The trains

Quite unbelievable really. There was I strolling down to the station this morning whistling a happy tune in time for the 7:54. I walk the ramp, turn onto the playform and see the train departing. Oh well I say, as I glance up at the indicator board. 7:52 is says. Hold on!!!! 7:52!!!! Fcuk that ... the bleedin train has left early. Typical that ... bleedin typical.

I happen to watch Question Time last night. One of the panelists was Stephen Green from Christian Voice. Now, I am not very religious, but can understand peoples wants and needs to worship. But the performance from Mr Green was a complete eyeopener to me. He began each answer with a quote from "The Sciptures" and bawbled on about Christian Values ad nausium. Christian Values yeah right. I've had a quick look on the Question Time web page to see some of the posters views on Mr Green. They are split ... from coments such as,

I thought the treatment of Stephen Green was a complete disgrace. Janet Street-Porter was particularly irritating. I switched off. To see a Christian figure ridiculed in such a manner made my blood boil. Jon, Bristol and

Stephen Green's performance this evening only serves to demonstrate how some factions of Christian leadership are so disconnected from society, and perhaps the gospel message, they are not able to reach out to those in need. The message is LOVE.Ash Rust, Bristol.

Well there you go, I don't get it myself .... but praise be.

Well we have the Spudz tomorrow and it's going to be one of them matches. I've got that feeling in my water.

My tune of the day: Two Sides to Every Story - Loleatta Holloway

Wild and wacky

Not me today. I have a stinking cold. Sniffling, coughing, spluttering it's not good. Thinking back I haven't had a cold for over two years. I'm not sure what has changed this year? I may have to spend this weekend with some Cold n'flu and a nightnurse. My PJ's came out last night.

There was a security alert at Canon Street tube this morning and you could see the panic in peoples eye. As the Station guy shouted for everyone to evacuate, there was that split second of blind panic, women and children first my a$$. I hoopped onto a Circle Line train ad got out of dodge.

Old Kerry spotted a big fat woman this morning with her staff pass on, a massive ruck sack and she was walking along reading and she thought of me! It's nice to know I create an impression. I bet the book was Harry Potter!!!!

I watched a Def Jam comedy DVD last night and would say I was disappointed.If anyone has seen the The Original Kings of Comedy then you would realise how good this could or maybe should have been. But it wasn't. It even had Dolomite - Rudy Ray Moore doing the same old routine at the end. Oh well, I'll have enough laughs on Saturday when the Charlton play the Spudz.

I was going to do some housework this weekend ... don't make me laugh.

My tune of the day: Can you see where I'm coming from - Instant Funk

Fish and Chips

So we were held up at London Bridge for one hour twenty minutes last night. Someone had thrown themselves under a train at New Cross. I had got on at Charing Cross and it was meant to sail through LB. But we stopped and they opened the doors. You then had everyone try and get on before asking where the train was going. I ended up whistling and singing songs.

There were two people reading books and walking along this morning. Both over London Bridge, and given the fact that it was quite chocker it amazes me. I was tempted to tie my shoe laces.

I have the start of a cold. I have been sniffling for a few hours now. I should go get some Vitamin C. Oh, I had Sugar Puffs for my breakfast.

By the time I got home last night, I couldn't be bothered to cook, so ended up with Fish n'chips. I always end up with a dry piece of fish and cold chips. Mushy Peas rock.

I also ended up watching a DVD of Cedric the Entertainer. Now I would have to say his stand up routine is good.

There seems to be a plethora of Charlton blogs starting up. Oh Andy Hunt over in Belize even has one, and it's deffo worth a read. It's also all gone tits up for Charlton sponsors Allsports. They owe the club loads and have been called a Chav Shopping Chain in the Sun. That's like Genghis Khan calling Hitler a trouble maker. I say get rid of them now, get a new sponsor, put them on the front of the shirt and sell the new one at a discounted rate ... say twenty squids. Job done.

My tune of the day: Purple Rain - Prince

Brighter days ...

So the trains were packed and people wouldn't move down. They just stand there as though I a daze. I'm ok jack, move down you must be 'avin a bubble.

Why is it that only fat middle aged women smoke. Have you noticed as soon as you get in to Cannon Street they all light up. Then they waft them about.

I was listening to an old skool mix this morning. Julia Roberts "Caught in the middle" and stuff. I was feelin' all my 27 years.

So over a third of women have been sexually assaulted after being drunk!!!! Hmmm ... KEV?????

My tune of the day: Tears - Nu Colours

Wemberlee ...

It's a place in North London and they call it wemberlee!!!

We sang the other night when the Monkey Hangers were in town. Yep this will be our year ... until we got drawn away to Chelsea in the next round. Move on ...

So a Dandy Murphy double gave us another 3 points on Saturday. I watched Men watching football and was happy when we went two goals ahead. I was flicking between footie and Queer eye for the straight guy, and got a bit jumpy when the West Brom pulled a goal back, but hey let them eat cake. We are now happy in second with the Spudz up next week, it's all very strange I tell thee.

I had another lazy day yesterday. After getting in at 6am I slept til about noon. Then found myself on the sofa eating hula hoops and cheesy wotsits. I ended up watching Extreme Makeover, which wouldn't have been too bad if I hadn't just started eating a creme brulee. It's a strange old show because how some of these people let them get themselves into this state to start with is well, beyond me.

Oh and Welling are through to the next round of the FA Cup.

I watched some of the MOBO'S on friday night and would say that on TV it came across as a good hour show. But if you read the press it was shambolic, no food or free drink ... hmmm, no real stars, just the same old tired people. Well Victoria Newton of the Sun what do you know. Disastrous for what reason? Do you actually know who Luther Vandross was, and the reason behind the tribute? If you think that Kiss FM (How crap are they by the way) will come up with a great alternative you are quite delusional. David Beckham is up as a nominee in the Male Style category. Oh right, so he doesn't have a stylist or gets given all his clothes for free. He is to style what Kev is to humility.

My tune of the day: Creepin - Luther Vandross

Faith, hope and char-ideee

Well there goes another week. It's the end of summer, the nights are drawing in ... and everyone has got the hump. Ho hum I hear you sigh. I'll have to have some wine at lunchtime.

I think I need to have a complete tidyup in the flat. Yes, I say that once a month and never get round to it. But I need a kick up the backside to do it. Just get 100 black bin bags and crack on. It's a plan, but the chances of me doing it are .... well slim to none. I'll most ptobably end up lying on the sofa watching Be Cool and Cedric the Entertainer. I know how to move it.

There were a plethora of big bags on the train this morning. It must be a weekend thing. The paranoia over bags has definately been forgotten, another ho hum there.

I had a night out last night. Over in Shoreditch with the boys. I haven't seen G,Rod, Glen, Leo and H for a few months. Time does fly. But we hooked up and painted the town some shade of red last night. But we knew it was time to leave when in Herbal they played Under Mi Sleng Teng. Now I like a tune, but per-lease.

My tune of the day: Fantasy - Ten City

Banter

Oh and the girlie emails continue.

They have now got the 'ump with me as I got an email containing this ...

"I am shocked and appaulled, how rude, I mean this is the man who is harping on about it being the last day of 2005 he can wear flip flops and how his stupid alarm woke him up at 5.10 this morning (so there is a god) and he's putting us down for aving a chat - Well, what I say is CHEER UP YOU MISERABLE OLD SOD!!!! I hope that your train is delayed on the way home, that everyone is wearing their staff passes and that you get stuck next to someone who stinks and is fat and carrying a big bag! Oh and by the way the East London lot includes me and Nat and we are South London birds- GET IT RIGHT!

X"

Notice the kiss at the end ... that makes it A OK then ...

WOMEN ....

One of them days ...

You knew it was going to be when the alarm went off at ten past five. What's that all about? I set it for six thirty!!!!! I was sat down drinking tea before I realised.

At least the suns shinning, the sky is blue. I've been blaring out some new tunes this morning to try and cheer myself up, but as yet no luck.

The East London lot are bickering amongst themselves over email. I have been included on the email to list but I can't even be bothered to get into it with them. They are talking, as only girls can .... a load of old baloney.

I had an enjpyable evening over at Neil and Ellies. I saw their new daughter Naiomi for the first time. I have to admit I don't understand all this baby stuff. But hey ...!!!!

Luckily I didnt sit through the Man City and Donnie game. Apart from 5 minutes it looked pants. But then again that could have been Charlton, quite easily. We're in the hat so we'll just have to take what's given.

I'm led to believe that the nights are now longer than the days. That's all well and good, but doesn't allow me to wear flip flops without catching my death of cold. Today may be the last flip flop day this year. Sad times.

It's just dawnmed on me that I won't be at footie this weekend. I may just try and look round for a game to catch. Cray Wanderers or Bromley ... surely it can't be that bad!!!

My tune of the day: Foxy Brown - Willie Hutch

Hanging Monkeys for fun ....

Yep, those pesky kids were sent packing, their ball burst and their backsides well and truly spanked. Yea, we all knew it was going to happen. When Charlton were drawn out of the hat against Huddersfield, no, no .. er, er erm I mean Hartlepool it was a game we couldn't or wouldn't want to miss. Our first competitive outing against the boys from the NE, but another chance to get on the road to Wembley. We would turn up, spank them 3/4 nil and move on. No I didn,'t think so either. We went one nil down, phaffed around a bit but eventually with the exuberance of youth saw them off. All this for a tenner, and Grimsby beat the Spudz. Oh happy days.

