Well, its the end of another week.
A week that has seen me do a 30 mile ride to work on Monday and 20 miles on the way home. My first 50 miles in a day since last summer. I've ridden in the driving snow home from work, cycled in bright sunshine.... Yes, the weather has been variable this week.
I managed 135 miles this week and have to say I enjoyed every minute of it. Its a long time since I rode that far in 5 days. In fact its at least October of last year, if not earlier.
Thursday brought me another physio session. Unfortunately, I'm not sure it has done me any good. The physio had me hoping on my bad leg and doing bunny hops in the gym. Sadly, I think the landing on my knee has done it no good. The knee is hurting me now more than it has for some considerable time. Walking up and down stairs today has been painful, and sods law- the lift wasn't working properly at work and I had to keep moving between floors to speak to people today. Its done my knee no good. I'm sat here typing this after resting my leg since I got home 4 hours ago and my knee is still throbbing and feels swollen.
Thursday night brought a night off the bike and instead a train trip to Three Bridges. A journey I seem to be doing rather often these days. Who'd have thought I'd be happy to travel to the wrong side of the river! It also meant that I got a decent meal and hopefully the clothing I left behind may have been washed by the time I go back! Am I taking someone for granted?
On Thursday, I got my car back from the garage. It went in for repairs over 4 weeks ago! The repair bill is ridiculously high. I could have bought a nice carbon fibre bike for less. Having been without a car for the last 4weeks has made me realise how little I actually missed the car. I used the Aldi at the end of my street for shopping on my way home from work. I was able to use public transport to get everywhere else I needed to. I've travelled to Birmingham, Leicester, Swansea in the last 4 weeks. I've also been able to get around London without it affecting my social life. Those who complain re public transport in London are being unreasonable. I live 1/2 mile from a train station with trains to London every 10 minutes. I am ,1mile from a tube station and live 1/3 mile from a bus route. The buses run 24 hours a day! London does have some benefits!
Right, enough of this rambling. I have to be up early to get to the cycling club in the morning.
What was that you asked? You want to know what the title has to do with anything. Well tonight was the 25th anniversary of EastEnders and the revealed the answer to the whodunit - IE who killed Archie Mitchell. Well the Angelic Upstarts reveal in this song who killed Liddle Towers. Don't worry though, it was not murder of manslaughter, it was Justifiable Homicide - possible the worst inquest outrage in history. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liddle_Towers
I Fought The LAW (International Version)
This Time with the LAPD
Friday, February 19, 2010
Monday, February 15, 2010
London Calling
Just a quickie today (as the actress said to the bishop).
After spending last night in Crawley and having a night I never expected (more to follow on this in future posts - perhaps!). Today brought my maddest idea of the year so far. I took my bike down to Crawley yesterday so I could cycle from Crawley to work. Its only 30 miles or so. Not too far you say- but factor in, my longest ride this year has been 15 miles and I've not done a 30 mile ride non-stop since last July. Now remember that I've never cycled from Crawley to London and have no idea of the route oh, and I am due to be at work by 0930. Seems not so straight forward?
I set off at 06:00 am this morning in sub zero temperatures and with the roads covered in ice. Oh, did I mention it was foggy as well. I have to confess to wishing I had taken the train, however, London was calling.
As it got lighter, I had progressed faster than I expected. I had allowed myself 3 hours to do the 30 miles, thinking I might need a stop on the way. I managed the 30 or so miles without a stop in 125 minutes at an average of 14.4 mph. I was impressed with myself and celebrated with a nice breakfast sandwich from the cafe next to work. That'll have undone the god work done by my cycling!
Tonight, I cycled home via the Redbridge Cycle Circuit to pick up some papers, meaning I cycled a total of 50 miles today. My knee stood up to the ride with no undue problems.
London here I come
After spending last night in Crawley and having a night I never expected (more to follow on this in future posts - perhaps!). Today brought my maddest idea of the year so far. I took my bike down to Crawley yesterday so I could cycle from Crawley to work. Its only 30 miles or so. Not too far you say- but factor in, my longest ride this year has been 15 miles and I've not done a 30 mile ride non-stop since last July. Now remember that I've never cycled from Crawley to London and have no idea of the route oh, and I am due to be at work by 0930. Seems not so straight forward?
I set off at 06:00 am this morning in sub zero temperatures and with the roads covered in ice. Oh, did I mention it was foggy as well. I have to confess to wishing I had taken the train, however, London was calling.
As it got lighter, I had progressed faster than I expected. I had allowed myself 3 hours to do the 30 miles, thinking I might need a stop on the way. I managed the 30 or so miles without a stop in 125 minutes at an average of 14.4 mph. I was impressed with myself and celebrated with a nice breakfast sandwich from the cafe next to work. That'll have undone the god work done by my cycling!
Tonight, I cycled home via the Redbridge Cycle Circuit to pick up some papers, meaning I cycled a total of 50 miles today. My knee stood up to the ride with no undue problems.
London here I come
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Woman
Well, I've had a weekend away from the bike. No cycling since Friday morning. Instead, I've been down to Wales ostensibly to see Newcastle @ Swansea, but its also an excuse to see some of the lads for a drink and a weekend away. Its also a chance to see and stay in Cardiff with some really good friends. Thanks Lee & Cathy, it was good to see you and the family again.Shame it wasn't so good to watch the football. Saturday was a great day spoilt by 2 x 45 minute spells. Still at least the bar was open in the ground for the first 45 minutes of the game, so we were spared having to watch the 1st half of the game.
Shame Cardiff was full of men in skirts on Saturday night - down to watch the rugby. Too many people for a night out in Cardiff without 30 minute queues to get into every pub.
Shame for the men in skirts Scotland stopped playing 5 minutes before the end of the game. The number of skirts in Cardiff town centre being worn by men was incredible. I've seen less men in skirts at the local transvestite's night out.
Well, I'm sure the title of this post needs no explanation today does it. What could be more romantic than waking up in a different country to your lady. At least I've tried to make up for it by travelling back to see them for a late Sunday lunch together. I know that if I was really romantic I would have made it so that we had woken up together today. I have to confess that when I arranged this trip to Swansea I had not expected to be seeing anyone. I'll know better next time. I'll try to make it up to you Michelle. Flowers? Chocolate? Candlelight meals?
Tomorrow morning, I'm hoping to ride from Crawley up to Victoria area for work. That's up to 40 miles before work. Am I mad? Only time will tell.....
Shame Cardiff was full of men in skirts on Saturday night - down to watch the rugby. Too many people for a night out in Cardiff without 30 minute queues to get into every pub.
Shame for the men in skirts Scotland stopped playing 5 minutes before the end of the game. The number of skirts in Cardiff town centre being worn by men was incredible. I've seen less men in skirts at the local transvestite's night out.
Well, I'm sure the title of this post needs no explanation today does it. What could be more romantic than waking up in a different country to your lady. At least I've tried to make up for it by travelling back to see them for a late Sunday lunch together. I know that if I was really romantic I would have made it so that we had woken up together today. I have to confess that when I arranged this trip to Swansea I had not expected to be seeing anyone. I'll know better next time. I'll try to make it up to you Michelle. Flowers? Chocolate? Candlelight meals?
Tomorrow morning, I'm hoping to ride from Crawley up to Victoria area for work. That's up to 40 miles before work. Am I mad? Only time will tell.....
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Be My Number Two
Well, an interesting few days for me at least.
Monday brought my cycling into work again. Got to the office to find that following Friday's power issues, we now had electricity, but the boilers for the 2 sides of the building were not working. To say the premises were freezing was an understatement. Its no fun trying to work having to wear, hats, gloves, coats, scarves etc. There were not enough electric heaters to heat the premises. We have laptops to work on, and could easily work at home. Were we allowed to go home? Of course we weren't.
Health & Safety Guidelines suggest that premises should not be below 16C. My office was not even at 11C. Despite this, management appeared not to respond to email queries about heating the premises. What our unions reps did clearly didn't work as nothing changed. I eventually left early and headed home via Homebase to buy a thermometer to monitor the office temperature.
As I left early, I was told the heating had been fixed. Sadly not in our office. This is only the 2nd winter running that I have been expected to work in an office without and heating. Its not a very good show for a government department is it? Dignity at work? - forget it!
Tuesday morning, the office was much warmer than before at nearly 11C when I arrived. After some more complaints we were given 2 convector heaters for our office. By lunchtime, the temperature had reached a positively tropical 16C. So after a day and a half, we had an office that was now at the minimum temperature according to H&S guidance.
Tuesday evening brought some respite from cycling as I was spending the night in Crawley. Given my current lack of fitness, I didn't cycle there as its around 30-40 miles. Hopefully when I have a bit more fitness I will be able to cycle to/ from Crawley. A very enjoyable evening was had. An evening that is all too short.
