WAS MEANT TO SEE 3 X MOVIES/MISSED 1/SAW 2
I originally signed up online to see 3 movies, today; but, unfortunately, I got there far too late to see the first movie; so, instead, I ended up seeing only 2 movies.
1> Love Crime/Cineworld/Picadilly/1:50PM (missed it)
2> Life of Pi/Cineworld/Haymarket/3D/5:15PM
3> Sightseers/Cineworld/Picadilly/8:30PM
GAMBLED: WILLIAM HILL/LADBROOKS STREET BETTING STORES
Overall, been a great day. I eat a lot/gambled a lot...and, won...using the money I'd won to buy all of my food with; as well as to 'top up' my food store cards, both Starbucks/Pret-a-manger.
JOINED PRET-A-MANGER
I also signed up for a Pret-a-manger loyalty 'top up' card. Which when I came home I registered online in order to protect the card from being used by others who might accidentally find it/steal it.
CONCLUSION
I came home with my belly feeling totally full with both food/drink; and, my wallet was full, too. Marvellous.
-(It's a pity that not every single day could go like this; but, that's life, I guess, always utterly unpredictable!)-
Friday 14 December 2012
Thursday 13 December 2012
Hyde Park Christmas Fair: 12/12/12
MISSED MY LAST MORLEY COLLEGE CLASS
Was meant to go to HTML & CSS Level II between 10AM-1PM. Unfortunately, I missed it. I woke up far too late around 10:20AM. Then, I just decided because it's going to take, at least, one hour to get ready/then, another 1 hour to reach there; by then the class will already be over; might as well just not bother. Altogether I think there were 6 classes to attend during this 2nd term; I attended going to just 4 lessons; can't honestly say I learned all that much...a bit boring, frankly! It's a pity though that I didn't attend that last class; as there were end of term papers to fill in; which, of course, I missed.
BROUGHT MYSELF A WEEKLY BUS PASS
I guess, I must have gotten really tired of having to go ride my bike for endless miles and miles all around London town. So, instead, I decided to go buy a weekly bus pass; the cost of which was £18.80. It was brought 12/12/12; therefore, will run out on 19/12/12 at 4AM late night/early morning.
Hopefully, I will use my bus pass a lot; and, not just waste the money. In particular, I have to travel out to Cineworld, Trocadero, Picadilly in order to use my Unlimited Cineworld pass.
HYDE PARK CHRISTMAS FAIR/WONDERLAND
Quite a few times I rode my bike through Hyde Park where I saw there was a huge fair going on. However, I'd never actually been inside there before. So, I decided to go check it out.
At the fair, I brought...
1 x black sheepskin leather gloves/size: medium, £20
2 x wolly hoody hats/both black, £20
HYDE PARK PUBLIC TOILET
There is a public toilets which I used to use regularly for FREE located outside of the Knightsbridge bus stop. However, much to my total shock and surprise when I tried to use it...it actually blocked me from going inside...you now have to pay £0.50p just to get in. I felt totally disgusted have to take a leak at that price; 0.10p/0.20p would have been more reasonable. So, instead, I went back outside; and, found a place to go piss in the park; luckily nobody saw/or, caught me!
GREEN PARK/STARBUCKS/MEMBERSHIP CARD
Opposite Green Park tube station there is a Starbucks food store. Recently I went and joined their membership card scheme. This allows you to buy a card from a minimum of £10.00; which you are later on allowed to top up at anytime. -(You can also top up online/or, over your mobile phone using any amount from £10-£100.)- I already went and registered my card online; this is meant to ensure your balance is safe; and, nobody else can use the card.
The first time I got my Starbucks card was 11/12/12; and, I placed £20.00 on it. I then bought 0.50p worth of chocolate which left me with a balance of £19.50.
12/12/12, I went into the same Starbucks shop, again. This time I brought...
1 x Giant Cookie
1 x Choclate Gold Foil Circle
1 x Cashew Peanuts
...the total costing me around £3.55. My current Starbucks card balance now says: £15.95.
PICADILLY WASABI FOOD SHOP
Opposite the Trocadero Cineworld on Picadilly is a Wasabi food shop. I prefer to go in there and buy food whenever I visiting the cinema; as the Cineworld food is a load of crap/as well as, being way over expensive.
Inside Wasabi I brought...
1 x Japanese Sushi box
1 x Hot Miso Soup
2 x Sushi wraps.
...in all the total cost was around £6.49.
PICADILLY TROCADERO, CINEWORLD, SAW FILM: RUST & BONE
Using my Cineworld Unlimited card, I booked to see a film which I'd already paid to see before at the Odeon called: Rust & Bone. I enjoyed watching it, again. I especially liked the fact that I got to see it for FREE this time. In fact, I shouldn't really 'buy' any more films; when using my Unlimited card I can see all films FREE, now; straight up until when I have to renew membership next year Nov 2013(£215).
BROUGHT 6 X PASSPORT PHOTOS
Outside of the Trocadero Cineworld is a one man stand; where the guy sells people passport photos. I brought 4 x Passport Photos for £10.00. The guy gave me 6 photos, altogether; along with a FREE minature padlock(which I thought was really kind of him).
BROUGHT 3 X MINATURE BOOKS
One of my fav. bookshops is the junction Old Compton Street/Tottenham Court Road. I usually go in there late at night whenever I'm in the Picadilly/Soho area. I brought 3 books.
1 x Reflexology
1 x Chinese Astrology
1 x Palmistry
...the total costing me around £14.99.
TOOK BUS TO PIMLICO
I forgot which number bus I took from off Tottenham Court Road; but, it took me over to Pimlico. When I discovered the bus was going the wrong way; I decided to get off it; and, wait to take a different bus going towards Vauxhall, instead, on the opposite side of the road.
In between times, waiting for my bus, I hopped into a Pizza shop; and, there brought 2 x tins of coke; both costing £1.19.
GAMBLING
I use to gamble only online; using either my Desktop/or, Laptop machines. However, now, that I've been going out the road a lot; I've decided to switch to gambling inside of betting shops. My fav shop to use is William Hill; and, I use around 3 of these around the Picadilly Soho area. I spent...
1 x £40 (which just completely vanished/actually I came away with something like £1.60)
1 x £30 (which I managed to double to become £60)
1 x £30 (which I managed to double to become £54)
...all the time, I'm panicing...thinking to myself...on no, I'm going to lose it ALL...?!