I finally got the Sony Ericsson file manager thingy to work yesterday, so I could download some pics from my hols. It only took 2 weeks for me to figure out that the software was corrupt and that I should reload it. Cutting edge and all that.

I finally got a text off of Leafy Leigh telling me of the arrival of her baby girl. There was me waiting to find out, but not hearing anything. I didn't want to go charging in there size 9's akimbo, just incase. Then she says that she was sure that she had told me she had had a daughter ... called India. Well, I said I'm sure you hadn't. Women!!!!

The Office move is over and after doing it single handed, I was treated to a slap up at Lahore Kebab House. The lamb chops are to die for, and as for the Sag Gosht, well. Luckily I didn't over do it ... and if you believe that.

Also before I forget, I was saddened to hear of the death of Willie Hutch over the last few days. RIP Soul Brother.

My tune of the day: That's What Love Does - Vincent Montana Jr

Some holiday snaps

It's a flip-flop world ...

Yep I was there as the might of the Russian Army overran one of the smaller non confrontational independent states. They had more guns, bigger tanks, and it appeared that our smaller band of soldiers all had trench foot!!!!

As the second goal hit the back of the net, both myself and Danny Murphy shrugged our shoulders and knew that that was it. The future had been Orange, but now it was truely blue and gold!!!!!! They had killed the beautiful game. Pele would be turning in his grave if he was in one. The King is dead, long live the king.

Yes I know, a load of old bullshite really, but the moment Robben collapsed on the floor, grabbing the ball only for the imbecile in charge to wave play on you knew that that was it. What an excellent player that Robben is. He is quick, flight of feet but somewhere down the line that wasn't enough. He has been coached to fall on the floor at every opportunity. He fell in the box looking for a penalty, fell in the middlke of the park looking for a free kick in fact at every opportunity he fell over. Go on Robben you carry on.

But the one that got me ... the incident when Makelele deliberately impedede Romm as he was away.

Chgelsea you can kiss my ass ...

My tune of the day: Amazing Love - Anane

Powerade ...

I post something I think is topical, and no one bleedin' comments. Typical. I should have continued lamenting about cr-i-ckit.

I'm currently undertaking an office move on my own. Everyone lese has the day off, or is "working from home". I can smell a rat here. I've moved about 6 big filing cabinets, 4 printers, 4 PC's, 2 servers ... and there's still shed loads to do. I need a refreshing drink and a good lunch. I haven't even had time to read the paper. What's the price of petrol me asks?

I'm quite looking forward to the match tomorrow. But not that much.

My tune of the day: Buttercup - Carl Anderson

Death of the Metrosexual male ...

Righto, it seems death of the metrosexual male has been greatly exaggerated. Now supposedly we have the ubersexual. Yep, add doing housework and demanding in bed to the mix. It can't be true surely, we still have a way to go to educated the masses. If you have a gym membership, subscribe to a glossy male magazine, like to wear stylish (sometimes loud clothes), use a lot of "products", have a facial (still the best bit of pampering in my book), wear pink, you could be classed as a metrosexual male. If not then you most probably wear Northface, Stone Island, chunky jewelry and or a flat cap. No, that's not a Northern jib, because as Wendal says, even Northerners have the Internet, MTV and style mags. That's better than the Industrial Revolution.

Word on the street is that the Global Economy depends, no demands that men shop as much as women. That men buy these "products", that they like the lesser sex become subservient to advertising.

Just look at Kev, wearing stripy jumpers and drinking rose wine. Who would have thought in a few years back. How the mighty have fallen.

Somewhere out there, there is still the feeling that doing these things is girly. Say Seven, Eight years ago living your life like this would be unimaginable. Just look how Vince now highlights his hear, wears pink, moisturises. But then drinks horrible lager by the bucket load and wouldn't be seen dead near a gym. Sometimes you have to do it, or just leave it.

Talking about doing it or leaving it, I saw something last night that did make me chuckle. I went out for a bit of dinner with the lovely Natasha (she paid ;) and was stood at the bar. Some bloke saunters up and asks for two glasses of champagne. The barman looks at him and says ... "We don't sell champagne by the glass sir, only by the bottle". The bloke takes a step back. He looks worried. He stops, thinks ... "Hmmm he says, give me a second I'll just go and ask". The bloke then trots over to a nearby table and begins to talk to this girl sitting there.Now come on. Per-lease. If you're going to come out with your bo, and do the champagne thing ... either do it or just leave it.

My tune of the day: Saturdays - Alexander Hope

Chicken Legs ...

Some people are getting a tad annoyed that their new love for cricket is being questioned. The same people who have slagged it off now "love" it, as if. I bet they never had subbuteo cricket, or test match as a child ... or spent half of the 6 weeks school holiday trying to get your ball back from next door. That's why some people get pissed off. Because of all these jonny come latelies, if that's the way to spell it.

It appears that the Chelsea charged 48 squids for their match against Anderlecht last night. Yep, it's champions league, but per-lease. For that sort of money I'd have wanted Jose to come round my gaff and give me the tickets personally. But then again that's just me.

I'm just reading a quote regarding the spat that Rooney and Beckham had last week. Rooney called Becks a flash b*stard!!!!! Righto.

The trains where fcuked last night. There was a fatality on the 5:54 train to Sidcup. Yep I complain about the journeys, the trains the people, but they are never that bad.

I'm thinking of going organic ...

My tune of the day: Sadie (she smokes) - Joe Bataan feat. Jocelyn Brown

They're coming home ...

Well come on ... they never even leave these shores. I'm here giggling at all the fever surrounding NuCricket as I watch a bus ride through Central London. I even laughed at Richard Littlejohn this morning with his quote "You can always tell the game's up when dopey birds in replica shirts start latching on to sport, despite not having the faintest idea what's going on ..."

Come on. England won the Ashes. It's great for England, for cricket but I don't get what it's all about. They don't play cricket in schools, more people than not have told me it's a crap game, not interested, blah, blah. It's a great game. I saw Viv hit 200 in a day, Viv also steer the West Indies home against the Aussies at Lords in 83, Faoud Bacchus run out Geoff Miller from the boundary in 90 something. I even went down to Taunton with Big D and Don a few years ago to see Kent in the C&G. Given that Middlesex are my team, it was a great day out. Cricket is a great game, a great day or 5 days out if you please. Even KEV has got carried away. Now Kev is encased in Stockholm telling us how great Sweden is for Sport, life and luxury. But he becomes a true English gent when it suits him. Even up to the point of sending me a text last night at 11:30 saying, and I quote ...

" Viv Richards, Joel Garner, Andy Roberts, Malcolm Marshall, you took a hell of a beating"

Well I think England may just beat this team above. Given that Malcolm is no longer with us and Joel may have put on a bit of weight. But Kev, the West Indies have never played for the Ashes ... not even Ramadine and Valentine (Do you know who they are?)

It's just dawned on me that we are playing the Chels on Saturday. Don't you just hate the way they have bought the title. It's all a laugh though ain't it.

Life was a bit better on the trains today. Although some woman was stood in the aisle filling her nails. She was proper going for it. What's that all about?

My tune of the day: Give It Up - Eminence Feat. Kathy Brown

Chocolate Covered strawberries ....

Well that was the plan, but typically I got waylayed !!!!!!

I'm sitting here watching the cricket, and it appears it's going to be a very strained day. Warne just turned the ball 2.5 feet. That's a hell of a long way. But if England are going to win it they will have to do it on the pitch, the hard way. As it should be.

It's a funny old game this cricket. It's a great game, and I can sit there and watch 5 days of a test with no problem. Generally concensus is that Cricket is crap, it takes too long to play and is for old men. Now, we have it on the back pages and front pages. Freddie Flintoff is the new Jonny Wilkinson, and it's gone all trendy. Oh well, it's swings and roundabouts because England will be crap again in a few years and no one will be interested.

Did I tell you about my Chocolate covered strawberries? No!!!! Oh well. I went to Borough Market on Saturday. The intention was to get some nice food, have a little drink and check on WAP how Charlton were getting on.

(Warnes just got another wicket ...!!!!!)

Well, it started raining, Charlton went 1-0 up and I couldn't find chocolate for toffee. I got some strawerries, some blackberries, some figs but no Chocolate. There goes the best plans.

I had one of them trips to work today. It was overcast, it was a bit cold, the trains were packed and there were people kicking up a stink. One bloke got on at Lewisham and smelt of shite. I kid you not. I had to keep my mouth shut, and breath slowly through my nose. But bleedin' hell, some people should sort themselves out. There was also a bloke at London Bridge who was trying to get the biggest two bags onto a packed train. It just makes me laugh that he thought he could get in, plus his two bags onto a train with no room in it. There was another train along in a few minutes.

You can definately tell that Autumn is here. There's a chill in the air. It's not good, but the nights will be drawing in soon enough.

(Whooops Freddies just out ....)

I've decided I'm going to have to throw some of my clothes out. I've got too many. It'll hurt, but hey.

You wouldn't want to be Michael Vaughan at this moment ...