An evening of football that was thankfully not on TV. Fortunately I was too distracted to fret over Newcastle's disasterous performance at Derby. All I can hope for is that Swansea get the backlash on Saturday.
Wednesday again was a train journey to work- obviously as I had travelled by train the previous night. The good news at work was that we had heat with the 2 convector heaters working and also that I got a new lightweight laptop. The bad news at work was that I had no work to do and that the internet kept crashing so I couldn't even surf the net.
I had an interesting chat this evening at work and realised how close failure is to success. The biggest failings in my life were with hindsight often very nearly triumphant successes. It was quite a salutory lesson as well as an incentive to strive the extra step to make sure of success. Faint heart never won the lady or so the saying goes. The only way to get success is to play the game and to try to go the extra yard. To fail to do this is to potentially snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.
With that last thought in mind, I am hoping to increase the mileage I do each day from 25 to perhaps 30 miles per day. You may infer from that I am feeling my knee getting better by the day.
America here I come - hopefully
Monday brought my cycling into work again. Got to the office to find that following Friday's power issues, we now had electricity, but the boilers for the 2 sides of the building were not working. To say the premises were freezing was an understatement. Its no fun trying to work having to wear, hats, gloves, coats, scarves etc. There were not enough electric heaters to heat the premises. We have laptops to work on, and could easily work at home. Were we allowed to go home? Of course we weren't.
Health & Safety Guidelines suggest that premises should not be below 16C. My office was not even at 11C. Despite this, management appeared not to respond to email queries about heating the premises. What our unions reps did clearly didn't work as nothing changed. I eventually left early and headed home via Homebase to buy a thermometer to monitor the office temperature.
As I left early, I was told the heating had been fixed. Sadly not in our office. This is only the 2nd winter running that I have been expected to work in an office without and heating. Its not a very good show for a government department is it? Dignity at work? - forget it!
Tuesday morning, the office was much warmer than before at nearly 11C when I arrived. After some more complaints we were given 2 convector heaters for our office. By lunchtime, the temperature had reached a positively tropical 16C. So after a day and a half, we had an office that was now at the minimum temperature according to H&S guidance.
Tuesday evening brought some respite from cycling as I was spending the night in Crawley. Given my current lack of fitness, I didn't cycle there as its around 30-40 miles. Hopefully when I have a bit more fitness I will be able to cycle to/ from Crawley. A very enjoyable evening was had. An evening that is all too short.
An evening of football that was thankfully not on TV. Fortunately I was too distracted to fret over Newcastle's disasterous performance at Derby. All I can hope for is that Swansea get the backlash on Saturday.
Wednesday again was a train journey to work- obviously as I had travelled by train the previous night. The good news at work was that we had heat with the 2 convector heaters working and also that I got a new lightweight laptop. The bad news at work was that I had no work to do and that the internet kept crashing so I couldn't even surf the net.
I had an interesting chat this evening at work and realised how close failure is to success. The biggest failings in my life were with hindsight often very nearly triumphant successes. It was quite a salutory lesson as well as an incentive to strive the extra step to make sure of success. Faint heart never won the lady or so the saying goes. The only way to get success is to play the game and to try to go the extra yard. To fail to do this is to potentially snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.
With that last thought in mind, I am hoping to increase the mileage I do each day from 25 to perhaps 30 miles per day. You may infer from that I am feeling my knee getting better by the day.
America here I come - hopefully
Sunday, February 7, 2010
A Hard Day's Night
Well, I've had a whole week back at work now, and even managed to ride in/out on 4 days. I even cycled to my physiotherapy appointment on Thursday morning. I'm not sure many people turn up at the hospital on their bike for a physiotherapy appointment.
Apart from work, its been a very busy week. I went to football at the Orient and amazingly they won 5-0. Biggest win I've seen in about 8 years of going there. What was more unusual was that all the first 3 goals were own goals.
Wednesday night brought more football- this time down to Wet Sham to see Newcastle u18s win 3-0 in an FA Youth Cup 5th round tie. Got to say it was good to see a few old friends and a good game of football.
Thursday didn't bring football! I know you will find that hard to believe. A day without football. Instead, I spent the evening with a certain young lady....And before you ask, she has apparently not had an affair with John Terry.....
Friday morning, I was on train to work, got one stop before train was terminated owing to a points failure! Then got to work late only to find there was a power failure. By the afternoon, the problem still had not been fixed. No lighting, no power for laptops, no lights in toilets, lifts not working, no heating... So you'll have expected we were sent home from work? Not at all - so much for health and safety considerations. (Perhaps I am being unfair, but they used to send us home from school when the boiler wasn't working!)On a personal note, having to walk up and down the stairs to my office did my knee no good. Not very impressed by an organisation that expect you to work in winter with no heating/ lighting etc. Fortunately for me, I spent the morning in a meeting elsewhere so had light/ heat. I should say for fairness that the problem is external to our premises and appears to be a fault the power company have repeatedly failed to fix properly.
Saturday brought my stint at Lee Valley Youth Cycling Club as both in charge of bike hire and also Child Welfare Officer. (www.lvycc.co.uk) I was actually able to cycle to the club for the first time in months, so that was good. It was even better that Tom was down for the weekend, so we rode to club together.
After cycling club it was down to watch the Orient again. This time playing at home to Brighton. An eventful and intriguing 1-1 draw with lots to talk about was followed by a pleasant evening with plenty of drink and good company.
Well, another week of work looms. Hopefully another week with lots of cycling, but not cycling Tuesday night and am off to Wales on Friday night.
I'm still trying to raise sponsorship money, so if you are reading this, make a dontaion via the link on this page please
Apart from work, its been a very busy week. I went to football at the Orient and amazingly they won 5-0. Biggest win I've seen in about 8 years of going there. What was more unusual was that all the first 3 goals were own goals.
Wednesday night brought more football- this time down to Wet Sham to see Newcastle u18s win 3-0 in an FA Youth Cup 5th round tie. Got to say it was good to see a few old friends and a good game of football.
Thursday didn't bring football! I know you will find that hard to believe. A day without football. Instead, I spent the evening with a certain young lady....And before you ask, she has apparently not had an affair with John Terry.....
Friday morning, I was on train to work, got one stop before train was terminated owing to a points failure! Then got to work late only to find there was a power failure. By the afternoon, the problem still had not been fixed. No lighting, no power for laptops, no lights in toilets, lifts not working, no heating... So you'll have expected we were sent home from work? Not at all - so much for health and safety considerations. (Perhaps I am being unfair, but they used to send us home from school when the boiler wasn't working!)On a personal note, having to walk up and down the stairs to my office did my knee no good. Not very impressed by an organisation that expect you to work in winter with no heating/ lighting etc. Fortunately for me, I spent the morning in a meeting elsewhere so had light/ heat. I should say for fairness that the problem is external to our premises and appears to be a fault the power company have repeatedly failed to fix properly.
Saturday brought my stint at Lee Valley Youth Cycling Club as both in charge of bike hire and also Child Welfare Officer. (www.lvycc.co.uk) I was actually able to cycle to the club for the first time in months, so that was good. It was even better that Tom was down for the weekend, so we rode to club together.
After cycling club it was down to watch the Orient again. This time playing at home to Brighton. An eventful and intriguing 1-1 draw with lots to talk about was followed by a pleasant evening with plenty of drink and good company.
Well, another week of work looms. Hopefully another week with lots of cycling, but not cycling Tuesday night and am off to Wales on Friday night.
I'm still trying to raise sponsorship money, so if you are reading this, make a dontaion via the link on this page please
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word
Sometimes we do things to upset those closest to us (or in my case all too often rather than sometimes.
Back on the Chain Gang
And lo, it came to pass that on the first day the Lord said "Get on your bike".
Yes, at long last I'm back on the bike and back at work from Monday 1st January. I never thought that I would say this, but... "its great to be back at work."
After last weeks couple of rides, today was D Day - or should that be W for Work day. I was up early this morning and cycled the 13 miles to my work. I took it very gently and slowly, partly because it was very icy and partly to prevent undue strain on my knee.
The journey in was uneventful, both in terms of traffic interaction and in terms of the effect on my knee. however, when I got to work for my shower, I discovered I had left my shirt, pants and socks at home. Whoops!!!!! I did have a clean shirt and pants at my work, but no socks. I had to spend today with my white cycling socks on under my suit. I would say it was a fashion faux pas, but someone close to me said that it was about my normal standard of fashion sense.