TRAVELLING
Right now, I'm enjoying using the buses; and, so I've stopped riding my bike. However, there are some big advantages which riding a bike brings; such as it's healthier/and, a lot more highly flexible/plus, biking is FREE.
However, due to the weather being so cold. I much prefer taking a bus, instead.
The truth is, though, I will probably use a mixture of bike/bus/walk.
CONCLUSION
I left the home with around 6 x £20 £120. I spent around £200+. I returned back home again with £50(2 x £20/2x£10).
Was meant to go to HTML & CSS Level II between 10AM-1PM. Unfortunately, I missed it. I woke up far too late around 10:20AM. Then, I just decided because it's going to take, at least, one hour to get ready/then, another 1 hour to reach there; by then the class will already be over; might as well just not bother. Altogether I think there were 6 classes to attend during this 2nd term; I attended going to just 4 lessons; can't honestly say I learned all that much...a bit boring, frankly! It's a pity though that I didn't attend that last class; as there were end of term papers to fill in; which, of course, I missed.
BROUGHT MYSELF A WEEKLY BUS PASS
I guess, I must have gotten really tired of having to go ride my bike for endless miles and miles all around London town. So, instead, I decided to go buy a weekly bus pass; the cost of which was £18.80. It was brought 12/12/12; therefore, will run out on 19/12/12 at 4AM late night/early morning.
Hopefully, I will use my bus pass a lot; and, not just waste the money. In particular, I have to travel out to Cineworld, Trocadero, Picadilly in order to use my Unlimited Cineworld pass.
HYDE PARK CHRISTMAS FAIR/WONDERLAND
Quite a few times I rode my bike through Hyde Park where I saw there was a huge fair going on. However, I'd never actually been inside there before. So, I decided to go check it out.
At the fair, I brought...
1 x black sheepskin leather gloves/size: medium, £20
2 x wolly hoody hats/both black, £20
HYDE PARK PUBLIC TOILET
There is a public toilets which I used to use regularly for FREE located outside of the Knightsbridge bus stop. However, much to my total shock and surprise when I tried to use it...it actually blocked me from going inside...you now have to pay £0.50p just to get in. I felt totally disgusted have to take a leak at that price; 0.10p/0.20p would have been more reasonable. So, instead, I went back outside; and, found a place to go piss in the park; luckily nobody saw/or, caught me!
GREEN PARK/STARBUCKS/MEMBERSHIP CARD
Opposite Green Park tube station there is a Starbucks food store. Recently I went and joined their membership card scheme. This allows you to buy a card from a minimum of £10.00; which you are later on allowed to top up at anytime. -(You can also top up online/or, over your mobile phone using any amount from £10-£100.)- I already went and registered my card online; this is meant to ensure your balance is safe; and, nobody else can use the card.
The first time I got my Starbucks card was 11/12/12; and, I placed £20.00 on it. I then bought 0.50p worth of chocolate which left me with a balance of £19.50.
12/12/12, I went into the same Starbucks shop, again. This time I brought...
1 x Giant Cookie
1 x Choclate Gold Foil Circle
1 x Cashew Peanuts
...the total costing me around £3.55. My current Starbucks card balance now says: £15.95.
PICADILLY WASABI FOOD SHOP
Opposite the Trocadero Cineworld on Picadilly is a Wasabi food shop. I prefer to go in there and buy food whenever I visiting the cinema; as the Cineworld food is a load of crap/as well as, being way over expensive.
Inside Wasabi I brought...
1 x Japanese Sushi box
1 x Hot Miso Soup
2 x Sushi wraps.
...in all the total cost was around £6.49.
PICADILLY TROCADERO, CINEWORLD, SAW FILM: RUST & BONE
Using my Cineworld Unlimited card, I booked to see a film which I'd already paid to see before at the Odeon called: Rust & Bone. I enjoyed watching it, again. I especially liked the fact that I got to see it for FREE this time. In fact, I shouldn't really 'buy' any more films; when using my Unlimited card I can see all films FREE, now; straight up until when I have to renew membership next year Nov 2013(£215).
BROUGHT 6 X PASSPORT PHOTOS
Outside of the Trocadero Cineworld is a one man stand; where the guy sells people passport photos. I brought 4 x Passport Photos for £10.00. The guy gave me 6 photos, altogether; along with a FREE minature padlock(which I thought was really kind of him).
BROUGHT 3 X MINATURE BOOKS
One of my fav. bookshops is the junction Old Compton Street/Tottenham Court Road. I usually go in there late at night whenever I'm in the Picadilly/Soho area. I brought 3 books.
1 x Reflexology
1 x Chinese Astrology
1 x Palmistry
...the total costing me around £14.99.
TOOK BUS TO PIMLICO
I forgot which number bus I took from off Tottenham Court Road; but, it took me over to Pimlico. When I discovered the bus was going the wrong way; I decided to get off it; and, wait to take a different bus going towards Vauxhall, instead, on the opposite side of the road.
In between times, waiting for my bus, I hopped into a Pizza shop; and, there brought 2 x tins of coke; both costing £1.19.
GAMBLING
I use to gamble only online; using either my Desktop/or, Laptop machines. However, now, that I've been going out the road a lot; I've decided to switch to gambling inside of betting shops. My fav shop to use is William Hill; and, I use around 3 of these around the Picadilly Soho area. I spent...
1 x £40 (which just completely vanished/actually I came away with something like £1.60)
1 x £30 (which I managed to double to become £60)
1 x £30 (which I managed to double to become £54)
...all the time, I'm panicing...thinking to myself...on no, I'm going to lose it ALL...?!
TRAVELLING
Right now, I'm enjoying using the buses; and, so I've stopped riding my bike. However, there are some big advantages which riding a bike brings; such as it's healthier/and, a lot more highly flexible/plus, biking is FREE.
However, due to the weather being so cold. I much prefer taking a bus, instead.
The truth is, though, I will probably use a mixture of bike/bus/walk.
CONCLUSION
I left the home with around 6 x £20 £120. I spent around £200+. I returned back home again with £50(2 x £20/2x£10).
Friday 7 December 2012
December 2012 begins...
GAMBLING...