My tune of the day: Big Picture - Izzi Dunn

Hats off

I would have to say, it was a supurb performance from England in the firld today. Freddie and Hoggy were supurb.

Also Charlton won at Birmingham, and sit second in the table. You wouldn't believe it from any of the press coverage but sod em.

My tune of the day: A House is not a home - Luther Vandross

185 - 1

So Harmison has just got the first wicket. The Ashes are now dependent on the rain ... it's only cricket.

I'm a tad bored, but not as bored as some people ...

My tune of the day: Superficial People - Ten City

Carnival Pictures ...

Laughing in the face of adversity ...

I watched a bit of the news on the Katrina disaster last night. It was the first time I'd seen any of the news from a British point of view. It was quite an eyeopener and actually puts news reporting in context. I compare this to the 24/7 coverage on CNN. The news in the US can be quite critical and they do try and question what is actually going on. There was an interesting take on the Kanye West outburst where in the US they actually agreed with what he said. If they ever mentioned in over here it would be seen as pandering to this so called PC brigade. PC my ass.

An interesting day at the Oval yesterday. It has been amusing seeing the increase in Cricket in the media. It happened with Rugger now with the gentlemans game. So it's alright to sing Jerusalem, but not bang tin cans ... hypocrits.

So Curb It thinks I should get the train to Brum. I was thinking of wandering off to Borough Market instead to treat myself ... you decide.

My tune of the day: Runnin - Jon Cutler feat. Pete Simpson

Reality Check...

Yep, back at work and it's as though my holiday never happened. I've been trying to download some of the pics I took, but typically they are not loading up. I'll put them up when I can get the damn thing to work.

I stayed up and watched the England match last night. It surprises me that they get so much critisism!!!! Why? Because they aren't much cop are they? As a team they are, what you may call shite. Individually they have some quality. But please, all the hystrionics ... you'll be saying we'll (notice that Kev) win the Ashes next!!!!

I bought quite a lot of stuff on my hols. Tees, trainers, some jeans. The bag was creaking as I came home. I did get a fantastic Lionel Ritchie Fan Club teeshirt. I'll put a pic of that up soon too.

Thinking back it's been quite a hectic couple of weeks. I had the Metro City Weekender thingy with free drink on the bank holiday Saturday. Then there was the Carnival on the Sunday and the Monday. That was funny. I do actually need a weekend of relaxation. Lie back and watch men watching football tell me how our lot are getting on up in Brum. That should be interesting.

It's funny not having read the papers for over a week, or bothering to check on line. You realise how you don't need to read the Sun for a daily laugh. A reality check indeed.

My tune of the day: Wake up everybody - Teddy Pendergrass

Back in blighty ...

Well how knackered am I? But I've got to watch the England/ Ireland of the North match tonight. I'll be back on tomorrow, with some thoughts on Philly and NYC ...

Greetings from Philly

As I sit in the ING Internet Cafe having just diggested the biggest Tuna Melt the world has seen, my thoughts turn to nothing more important as what pair of trainers to buy next. Shopping in Philly is ... as they say awesome, and NY City is to come.

Anyway good luck to Franny Freshners up in Scoootland, and welcome the Booth-man.

My tune of the day: Philadelphia Freedom - Elton John (Get in there Glen ....)

Oran Juice Jones

Well they only finally went and done it. Yep, they delivered my Sofa. Only 6 months 2 weeks and three days. But hey if I wanted an easy life I'd support Chelsea and go to DFS.

It turned up as you would expect in the back of a big van. I also got a big black spider and two of the cushions soaked in water. That's fair though, because at least I've got the damn thing. I can now have a nice sit down or maybe even a lie down. The choice is mine.

It's been a bit hectic lately. Working like a worky thing given that I am the only one in the office. Fitting in a hair cut before I depart for my hollybobs, and generally going out having a great time. I had a drunken night in Canary Wharf yesterday. It was all due to the sambuccas. It even made me get some chicken and chips on the way home. Not good. The night before I had a great night at Cafe Kick over in Shoreditch. An hour of bar football, some drinks a nice bit of food ... how else would you like to spend an evening?

It looks like it's going to be a hectic weekend. I've got a free ticket for the Metro SW4 DOO tomorrow. It could be free booze. We then have two days of the Notting Hill Carnival. Over Kensal Green sides, we have Good Times and Norman Jay playing the party tunes. A bottle of rum and some dancing shoes and I'll be well away. Then Tuesday it's off for a well earned break. I'll be doing my best Rocky impression running up the stairs. I'll get some pics for you.

My tune of the day: - That's What Love Does (Louis Benedetti Mix) - William 'Smoke' Howard

Day at the races ...

Had one of them days yesterday, so will be back to post more in a bit ....

Current Nearest Observations: heavy rain 15°CS (19 mph)
Relative Humidity (%): 90
Pressure (mB): 1007, Falling
Visibility: Moderate

From the BBC weather page. Jesus, it's been raining non stop all day, it's summer. We have a bank holiday weekend coming up, WTF. There is definately something wrong ... oh and don't wear flip-flops if you can't carry them off ...

I found some old maths coursework ... 

Bish, bosh ... bash

Some thinks are quite annoying. I was reading about "Lotto Lout" Michael Carroll this morning and his ex-bird said, to quote ... "He loved to pelt traffic wardens with Big Macs ... there was ketchup everywhere." Well hello, there is no ketchup in Big Macs, everybody knows it's special sauce. Jesus. At least get your facts right.

It's also quite funny ready footballers recall certain games and incidents in matches. I was reading a Scott Parker interview on the way to Sunderland a week or so ago. He was bleating about this and that, but said one of his best matches was the boxing day victory over Chelsea. He said we were up against it and went one nil down early doors, before equalising then hanging on for dear life. Hang on a minute. Was this the Boxing Day match in 2003, when we beat the Chels 4-2. The one where HH scored in the first stroke second minute. The one where Chelse equalised with their first attack, then sat back as Charlton ran riot. Where Paulo made John Terry look stupid, and Matty Holland scored a cracking header, Euelly that incredible half volley and with twenty minutes left we were 4-1 up. Yes, Scott, it's the same match you were playing in the damn thing ... so at least get your facts right.

I've just noticed it's started raining again. Oh there goes the summer. It's oh so depressing. Where's the sun?

My tune of the day: Gypsy Woman - Curtis Mayfield

The King of Flip Flops ...

Well i never knew flip-flops would be so controversial. From Lattimers use of my lime green number to Giles saying the only other flip flop wearer he knows is Gandhi. It's as though I was wearing an indian headdress or a pair of backless chaps. They are flip-flops straight off Ipanema beach, well one pair was from Copacabana, but really. I like flip-flops and I'll wear them ... but not at the Notting Hill Carnival.

It still annoys me when people stand at the ticket barrier and then fumble for their ticket. What's that all about? It annoys me when people sit on the outside seat and put their bag inside. Per-lease. It annoys me when get off at Cannon Street and light up straight away. For heavens sake, give peace a chance.

I've just heard that I may finally be getting my sofa. I've been waiting for 5 months and was finally giving up hope. So I went back to the showroom. It had been turned into a coffee bar. Lucky that eh? So I go in explain the situation to the Eastern European "Beauty" behind the counter. She plays dumb. Don't know him, don't know any sofa shop. But given that the Sofa Shop proprietor was Eastern European and was telling me about his plan for a coffee shop, I let her carry on. I have to say I was getting more and more adjatated, and she then said I couldn't speak to her like that. You have to laugh. I said I should come back with a van and take the sofas in the coffee shop. She said you can't do that. I said watch me.

You know what, I left my number and within 4 minutes I had a call. A bloke, the owner of the Sofa shop. Oh that's a coincidence. He has my sofa on the van. His phone had been stolen, he didn't have my number. Yea right. He can deliver in the next two days. So I've phoned the back-up. Watch this space.

My tune of the day: First Time - Kenny Carvejal ft Carla Pratha

In Thomas we trust ....

So I sit there reveling in the Addicks actually want to attack, and as Thomas flicks the ball back behind his body a shout goes up ...

"Just bleedin clear it ..."

Hang on!!!! Clear it, we are attacking, against Wigan ... and in reality you want him to boot the ball up the pitch. Sometimes you wonder why you bother. Thomas may be, just may be the best ball player I've seen at Charlton, and for him to "boot da ball" is sacriledge. I want to see him beat a man, then go back and beat him again. Take the piss. Do those step overs, wiggle his leg, shake his head, his foot, his ass whatever he has to. I have had years of watching Brendan O'Connell plough the furrow, now I want to be entertained. You can't tell me that Paul Mortimer taking the Michael i the snow at the New London Stadium wasn't one of your alltime favourite Charlton moments? Or the Killer overhead kick against Hull City which on the Big Match goal of the season. It's all about entertainment .. that's what I want.

I'd just like to put in print how good Alexi Smertin and Dandy Murphy were on Saturday. Now these two compliment each other, and long may it continue.

The X-Factor!!! Wha'ts that all about? We've had that, surely, they can't keep flogging a dead horse?

It's August, and it's been raining all day ... it must be close to the bank holiday? All down hill to Christmas then. I'll have to start getting my Chrimbo list together. Luckily I didn't hang my washing out on the line this morning. Decisions, decisions ...

I can't wait for a paperless office ...

My tune of the day: Gloria's Muse - Blaze

The rain in spain ...