Well as it was 2 months since I was last at work, what did I find, but only 487 emails waiting for me. Add to that the 20+ emails I received today meaning I had over 500 emails to deal with today. I'm so super efficient that I dealt with them all in one day. Who says I'm not efficient? What's that everyone says I'm not efficient?
So, how did I manage to deal with so many emails in one day? Thankfully Mr Gates introduced a delete function to his Outlook software. I grouped the emails by sender and was able to efficiently delete lots of junk/ irrelevant emails in one go. Clearly I had to respond to the poor widow from Nigeria who was left penniless despite her late husband having a fortune of £800,000,000 which she needed my help to get out of Nigeria.
I safely arrived home tonight and was pleasantly surprised to find my knee was not too painful. I am confident now, that baring any other injury or accident, i will be able to take part in the Police Unity Tour ride in May.
As part of the preparation for this ride, I have curtailed my weekend in Plymouth in April for the Newcastle game. I am now coming back on the Saturday night so I can take part in the 107km Whitham Wander cycle ride the following day. See the dedication to this ride. I am missing out on a night out in Union Street in Plymouth to take part in a training ride.
I also booked train tickets today to see Newcastle play down at Swansea on February 13th. My son tells me I have a lot to learn from him. He chose not to go to the game so he can spend the weekend with his girlfriend as its Valentine's weekend. Me? I could have gone down to the game on the 13th Feb and as its a lunchtime kick off, could have been back in London by 7pm. Did I do this? Of course I didn't, I'm staying in Wales the weekend. Whoops!!!!!!! At least I won't get to hear the immortal line "You love Newcastle more than me". Well I might, but I'll ignore it as usual.
I've often wondered why I'm no longer married. Its a puzzle that one. Oh, did I mention I was at football on each of the last 2 weekends, am going this weekend as well, then 13th Feb, 20th Feb, 27th Feb, a weekend away at football on 5/6/7 March. A trip away on 20th March, Easter is a football match, as is 2 weeks later, then 2 weeks after that it is the last weekend of the season and a weekend on the drink with the lads... Any ideas why I'm not married?
Actually, when my marriage ended, the wife walked out saying I loved football more than her. I thought it was sad as I'd been with her for 15 seasons.....
Yes, at long last I'm back on the bike and back at work from Monday 1st January. I never thought that I would say this, but... "its great to be back at work."
After last weeks couple of rides, today was D Day - or should that be W for Work day. I was up early this morning and cycled the 13 miles to my work. I took it very gently and slowly, partly because it was very icy and partly to prevent undue strain on my knee.
The journey in was uneventful, both in terms of traffic interaction and in terms of the effect on my knee. however, when I got to work for my shower, I discovered I had left my shirt, pants and socks at home. Whoops!!!!! I did have a clean shirt and pants at my work, but no socks. I had to spend today with my white cycling socks on under my suit. I would say it was a fashion faux pas, but someone close to me said that it was about my normal standard of fashion sense.
Well as it was 2 months since I was last at work, what did I find, but only 487 emails waiting for me. Add to that the 20+ emails I received today meaning I had over 500 emails to deal with today. I'm so super efficient that I dealt with them all in one day. Who says I'm not efficient? What's that everyone says I'm not efficient?
So, how did I manage to deal with so many emails in one day? Thankfully Mr Gates introduced a delete function to his Outlook software. I grouped the emails by sender and was able to efficiently delete lots of junk/ irrelevant emails in one go. Clearly I had to respond to the poor widow from Nigeria who was left penniless despite her late husband having a fortune of £800,000,000 which she needed my help to get out of Nigeria.
I safely arrived home tonight and was pleasantly surprised to find my knee was not too painful. I am confident now, that baring any other injury or accident, i will be able to take part in the Police Unity Tour ride in May.
As part of the preparation for this ride, I have curtailed my weekend in Plymouth in April for the Newcastle game. I am now coming back on the Saturday night so I can take part in the 107km Whitham Wander cycle ride the following day. See the dedication to this ride. I am missing out on a night out in Union Street in Plymouth to take part in a training ride.
I also booked train tickets today to see Newcastle play down at Swansea on February 13th. My son tells me I have a lot to learn from him. He chose not to go to the game so he can spend the weekend with his girlfriend as its Valentine's weekend. Me? I could have gone down to the game on the 13th Feb and as its a lunchtime kick off, could have been back in London by 7pm. Did I do this? Of course I didn't, I'm staying in Wales the weekend. Whoops!!!!!!! At least I won't get to hear the immortal line "You love Newcastle more than me". Well I might, but I'll ignore it as usual.
I've often wondered why I'm no longer married. Its a puzzle that one. Oh, did I mention I was at football on each of the last 2 weekends, am going this weekend as well, then 13th Feb, 20th Feb, 27th Feb, a weekend away at football on 5/6/7 March. A trip away on 20th March, Easter is a football match, as is 2 weeks later, then 2 weeks after that it is the last weekend of the season and a weekend on the drink with the lads... Any ideas why I'm not married?
Actually, when my marriage ended, the wife walked out saying I loved football more than her. I thought it was sad as I'd been with her for 15 seasons.....
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Starting Over
Its the early hours of Wednesday morning as I type this.
The good news is that I have been increasing the miles I have cycled. I did 11 miles on Monday and 15 miles on Tuesday. I know its not much, but its the start of my road to recovery and to the Police Unity Tour. I lost all of November, December and most of January through injury. I would normal have done over 1500 miles in this period (possibly as many as 2000 miles with the Christmas break, instead I have done 36 miles in this period.
Tuesday's ride even included a hill or two. Nothing particularly hard, but its a start. I need to get used to them again. My knee is not 100% right and there was some pain whilst riding, but nothing I can't put up with and there was no long lasting pain after the ride.
More good news is that I'm planning to return to work on Monday of next week (1st February). I rang work today and broke the good news to them. I have to say that for all I may complain about my work at times, they have been excellent about the time I have had off. I have not been put under undue pressure to return or been made to feel bad about the time I have had to take off. So to that end I should be grateful to my work.
Ironically, today I received a letter from the NHS asking me to contact them to arrange an appointment to see a consultant about my knee. I have only been waiting for an appointment since Dec 21st. I will be contacting them to see what date they offer, but I am lead to believe there is at least a 4 week wait, if not longer. Thus it would be at least 2 months since the scan results were given to me before I get to see a consultant. If he were to refer me for physio, I can imagine another few weeks delay would ensue. I'd still be unable to work in April if I had waited for the NHS.
Last night (Monday) night, I went to watch Leyton Orient play away at Charlton in a League One football match. The emphasis being on the word s "went to watch". When I arrived at the ground I realised that my match ticket was in my other coat at home- whoops. I had the choice of paying £25 for another ticket or waiting in the pub next to the ground till the game ends for a lift home. A third option would have been to travel home alone by public transport, but this was a none starter owing to the time it would take.
The pub next to the ground advertises live football on Sky TV and as the ground was next door and the game was on Sky TV, you would expect it to be on would you not?
You would be wrong. The pub chose to show Zambia v Nigeria in the African Nations Cup. Can you imagine pubs in Newcastle showing that game instead of a Toon game that was on TV? All I can say thank you for my mobile phone and lengthy conversations to pass the time. No thanks to Greg who sent me constant texts from the ground telling me how fantastic the game was.
The final insult for me was that Orient got a rare away win at a side 3rd in the Division. The consensus in the car on the way home was that I should stay in the pub instead of going to all future Orient games. I agreed on the condition they paid for all my drink whilst I'm there. Sadly they decided the price was too high.
The good news is that I have been increasing the miles I have cycled. I did 11 miles on Monday and 15 miles on Tuesday. I know its not much, but its the start of my road to recovery and to the Police Unity Tour. I lost all of November, December and most of January through injury. I would normal have done over 1500 miles in this period (possibly as many as 2000 miles with the Christmas break, instead I have done 36 miles in this period.
Tuesday's ride even included a hill or two. Nothing particularly hard, but its a start. I need to get used to them again. My knee is not 100% right and there was some pain whilst riding, but nothing I can't put up with and there was no long lasting pain after the ride.
More good news is that I'm planning to return to work on Monday of next week (1st February). I rang work today and broke the good news to them. I have to say that for all I may complain about my work at times, they have been excellent about the time I have had off. I have not been put under undue pressure to return or been made to feel bad about the time I have had to take off. So to that end I should be grateful to my work.
Ironically, today I received a letter from the NHS asking me to contact them to arrange an appointment to see a consultant about my knee. I have only been waiting for an appointment since Dec 21st. I will be contacting them to see what date they offer, but I am lead to believe there is at least a 4 week wait, if not longer. Thus it would be at least 2 months since the scan results were given to me before I get to see a consultant. If he were to refer me for physio, I can imagine another few weeks delay would ensue. I'd still be unable to work in April if I had waited for the NHS.