I continued gambling, as usual, at William Hill...
http://www.williamhill.co.uk
...unfortunately, I lost £100.00 last time I tried playing online Roulette.
I went to visit GA/Gamblers Anonymous at 131 Cleveland Street, outside Great Portland Street tube station, a couple of times. I only go there whenever I have big financial problems to have to deal with. Basically, I owe £27,800.00.
18G Benefit money to have to repay
5G Barclaycard VISA
2G Barclaycard Mastercard
2G Nat West overdraft loan
£800 3 Mobile Phone contract still to pay
But, all I have left in savings is 3 grand(the which total started out at 28 grand...most of which I went and lost to the bookies)?! So, that's why I felt tempted to go and gamble to see if I could make enough money to pay all of these bills. Unfortunately, as is usually the way whenever one tries to rely on gambling I lost a hell of a lot more than I ever won; in fact, I also lost all of my winnings back to the bookies, too; on top of losing my original stake bets. The only way I can describe being caught up in this situation is it's a total nightmare...which could possibly get a whole lot worse still...soon, I could be left with having absolutely no money at all; yet the same bill won't go away; and, what then I wonder...?!
BIKING...
One of my Halford bikes: Apollo Encounter got stolen outside of Morley College. I went and reported the theft to the Lambeth North police station. They wrote me back a letter to say they can't do anything about it due to a lack of sufficient evidence; this is even though the college itself has CCTV which covers seeing the bikes outside! Basically, reporting the loss to the police was a total waste of time.
Anyway, I just came back home, and, proceeded using my back up Apollo Encounter bike; which is an exact replica of the missing bike.
COMPUTING...
Currently, I'm using 4 computing machines...
1> Desktop computer
2> Laptop computer (in bed)
3> iPad (around the house)
4> iPhone 5 (outside the home)
All of the last 3 need to be recharged constantly; as their charge doesn't tend to last a single day. The laptop battery drains away especially fast in less than 1 hour long. Whereas the Apple machines tend to hold their charge for up to around 10 hours long.
The Desktop I mostly tend to keep left on; as their are web pages I load which I didn't have time to view; so, I leave it on standby until when I next return.
NOTE: I would love to buy/own an iMac computer. However, right now, I'm just far too broke to own one.
CINEMA...
So far to date I've joined the following cinemas/film clubs...
Cineworld Unlimited membership: £210
Prince Charles Cinema -(Leicester Square)- Lifetime membership: £50
Odeon Premiere Club £10
...and, I'm thinking of rejoining film making club, Raindance: £50 yearly
I love seeing films at the cinema; as, essentially, I'm a born dreamer; getting to see films at a size that is 100 x your TV screen makes one feel so immersed in the cinema experience as though it were 'real'; this sort of experience I really enjoy.
I wanted to rejoin Raindance film making club; as, one day, I hope to be able to make my own 'amateur' films.
MARTIAL ARTS...
KICKBOXING
Recently, I went and joined Kick Boxing at...
Seymour Leisure Centre
...which is located off Seymour Street near Marble Arch.
I wish I'd gone and joined them in Spring/Summer...rather than Autumn/Winter. As I have to bike it all the way there and back in the utterly freezing cold; which isn't much fun at all. On the other hand, the lessons they give are both interesting and fun.
The cost however is extremely expensive.
£350 equipments: Large/Small Bag, Groin Guard, Gloves, Shin Guards, Mouth Guard, T-shirt(white), Trousers(blue), Insurance.
£85 joining fee to be paid right away; then, £85 Direct Debit monthly for a contract to 12 months; DDR starts 3rd Jan 2013.
Training days, twice weekly: Tue/Thu 1PM.
KRAV MAGA
I'm still a member of South London Krav Maga(West Norwood)/and, Urban Krav Maga(London Bridge).
South London Krav Maga is £30 monthly DDR.
Urban Krav I already pre-paid for 10 lessons @ £60.00. I have around 4 more lessons still left to go.
TAI CHI
I've not returned back to Tai Chi Brixton £30 monthly Tue 7:30PM. Nor have I returned back to Michael Jacques Tai Chi lessons in West Norwood £2.50 Mon 11:30AM.
KEEP FIT...
Recently, I went and rejoined...
http://www.thegymgroup.com
...but, due to the Winter cold; I'm not at all tempted to go out there to use their 24 hours per day training facilities; so, I think, I might have to cancel this Direct Debit costing me £20.00 monthly.
EDUCATION OFFLINE...
MORLEY COLLEGE/HTML & CSS LEVEL II
My Morley College HTML & CSS Level II course is coming to an end, soon. Unfortunately, I missed this week Wednesday 10AM-1PM lesson; as I booked a cinema showing which clashed with the lesson time. Hopefully, I will go there next week.
NEXT COLLEGE TERM
I think, next college term, I will sign up to do arts, again;. In particular, I'm interested in learning...
-Book making
-Computing
-Film
-Drawing/Painting-Writing
-Sculpture
-Photography
NOTE: There are certain advantages one gets through having gone and joined a college; such as cheaper/discounted cinema tickets/computer software/NUS card/-etc.
Too, you can state on your C.V. I did, at least, some studying during that time/as opposed to having done absolutely none.
Thus, it's very important, indeed, that I should be listed as a college student each new term.
EDUCATION ONLINE...
Because I been going out so much; and, watched so many movies at the cinema; having to ride my bike all the way there; then, all the way back, again. I often come back in late around 12:00 midnight; when I return back in, I'm so tired I simply fall asleep; then, wake up to go out again the next day. Is it any wonder then that I haven't been doing any studying online?! In particular, I miss...
Lynda.com
ConquerMath.com
UniversalClass.com
-etc.
ARTS...
I have memberships to...
Tate Gallery (paid membership)
Dulwich Picture Gallery (FREE through being a member of Paxton Green TimeBank)
London Zoo(paid membership; not a gallery; but, I use it to take photos/draw from these)
...unfortunately, I've not been finding sufficient time to go visit seeing any of these. The freezing cold doesn't help much, neither; instead, it only puts me right off.