As the black clouds crossed the sky yesterday afternoon, they mirrored the look on my face. The sun had shone for 3 days, in fact yesterday lunch time as I ate some sushi in Borough Market the temperature was touching 100 degrees. Yes, I know I am prone to exageration but hey, as Bern would say it's my blog. Anyway ... you may wonder why I was that bothered about the weather? Generally, as nice as it is when the sun shines, I have a lot of other things to moan about before the weather. But last night I had booked to go Somerset House to sit in the 18th century courtyard and combibe an urban picnic, there woprds not mine, with live DJing and a film ... in this case Spirited Away. Well anyway, the clouds did hold off ... brussels pate and blue cheese was consumed as well as lashing and lashings of ginger beer. All in all a quality night, quality company ... even if I do say so myself.

Today however the rain is falling. It's like we haven't had rain for months, then all of a sudden it all wants to fall at once. Just in time for the weekend. The weekend before the Bank Holiday weekend, and the Notting Hill Carnival.

Before we get to next weekend we've got to get through this one, and our first ever fixture against Wigan Athletic. It should actually be interesting given the fact that we have a sort of match against them on Saturday morning. Yep CIAFC are back and have their first game of the season. I'm down to play in goal, but we will wait and see.

After last weeks victory at Sunderland I'm actually quite looking forward to the game tomorrow. Famous last words eh!!!!!

My tune of the day: Brand New Dance - BeBe Winans

Sea lions and bleedin Coco the Clown ...

Indeed. It appeared that aliens came down to earth kidnapped the England Football Squad and replaced them with a set of Clowns in an experiment that would test the patience of the best of us. We had a line up including Rio, Becks, Rooneeeeee, Joseph Cole. Now tell me, what's the average weekly wage here. Shed loads, yes, no? But last night it appeared that what we had was a set of players that couldn't be bothered, couldn't motivate themselves, couldn't kick it, (yes they can) ... or even act like they cared. Gerrard was a pale imitation of the Liverpool player, Lumpard was overweight, and outfought by Tommy Gravesen, Cole of the J variety kept cutting back onto his right foot ... and Becks was concentrating on his hair more than his flare. The funniest moment though was at the end of the game. When being interviewed David James said that he wasn't mentally prepared for the game. Well I had to have a little sit down then. He's a footballer, that's what he does. So when would be be prepared? Have I missed something here? Thank the lord that Darren didn't have to get off the bench for this one. His time will come.

Right, after that shambles I turned over and watched the Channel 4 blockbuster !!!! LOST.

I'm not sure what it's all about, but what I did learn is that the Americans can still make shmultsey, cringeworthy TV. The end bit when Walt finds his dog, to a soft rock accompaniment is ... well you get me. Yes, I'll be watching, but it is surprising that the BBC can't make such stirling TV. Extras my ass.

It just dawned on me that I've never seen Wigan play football. That'll be a new team. It must be my first new team since er, Yeovil last year. But they do have Jason Roberts up front. I wonder what sort of game the centre halves will be expecting?

Oh back to England. How does Glen Johnson get a game? He doesn't even play for Chelskov. It makes a mockery of actually picking players that can do a job. Jeez, just let me get over it. Anyway at least Romm scored.

Guess what? I'm really happy with the Sony Ericsson K750i. The camera is good and it actual does what it says on the tin. Whoooosh.

My tune of the day: New York House - Marlon D

My attire ... and nobody says a word 

Sea lions on me shirt ...

Blimey, the Ashes euphoria has been taken up by Becks and Co, and En-ger-land are going to win the World Cup next year. I for one would love this to happen, but per-lease. Aren't we all realists? When we get down to it, in either the quarters or Semis we'll all be let down ... again.

So what's the chances of Darren playing for the Seniors tonight? Even a half hour run out. I for one hope that he enjoys his experience and maybe doesn't get thrown to the lions. Remember what happened to Ricketts, to Jeffers and Konchesky!!! His time will come, but I just want him fit and happy for Saturday.

I've just been reading the Metro about Online dating. Now I don't want to be a killjoy of anything but frankly I find this all very strange. Does anyone know an Online date fiend? Who isn't a Creepy Older Man!!!!! No thought not. However the page in the Metro does give a few tips. Like be specifiv, don't say "I'm outdoorsy", say "this is my favourite mountain to climb in the Lake District" or in fact say why you don't really like Leeds Castle. Avoid a list of adjectives, be positive, don't have unrealistic expectations .. ha ... avoid cliches!!!!! They're having a laugh!!!! Aren't they? How am I meant to explain my love of long walks on the beach, candlelit dinners and Sunday in bed with the papers. Oh well, Online dating ... not for me.

Do you realise they are still two more tests to play. We've got to endure this Nu-Cricket even more. Brian Johnson will be turning in his grave.

I've just popped outside for a coffee. Talk about "Phew what a scorcher ..."

My tune of the day: I might do something wrong - Tortured Soul

It was a great morning until I walked into the Office door ....

Right then. After my headbanging session I can actually now concentrate on what I am doing. The cricket ...!!!! The Sun says "Vaughan's hero's robbed by ONE wicket". Call me old fashioned but robbed??? That's the whole point of the game, to bowl your opposition out twice. That's two lots of ten wickets. Not nine but ten. So England are robbed!!!! By whom? It was a great game, yes ... but don't treat us like idiots.

I had a washing and ironing frenzy last night. A weeks worth of ironing as well as three loads of washing, meant the flat was like a Chinese laundry. I also watched Old Boy an interesting Korean film, but did miss some bits due to ironing instead of watching the subtitles.

Well last night was the first BB-less night for 3 months. How did we all cope? Yeah, thought as much.

No news on the Charlton transfer targets. There's a lot of hypothetical drivel about Bowyer and Marcus Bent, but I'll wait for Curbs to sort it out.

My tune of the day: My baby knows (I like it) The New Yorkers

The answer to our question

On leaving the Stadium of Light on Saturday, the question was when was the last time we won the first match of a season away from home?

The answer just in ... 21 years ago but against whom I haven't the foggiest.

We are top of the league ...

Well it's not for me to gloat, or to even get too carried away. But after getting stuffed at Bolton this time last season this result definitely made the relatively easy journey up North all the more worthwhile. I'll also like to say "Unlucky" to all the overweight, sunbed loving Makem Muppets who tried to give it at the Stadium of Light on Saturday. Evidently as Jordan says what goes around comes around.

It was in effect a long old day. Up at 6:30, shower and shave then onto London Bridge. I met Rod on his way to work, then after meeting James a short hop to Kings Cross. The 8:30 was on time and a table was commandeered for the journey. We left Doncaster in our wake and arrived at Newcastle at 11:34. Now what is funny is that for weeks people have been moaning about the trains being up the swanny, that it was too expensive, that flying was the only way ... yadda yadda. Well we had no hastle, and even had a few beers on the way.

After booking into our hotel ... the Caledonian we went into town to crack on. A few G&T's, some of Mrs Vinces chips and we were on the Metro going to the Stadium of Light. Now generally the Makems are non plussed about Charlton fans. We both went through that Play Off final so we all know what's what. But you still get a few herberts, it's a shame really ... but that's the life of a football fan. It could be worst though. I watched some of the Wigan v Chels game yesterday. Now I am no Chels fan but I found it funny that they scored in the 93rd minute and even funnier that Jose had to console Paul Jewel. But when Sky interviewed some "Wigan fans" after the game one bloke in his new shiny home kit said, this is my first ever game and although a little disappointed we did ok. Another said "Hey oop, we'll be alriteeee, we'll be looking to finish 5th or 6th." Fwuk me ... football fans!!!! Quite remarkable really ... but I'm sure he'll enjoy his trip to the Valley next week? No !!!!

Has anyone noticed how although Our Anthony won BB, the papers both yesterday and today are full of Makosi!!! Exclusive interviews, following the dream love ... you go for it. After watching her interview with Davina I did wonder why the best alround housemate ever had to go through this, when the likes of Maxwell and Craig were seen as cheeky harmless chappies.

On a football note it was good to see Welling Utd get off to a great start on Saturday. I have to say I always look out for their results. Sad, yes I know.

I've just been looking up the weather forcast for London this week. Can you really trust these people? It's going to be sunny all week, or so they say. What if I wanted to have an evening outdoors and it rains? Who do I sue?

My tune of the day: You got me hung up - King Tutt

Ramadine and Valentine ...

Come on then all you nu-age cricket lovers who sang that calypso with the line ...

"With them two pal of mine, Ramadine and Valentine"

You don't know? Well why not ask Kevin Everett or Bonnie Razzil as they seem to be liking the sound of leather on willow.

It seems that the Aussies are creeping back into the match. Whatever Mr Cooksley thinks, 359 - 6 isn't a great score on this pitch.

It's the start of the Premier League tomorrow. A trip up to Sunderland sees us far away from home on this first Saturday. At least it's a night out on the raz. Drowning ones sorrows after watching our 4-5-1 huff and puff and failing to blow the house down. If you want an indepth rundown on the first match go read the Official Site, or All Quiet, or Frankie or Valley James. I can't really be bothered to talk about whether Bent will struggle as a lone gunman, whether we should put Dennis upfront to complement Bent, whether we need a new centre half, why we are wearing white ... or whether the best form of transport is plane, train or automobile.