Last night (Monday) night, I went to watch Leyton Orient play away at Charlton in a League One football match. The emphasis being on the word s "went to watch". When I arrived at the ground I realised that my match ticket was in my other coat at home- whoops. I had the choice of paying £25 for another ticket or waiting in the pub next to the ground till the game ends for a lift home. A third option would have been to travel home alone by public transport, but this was a none starter owing to the time it would take.
The pub next to the ground advertises live football on Sky TV and as the ground was next door and the game was on Sky TV, you would expect it to be on would you not?
You would be wrong. The pub chose to show Zambia v Nigeria in the African Nations Cup. Can you imagine pubs in Newcastle showing that game instead of a Toon game that was on TV? All I can say thank you for my mobile phone and lengthy conversations to pass the time. No thanks to Greg who sent me constant texts from the ground telling me how fantastic the game was.
The final insult for me was that Orient got a rare away win at a side 3rd in the Division. The consensus in the car on the way home was that I should stay in the pub instead of going to all future Orient games. I agreed on the condition they paid for all my drink whilst I'm there. Sadly they decided the price was too high.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
The Sun Always Shines on TV
Since my last post, I have had another session of physiotherapy and it has again helped my knee. I am now walking a lot easier and intending to get on my bike this coming week and try to build up my fitness. I am hoping to get back to work a week on Monday (2nd February) assuming the knee continues to recover and the medical advice is favourable.
I have to say that the knee is not fully right, and I don't expect it to be by next week, but it has healed enough to let me start thinking about getting back to work. I think the tear in the cartilage was not the main problem with my knee. I repeatedly complained about pain above the knee, not from the cartilage area. The physiotherapist thinks that I suffered 2 injuries not one, and I agree with that.
If I had not paid to see the consultant privately, I would still be waiting for an appointment with him, and would probably be at least a month away from having physiotherapy, and consequently be at least another month away from being able to get on my bike or to consider going back to work. So much for the NHS providing treatement to everyone according to their needs.
I gave my leg a good workout yesterday when I went to see Newcastle lose in the FA Cup to the referee (oh, I think there was a team called West Bromwich Albion (WBA) there as well, but they only had a supporting role to play). He managed to give 1 goal where the ball was not over the line, 2 very dubious penalties, sent off a Newcastle player (wrongly) and booked five others, whilst not giving anything to us or booking any WBA players. Even the papers today were slating the referee, so its not just my biased view. Didn't want to go to Wembley this year did we? Still the good news is that we are playing at Swansea on Valentine's weekend. I guess that females around the Tyneside will be rather upset as it seems to be a game everyone is planning to go to.
Even the West Brom Fans Failed to Turn Up
Let me start by giving my apologies to a certain lady now about that weekend. I told her the news yesterday when I got back from Birmingham about Valentine's weekend. I suppose that when she said "You love Newcastle more than me", it was rather tactless of me to reply "I love Sunderland more than you". I can tell you plates hurt when they hit you- especially with your dinner on them. A lesson learned.
To bring the thread back to cycling matters, I'm relying on the weather being ok this coming week so I can get some miles in. I need to be back to doing 25 miles a day before next Monday so I can commute to work again. Its a case of hoping that its not just on TV that the sun always shines.
I have to say that the knee is not fully right, and I don't expect it to be by next week, but it has healed enough to let me start thinking about getting back to work. I think the tear in the cartilage was not the main problem with my knee. I repeatedly complained about pain above the knee, not from the cartilage area. The physiotherapist thinks that I suffered 2 injuries not one, and I agree with that.
If I had not paid to see the consultant privately, I would still be waiting for an appointment with him, and would probably be at least a month away from having physiotherapy, and consequently be at least another month away from being able to get on my bike or to consider going back to work. So much for the NHS providing treatement to everyone according to their needs.
I gave my leg a good workout yesterday when I went to see Newcastle lose in the FA Cup to the referee (oh, I think there was a team called West Bromwich Albion (WBA) there as well, but they only had a supporting role to play). He managed to give 1 goal where the ball was not over the line, 2 very dubious penalties, sent off a Newcastle player (wrongly) and booked five others, whilst not giving anything to us or booking any WBA players. Even the papers today were slating the referee, so its not just my biased view. Didn't want to go to Wembley this year did we? Still the good news is that we are playing at Swansea on Valentine's weekend. I guess that females around the Tyneside will be rather upset as it seems to be a game everyone is planning to go to.
Even the West Brom Fans Failed to Turn Up
Let me start by giving my apologies to a certain lady now about that weekend. I told her the news yesterday when I got back from Birmingham about Valentine's weekend. I suppose that when she said "You love Newcastle more than me", it was rather tactless of me to reply "I love Sunderland more than you". I can tell you plates hurt when they hit you- especially with your dinner on them. A lesson learned.
To bring the thread back to cycling matters, I'm relying on the weather being ok this coming week so I can get some miles in. I need to be back to doing 25 miles a day before next Monday so I can commute to work again. Its a case of hoping that its not just on TV that the sun always shines.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
I Could Be Happy
Why could I be happy?
Well another day and another short ride on my bike. My knee feels less painful today than yesterday, albeit still hurting. I'm hoping to ride further tomorrow. I want to try to do 10 miles tomorrow in the morning.
I have a physiotherapist appointment in the afternoon on Thursday and a hopeful that he will say to continue riding.
The above is the good happening.
Less good is the fact my car appears to have a fault with the fuel pump and is going to need repairing ASAP. I was going to book the car into the garage for repairs, but I have somehow mislaid my wallet. I last saw it on Monday. All my bank cards, driving licence, store cards etc are in their. Without my wallet, I am struggling to get access to my money. I cancelled one of the cards today, but have been waiting to hear from someone if my wallet was at their house. I didn't want to cancel all the cards if the wallet was there. When they called tonight they confirmed my wallet wasn't there.
I was left to start planning how to get access to my cash without cards etc, meaning I'd have to go to the bank and get cash over the counter. Ethical banking is fine, but it does have the drawback of not having a bank anywhere nearby.
I've turned the house and car upside down looking for the wallet. I've even been through the rubbish bags just in case.... No joy.
Finally about an hour ago, I found the wallet. It was under the telephone in my study. Quite why it was there I have no idea. At least I'm not left without easy access to funds. To say I was relieved is an under statement.
I just have to book my car in for repairs now. I'm not looking forward to the cost of that.
Thursday night brings with it the joys of the LVYCC committee meeting. I'm chairing the meeting at which we are supposed to be discussing the future constitution of the committee and the club as a whole. Nice light subject matters. Quite how I'm going to get there with my car in the state its in, I'm not sure.
Does this post explain the song in the title? Probably not, but I wanted an excuse to watch the Clare Grogan video that is linked to the title. Yes, I'll admit to still thinking she's hot. I know I know, I'm a sad individual.
Now how about making a donation to my sponsorship target.
Well another day and another short ride on my bike. My knee feels less painful today than yesterday, albeit still hurting. I'm hoping to ride further tomorrow. I want to try to do 10 miles tomorrow in the morning.
I have a physiotherapist appointment in the afternoon on Thursday and a hopeful that he will say to continue riding.
The above is the good happening.
Less good is the fact my car appears to have a fault with the fuel pump and is going to need repairing ASAP. I was going to book the car into the garage for repairs, but I have somehow mislaid my wallet. I last saw it on Monday. All my bank cards, driving licence, store cards etc are in their. Without my wallet, I am struggling to get access to my money. I cancelled one of the cards today, but have been waiting to hear from someone if my wallet was at their house. I didn't want to cancel all the cards if the wallet was there. When they called tonight they confirmed my wallet wasn't there.
I was left to start planning how to get access to my cash without cards etc, meaning I'd have to go to the bank and get cash over the counter. Ethical banking is fine, but it does have the drawback of not having a bank anywhere nearby.
I've turned the house and car upside down looking for the wallet. I've even been through the rubbish bags just in case.... No joy.
Finally about an hour ago, I found the wallet. It was under the telephone in my study. Quite why it was there I have no idea. At least I'm not left without easy access to funds. To say I was relieved is an under statement.
I just have to book my car in for repairs now. I'm not looking forward to the cost of that.
Thursday night brings with it the joys of the LVYCC committee meeting. I'm chairing the meeting at which we are supposed to be discussing the future constitution of the committee and the club as a whole. Nice light subject matters. Quite how I'm going to get there with my car in the state its in, I'm not sure.
Does this post explain the song in the title? Probably not, but I wanted an excuse to watch the Clare Grogan video that is linked to the title. Yes, I'll admit to still thinking she's hot. I know I know, I'm a sad individual.
Now how about making a donation to my sponsorship target.