LIFE DRAWING
Occasionally, I find time to go and visit a Life Drawing class; which people pose nude. However, due to the freezing cold; I've not been going there much neither. It's usually £10 per class. The last time I went and visited 23 Abbey College, Bloomsbury Square, London; where the host is Tony of the Life Drawing Society.
http://www.lifedrawingsociety.co.uk
EBAY ARTWORKS
Lately, I've returned back to buying artworks from off eBay; especially, the work of my fav. artist...
Onelio Marrero
...however, the competition is strong; and, even when I tried bidding really high: $50.00...I still lost the bid! It looks like there are Marrero fans out there who are every bit as mad about his artwork as am I.
I continued gambling, as usual, at William Hill...
http://www.williamhill.co.uk
...unfortunately, I lost £100.00 last time I tried playing online Roulette.
I went to visit GA/Gamblers Anonymous at 131 Cleveland Street, outside Great Portland Street tube station, a couple of times. I only go there whenever I have big financial problems to have to deal with. Basically, I owe £27,800.00.
18G Benefit money to have to repay
5G Barclaycard VISA
2G Barclaycard Mastercard
2G Nat West overdraft loan
£800 3 Mobile Phone contract still to pay
But, all I have left in savings is 3 grand(the which total started out at 28 grand...most of which I went and lost to the bookies)?! So, that's why I felt tempted to go and gamble to see if I could make enough money to pay all of these bills. Unfortunately, as is usually the way whenever one tries to rely on gambling I lost a hell of a lot more than I ever won; in fact, I also lost all of my winnings back to the bookies, too; on top of losing my original stake bets. The only way I can describe being caught up in this situation is it's a total nightmare...which could possibly get a whole lot worse still...soon, I could be left with having absolutely no money at all; yet the same bill won't go away; and, what then I wonder...?!
BIKING...
One of my Halford bikes: Apollo Encounter got stolen outside of Morley College. I went and reported the theft to the Lambeth North police station. They wrote me back a letter to say they can't do anything about it due to a lack of sufficient evidence; this is even though the college itself has CCTV which covers seeing the bikes outside! Basically, reporting the loss to the police was a total waste of time.
Anyway, I just came back home, and, proceeded using my back up Apollo Encounter bike; which is an exact replica of the missing bike.
COMPUTING...
Currently, I'm using 4 computing machines...
1> Desktop computer
2> Laptop computer (in bed)
3> iPad (around the house)
4> iPhone 5 (outside the home)
All of the last 3 need to be recharged constantly; as their charge doesn't tend to last a single day. The laptop battery drains away especially fast in less than 1 hour long. Whereas the Apple machines tend to hold their charge for up to around 10 hours long.
The Desktop I mostly tend to keep left on; as their are web pages I load which I didn't have time to view; so, I leave it on standby until when I next return.
NOTE: I would love to buy/own an iMac computer. However, right now, I'm just far too broke to own one.
CINEMA...
So far to date I've joined the following cinemas/film clubs...
Cineworld Unlimited membership: £210
Prince Charles Cinema -(Leicester Square)- Lifetime membership: £50
Odeon Premiere Club £10
...and, I'm thinking of rejoining film making club, Raindance: £50 yearly
I love seeing films at the cinema; as, essentially, I'm a born dreamer; getting to see films at a size that is 100 x your TV screen makes one feel so immersed in the cinema experience as though it were 'real'; this sort of experience I really enjoy.
I wanted to rejoin Raindance film making club; as, one day, I hope to be able to make my own 'amateur' films.
MARTIAL ARTS...
KICKBOXING
Recently, I went and joined Kick Boxing at...
Seymour Leisure Centre
...which is located off Seymour Street near Marble Arch.
I wish I'd gone and joined them in Spring/Summer...rather than Autumn/Winter. As I have to bike it all the way there and back in the utterly freezing cold; which isn't much fun at all. On the other hand, the lessons they give are both interesting and fun.
The cost however is extremely expensive.
£350 equipments: Large/Small Bag, Groin Guard, Gloves, Shin Guards, Mouth Guard, T-shirt(white), Trousers(blue), Insurance.
£85 joining fee to be paid right away; then, £85 Direct Debit monthly for a contract to 12 months; DDR starts 3rd Jan 2013.
Training days, twice weekly: Tue/Thu 1PM.
KRAV MAGA
I'm still a member of South London Krav Maga(West Norwood)/and, Urban Krav Maga(London Bridge).
South London Krav Maga is £30 monthly DDR.
Urban Krav I already pre-paid for 10 lessons @ £60.00. I have around 4 more lessons still left to go.
TAI CHI
I've not returned back to Tai Chi Brixton £30 monthly Tue 7:30PM. Nor have I returned back to Michael Jacques Tai Chi lessons in West Norwood £2.50 Mon 11:30AM.
KEEP FIT...
Recently, I went and rejoined...
http://www.thegymgroup.com
...but, due to the Winter cold; I'm not at all tempted to go out there to use their 24 hours per day training facilities; so, I think, I might have to cancel this Direct Debit costing me £20.00 monthly.
EDUCATION OFFLINE...
MORLEY COLLEGE/HTML & CSS LEVEL II
My Morley College HTML & CSS Level II course is coming to an end, soon. Unfortunately, I missed this week Wednesday 10AM-1PM lesson; as I booked a cinema showing which clashed with the lesson time. Hopefully, I will go there next week.
NEXT COLLEGE TERM
I think, next college term, I will sign up to do arts, again;. In particular, I'm interested in learning...
-Book making
-Computing
-Film
-Drawing/Painting-Writing
-Sculpture
-Photography
-Writing
-etc.NOTE: There are certain advantages one gets through having gone and joined a college; such as cheaper/discounted cinema tickets/computer software/NUS card/-etc.
Too, you can state on your C.V. I did, at least, some studying during that time/as opposed to having done absolutely none.
Thus, it's very important, indeed, that I should be listed as a college student each new term.
EDUCATION ONLINE...
Because I been going out so much; and, watched so many movies at the cinema; having to ride my bike all the way there; then, all the way back, again. I often come back in late around 12:00 midnight; when I return back in, I'm so tired I simply fall asleep; then, wake up to go out again the next day. Is it any wonder then that I haven't been doing any studying online?! In particular, I miss...
Lynda.com
ConquerMath.com
UniversalClass.com
-etc.
ARTS...
I have memberships to...