And as for Fantasy Football ... you are definitely taking the piss.

It all ends tonight. Yep Big Brother crawls over the finishing line, like the proverbial damp squib. Eugene took the money, like anybody would have said NO ... get over yourself, Makosi is an actress, bothered, wateva, loser, wannabe, Craig is still biatching for England ... did you see his mother blame editing for his portrayal as an idjut? And Kinga in that cheerleaders outfit ... whooosh, it's the hottest day of the year.

Oh, I'm still having problems getting my sofa. I'll be writting about this next week ... it should give some of you a laugh.

My tune of the day: Luv 4 2 - Michael Watford

Phones and tings ...

Somewhere down the line I have got it into my head that I need to upgrade and get a new phone. I don't really, the Nokia I am using is good, easy, and does what it says on the tin. But I've had it for a year so it's that time. Well here's where the problems start!!! I've already had two new models and sent them straight back. A nokia without a keypad and a motorola that I couldn't get my head round. I do put myself in these positions. Even Orange who I have been with for the last year have started to pish me off. Charged me an upgrade fee when I shouldn't have been, and then have just informed me that to deliver a new phone would take 3-4 working days!!!! Hello ... what's wrong with Special Delivery?

Oh sod it ... I'm going for the Sony Ericsson K750i on Vodafone. It's easier to change provider as they throw free minutes and reduced line rental at you. Oh hang on ... they are saying the PAC code isn't live any more!!! I'll have to phone Orange again and hang on the line for 15 minutes. Time hanging on the phone, it's great ... allows one to think.

Oh bolloxs do I need a new phone?

So England won the toss and decided to bat. A lovely day, in the sun watching McGrath and Lee toil. If you believe that ... You're Cooksley in disguise.

I'm on the phone to Orange. Why am I leaving? Idiot. He says it will cost me in the long term. Are they going to send the boys round, Oh hold the horses. They are offering me £95 loyalty bonus!!!! £95 to stay with Orange. Should I stay or should I go. Sod it ... I'm like Eugene I'll take the money and run. Easily pleased me.

My tune of the day: For the love of money - The O'Jays

Blimey, I've only gone and sorted the header out ... I am webmaster ...

Fuzzy ...

Back from a spin class. The Wednesday one is always a bit boring, as it's all about seated hill climbs. Not really my bag.

I had a little bit of a play with blogger this morning ... but I'm still not sure some of the graphics I want to upload will work.

Can anyone tell me why in the midst of a lovely sunny week, there are still blokes walking around with rain coats and golfing umbrellas? What is that all about. The same blokes wear their staff passes round their neck. Maybe I'm missing something?

My tune of the day: Punch Up - Laid

The boy Bowman ... Blackpools finest?

It's actually quite laughable the things that happen back at young Claires house!!! At what point did the boy Bowman get caught up in this garb? That must have been when I was outside watching the drug bust, or down the chicken shop. Or maybe it was when I was outside marrying Poppy and Trevor ... answers on a postcard.

I'm actually tingling at the moment with the thought of the Footie season upon us. A trip to Sunderland is winnable, but this is Charlton ... and if you remember when we actually went up first time, the Saints of Southampton came calling thinking the same, and were sent hone on the wrong end of a 5-0 scoreline. It's a long way to Sunderland for a crap performance. It's a long way to watch us huff and puff in a 4-5-1 formation ... you know that's what will happen. But I'm still a bit tingley.

I sat down to watch BB last night, and think the show has gone on a couple of weeks too long. It's not even interesting viewing. Watching Makosi, Eugene, and Craig take it in turns to ball. All we want is someone with some balls to stand up.

supposedly this Friday is going to be a scorcher ... so it will be flip-flop day around South London.

My tune of the day: Testify - Romanthony

It's an afternoon/ evening out in East London. Styling and profiling ... you can have some fun Hackney way.

It was an interesting weekend. Lashings of red wine, England nearly throwing away the Ashes series, Charlton crashing to their first defeat in a pre-season friendly ... and a KFC for Sunday lunch.

I won't even entertain the Simon Jordan debate. I know what sort of bloke he is, you know what sort of bloke he is ... but still there are some sympathisers. One email from the PO list states

"Jordan's very long on his own rhetoric as he showed in his article in the Observer yesterday, but the article in terms of its readability and its contents was far more lively and far more pertinent than the turgid blandness of Curbs columns last season."

Yes, I believe so. But what do we want from our manager, our chairman, our club? Cutting edge, er .. edgyness? Curbs telling a warts and all account of his day to day tet a tets with Euelly, Fanny and Merv. Telling us what he really thinks of Arse, and Jose. No, we don't. Well I don't. I want a bit of respect, respect for us as customers ... it's football, not World War 3 ... but tell that to Jordan.

I hope you all watched the final half hour of the Second test yesterday. The way England huffed and puffed, eventually grabbing that final wicket. It was finger biting stuff, even Barn would have been proud.

I've just been sent a pic of Timbo last week. I'll have to clear it before I stick it up ... but it made me laugh.

My tune of the day: I wish I didn't miss you - Angie Stone

Or not as the case might be. Typically Bern put a cat amongst the pigeons yesterday, when he said that he only gives his blog address out to selected people. Graham did then wonder what the point was, but poor old Bornie took a bit of a pasting on the Netadicks board about his fences. He even suggested that I had created a false persona to start the muck raking. Like I've got nothing better to do.

So England are back on track in the Ashes series? It's a question not a statement. Because I think they should have been looking to post 500 plus. Not one of their top batsmen got to post a big score. But that's England I suppose. It should be an interesting day.

It seems I got a shout out on the Forever Charlton site yesterday. Although I'm not primarily a Charlton only blog, I do talk about my Charlton experience. But they put me up as riscardo.co.uk and not by the page title The King of Sweden. Not a major concern but just big enough to grate on me.

I can't believe it's the weekend already. After last weeks, two day soiree I may have a quiet one. Saying that, life is but a moment.

I was a bit bored with Big Brother last night. Sitting there watching Craig, bitch and moan, moan and bitch is not good entertainment. He constantly has a go at Eugene then Derek, but in reality he is the one that should be shown the door. I think I've had enough of it .... so I'll be watching Smackdown tonight instead.

My tune of the day: Amazing love - Anane

Reach for the stars ...

It will be interesting viewing when we turn up t the Stadium of Light on 14 August. Another season in the Premier league, expectation levels at a high. What will this year bring? European football ... dear god, relegation!!!! But this is Charlton, so anything can happen. What we will now is that up one end of the Stadium will be sitting the best goalscorer we've had down the Valley since Killer back in the days. Yep, Sir Clive will be using voucher 1 in his Sunderland season ticket book, hoping his boys put one over on us. It's been a few years now since Clive left. We've had Andy Hunt playing up front. The boy Lisbie, Jeffers ... but no one to write home about. That is ... until now.

This is said with some hope, but what we saw last night actually left me with a smile on my face. A striker willing to lead the line. A striker willing to have a shot, to run the channels, to get his head on the end of it. Even a striker that romances Lady Luck. Step forward Darren Bent. Let's hope that I haven't put a mockers on him.

I arrived back home last night just in time to catch the last 15 minutes of BB. I turned on, and watched as Craig and Anthony had another Lovers Holiday. I nearly choked on my super noodles however when Craig piped up ...

"There is a famous saying in history ... fortune favours the bold!!!!"

Blimey, I must have missed that one. It's like watching then chuckle brothers with these two, to you, to me ...

Now, it amused me a day or so ago that Kevin left a comment about this rose wine thingamy. For about 9 months Kev has been banging on about how Rose is the new black, and is very fashionable in Sweden. A bit like crayfish, and meatballs. Kev drinks rose wine whilst wearing a stripy shirt stroke jumper. Fashionable to the uneducated no doubt, but really Kev you are missing out on a lot being in the land of the Volvo. Drinking Rose is not about being fashionable. It's about being cheap. Drink Belvedere Vodka ... or Greygoose. Or a sloeberry gin. Come on Kev kep up.

I received my new Motorola V3 phone. I hated it so I sent it back. Surely there must be a phone out there that I like? Yea, the one I already have !!!!

My tune of the day: Fly Away - Billy Love

So there we have it, no fanfare, no announcement ... just the pics up on the website and info that you can buy them on Saturday. I do like it though. Even though it looks like Liverpools from two years ago!!!! No, I never thought that, but that's what someone said on Netaddicks. I'm sure we wore white/ black back in the 60's and 70's and even the 90's. I like it, and on this page that's all that matters.

Whilst I'm on about Netaddicks, there seems to be a consensus for Bern to bring his picture blog back. Come on Bern ... Just do it.

I hope you were all watching Big Brother last night? Has there ever been such a person after their 15 minutes more than Kinga. Tits oooot, simulated sex with a bottle ... squatting on the dinner table!!!! Poor old Derek and Eugene. Both have had a part to play in this seasons BB but now one is out leaving Kinga in there. She should be booted out. Just for being a wrongun. She's not big (well her tats are) and she's deffo not clever. And it's embarrassing. It really is one of those, need to turn the TV over moments.

I've decided to go to the Valley tonight so I may need to tape tonight's BB. Decisions, decisions ...