Physical
Its a positive post today
Why?
Well Newcastle avoided losing in their top of the table clash with West Brom on Monday night to remain top of the Championship.
Tuesday night Leyton Orient won against Yeovil to take them out of the relegation places in League One. It was a deserved win and the first game they have played this year.
Thirdly and most importantly, I was able to ride my bike for the first time since November. Following my physio's advice, I rode it gently and did a 5.5 mile loop from my house. Its nothing special, a very flat route on relatively quiet roads. I rode it in a very low gear so as not to put undue pressure on my knee.
I have to say that the knee is now throbbing somewhat. I hope that is caused by the sitting with my leg bent rather than the cycling. I'm hoping to ride again tomorrow. I'm going to do the same little ride again, very gently again. I am due to see the physio on Thursday, so we can review how my knee is then.
Hopefully this is the start of my recovery. I want to get back to work. I'm struggling not to lose focus being at home all the time. There is only so much surfing the net and resting that one can do.
I am starting to look towards the Police Unity Tour with a little more hope. Then there is the prospect of a LEJoG to look forward to in the summer. That will be good to do it with friends.
Why?
Well Newcastle avoided losing in their top of the table clash with West Brom on Monday night to remain top of the Championship.
Tuesday night Leyton Orient won against Yeovil to take them out of the relegation places in League One. It was a deserved win and the first game they have played this year.
Thirdly and most importantly, I was able to ride my bike for the first time since November. Following my physio's advice, I rode it gently and did a 5.5 mile loop from my house. Its nothing special, a very flat route on relatively quiet roads. I rode it in a very low gear so as not to put undue pressure on my knee.
I have to say that the knee is now throbbing somewhat. I hope that is caused by the sitting with my leg bent rather than the cycling. I'm hoping to ride again tomorrow. I'm going to do the same little ride again, very gently again. I am due to see the physio on Thursday, so we can review how my knee is then.
Hopefully this is the start of my recovery. I want to get back to work. I'm struggling not to lose focus being at home all the time. There is only so much surfing the net and resting that one can do.
I am starting to look towards the Police Unity Tour with a little more hope. Then there is the prospect of a LEJoG to look forward to in the summer. That will be good to do it with friends.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Start Me Up
Well another week over, another sick note from my GP! This time for another two weeks. However, its not all negative- quite the contrary.
I've been to see the physiotherapist again and after some treatment, my knee is feeling better and I can see the green shoots of recovery. (Hopefully more real than the green shoots of recovery that politicians keep seeing for the economy). I have 2 more sessions of physio over the next two weeks to undertake. The physio thinks gentle riding on my bike on the turbo trainer will be good for me - I like this physio's advice.
I got the disc of my MRI scan today from my GP to give to the physio, so I did what most people would do and loaded it onto my laptop to view the scan results. Why I did that, I have no idea as I have no idea what I was looking at or what it should look like.
I'm hoping that February may see me back at work again.
As part of my positive thinking, I have already started looking ahead to a potential re visit of LEJoG this summer. I had preliminary chats over the last two nights with some of those who are interested in doing the same. Come on now Drew, Greg, Joe (& potentially David), get your minds on the task in hand and get started on the necessary training for this ride. Hopefully it will take place at the end of July/ early August.
The preliminary discussions are for our doing it in 14 days or less. It will probably be mostly unsupported, This will make it harder than last year as I will have to be carrying all my own luggage all the way.
The idea is to use the same route as I used in 2009, subject to a few tweaks.
Its nice to be able to look positively at things and see the chance to plan for some riding. This positive attitude seems to have coincided with the snow going- is there a connection?
What else has been happening?
Well, I finally got round to buying myself a laptop and setting up a wireless network at home. Great, it means I can surf the net on the nettie now! What it really means is that I can surf the net downstairs whilst watching the TV, and trying to update my facebook profile.
I've also spent a couple of days trying to sort out my credit file. It appears that a certain Credit Reference Agency whom I can't name for legal reasons, but for simplicity lets call them Equifax, have recorded that I have numerous credit cards that do not still exist and in some cases have never existed. This has an adverse effect on my credit rating and needs resolving.
The prospect of getting back on my bike and doing LEJoG and the Police Unity Tour ride has me thinking its time to lose some weight. So the diet starts on Monday.
My New Years resolutions remain on course. I'm not saying what they are, but I'm on course to keep them at present.
I've been to see the physiotherapist again and after some treatment, my knee is feeling better and I can see the green shoots of recovery. (Hopefully more real than the green shoots of recovery that politicians keep seeing for the economy). I have 2 more sessions of physio over the next two weeks to undertake. The physio thinks gentle riding on my bike on the turbo trainer will be good for me - I like this physio's advice.
I got the disc of my MRI scan today from my GP to give to the physio, so I did what most people would do and loaded it onto my laptop to view the scan results. Why I did that, I have no idea as I have no idea what I was looking at or what it should look like.
I'm hoping that February may see me back at work again.
As part of my positive thinking, I have already started looking ahead to a potential re visit of LEJoG this summer. I had preliminary chats over the last two nights with some of those who are interested in doing the same. Come on now Drew, Greg, Joe (& potentially David), get your minds on the task in hand and get started on the necessary training for this ride. Hopefully it will take place at the end of July/ early August.
The preliminary discussions are for our doing it in 14 days or less. It will probably be mostly unsupported, This will make it harder than last year as I will have to be carrying all my own luggage all the way.
The idea is to use the same route as I used in 2009, subject to a few tweaks.
Its nice to be able to look positively at things and see the chance to plan for some riding. This positive attitude seems to have coincided with the snow going- is there a connection?
What else has been happening?
Well, I finally got round to buying myself a laptop and setting up a wireless network at home. Great, it means I can surf the net on the nettie now! What it really means is that I can surf the net downstairs whilst watching the TV, and trying to update my facebook profile.
I've also spent a couple of days trying to sort out my credit file. It appears that a certain Credit Reference Agency whom I can't name for legal reasons, but for simplicity lets call them Equifax, have recorded that I have numerous credit cards that do not still exist and in some cases have never existed. This has an adverse effect on my credit rating and needs resolving.
The prospect of getting back on my bike and doing LEJoG and the Police Unity Tour ride has me thinking its time to lose some weight. So the diet starts on Monday.
My New Years resolutions remain on course. I'm not saying what they are, but I'm on course to keep them at present.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
The Long & Winding Road
Well I went to see a consultant last week. As I was still unlikely to get to see a consultant on the NHS for at least another month, I arranged on Wednesday an appointment with a consultant privately for the next day. (Who says money doesn't buy you preferential treatment?)
The consultant told me that he would prefer not to operate on the tear as it was difficult to get to the damage and there was a serious risk of an operation causing more damage than I have at present. The consultant instead drained some fluid off the knee and sent me for physiotherapy.
Again thanks to the miracles of paying privately, I was able to see a physiotherapist the same day. After a lengthy consultation and some manipulation he gave me a series of exercises to perform daily. He also told me that I appear to have two injuries to my knee; the tear that was shown up in the MRI scan, and a possible boney injury just above my knee cap on the left side of the left knee. This confirms what I have thought all along. Since Thursday, I have been more aware of the two different injuries and the pain is coming from the injury above the knee cap rather than the tear.
I have an appointment with the physiotherapist again on Thursday, and am seeing my GP on Friday and hope to get some form of x ray referral for the injury above the knee cap. I am starting to think the tear is a minor issue and can be resolved by the exercises to build up the other muscles in my knee to ease the pressure on the tear. The pain above the knee cap is concerning me as it appears to be getting worse not better.It is some 9 weeks or so since the accident and should have been getting better if it was just bruising. At least that is what I would have expected, but I am not a doctor!
There was some good news from the physiotherapist though as he advised me that using an exercise bike would be good for my knee if I used it gently. Guess who has got the turbo trainer out of the shed and will be riding everyday in the house now? The only downside is that he told me to use a geared bike, not my favourite fixed wheel bike.
Both the consultant and the physiotherapist left me with some hope that I will be able to ride in the USA in May on the Police Unity Tour. So to that end things are positive.
I can't leave this post without a word on the weather. I know many people had problems getting into work this week because of the weather. Not me though. My problems were not weather related. Actually here in Ilford we never got more than about 1" of snow. I feel left out as apparently the rest of the country have had loads of snow.
The consultant told me that he would prefer not to operate on the tear as it was difficult to get to the damage and there was a serious risk of an operation causing more damage than I have at present. The consultant instead drained some fluid off the knee and sent me for physiotherapy.