Tate Gallery (paid membership)
Dulwich Picture Gallery (FREE through being a member of Paxton Green TimeBank)
London Zoo(paid membership; not a gallery; but, I use it to take photos/draw from these)
...unfortunately, I've not been finding sufficient time to go visit seeing any of these. The freezing cold doesn't help much, neither; instead, it only puts me right off.
LIFE DRAWING
Occasionally, I find time to go and visit a Life Drawing class; which people pose nude. However, due to the freezing cold; I've not been going there much neither. It's usually £10 per class. The last time I went and visited 23 Abbey College, Bloomsbury Square, London; where the host is Tony of the Life Drawing Society.
http://www.lifedrawingsociety.co.uk
EBAY ARTWORKS
Lately, I've returned back to buying artworks from off eBay; especially, the work of my fav. artist...
Onelio Marrero
...however, the competition is strong; and, even when I tried bidding really high: $50.00...I still lost the bid! It looks like there are Marrero fans out there who are every bit as mad about his artwork as am I.
Friday 16 November 2012
Fri 16th Nov 2012 - A general overview...
GAMBLING...
I've continued gambling at...
http://www.williamhill.co.uk
With varied results, as usual; namely, sometimes, I win...but, then, can't seem to stop...then, my luck turns, and, eventually, I end up with nothing.
Recently, however, I won.
BIKING...
Currently, I own 3 bikes all brought from Brixton branch of Halford's.
2 x Apollo Encounter (£199)
1 x Trax (£139)
The first 2 are the same model; and, are heavyweight working bikes. The 2nd is meant to be a back up if anything goes wrong with the first.
The Trax bike is a lightweight bike; and, it's just a safety precaution, in case something goes wrong with my 2 working bikes.
BROUGHT A NEW HALFORD'S BIKE: APOLLO VOYAGER
I brought a new bike from Brixton's branch of Halford's. The cost was: £159.00 + Accessories: Front Light/Back Light(£29), Combination Lock(£39), Water Bottle holder(£6.99) + 1 year warranty(includes labour; but, not parts/£20.00). Altogether around: £250.00.
I then travelled up to the country side to go and see my cousins in Kingswood, Surrey. That's where I left my new bike to go and collect anytime.
COMPUTING...
MORLEY COLLEGE/HTML & CSS LEVEL II COURSE BEGAN YESTERDAY: WED 10AM-1PM
I went to my Morley College HTML & CSS Level II course, yesterday. Frankly, I didn't learn anything new. Therefore, I hope the course will improve as we go along.
DOING A LEARN DIRECT COURSE/NORBURY/ECDL
I signed up to do a LearnDirect ECDL course at Norbury. However, due to ADD/Attention Deficit Disorder, I confess that I haven't been giving this course my fullest possible attention; even though it's possible to work from home.
I'm getting worried that they are either going to throw me off the course; as my course completion date did already pass; I guess, they must have added on an extension date. Another problem is, the course is FREE providing it is completed on time; otherwise, one is forced to pay; and, it's very expensive if you pay around £800.00. So far to date, I've only managed to succesfully complete 2 modules:
1> Word Processing
2> Spreadsheets
3> PowerPoint (my current module/not completed, yet)
BROUGHT A iPHONE 5 WITH 24 MONTH CONTRACT WITH THREE
My previous mobile phone contract ran out; so, I had to chose a new phone. The phone I chose was iPhone 5. The cost is £42.00 monthly for 24 months(420x2=840+pre payment). I'm really scared that I will not be able to afford it. However, I've already made a number of monthly pre-payments(5); which means I shouldn't need to worry about paying anything more until when next year comes.
Another big worry is the iPhone 5 is uninsured; so, if it ever gets stolen/becomes mislaid/or else, drops and is broken; I will have absolutely no protection at all whatsoever. I will also still have to pay for all the rest of the contact whether the phone works or not/whether I still have it beside me or not?! Therefore, this makes me seriously think about taking out some insurance, soon. The last time I inquired about this; the cost was around £108.00 per year.
SOME AFTER THOUGHTS ABOUT BUYING iPHONE 5
Frankly, I think, that buying the iPhone 5 was a huge mistake on my part. I should already have guessed that the screen would be far too small to do such things as surf the internet/read books on/-etc. As you can't really do these things without having to constantly resize text/scroll. Too, the price is far too expensive; in all it costs around £1000+(which includes a monthly quota of free calls/unlimited internet access)! For that sort of money I should have brought either an iPad/or, iMac/MacBook Air, instead. However, I'm afraid, as I've already gone and entered into the full contract; therefore, it's now too late to do absolutely anything about it such as change my mind. Anyway, my intention is to own...
>iPhone(Compact/to use whenever I go out/to make phone calls/use apps: maps/ebay/amazon/-etc.)
>iPad(Portable/in bed/in the kitchen/-etc. to use for viewing full web pages on the internet)
>MacBook Air(Portable, to use outside of the home)
>iMac(Desktop/to use to learn programming skills such as write/design web pages/-etc.)
ORDERED FROM APPLE THE NEW IPAD WITH RETINA DISPLAY
I remember ordering from Apple UK version of their web site an iPad with Retina display costing £640. The confirmation screen said that the order should arrive by the end of this month Nov 2012. I'm really looking forwards to receiving it.
The trouble with the iPhone 5 is the screen is far too small to be able to surf web sites with most effectively. I need to use/see a much larger screen; which is why I decided to go order the iPad, instead.
The trouble with the iPad is it doesn't come with a full size keyboard; so doing such typing intensive tasks such as programming just isn't fun when you are typing using an online keyboard. That's why I need to get a either a Portable/or else, Desktop based Mac.
CINEMA...
ODEON CINEMA
http://www.odeon.co.uk
I joined the Odeon cinema Premier Club Membership costing £9.99. I selected as my local cinema, Streatham. So far to date, I've gone and seen quite a few films there:-
1> Paranormal Activity 4/(haunted house)
2> SkyFall/(James Bond, the latest movie in the series)
3> Argo/(undercover CIA mission in Iran to evacuate hostages)
4> The Sapphire's/(Aboriginal girl group entertaining American troops in Vietnam)
6> The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2/(werewolves)
Cinemas which I visited that were non-local:
>Odeon-West End/(The Master-Sexual scenes/cult worship/psychology).