My tune of the day: South Bronx - BDP

Superficial people

It seems that everyone has a point to make about ever subject. Whatever the information, people like to spout off. Whether it's about the latest fad for striped shirts and rose wine or the London bombings or even the latest gross murders in London and Liverpool. Someone call the fashion police there's a man outside in socks and sandals. Is that it, is that all she wrote? Wear what you want, but wear it with pride. It's only people who aren't comfortable with themselves that will mock, people who move as a pack, the ones who sy they smoked because off peer pressure. What a load of bunkum!!!

Now I say this because as usual I logged onto Netaddicks this morning. Just to find the latest on Bernies fences really. It's actually a Charlton Athletic message board, so you can learn all the latest bits of gossip, like Andy Johnson at Palarse has signed a new 5 year deal, that Charlton are after Marcus Bent, that some murders and more important than others!!!! What?? Is that right? Nope, not from my angle it's not. But some people do get over excited about "What the papers say." Netaddicks is not your usual message board. Oh no. It's the life and soul for some people. In fact you can learn much more about people you meet on there than people would be willing to show face to face. But hey, who am I to judge. There's quite a thread growing about the unfortunate Murder in Liverpool and comparing it to the murder that took place on a bus in London. Both ... no not both, ALL murders don't enter my psyche. Can you imagine stabbing someone, or sticking an axe in someone's head? No ... nor can I. I don't get it. Whether someone is black, white, marcian, atheist it makes no sense to me. That's why I surround myself with like minded people. Friends. I have views, but I mainly keep them to myself. There's no point in me antagonizing people just for the sake of it. I should stop laughing there shouldn't I.

Now hang on. Let's get back to normality. Big Bro. Kinga .. what a star. She's going to win. You know it, I know it ... even Craig knows it.

Oh well ... it's nearly time for Body Attack at the gym. If you haven't tried it do.

My tune of the day: Whatcha gonna do - Jon Cutler & Michael Watford

Judge and jury ...

It's quite funny how some people think that they will be judge and jury. You look one way, you are branded ... lok another you're typically labeled as one of them. If you say one thing, or use a phrase or saying you must be this or that, and then people who think they are better than you point it out. It's the same as being a Charlton fan. If you don't go to friendlies you don't care, you're not really a fan ... you are a johnny come lately, you come by Valley Express and you just buy the latest shirt, you never saw Morty play.

Well guess what ... I say sod off. Move down the bus please, but have you're ticket ready for viewing.

I had one of those outfits on at the weekend, a pastel yellow shirt, white boots, brown tweed jacket but still people want to judge. Me ... bothered ... whatever, loser.

I had one of them weekend. It never stopped but ended up going ever so quick. From the full english on Saturday morning through to a curry being ordered on Sunday evening. It was totally full on. The mock marriage of Trevor and Poppy, I say mock but I had to admit I wasn't really a clergy so I couldn't really do it, the drugs bust in Plaistow ... it was a weird one to say the least.

But the best thing, no football and no Big Brother. So I didn't see Kinga get thrust back in, up front next to Franny Jeffers.

My tune of the day: Deliver me - Michael Proctor

Strange but true

It appears that some girls flip their pants!!!

Oh and Happy Birthday

Leading from the front

It's been aone of those weeks!!! No time to breathe, no bleedin' time to doa anything. It's August more or less, there goes the first half of the year. It's all down hill until Christmas.

I've had a quick look at the Charlton Website this morning, and we've only gone and signed a 5 year agreement with a Chinses team to form an academy in Shanghi. What a surprise ....? That's my little joke. Blimey, an academy in China, one in Arizona, and in Spain ... a TV deal we really are making a stand for the small clubs. I pitty the Wall though. It seems like Sid James is talking over at the New London Stadium, it's Carry on up Zampa Road.

Another friendly tomorrow. Away at Watford. Not for me. I've had my share of walking around the allotments thanks. I'll leave that to the New Model Army of fans.

I've had a mare with my phones lately. I ordered a Nokia 7710 through o2. They did a credit check and wouldn't give it to me. Worrying. So I ordered it on Vodafone. Here it is, a tad large but hey what a phone. The only problem being that I had to port my number over at point of sale. Did they tell me this ...? NO!!!! So I can't keep my number. Sod that. I've cancelled it and stayed with Orange. I changed to the Motorola V3 phone. But it's Motorola, I'll given them a chance.

My tune of the day: Elements of Life - Louie Vega

Feeling good ...

Blimey, where's the day gone? I've been that busy I haven't had time to come on here and ramble. That's a shock I'm sure to most of you, but it's been a busy Thursday. You get me!!!!

I didn't even get time to go to the gym. I'll have to make up for it tomorrow with a marathon spin class.

I ordered a new phone and I got declined .... ho hum.

My tune of the day: No way back - Adonis

JUST ORDERED THIS

One specially for the Hither Green Massive ... now you can all get your hands on that Carl Bean toon.

Motown Disco

You know it makes sense.

Seeing dead people ...

That's what it was like at Loftus Road. Maybe people have had enough of the Subuteo stadium. I know I have. I remember Granto spending most of one match banging on the back of the stand corrugated wall. That was the same game as Mark Garvey, he who had drum being forcibly thrown out and taking a beating to boot. QPR, QPR ... QP ... hahahahahahah. Sod you West London muppets.

I also had the misfortune to turn talksport on again last night. I forgot that I had tuned it in on the radio and as I jumped in the bath I had the strains of James Whale spouting his nonsense. Sometimes I do wonder why they allow this idiot on the radio, then you remember that it's a Rupert Murdock tool. Both the radio station and James Whale. He spends most of the time dissing the BBC and liberals. That's liberals with a small l, people who have a tolerance level and are not scared to jump to conclusions. I did shake my head when a mini cab driver from Clacton on Sea was indicating that the Brazilian fella got what he was asking for, given that he had a so called big jacket on and didn't stop even when the "Police" said so. I wasn't there so I can't say what did or didn't happen, but when you read that 5 Sikhs had been marched off a tourist bus in Times Square because they looked a bit dodgy, you know what you are dealing with. We live in troubled times especially as one girl wrote in the Metro ... You look a bit foreign!!!!! Oh to be a white, male, middle class geezer ... er, I think not.

I'm still being fascinated by Big Brother. It's actually getting a bit boring now they are all getting along. Even Orlaith hasn't got her Charlies out lately. Saskia, Maxwell .. who they???

Don't you just love this weather? I actually put the central heating on this morning, just to get rid of the dampness in the air. Oh and hopefully my sofa will be delivered soon.

My tune of the day: Thru The Rain - Soul Creation Feat. Kenny Bobien

Arf' .. arf ...

Blimey,I've had the accountant in all day ... busy busy. It's off to QPR tonigh so I'll come back at ya tomorrow ...

My tune of the day: I'll do anything - Todd Terry

It's a beautiful day ...

As I said earlier, I did have a lot to say today, about cricket and shit. But I know I would have had the rath of Cooksley telling me how crap the West Indies are. Yes, yes ... we know that but how on earth England thought they were going to win the Ashes is another story. Did you see Ian Bell? What was that all about. A batsman who can't ready the flight of the ball. Where's Thorpey when you need him. Oh, don't even go there.

James Whale ... what a muppet. I had the misfortune of turning Talksport on tonight. Never agin I tell thee.

Ho hum ...

A hell of a lots happened over the last few days. I had so much to say, but you know what ... I can't be arsed.

That's not big, it's not clever ... but I'll be back tomorrow once I've digested it all ...

My tune of the day: Give Me Your Love - Black Mighty Orchestra feat. Be Noir

What a day ....

Well typically the cricket descended into a farce, then we had people trying to blow themselves up on the tube and luckily failing.

Fourteen wickets in a day, Chris Tavare would be turning in his grave. Piertersons innings this morning summed it up when he tried to blast every ball and eventually fell short. I'm telling you it will be all over by lunch on Sunday. One nil and a mountain to climb.

So, the whole of London is in turmoil as suicide bombers are on the loose. Quite a striking statement but one with some grain of truth. I can't get my head around the fact that they all escaped without someone having a pop at them. Given that my mum was up visiting my bro in Shepherds Bush it hit home a bit too hard. There will come a time when we aren't going to stand for this any more. I can just feel it.

It was interesting to see Orlaith sucking up to Science last night on BB. She's had a go at Makosi, Kemal and Derek about playing games, but she's the biggest player in there. So people don't be fooled by her crocodile tears, vote the boring idiot out ... keep Science safe. You know it makes sense.

The Netaddicks board has been down for the best part of 12 hours. Seems a bit strange, but I'm at a lose with no Charlton chat. It's also interesting to note that Charlton haven't been linked with any new signings this week. No paper talk, no speculation ... nothing. Oh well ...

I had a letter from Sky yesterday. They are putting my subscription up by three pounds. Oh well.

My tune of the day: Lovin You (Re Edit) - Johnny Guitar Watson

Ruck sacks

There I am watching the test as a news alert comes up on the screen. Two weeks and some people can't let it lie. Caught with wires stiicking out of their bags, not big and not clever.

I could say string them up, but that doesn't solve anything. It's not good, not good.

Temptation ...

It's the day that all cricket fans have been waiting for. The start of the Ashes series. As I sit here the Australians have just scored their first 50 runs for the fall of one wicket. Something tells me it's going to be a long summer. At least it's on Channel 4 ... I can put it on in the office. Yeeha.