Again thanks to the miracles of paying privately, I was able to see a physiotherapist the same day. After a lengthy consultation and some manipulation he gave me a series of exercises to perform daily. He also told me that I appear to have two injuries to my knee; the tear that was shown up in the MRI scan, and a possible boney injury just above my knee cap on the left side of the left knee. This confirms what I have thought all along. Since Thursday, I have been more aware of the two different injuries and the pain is coming from the injury above the knee cap rather than the tear.
I have an appointment with the physiotherapist again on Thursday, and am seeing my GP on Friday and hope to get some form of x ray referral for the injury above the knee cap. I am starting to think the tear is a minor issue and can be resolved by the exercises to build up the other muscles in my knee to ease the pressure on the tear. The pain above the knee cap is concerning me as it appears to be getting worse not better.It is some 9 weeks or so since the accident and should have been getting better if it was just bruising. At least that is what I would have expected, but I am not a doctor!
There was some good news from the physiotherapist though as he advised me that using an exercise bike would be good for my knee if I used it gently. Guess who has got the turbo trainer out of the shed and will be riding everyday in the house now? The only downside is that he told me to use a geared bike, not my favourite fixed wheel bike.
Both the consultant and the physiotherapist left me with some hope that I will be able to ride in the USA in May on the Police Unity Tour. So to that end things are positive.
I can't leave this post without a word on the weather. I know many people had problems getting into work this week because of the weather. Not me though. My problems were not weather related. Actually here in Ilford we never got more than about 1" of snow. I feel left out as apparently the rest of the country have had loads of snow.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Reasons to be Cheerful
Just a brief post today (well really its about what happened on Tuesday), but things seem to be looking up slightly.
Firstly, thanks to my parents for offering to fund me to go privately for any operation on my knee if it will speed up the operation. Thanks - its much appreciated
Secondly, I spoke to the lawyer dealing with my claim and she confirmed that I could recover the cost of any operation from the other side, assuming liability can be proved. She also confirmed that I could recover the cost of private care - eg someone travelling to look after me after any operation, and for their time in attending to me.
Thirdly, I have an appointment with my GP tomorrow with a view to arranging to see a consultant on a private basis to speed up the process
Fourthly, I sent off the application form for the New York State Bar exams today, so that is something to look forward to with excitement and trepidation
On a very different note, my medical issues were put into perspective when last night I was informed that the daughter of friends of mine died suddenly in her sleep on Christmas night. Suddenly my problems seem insignificant.
Firstly, thanks to my parents for offering to fund me to go privately for any operation on my knee if it will speed up the operation. Thanks - its much appreciated
Secondly, I spoke to the lawyer dealing with my claim and she confirmed that I could recover the cost of any operation from the other side, assuming liability can be proved. She also confirmed that I could recover the cost of private care - eg someone travelling to look after me after any operation, and for their time in attending to me.
Thirdly, I have an appointment with my GP tomorrow with a view to arranging to see a consultant on a private basis to speed up the process
Fourthly, I sent off the application form for the New York State Bar exams today, so that is something to look forward to with excitement and trepidation
On a very different note, my medical issues were put into perspective when last night I was informed that the daughter of friends of mine died suddenly in her sleep on Christmas night. Suddenly my problems seem insignificant.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Start
Well its been nearly 2 weeks since my last post. What has happened in that time?
Well we've had Christmas. I spent that at my parent's house (again). I seem to fall into that generation that keep going back to mummy & daddy. I only do it to keep my mother happy. She is only happy when she has her brood around to fuss over. So now you understand, I'm totally unselfish and only go home to keep my mother happy. I don't go home for the free food, drink, cooking, ironing etc.
I headed up on Wednesday and had a long and enjoyable ride back home. Its amazing the memories that come back of past events as you head back to your old stomping ground!
I managed to see my son for a bit before he went back south to his mother's for Christmas. Shame Tom left his mother's Christmas card in Durham and then forget it again this weekend. Never mind Tom, you've got it early for next Christmas.
As my mother would only be able to cope with so much excitement, I left to head back down south on Boxing Day morning. I spent the time between Christmas and New Year trying to rest my knee, but the chance to spend time with friends meant it did not get as much rest as it should.
A relatively quite New Year's Eve was determined by the injured knee. It wouldn't have been too good to have been dancing on tables ALL night long.
New Year's Day brought a chance to go home and spend a quiet evening in with Tom and I spent all day Saturday with him as well. Quality bonding time, or a chance to get him to look after me and run around at my instructions? You decide.
Saturday also brought a 2nd chance this week to see my mate John & his family. Its a bloody long way to meet up now they live in Penzance. Still it was good to see them all and catch up on happenings in their lives. The only worrying thing is his little daughter remembers me as the man who gave her sweeties.....
Now, its back to the harsh reality of life after the holidays, so I am not back at work and instead am spending the day trying to catch up on paperwork and pay off my debts.
The knee is getting worse, but I think that may just be too much exertion over the last few days causing it. I'm still waiting to get a date to see a consultant. The NHS doesn't seem to use technology very well. In theory, I should have been able to book an appointment immediately, but in reality, my GP writes to consultant, who writes back to me with appointment date... Snail mail as well. They don't seem to like this new fangled email thingy.
As I type this, its a beautiful winter's day outside, bright sunshine, no wind etc. Perfect riding conditions? Grrrrrrr........ That motorist who knocked me off is getting me more angry by the day. Still at least this absence from work will boost the compensation claim. Small comfort for the pain and being stuck at home.
I have decided to use my time positively however. I decided to pay off all my outstanding bills, but the Internet banking website I use is down today! Great eh?
If I had Sky TV, I'd spend the days watching England in South Africa in the cricket, but I don't have it....
Positives about the accident-
1. the whiplash is still not healed yet, so I have an excuse to get the dry cleaners to do all my ironing.
2. I am an expert in relationships now after watching so much Jeremy Kyle
3. I'm fluent in Cbeebies and CITV
4. Erm.....Well actually, there is another one and that is that I am going to use the time to do some personal studying. I am intending to study for the New York State Bar Exams. Why am I going to do this?... A bit like the reason I chose to cycle LEJoG last year (see www.aminearlythere.blogspot.com ) - simply because its a challenge. Its a 6 month course, and if I pass it I will be qualified as a US Attorney! Mad -I must be?
Right, time to go and see if I can pay my online debts and then register for the US Bar course.
Well we've had Christmas. I spent that at my parent's house (again). I seem to fall into that generation that keep going back to mummy & daddy. I only do it to keep my mother happy. She is only happy when she has her brood around to fuss over. So now you understand, I'm totally unselfish and only go home to keep my mother happy. I don't go home for the free food, drink, cooking, ironing etc.
I headed up on Wednesday and had a long and enjoyable ride back home. Its amazing the memories that come back of past events as you head back to your old stomping ground!
I managed to see my son for a bit before he went back south to his mother's for Christmas. Shame Tom left his mother's Christmas card in Durham and then forget it again this weekend. Never mind Tom, you've got it early for next Christmas.
As my mother would only be able to cope with so much excitement, I left to head back down south on Boxing Day morning. I spent the time between Christmas and New Year trying to rest my knee, but the chance to spend time with friends meant it did not get as much rest as it should.
A relatively quite New Year's Eve was determined by the injured knee. It wouldn't have been too good to have been dancing on tables ALL night long.
New Year's Day brought a chance to go home and spend a quiet evening in with Tom and I spent all day Saturday with him as well. Quality bonding time, or a chance to get him to look after me and run around at my instructions? You decide.
Saturday also brought a 2nd chance this week to see my mate John & his family. Its a bloody long way to meet up now they live in Penzance. Still it was good to see them all and catch up on happenings in their lives. The only worrying thing is his little daughter remembers me as the man who gave her sweeties.....
Now, its back to the harsh reality of life after the holidays, so I am not back at work and instead am spending the day trying to catch up on paperwork and pay off my debts.
The knee is getting worse, but I think that may just be too much exertion over the last few days causing it. I'm still waiting to get a date to see a consultant. The NHS doesn't seem to use technology very well. In theory, I should have been able to book an appointment immediately, but in reality, my GP writes to consultant, who writes back to me with appointment date... Snail mail as well. They don't seem to like this new fangled email thingy.
As I type this, its a beautiful winter's day outside, bright sunshine, no wind etc. Perfect riding conditions? Grrrrrrr........ That motorist who knocked me off is getting me more angry by the day. Still at least this absence from work will boost the compensation claim. Small comfort for the pain and being stuck at home.
I have decided to use my time positively however. I decided to pay off all my outstanding bills, but the Internet banking website I use is down today! Great eh?
If I had Sky TV, I'd spend the days watching England in South Africa in the cricket, but I don't have it....
Positives about the accident-
1. the whiplash is still not healed yet, so I have an excuse to get the dry cleaners to do all my ironing.