CINEWORLD - UNLIMITED MEMBERSHIP
http://www.cineworld.co.uk
I paid £215.00 annual fee to join Cineworld 'unlimited' membership. This means I can go and watch movies there...providing I book in advance/then, go along to pick up my tickets in person...anytime of the year I please.
A part of me feels like this is an unnecessary expense; but, then, if I can get in for FREE...then, basically, it means if I go and visit the cinema for 20+ times during the whole entire year; then, the membership will already have gone and paid for itself. My membership card to arrive in 10 days time the confirmation screen said; and, I believe, I paid for it online, yesterday.
MARTIAL ARTS...
KRAV MAGA
Currently, I'm paying a regular direct debit of £30.00 monthly to...
http://www.southlondonkravmaga.com
...the main reason why I chose this club is they are located in my hometown just 2 streets away from where I live. I also liked the fact that this style is quick to learn; and, is very highly practical.
They have lessons at West Norwood Tennis Club on Saturday: 11PM-12 NOON
TAI CHI
Lately, I went and attended Tai Chi lessons in Brixton. It's held inside of a church hall/2nd floor; where they also have Zumba dance lessons. I forgot the name of the road/church...but, it's close to Jelf Road, Brixton.
Thu 7:30PM-8:30PM
I did not attend going there yesterday, unfortunately. As my stomach was too full; after watching the film: Bring back the boom, at Streatham Odeon cinema!
I been there to attend 2 lessons so far to date.
I think, they also have a morning class at Brixton's EuroLink Centre at around 11AM. I might try attending there, as well.
I have not been along to any of Michael Jacques Tai Chi lessons at West Norwood Library(£2.50)/or, Kennington Park(£1.00) of late; just been either too busy/lazy; or, mind completely distracted.
KEEP FIT...
I need to practice doing some...
>running
>lifting weights
>stretching
>deep breathing
>-etc.
...as, frankly, I've been letting myself fall badly out of shape.
EDUCATION ONLINE/FINDING IT REALLY DIFFICULT TO KEEP UP WITH DOING EVERYTHING...?!
I'm very highly aware that I went and signed up to do courses online; but, I've not been doing these. Either I forget the web site name/password...as I haven't been going there for a long time/or else, I just get too damn lazy! I think, I'm going to have to stop paying for these things, especially, if I'm not going to use that particular service. Only I don't know that I'm not going to use it...until after having already gone and paid for it.
http://www.universalclass.com
http://www.bussu.com
-etc.
Thursday 12 July 2012
Wed 11th July 2012 - Kings Cross/Bujinkan London
Wednesday 11th July 2012
I had 2 appointments to attend, today...
1> Meet up: 234 Shoreditch High Street/Meditation
2> Meet up: Computer programming using Visual BASIC at the British Library/Cotton Room/Kings Cross
APPOINTMENT <1>: 12PM midday-1PM/MEET UP: MEDITATION OF THE HEART
http://www.meetup.com
I rode my bike going all the way from West Norwood where I live...up to London Bridge. Next, I rode directly across London Bridge itself...and, just simply kept on going straight ahead...until I'd gone past Liverpool Street bus station...and, kept going, straight on up...eventually, I came across a bus stop with a nearby sign which said: Yoga/Pilates. It is a side entrance, actually.
I knocked on the door; a guy answered me. I told him I wanted 'meditation'; he directed me to go upstairs.
On the 2nd floor, I saw a lady who asked me if I'd come for 'mediation'; when I told her, yes; she invited me to step inside of a large airy room; where there were 6 Yoga mats already pre-laid out on the floor/together with folded up blankets having been placed on top of each mat. I spoke to the lady, -who turned out to be the Mediatation teacher- for a brief time about my previous meditation experiences.
Later on, some other pupils turned up; first, 2 young guys; then, a young lady who was late. We all introduced ourselves to one another; and, then, discussed together our previous meditation experiences.
Next, the class proper began.
We did 15 minutes 'guided talk' meditation; the lady teacher's voice was very relaxing and comfortable to hear. We laid flat on top of the mats, with our backs flat, and, both knees bent upwards facing the ceiling; both eyes closed. Then, gradually, we flattened out our legs. We relaxed the entire body all over going from foot to head.
The 2nd 'guided talk' meditation...lasting 35 minutes long...we did was concerning: Meditation of the Heart. It was a bit of a slighly 'abstract' concept. In that I normally tend to concentrate more on what the brain is thinking...as opposed to concentraing on the 'mindless' heart...whenever I'm doing meditation. However, in this case, we were told to concentrate on the heart, instead. The teacher later explained that she had done much meditation practice; and, discovered that the Heart meditation worked 'best' for her. I had to struggle when dealing with this rather unsual concept; but, still I did my utmost 'best'. My mind constantly wondering away; as is usual with me whenever I try meditating for long; and, with me having to constantly tell it to come back to concentrating on doing the meditation of the Heart, again.
Finally, our class ended. We had a brief discussion about what each individual person had felt/or, was feeling. Then, we each paid/donated, £5.00; and, basically, left.
I do remember using their toilet facilities, at least, twice; to freshen up; and, also, relieve my bladder.
My overall impression was, the place is clean; the people are friendly; and, so all in all, it's been a really 'fun' learning experience. I'd be quite happy to return back there, again.
WONDERINGS AROUND THE SHOREDITCH AREA/DISCOVERED THE GEOFFREY'S MUSEUM
After finishing my 'meditation' class; I next decided why not try exploring the area I'm in.
I went and brought a bag of chips to go and eat; costing £1.00. The chip shop owner said, I would have to wait for a time before the chips are ready. I used this time, to go outside and wonder off for a bit; with the intention of returning back to collect my bag of chips 10 or so minutes, later.
I next went into an art shop; which also sold books. I admired the Italian artist works. Asked him how much is a stylised drawing of a head + skull; he said, £20.00. I thought about buying it; but, didn't wish to waste any more money on buy artworks which I 'want'; but, don't really 'need'; after all, let's face it, I want everything in the whole wide world; which leads to me buying a whole lot of complete crap! I did, however, stop to buy a book from him concerning ASP/XML programming for £2.00.
My next trip was across the road to go and visit the Geoffrey's Museum; which I discovered entirely by accident. Basically, I wanted to find somewhere to go and eat my bag of chips in peace/where people won't stare at me eating!
