crew kept arguing w/ one another about what was the best way to get there (one had a strong Jamaican accent and one had a strong Indian accent, so you can just imagine). The driving was bad. Really bad. All through the journey I was just praying that we would get there safely.
Thankfully, we arrived alive, and we got to our room at the ward on the tenth floor around 18:15. Once I was settled into my bed a nurse came and took my stats etc. When the time came to take blood, my veins decided to hide, as did my pulse. She looked at me and I told her, “Yeah…it’s probably that vampire bite from last summer.”
We waited for an eternity for the night doctor to see me. Finally at 22:30 she came and took a detailed medical history. It was a bit difficult to understand her because she had a very strong accent, which I couldn’t quite place. She then insisted that they would have to take blood at some point. In the morning, she tried. The veins disappeared again, so she tried my left foot. No luck. Then she tried the right foot three times. The fourth time, my foot forced my veins to the front kicking and screaming, but the veins had the last laugh because the one she got…uh…burst. Then, quite casually, she said, “If I can’t get a vein on your foot, I’m going to take blood from your groin.”
I didn’t know how to respond, but I’m pretty sure my legs crossed of their own accord.
Let’s just say, the deed was done at the end of the day, with me forcing myself to think of the tundra and me internally singing “The Tundra Rap” from Boosh the whole time. I deserve a medal, as it's one of the many sacrifices I've made in my life all for the good of the world... or is it for medicine. ;-)
And that was only the first day. Just way too much to type. Overall, all my tests came out clear (or as clear as can be expected in my case).
MONDAY, 23 JUNE: I got up around 07:00 b/c the transport was coming at 10:00 to take mum and me to Charing Cross Hospital. I wasn’t feeling too well with the damn cough and severe mucus I’ve had since October 2006 (that I’m still not recovered from, by the way), but I thought once I got some fresh air and got there I’d feel a bit better. The transport arrived at 10:00, and Sarah got up to put me into my wheelchair, which was in the hallway in front of the main entrance, so I could get into the transport vehicle.
However, the minute Sarah lifted me into my wheelchair I just couldn’t breathe, I felt like my right lung was collapsing as my heart felt like it was racing so fast that it was going explode. And I started panicking; I needed to lie down right away, but there was nowhere to lie down in the hallway, so I just made Sarah lie me down on the floor in the hallway so I could breathe.
Once I could breathe a bit better, I told Sarah to try to get me into my wheelchair again, and I told her to tilt my wheelchair almost all the way back (that made it a bit easier to breath) and I got mum and Sarah to my manually push me out to the waiting transport, since I was still having significant breathing trouble after I got back into my wheelchair.
When the driver saw me he said he wouldn’t be able to take me like this with breathing issues and being tilted and all; and he said we need to rebook transport w/ a stretcher and two-man crew.
So, mum and Sarah wheeled me back inside and laid me down. And it was such a pain to rebook transport (b/c it usually takes about 3 days to book transport), but they finally found transport that they said would pick us up later that day. The transport w/ stretcher arrived at last around 16:00, and took mum and me to Charing Cross Hospital. It was quite an “interesting” journey, as the two-man crew kept arguing w/ one another about what was the best way to get there (one had a strong Jamaican accent and one had a strong Indian accent, so you can just imagine). The driving was bad. Really bad. All through the journey I was just praying that we would get there safely.
Thankfully, we arrived alive, and we got to our room at the ward on the tenth floor around 18:15. Once I was settled into my bed a nurse came and took my stats etc. When the time came to take blood, my veins decided to hide, as did my pulse. She looked at me and I told her, “Yeah…it’s probably that vampire bite from last summer.”
We waited for an eternity for the night doctor to see me. Finally at 22:30 she came and took a detailed medical history. It was a bit difficult to understand her because she had a very strong accent, which I couldn’t quite place. She then insisted that they would have to take blood at some point. In the morning, she tried. The veins disappeared again, so she tried my left foot. No luck. Then she tried the right foot three times. The fourth time, my foot forced my veins to the front kicking and screaming, but the veins had the last laugh because the one she got…uh…burst. Then, quite casually, she said, “If I can’t get a vein on your foot, I’m going to take blood from your groin.”
I didn’t know how to respond, but I’m pretty sure my legs crossed of their own accord.
Let’s just say, the deed was done at the end of the day, with me forcing myself to think of the tundra and me internally singing “The Tundra Rap” from Boosh the whole time. I deserve a medal, as it's one of the many sacrifices I've made in my life all for the good of the world... or is it for medicine. ;-)
And that was only the first day. Just way too much to type. Overall, all my tests came out clear (or as clear as can be expected in my case).
World's Best Grandfather!
24 June 2007: On this day my grandfather (mum’s dad) left to go for his holiday. At about 85, my grandfather is my only surviving grand parent, and he’s surprising still quite active being at least 6FT. tall and always stands straighter than a tree. Probably b/c he’s a British Empire decorated WWII veteran and was in the army for like 30 years…
He is such a loving person, and he has never forgotten to send us four kids a birthday card every year wherever we may be in the world; he’s so great, he always sends our birthday cards about 2 weeks before our birthday just to make sure that we get it on time. I am just praying that my grandfather is safe and in good health for the next several months, and I hope he comes home safely after his holiday…
He is such a loving person, and he has never forgotten to send us four kids a birthday card every year wherever we may be in the world; he’s so great, he always sends our birthday cards about 2 weeks before our birthday just to make sure that we get it on time. I am just praying that my grandfather is safe and in good health for the next several months, and I hope he comes home safely after his holiday…
Saturday Family Night
23 June 2007 – On that Saturday we didn’t really have a Family Night b/c it was the day before my grandfather (mum’s dad) was leaving to go on his holiday, and some of mum’s relatives just showed up to say goodbye to my grandfather. It is so one of the damn buggers of life I loathe: when people just decide to show the day before you have to travel, especially the evening before and without calling before hand too! The guests finally left around 22:30…
Anyway, no one had even ate dinner b/c mum had barely started cooking when the guests showed up, so poor mum began frantically hurrying to finish making dinner for us, but it was well worth the wait. Mum finished making dinner around 00:30, and we all couldn’t wait to eat. Mum made Biryani: a rice dish with meat and potatoes; mum made it quite a lot more spicier than she usually makes any food, but it was really good nonetheless. Despite us all shedding tears from the spices, THE BIRYANI WAS BLOODY BRILLIANT!
Anyway, no one had even ate dinner b/c mum had barely started cooking when the guests showed up, so poor mum began frantically hurrying to finish making dinner for us, but it was well worth the wait. Mum finished making dinner around 00:30, and we all couldn’t wait to eat. Mum made Biryani: a rice dish with meat and potatoes; mum made it quite a lot more spicier than she usually makes any food, but it was really good nonetheless. Despite us all shedding tears from the spices, THE BIRYANI WAS BLOODY BRILLIANT!
Sorry
Dear Friends,
I’m so sorry adding any new posts in such a long time! However, there has been so much going on, and as time went on I procrastinated more in writing new posts.
Anyway, it’s better late than never. So, please bare with me b/c the next several posts are going to be quite long. I just have so much I want to update all of you about, and have lots of interesting news to tell.
Bye for now. CHEERS!
Regards,
The Red Haired Londoner
I’m so sorry adding any new posts in such a long time! However, there has been so much going on, and as time went on I procrastinated more in writing new posts.
Anyway, it’s better late than never. So, please bare with me b/c the next several posts are going to be quite long. I just have so much I want to update all of you about, and have lots of interesting news to tell.
Bye for now. CHEERS!
Regards,
The Red Haired Londoner
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