2. I am an expert in relationships now after watching so much Jeremy Kyle
3. I'm fluent in Cbeebies and CITV
4. Erm.....Well actually, there is another one and that is that I am going to use the time to do some personal studying. I am intending to study for the New York State Bar Exams. Why am I going to do this?... A bit like the reason I chose to cycle LEJoG last year (see www.aminearlythere.blogspot.com ) - simply because its a challenge. Its a 6 month course, and if I pass it I will be qualified as a US Attorney! Mad -I must be?
Right, time to go and see if I can pay my online debts and then register for the US Bar course.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Lonely This Christmas
Well the title of this thread could mean one of many things.
All though I am with my family this Christmas, I am not with other loved ones- human or two wheeled!
I suspect none of them will read this blog today - I know for definite the two wheeled ones won't read it ever. They must feel abandoned given I have not ridden a bike in anger for so long now.
Hopefully all those who matter to me will be present in my life through out 2010. A year that has so much potential. I have to make some very important choices shortly and decide whether to move out of my comfort zone.
I know that a lot of this sounds very cryptic, but until I speak to various people, I cannot really say too much. Hopefully though, the next 12 months will bring lots of new adventures.
Happy Christmas one and all.
PS Santa, if its not too late, can you bring me a cure for my knee injury ASAP.
All though I am with my family this Christmas, I am not with other loved ones- human or two wheeled!
I suspect none of them will read this blog today - I know for definite the two wheeled ones won't read it ever. They must feel abandoned given I have not ridden a bike in anger for so long now.
Hopefully all those who matter to me will be present in my life through out 2010. A year that has so much potential. I have to make some very important choices shortly and decide whether to move out of my comfort zone.
I know that a lot of this sounds very cryptic, but until I speak to various people, I cannot really say too much. Hopefully though, the next 12 months will bring lots of new adventures.
Happy Christmas one and all.
PS Santa, if its not too late, can you bring me a cure for my knee injury ASAP.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Driving Home For Christmas
Well, I went back to the doctor's yesterday to get the results of my MRI scan and am told that I have a small medial meniscal tear in my left knee and that I will require surgery on the same. I have been referred to see a consultant orthopaedic surgeon. However, it is likely to be a month or so before I get to see the surgeon. I have no idea how long it is likely to be before I will have an operation, assuming surgeon thinks it is needed. I asked the relevant questions of the doctor, such as how long after an operation will it be before I can start cycling again- 6 weeks apparently. I failed to ask how long before I will be back at work again though. Clearly I have my priorities right.
I emailed my line manager last night at work to give him the news and spoke to him today. I must say that I appreciate the sympathetic response from him. Its nice to know that work are not pressurising me to get back to work. I even had a phone call from the big boss
I am now starting to worry as to whether I will be able to complete the bike ride in May in the US. Even if I had the operation by the end of February, I wouldn't be able to start cycling until middle of April, which leaves me no time at all to get in the necessary mileage to do the 400 miles in 4 days in May. I'm going to have to reassess my position and decide what to do. See if I can get a year off and do it in 2011?
Well that's the cycling report or lack of it done. Tomorrow, I'm heading back up North to my parents for Christmas. It will be the first Christmas I've spent at my parents without Tom being there since he was born. It will be strange! How life changes in 12 months.
This time last year, I was contemplating Christmas with my son, my partner and my parents and looking forward to starting training for a Lands End to John o' Groats ride. The future was exciting. This time, its a Christmas without my son, no cycling to look forward to, lengthy time off work etc.
Its ironic that I have all this time off work, but can't actually do anything. I'd love to go away for a few days abroad, but its not going to do me much good is it? I'm not sure that I could justify being off work and flying abroad somewhere.
Still, this time gives me the chance to take stock of where I am going and to re plan my priorities and plan another cycling trip for 2010 later in the year or 2011.
In the meantime, tomorrow I will be travelling up to my parent's home for Christmas, so merry Christmas one and all.
I emailed my line manager last night at work to give him the news and spoke to him today. I must say that I appreciate the sympathetic response from him. Its nice to know that work are not pressurising me to get back to work. I even had a phone call from the big boss
I am now starting to worry as to whether I will be able to complete the bike ride in May in the US. Even if I had the operation by the end of February, I wouldn't be able to start cycling until middle of April, which leaves me no time at all to get in the necessary mileage to do the 400 miles in 4 days in May. I'm going to have to reassess my position and decide what to do. See if I can get a year off and do it in 2011?
Well that's the cycling report or lack of it done. Tomorrow, I'm heading back up North to my parents for Christmas. It will be the first Christmas I've spent at my parents without Tom being there since he was born. It will be strange! How life changes in 12 months.
This time last year, I was contemplating Christmas with my son, my partner and my parents and looking forward to starting training for a Lands End to John o' Groats ride. The future was exciting. This time, its a Christmas without my son, no cycling to look forward to, lengthy time off work etc.
Its ironic that I have all this time off work, but can't actually do anything. I'd love to go away for a few days abroad, but its not going to do me much good is it? I'm not sure that I could justify being off work and flying abroad somewhere.
Still, this time gives me the chance to take stock of where I am going and to re plan my priorities and plan another cycling trip for 2010 later in the year or 2011.
In the meantime, tomorrow I will be travelling up to my parent's home for Christmas, so merry Christmas one and all.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Don't look Back In Anger
Well since I last posted on here, the number of inches cycled is 0
I'm still off work and still unable to ride my bike.
Walking even to the corner shop is painful. I need to give my leg complete rest and that is difficult when you live alone.
I have now been off work a total of just over 3 weeks. My sick note expired today, so I went to the doctors to see about that and to see if the MRI scan results had been received yet. I had an MRI scan last Thursday at 0720 in the morning up in Waterloo. That was fun to get to- It did my leg no good walking/ travelling on the tube etc.
The doctor told me they had not got the MRI scan results but that she thought I probably had a tear in my ligament in my knee. She signed me off work for another four weeks and told me if I had a tear, then it would require an operation. Great news eh.
So I left the doctor's surgery this morning feeling rather sorry for myself. After getting my latest prescription and going home to rest. I'm left thinking what can I do for four weeks. I'm limited as to the movement I can make, so its surf the net, read watch TV or play computer games. The latter option is out as I haven't got any to play.
When the post arrived, containing loads of Christmas cards addressed to me and my ex, it did little to cheer me up. Then I saw a letter from the doctor's surgery asking me to contact them to make an appointment to discuss my MRI scan! Yes they had the results this morning but had not passed them onto the doctor I saw. Grrrr. So I'm back at the doctor's next Monday afternoon to get those results and find out what the prognosis is.
Not much else to report at present other than to say thanks to a number of friends this week who have been there to raise my spirits - sitting in this house all day unable to do much is not good for the mind. You're all stars and I can't thank you enough.
I am going to use the time I've got off work to take stock of my situation. I have a number of ideas of things I would like to do with my life, and need to discuss them with family and friends to see if they are viable options. I think its time me and my bike went travelling. Not just to do the Police Unity Tour, but much more than that. I think its time to see some of the world.
Now those of you who click on the title of the thread may wonder what the title song has to do with this post. Well it sums up what I am saying to myself at present. There are many things that I can easily look back in anger at. However, I need to remind myself that it does me no good to look back in anger.
Instead I'm starting to worry if I will be fit enough to do the Police Unity Tour ride in May.
Onwards
I'm still off work and still unable to ride my bike.
Walking even to the corner shop is painful. I need to give my leg complete rest and that is difficult when you live alone.
I have now been off work a total of just over 3 weeks. My sick note expired today, so I went to the doctors to see about that and to see if the MRI scan results had been received yet. I had an MRI scan last Thursday at 0720 in the morning up in Waterloo. That was fun to get to- It did my leg no good walking/ travelling on the tube etc.
The doctor told me they had not got the MRI scan results but that she thought I probably had a tear in my ligament in my knee. She signed me off work for another four weeks and told me if I had a tear, then it would require an operation. Great news eh.
So I left the doctor's surgery this morning feeling rather sorry for myself. After getting my latest prescription and going home to rest. I'm left thinking what can I do for four weeks. I'm limited as to the movement I can make, so its surf the net, read watch TV or play computer games. The latter option is out as I haven't got any to play.
When the post arrived, containing loads of Christmas cards addressed to me and my ex, it did little to cheer me up. Then I saw a letter from the doctor's surgery asking me to contact them to make an appointment to discuss my MRI scan! Yes they had the results this morning but had not passed them onto the doctor I saw. Grrrr. So I'm back at the doctor's next Monday afternoon to get those results and find out what the prognosis is.