I found this large open green area; where I also saw a pair of over sized large pottery cup/saucers standing in the middle of the lawn. When I started reading the notices around the place, it said Geoffrey's Museum; entrance fee, FREE. So, I decided why not go and check it out.
Basically, it's an old Victorian type of building; which is a lengthy 'block'; at least, on the outside. On the inside; there are more modern parts to the building structure. There is both upstairs/downstairs. What the museum shows is living styles/and, rooms being recreated; going from ancient times...all the way up to, modern...including furniture/paintings/household objects/-etc.
There is also a shop from which you can buy things. I noted there was a small portable wooden chess set; but, again, I resisted the urge to go buy it; as, basically, my bank a/c. funds are extremely low; therefore, I have to careful not to overspend, anymore!
There are also exhibitions which show how 'foreign' cultures have influenced English living. As with most modern day museums; there are videos/TV shows; along with audio sound.
There is another part to the Geoffrey's Museum; and, that is outside there is a large Herb Garden; that is filled with plants that come from all over the world. I actually went to visit seeing the Herb Garden, first; before going and seeing the musuem on the inside.
In the end, though, I honestly must say that I found the visit to be extremly boring; in the sense that I'm not really that deeply interested in learning too much about this particular subject. Therefore, it's ok for a novelty visit of just the once. But, I can't honestly say that I'd be in any desperate rush or hurry to return back there, ever again.
I'm not a huge fan of gardening, neither; maybe, I could take my elderly mother there; who loves gardening, one day.
RODE FROM SHOREDITCH...THROUGH DALSTON...TO STOKE NEWINGTON
After my museum visit; I decided to go and see what was being located up the road; by simply riding my bike going in a straight line.
I ended up seeing Dalston Market; then, went through to visit seeing Stoke Newington.
I would have continued travelling onwards; but, I knew I had an appointment to keep at the British Library in Kings Cross; therefore, I decided, it was time to very quickly turn back before I was late; because, I'm usually late for nearlly all of my appointments, most unfortunately!
APPOINTMENT <2>: MEET UP: 6PM-7/8PM/BRITISH LIBRARY/KINGS CROSS/LEARN COMPUTER PROGRAMMING-VISUAL BASIC
When I arrived at the British Library in Kings Cross area. I asked them where is the Cotton Room? They told me to go to the top, 3rd floor; and, then, walk towards the back of the building; and, that's where I'll find it.
Rather than take the lift upwards; I decided to walk; so that I could get to discover seeing what's on each separate floor. I saw a reading registration room on the 2nd floor. But, I didn't wish to register, yet. So, I quickly came away.
I saw a restaurant also located on the 2nd floor; with a stair case that led upwards to the 3rd floor. I decided to take a different entrance upwards using the staircase located off to the side.
When I got to the 3rd floor, I walked past the toilets; straight around...in an L shape...to the end; then, came across a sign which said: Cotton Room Club/British Library Members Room.
When I opened the door, and, went in. I saw one extremely large wide open room; which is divided up into being two separate parts.
The first section, near the entrance door is where anybody can come and visit; sit down/use computers/eat/drink...as they also have small self-service catering place in the middle; then, at the other end of this large space is located an extremely comfortable British Library Members area, with sofa chairs/and, cushions/paintings/leaflets/magazines; but, it's reserved exclusively for the use of BL Members, only; which I'm not!
However, because the members area was unsupervised; therefore, I decided to sit in there anyway. Especially, because I was, at least, 1 hour early for my 6PM appointment.
I actually stayed inside of the BL Cotton Room Club for the next 2 hours; waiting to see if anybody would turn up to go and teach Visual BASIC. Unfortunately, nobody came; though, I did ask a few people if they knew anything about it; to which they all replied, negative.
Later on, I was to discover that the BL meeting had, in fact, been cancelled; and, the venue had been moved/changed to a hotel building being located opposite. However, I did not have my computer with me that day to go and check my emails; therefore, I just didn't know. Perhaps, it's a good thing that I couldn't get to the meeting; as I also forgot to bring my laptop with me; so, I wouldn't have been able to practice typing in any codes...!
DISCOVERED BUJINKAN NINJITSU/KINGS CROSS/WATCHED LESSON
http://www.bujinkanlondon.com
When I came out of the British Library; I decided to cross over the road; and, go wondering around King's Cross area for a bit.
I knew that somewhere around there there is a club where they do martial arts, regularly; and, sure enough, I found it, again.
Oddly enough, I can't even recall the actual physical location/address of the place by name; but, I do know it by sight. I can quite clearly remember it's on the opposite side of the street to where the British Library is; to which it's being located very near; not on the main street, though; somewhere off the main street; and, around the backstreets area.
I went in, and, asked them if they have any martial arts? I was told to go downstairs.
Well, first, I chained up my bike to a lamppost; and, then, went back in; and, downstairs.
Much to my surprise, I found I'd walked into an 'official' Ninjitsu club; that is affliated to Grand Master Maasake Hatsumi sensei. The teacher looked/sounded English. The dojo/practice room was huge; and, there were plenty of students in there; at least, around 25/if not more. Everybody mostly wore black uniforms/or, black trousers/shirt; they also wore Ninja shoes with a divided split big toe.
The lesson was extremely fascinating to watch; because, instead, of using pure strength, alone; they were, obviously, using such things as precise body positioning/called: Tai Sabaki...and, also, joint locks used to neutralise strength.
They also used body weight to trap limbs/and, so control an opponent who was down.
As well as, stand up fighting; there was ground fighting, too; sometimes, instead, of using hands to block with; instead, they used their feet to block; and, control limbs.
They used some extraordinary kicking techniques; using the inside side of the foot.
They also used nerve points/kysho; to strike both body/limbs.
I came away feeling very deeply impressed; and, wanted to try doing a lesson myself. I spoke very briefly to the teacher; who told me I should go and download the necessary forms from...
http://www.bujinkanlondon.com
...and, then, post in the membership/insurance fee.
A BAD INCIDENT TO GO END THE DAY WITH
When I came back upstairs from out of the dojo. There was an indian looking big fat security guard; and, I politely asked him if there are any leaflets available for the martial arts. He answered me, no. I thanked him for his reply; and, so, decided to leave the building alogether.