I'm thinking about going to Brentford on Saturday. However I do want one of them lazy weekends, where I can bum round in my pj's and do nothing. However there is housework to be done, and the conservatory needs a good cleaning. My life ... and fast lane come to mind.

They are now 66 for two, maybe a tad batter.

Question ... why do women bound up flights of stairs. I saw this pretty random this morning doing three steps at a time. Unsightly it was, pretty it wasn't. Why do fat people always eat. There was Joe Tex and his girls on the train this morning, and each one of them was eating.

No new signings coming the Addicks way, even though there were a couple of offers on the table. We've had five days without one ... come on Curbs sort it out!!!!!!

I caught some of the new BBC series Full on food last night. An interesting concept, in the style of Top Gear. I thought it was a bit laddy but quite interesting.

I am loving Big Brother at the moment. The way Science is winding everyone up, and just doing his thing reminds me of the way I would be in the house. I would be just like that, but worst. It's like playing Russian Roulette but come on it's worth it.

Blimey its 74 for four, heady days.

My tune of the day: Pull my hair - Ying Yang Twins

Wonders never cease ...

Peter Crouch ... seven million!!! What lira? Now I just don't get it. He's a big target man and Liverpool need this sort of player, according to Rapha, but per-lease.

I saw him once at the Red Cube Bar in Leicester Square. It was when he was at QPR. It was a thursday, and he was mangled. But then again he earns shed loads of money, and has Page Three beuties fighting over him. That's definately a head shaking moment.

The tour of the South Coast continues with a 5-1 win at Torquay. Some more goals, bonding, team building. Let's hope they get it right before the Sunderland game.

I've just signed up for the Netaddicks fantasy football league the code is 63927-12570 if you want to get involved. Go on give it a go ...

Right. I've not spoken about Big Bro for a few days, mainly because I generally watch the programme open mouthed. Is this real I ask? It seems that some of them have forgotten that it is actually a game, where the winner takes home a shit load of wonga. So the whole point is to beat, or maybe outlast your opponents. Can someone please tell Orlaith and Kemal. Orlaith is like two tits on a stick. She was in tears last night because she was missing her family!!!!! HELLO, SHE'S BEEN IN THEIR 3 WEEKS. That's a holiday, not a hardship. Kemal is adamant that Makosi is a mole/ plant .. whatever. Girlfriend ... (sic) ... move on. Now in reality because that's what it is ... it's a great show. It's an ongoing soap. You get to grow with the participants, but I'd really hate to be in there. To deal with Derek, who must be the bluest Black man ever. Has he ever interacted with a black person before? Answers on an afro please. Craig, now what's he all about. The only gay in the village ... I'm sure he's never left Hicksville before, so cannot understand Science and his rants. Which are the most entertaining thing in the damn place.

Oh yeah, did you see Craig throwing one down last night ... yukkk.

Oh sod it ... when's the footie season start ... ?

My tune of the day: Everything - Glen Lewis feat. Mjojo & Bongani

Time and time again ...

Commuting has never been the best of things to do. Smelly suits, ignorant orange women applying makeup, back packs, bikes, garlic ... phantom readers .... yes, the list is endless. But after the happenings of a few weeks ago, we are able to put these things on the back burner. That is until we fall back into a routine. Then the temperature rises and we are all selfish once more. The bloke with the bike wasn't on the train this morning. But a bloke with a broadsheet was. He wanted to read it and being inconvenienced by people wanting to get on a train, wasn't going to stop him. He folded, unfolded the damn thing, then at London Bridge was seen climbing the stairs continuing to read the monster. Oh some people.

Women ... never happier than when slagging off men. Old Roof this morning indicated that women like to be chatted up. But not by Ugly blokes!!!!! So should we as men all be judged. On a scale of 1 to 5 and only blokes wearing 4 and 5's are allowed to chat women up!!! When I brought this up I was chastised as a bloke, who just doesn't get it!!!! Well, I have to admit, what women want ... who knows?

I was thinking about going to Torquay tonight. No I lie. It's hard enough to go to Welling, and I still need my sleep.

I'm still hurting from the weekend. My legs are stiff and I feel about 30. Oh well.

I hope you have all read Lars comments about his love of all things feminine? Jesus ...

My tune of the day: I Get Lifted - Barbara Tucker

The last one out please turn off the light ...

Well what a weekend. My legs ache, as well as my belly and my head. If there was a competition for drinking Jack and lemonade we would have done better than the football.

It was Worldnet 2005. It was up at Boddington Hall in Leeds and there were 64 teams taking part. There was the smell of soiled nylon all over the place. Football tops, what ever happened to good old fashioned cotton? Oh I do love it oop North.

It was actually nice to spend time with the CIFC boys. Even if they do prefer middle of the road to progressive dance, who am I to complain. Typically the football wasn't up to much but it's the taking part that counts. Right?

We got up to Leeds on Friday afternoon. Given that it was Matts birthday I think he did well in driving all the way. We then had to meet PQ and did so in the Original Oak pub. It was here that the drinking started, when you could get two doubles for just under a fiver. The barmaids were quality. If you chat nonsense to them they remember you, and when there's a dirty big queue just use your charms to get your drinks early doors. Quality. A few hours were also spent in the Walkabout, where Mr Hart drank strawberry Mudchutes for a pound. Not so much quality, as quantity. As for Matt, he embarrassed himself by rolling around in the mud outside. Well it was his birthday.

How we all got up to play football is another question, one that I'm still trying to work out. But I think I should skip the football to mention the bus ride back to the hotel. There you have 15 knackered fellas in a bus just looking forward to a shit/ shower and a few beers. We stop at some lights, as a couple of girls wearing deely boppers walk past. Que bloke reaction. After a rendition of "Get ya tits out" - yes I know, not big nor clever ... we witnessed a rather large pair being flashed in our direction. Well as they say in If you don't ask land ... if you don't ask.

It's just dawned on me that I actually went to watch Welling vs Charlton on thursday evening. It seems so long ago now. It was just a stroll played on grass that was so long that it looked like my back garden, but a 1-1 draw wasn't the best of results. However you do really have to laugh at the people who seem to take this too seriously, and begin to mean. Get over it, and enjoy the win at Bournemouth.

Charlton actually confirmed the Alexi Smertin loan on friday. It seems that competition for places is hotting up. It should be an interesting season. I say should.

How tired can one man be? I am absolutely shattered. I think I need a holiday.

Oh and it's my brothers birthday. So happy birthday Garfield ...

My tune of the day: - Love Will Save The Day - Jaque

After the Lord Mayors show ...

So I go down to Brighton to see my Mum. No day infront of a PC, sitting out by the sea, cockles and muscles alive, alive oh. And what happens? Yep, a sea mist stroke fog ... all bleedin' day. I couldn't believe it. So I fell asleep in the front room, dreaming of sunshine and dusky maidens.

It's been a hive of activity down at Sparrows Lane. They've brought in Jonathan Spector, yep, about to sign Gonzalo Sorondo, blimey ... and Curbs is still calling for 4 to 5 new signings. I think he's understanding what really needs to happen. At last!!!! We need some young lads that have got things to prove. Get them wanting to play, wanting to perform ... and you never know. If you play average players a large sum they won't be bothered. We need players that actually want to play for Charlton, and the supporters. Maybe then we'll get people paying to watch us play away.

Good luck Curbs ...

So guess where me and some of the CIFC lads will be this weekend? No!!! Oh well, we'll be in Leeds. It's the annual Worldnet footie tournament, and I'm taking my boots. Why? Your guess is as good as mine, but as they say in hey-ho land ... hey ho.

As I was driving back from Brighton last night, I began to wonder why we need big gas guzzling cars. Why do people have these great big 4x4's and sit in the outside lane not moving. Why do we then have boy racers in their bright red BMW's undertaking? Cutting in and out of traffic as the Police sit in laybyes drinking tea. Oh well ... it made the journey go quicker.

I actually bought some new curtains. Well my Mum did, but they are in fact the first new set of curtains I've ever owned. Now my life is complete ...

My tune of the day: Dub Massai Style - Bobby Konders

What time is it ...?

In reality we are all getting back to normal. The trains are packed, the same po faced blokes, women doing their makeup. Rock on, is what I say. I even took to wearing beige ... no it wasn't beige but Buckshee thinks so, oh well.

Even down at New Eltham we seem to have gone full circle. After he who was f'n quality left to go to the 'Appy 'Ammers we needed some left back cover. So Big Al decided better the devil you know. Arise Sir Chris Powell. Lets be 'avin you ... the King is dead long live the KING. Chris Powell has come back. A one year deal with hope of some coaching thrown in. Now please tell me this makes sense. Of course it does. A left back is a left back, and as much as we wish we had Roberto Carlos, a left back ain't gonna win us the Champions League. Welcome home Chris.

That was our signing of the day. All this paper talk of Alexi Smertin was just that. Then as I was in the CO-OP buying some lightbulbs I got a call from Mush In da Bush. So who's this Spector bloke you've just signed? He's from UManU and he's with you for a year. So who's this we all ask. Jonathan Spector. A native of Chicago ... we will be liaising with Chicago Addick to monitor his progression. We are becoming a team of Darrens and Jonathans.