Not much else to report at present other than to say thanks to a number of friends this week who have been there to raise my spirits - sitting in this house all day unable to do much is not good for the mind. You're all stars and I can't thank you enough.
I am going to use the time I've got off work to take stock of my situation. I have a number of ideas of things I would like to do with my life, and need to discuss them with family and friends to see if they are viable options. I think its time me and my bike went travelling. Not just to do the Police Unity Tour, but much more than that. I think its time to see some of the world.
Now those of you who click on the title of the thread may wonder what the title song has to do with this post. Well it sums up what I am saying to myself at present. There are many things that I can easily look back in anger at. However, I need to remind myself that it does me no good to look back in anger.
Instead I'm starting to worry if I will be fit enough to do the Police Unity Tour ride in May.
Onwards
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now
Sums up the feeling.
I'm still off work with the knee injury making it impossible to get to/ from the office. Even walking to the newsagent up the road is painful. I can drive a little bit, but even that is not too good for my knee. So I've not done a lot of late.
I have been able to do some work at home, even though I'm signed off on the sick (dedication eh?) I managed to finish a report I've been working on today and tried to email it to the office, but the laptop won't connect to the office system - grrr. No problem, I will ring work's IT help desk. Well that was about 7 hours ago and I'm still waiting for them to sort the problem out. No problem, I will download it off the work laptop onto a memory stick and send it via my home PC. Oh dear, I can't do that because of all the hysterics re data security meant they stopped us being able to use the USB port to download items.
Great, my last weeks work at home to finish this report on time seems to have been in vain as I can't get it to work. To think I spent hours everyday working instead of watching Jeremy Kyle, Loose Women and CBBC.
I was supposed to be out for a drink tonight with some old workmates I've not seen in years, but I've had to cancel that as well. It would only make my knee worse to dance on tables stagger home off the last train. [I only inserted this in case my bosses ever happen to read this and thinks I'm skiving. If that's what you think, then just remember I'm not cycling, and I'd happily be in at work if it meant I could get back on my bike].
I'm off to have an MRI scan on my knee on Thursday. Hopefully that will shed some light, so to speak, on the problem. I have to confess that I do not know what an MRI scan is actually. I have no idea when I get the results or indeed what the scan results are capable of showing. Time to check out NHS direct I think and see what it involves. The scan is at 07:20 in the morning, so that's going to be an early start for me.
There must be a way I can get on my bike again soon. I'm more concerned at not cycling than anything else at present.
I'm still off work with the knee injury making it impossible to get to/ from the office. Even walking to the newsagent up the road is painful. I can drive a little bit, but even that is not too good for my knee. So I've not done a lot of late.
I have been able to do some work at home, even though I'm signed off on the sick (dedication eh?) I managed to finish a report I've been working on today and tried to email it to the office, but the laptop won't connect to the office system - grrr. No problem, I will ring work's IT help desk. Well that was about 7 hours ago and I'm still waiting for them to sort the problem out. No problem, I will download it off the work laptop onto a memory stick and send it via my home PC. Oh dear, I can't do that because of all the hysterics re data security meant they stopped us being able to use the USB port to download items.
Great, my last weeks work at home to finish this report on time seems to have been in vain as I can't get it to work. To think I spent hours everyday working instead of watching Jeremy Kyle, Loose Women and CBBC.
I was supposed to be out for a drink tonight with some old workmates I've not seen in years, but I've had to cancel that as well. It would only make my knee worse to dance on tables stagger home off the last train. [I only inserted this in case my bosses ever happen to read this and thinks I'm skiving. If that's what you think, then just remember I'm not cycling, and I'd happily be in at work if it meant I could get back on my bike].
I'm off to have an MRI scan on my knee on Thursday. Hopefully that will shed some light, so to speak, on the problem. I have to confess that I do not know what an MRI scan is actually. I have no idea when I get the results or indeed what the scan results are capable of showing. Time to check out NHS direct I think and see what it involves. The scan is at 07:20 in the morning, so that's going to be an early start for me.
There must be a way I can get on my bike again soon. I'm more concerned at not cycling than anything else at present.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
FFF Frustration
The title sums up the time since I last posted.
I went to the Doctor's on Thursday to see about my knee and was signed off work for 2 weeks. Yes, another 2 weeks.
Fortunately for my sanity, I have work at home I can be doing. I need it to take my mind away from daytime TV. I mean there is only so much Jeremy Kyle anyone can watch- about 0.5 nanoseconds is I think the legal limit. I think being water boarded by the CIA would be preferable to watching daytime TV.
My knee has apparently suffered damage to the medial ligaments as a result of the accident a month ago today. This is the longest I have been unable to cycle or work since starting to cycle again some 9 years ago. Ironically, cycling hurts my knee less than walking does, but still causes a considerable amount of pain. Even walking to the newsagents at the end of the road is painful.I can however drive my car ok.
Why have I been signed off work? Mainly because of the problems getting to / from work. I can't walk to/ from train station or use the stairs without hurting my knee. I can't cycle to work for similar reasons and it is not reasonably practicable to drive to/ from work as I work in Westminster. Therefore I am stuck at home at present.
It is even more frustrating as I am due to be meeting a number of old friends this coming week for drinks or next week. They will have to be given a miss. Even if I could get to the pubs,a night in town standing drinking etc will do it no good.
What have I done then I hear you ask? Well, I've watched loads of rubbish on the TV. I've planned my cycling around the world trip in minute detail, well everything except how to fund it. Anyone fancy donating say a years salary plus to cover my lost wages and the expenses of such a trip. Who said that you'll have a whip round if I promise not to return?
So, I've no cycling to write about at present. What can I write about? Well I could go on about Newcastle United being top of the Championship (the oldest league in the world) and being 4 points ahead of the 2nd placed side and 10 points ahead of 3rd and 13 points ahead of the side outside the play off places. I could boast and say its nice to see one North East side doing well, but that would be unfair on all the Sunderland and Middlesbrough fans I know- as I know very few, its ok, i will boast about it. Assuming my leg is ok, Tom and I are off to Barnsley next Saturday to see Newcastle. It'll be the suited and booted look though as we are in the executive boxes. (Thanks Sue & John!). We are also staying there for the night (Thanks again Sue & John),so I'm hoping we can avoid a defeat as I don't fancy a night of having the mickey taken out of me.
What else is there to say, other than I want to ride my bicycle.
Oh, and thanks to everyone who has donated so far. It is much appreciated.
Thanks
Peter
I went to the Doctor's on Thursday to see about my knee and was signed off work for 2 weeks. Yes, another 2 weeks.
Fortunately for my sanity, I have work at home I can be doing. I need it to take my mind away from daytime TV. I mean there is only so much Jeremy Kyle anyone can watch- about 0.5 nanoseconds is I think the legal limit. I think being water boarded by the CIA would be preferable to watching daytime TV.
My knee has apparently suffered damage to the medial ligaments as a result of the accident a month ago today. This is the longest I have been unable to cycle or work since starting to cycle again some 9 years ago. Ironically, cycling hurts my knee less than walking does, but still causes a considerable amount of pain. Even walking to the newsagents at the end of the road is painful.I can however drive my car ok.
Why have I been signed off work? Mainly because of the problems getting to / from work. I can't walk to/ from train station or use the stairs without hurting my knee. I can't cycle to work for similar reasons and it is not reasonably practicable to drive to/ from work as I work in Westminster. Therefore I am stuck at home at present.
It is even more frustrating as I am due to be meeting a number of old friends this coming week for drinks or next week. They will have to be given a miss. Even if I could get to the pubs,a night in town standing drinking etc will do it no good.
What have I done then I hear you ask? Well, I've watched loads of rubbish on the TV. I've planned my cycling around the world trip in minute detail, well everything except how to fund it. Anyone fancy donating say a years salary plus to cover my lost wages and the expenses of such a trip. Who said that you'll have a whip round if I promise not to return?
So, I've no cycling to write about at present. What can I write about? Well I could go on about Newcastle United being top of the Championship (the oldest league in the world) and being 4 points ahead of the 2nd placed side and 10 points ahead of 3rd and 13 points ahead of the side outside the play off places. I could boast and say its nice to see one North East side doing well, but that would be unfair on all the Sunderland and Middlesbrough fans I know- as I know very few, its ok, i will boast about it. Assuming my leg is ok, Tom and I are off to Barnsley next Saturday to see Newcastle. It'll be the suited and booted look though as we are in the executive boxes. (Thanks Sue & John!). We are also staying there for the night (Thanks again Sue & John),so I'm hoping we can avoid a defeat as I don't fancy a night of having the mickey taken out of me.
What else is there to say, other than I want to ride my bicycle.
Oh, and thanks to everyone who has donated so far. It is much appreciated.
Thanks
Peter
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