Oh and back to Big Brother. I forgot to mention about Maxwell being booted out on Friday. I would say that it was a shock to me given the Chav culture we live in, but one that restores my faith in mankind. I'm actually loving the way that Science is now winding Orlaith up. Yep, Orlaith you deserve it gal. All she does it whack her thrups out which in my book is great TV, but please do something else. They say that Vanessa is boring, but at least she bitches ...

Oh and a new Melon will be stocked by Tesco from this week. A graciosa which has yellow flesh, few seeds and a hint of citrus. Mother Nature must be doing cartwheels.

So the first pre-season friendly takes us to Welling on Thursday. It's always a good one to start and for me allows me to see some of the players that Welling have signed in the summer. I would say that last years 8-0 victory showed what a struggle Welling were going to have over the year. It was by far the worst performance from them against the mighty Addicks, ever. Bar none. But this year Adrian Pennock has been active in the market, despite the loss of Paul Booth, and brought in a few new faces. It will be interesting. I'll see you all there ...

My tune of the day: Holding On (When Love Is Gone) - L.T.D

Keeping it real ...

It's another week, and it appears more things are back to normal than not. The trains were packed, people were sweating and stinking, there were backpacks galore, fat peeps two to the dozen ... and England lost the cricket.

I played some ball on Saturday morning. I say played, I ran the channels, peeled off Mr Atoe but couldn't hit a cows arse with a barn door. It was one of those days. It was good to actually get a run out, and to actually play with a bit of composure but my finishing ... well if Lisbie can do it for a living I can do it on astroturf once every now and again. We actually played some good stuff, ending up 6-0 victors but we are going to have to up our game if the Charlton Internet boys are going to progress up in Leeds at Worldnet this weekend. It's going to be fun though.

There was even word that us Charlton fans are going to be astounded by a signing or two. This was after the siging of Darren "Curtley/ Leroy" Ambrose on Friday evening. Well things are looking up ... well I'm watching this space.

It looks like a blinding day weather wise ....

My tune of the day: Time - Dajae

In reality Ken Livingstone is a strange politician. Red Ken, Look out for Leftie yeah, yeah we know ... we know. But if you had seen his address of the situation you would realise that he does care. He is a Londoner, representing Londoners ... every single one of us.
Now if you swap Ken for one George Galloway, you get what exactly? A war mungerer, a vile horrible individual who has been elected to represent a part of London. Now if I lived in Bethnal Green would I want my MP coming out shouting that Londoners has paid the price for Tony Blair ignoring his warnings. But was George on the tube or the bus yesterday? Did George leave his offices close to Aldgate to lend a hand with the injured and the dead? No of course he didn't. It's an absolute disgrace that someone like this is in politics.
So how long will it take for us to get back to some sort of normality? A week, a month ... a year? Me, I got up at my normal time, had a normal cup of tea ... put on my normal clothes (yeah right!!) and got my normal train. It was empty. I then got off an Cannon Street and took the Tube to Aldgate East. I would say it was a bit quiet, and everyone was eyeing everyone else. But door to door it was 35 minutes. I was in the office eating my sausage sandwich by 08:30. Let's be 'avin you as Delia would say. You can't keep a good man/ city down.
Its Ruths birthday and she's having a meal out tonight. Claire says it's a laid back afair and they are all going home after. None of this 3 day affair. Let's wait and see. Anyway Happy Birthday Roof.
Back to Big Brother. It's Science vs Maxwell. Two of the characters up for eviction as Vanessa and Orlaith sit on doing what exactly?
Football. Stop. Charlton. Stop. Oh, anyway it seems we are being linked with Darren Ambrose of Newcastle. A fee agreed etc, but we've heard that before. I won't believe it until I see it.
My tune of the day: Maybe it's Because I'm a Londoner - Hubert Gregg

London ...

It's a great city.

I'm watching a press conference on TV, and I understand that there is a job to do, but some of the questions are ... well, at best awfull. After repeating that no one had officially come forward to take responsibility for the bombings, someone asked if any arrests had been made. The look on the spokesmans face told more than a thousand pictures.

I've just seen a picture of the queues for boats at Canary Wharf, and it's not funny.

It seems like it's going to be a long walk.

Reality check ...

So I'm sitting here, watching the news as the whole of London is brought to a stand still. There are bombs, bomb alerts, power surges, but in general Londoners take it all in their stride. No mass hysteria. Then you look at the Netaddicks board. Sometimes, just sometimes you need to take a step back and think about those people affected first.

There's not a lot one can say really, it's horrible ... but since 9/11 it just been simmering waiting to happen.

So now we have conspiracy theorists. It's the M15, Israel knew before we did. The internet is such a wonderful place. It's quite amazing watching this when it's about 3 minutes away from where I sit. People have died at the tube station I use. I sit here quite humble, thinking about the people who have perished ... and now it's raining.

I may try and see if the DLR is working.

I haven't played any music so I don't feel like a tune of the day ...

Get in there ...

Although people are already moaning. It wouldn't be Britain without people moaning. Just watch the negativity in the Daily Mail tomorrow morning ...

Todays the day ...

The Teddy Bears have their picnic. No, no ... I jest, todays the day that we, as Londoners find out if we will be awarded the Olympics in 2012. Now how anyone can say they don't want it is beyond me. Sod the transport system, sod Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle and all these tin pot Northern hovels ... Derek on BB was so right, we need to have a big Sporting event in the UK, and in the capital ... London. It will make us money, damn right it will.

Fingers crossed people, there's two hours to go.

It seems that Charlton are once again in transfer termoil. They can't sign anyone for love nor money, so have to come up with stories about Lee Bowyer. It appears that Tony Gardner from the sPUDZ has a long standing injury, and now it's Stuart Elliott of Hull. It's the damned Internet, all this speculation is no good. We need good hard facts, and until they appear on the Official site, it is just pie in the sky. But they do need to act soon. It's the first pre-season match next Thursday, so we need some sort of incentive to go. Oh well, let's all hang onto the thought of Lee Bowyer "My word is my bond" making a comeback.

So I was sat down last night watching Big Brother, and Makosi announces that she is pregnant. Hmmmmph. I would say that she has been playing a blinder up until now, but this makes her out to be one complete nutcase. One shag and within minutes she's preggers. What a muppet. She even fcuked up Eugenes secret challenge. I would say that there are so many secret challenges that it makes it a mockery. How are you supposeed to mimic someone as a secret challenge. It would be so damn obvious. Oh and Saskias in the paper with her baps out. Well she's got on a see through bra but we get where she's coming from. Let's hope she takes her fat arse and enjoys her 15 minutes. I say vote Maxwell this week. Get that muppet out.

Oh my Mum just called and said she's seen some curtains. I asked her to keep an eye out a few days ago. Mums are great for things like that. I haven't the foggiest idea about curtains, apart from they sit in the window and you pul them shut at night. They are supposedly chocolate brown ... just what I want.

My tune of the day: Caribs leap - Ian Friday

I ran the world ...

But I didn't get very far.

There are some terrible smells around London at the moment. Cannon Street has been stinking for a week or so, Aldgate always has a slight pong, but generally the whole of East London smells of Sour Grapes. I'm not sure how they expect the Olympians to compete in them there conditions?

There was a bloke with a laptop bag on his shoulder today. He was on my packed train and everytime the train chugged it went crashing into all and sundry. Why don't people put their bags down?

Oh some transfer activity ... at last. Paul Konchesky, you know him of "He's fcukin' quality" fame, has bypassed the Blackwall Tunnel queues and gone to the Appy Ammers. Fairs, fair really. I remember Konch blasting that penalty up into the top tier a few years back. They deserve each other. Fifteen grand a week, for a mediocre left back!!! Chris Powell at his best Konch was not. I don't really think he actually fulfilled his potential. Curbs'fault no doubt?

Oh, I've just read that a quarter of Britains men are in denail about their weight problem. Bollocks ...

Max and Saskia !!!! What's that all about???

My tune of the day: Acid Over - Tyree

It's a sad day ...

So after all the excitement of Live 8, is it me or do artists like Dido, Pete Doherty, even Sir Paul have a difficulty in holding a note, we find that maybe our generations best vocalist, Luther Vandross has passed away. Luther came to being as a backing vocalist for David Bowie in 75 but it was in 1980 that he sang lead on Changes "Glow of Love." I remember that track being played at Southport last November, and I have to say what a tune it is. A classic. Sgt Peper wasn't fit to lace Luthers boots. Hey, but thats a personal thing.

I saw JK over the weekend over at Clapham Common. I've never been one for the Pratt in the Hat, but he did ok, but it was Joey Negro who stole it for me with some stunners in a two hour set.

It was surprising to log onto the Official Charlton site this morning and see the new kit. Still adorned with the Allsports logo. Now all the speculation about the kit being launched on Thursday with some new players, and a new sponsor ... well that just goes to show what a load of old bollies it actually is.

Supposedly Konch is off to the Appy Ammers, and we are signing, er .... hmmm ... hmph, er, nobody. It will all come out in the wash.

My tune of the day: I who have nothing - Luther Vandross

Of da hook ...

After getting tom work, I turned round and came home. Just didn't feel chipper today ...

Oh well ...

My tune of the day: Silence is golden ... by someone