I moved towards my bike which I'd left being chained up outside against a lamp post. Only it was raining; and, I used a small size combination padlock; which needed no key to go open it with; instead, you just use your fingers to turn the combination with.
Only due to the fact that it was dark/I have really poor sight; it's raining-my hands were wet, and, thus, very slippery; I could hardly 'see' the numbers on the combination lock; and, the lock itself was really rather stiff...my wet hands just kept on slipping off of it; so, I had to spend some time struggling to go open the lock...?!
Well, after say 2 or 3 minutes long of me still struggling to go open up my bike combination padlock; the security guard could see my phlight from where he was sitting behind his desk. For some reason, he got it into his mind that I was interested in 'stealing' the bike. He came rushing out of the building, and, started telling me off; insisting that he already knew exactly who the owner was; and, it was NOT me! Furthermore, if I didn't move away from the bike, he would go call the police...!
Naturally, I felt really quite angry and bitter towards this total complete stranger telling me to get away from what is my 'own' property; and, him putting his hands on my bike in order to hold it away from me.
I honestly felt like swearing at him. But, at the same time, I didn't wish to leave a really bad impression; as I still wanted to attend going to classes inside of the same building where this security guard worked.
I even went and spoke the padlock combination out loud; just to confirm I knew it; but, he wasn't even interested in listening to me! Eventually, I got the combination right; and, the padlock, quite suddenly, popped opened; thus, my bike could be removed from being attached to the lamp post; and, be ridden, again.
A number of the Ninjitsu students were passing out of the building. I said to them, that this security guard is telling me that I'm 'stealing' my own bike; which I brought from Brixton/Halfords for the sum of £150.00/together with accessories costing me a further £50. Their reply was, they have everything recorded on CCTV.
My bike had 2 other locks on it; neither of which I'd actually used to secure the bike up against he lamp post; instead, I thought, the combination padlock would be enough. In order to prove that the bike was really mine; and, I didn't by some chance guess what the combination padlock was...??? I took out of my pocket a set of keys; and, proceeded to use one of these keys to go open up one of the other key locks located on the bike. Having witnessed seeing this clear evidence of bike ownership; then, the security guard did finally seem to relent...silently agreeing that I really must be the bike owner...because my key had worked inside one of the 3 locks; then, he started walking off with absolutely nil apology, of course! After which, I really couldn't resist it, but, to go call him a 'fucking asshole'; even as I rode off into the pouring rain.
I shouldn't have said that, I know; but, he had gotten me so completely worked up; that I felt I, really and truly, hated him; why did he decide to go pick on me; was it quite simply because I was 'coloured'...-some people seem to think if you're 'coloured'; then, you must be a born crook! Believe it or not, it's true that this even includes 'coloured' people security guards, as well; who also tend to think like that-...why didn't he chose to go pick on somebody else, instead.
I was willing to go beat him up; or, at least, punch him in the face; first for insulting me by absolutely insisting that I was a 'theif' of my 'own' property; and, 2nd for lying to me, that he already knew who the 'real' bike owner was; and, thirdly, for putting his hands on 'my' bike. After all, I'm sure, he wouldn't want me to go put my hands on 'his' property. To me, this guy was just taking total liberties with me; and, getting away with it for free; thus, he truly deserved swearing after.
Honestly, I'm not too sure how this incident is quite likely to influence my being able to go back into this same building, again, in future; but, it's possible the security guard could try to refuse my entrance in there because I was rude to him by swearing!
Anyway, I just left for home; feeling really relieved that the security guard didn't call the police; and, also, glad that, at least, I don't have to walk all the way home in the pouring rain, and, with no bike; which is what the security guard seemed to expect...!
I got home really late...way past middnight...maybe, past 1PM! My mum was not too pleased with my coming back home ever so late; but, at least, this time she didn't make a huge fuss about it! Instead, I just explained that I had ridden out to somewhere 'far'; so it had taken me a long time to ride all the way back, again.
1> Meet up: 234 Shoreditch High Street/Meditation
2> Meet up: Computer programming using Visual BASIC at the British Library/Cotton Room/Kings Cross
APPOINTMENT <1>: 12PM midday-1PM/MEET UP: MEDITATION OF THE HEART
http://www.meetup.com
I rode my bike going all the way from West Norwood where I live...up to London Bridge. Next, I rode directly across London Bridge itself...and, just simply kept on going straight ahead...until I'd gone past Liverpool Street bus station...and, kept going, straight on up...eventually, I came across a bus stop with a nearby sign which said: Yoga/Pilates. It is a side entrance, actually.
I knocked on the door; a guy answered me. I told him I wanted 'meditation'; he directed me to go upstairs.
On the 2nd floor, I saw a lady who asked me if I'd come for 'mediation'; when I told her, yes; she invited me to step inside of a large airy room; where there were 6 Yoga mats already pre-laid out on the floor/together with folded up blankets having been placed on top of each mat. I spoke to the lady, -who turned out to be the Mediatation teacher- for a brief time about my previous meditation experiences.
Later on, some other pupils turned up; first, 2 young guys; then, a young lady who was late. We all introduced ourselves to one another; and, then, discussed together our previous meditation experiences.
Next, the class proper began.
We did 15 minutes 'guided talk' meditation; the lady teacher's voice was very relaxing and comfortable to hear. We laid flat on top of the mats, with our backs flat, and, both knees bent upwards facing the ceiling; both eyes closed. Then, gradually, we flattened out our legs. We relaxed the entire body all over going from foot to head.
The 2nd 'guided talk' meditation...lasting 35 minutes long...we did was concerning: Meditation of the Heart. It was a bit of a slighly 'abstract' concept. In that I normally tend to concentrate more on what the brain is thinking...as opposed to concentraing on the 'mindless' heart...whenever I'm doing meditation. However, in this case, we were told to concentrate on the heart, instead. The teacher later explained that she had done much meditation practice; and, discovered that the Heart meditation worked 'best' for her. I had to struggle when dealing with this rather unsual concept; but, still I did my utmost 'best'. My mind constantly wondering away; as is usual with me whenever I try meditating for long; and, with me having to constantly tell it to come back to concentrating on doing the meditation of the Heart, again.
Finally, our class ended. We had a brief discussion about what each individual person had felt/or, was feeling. Then, we each paid/donated, £5.00; and, basically, left.
I do remember using their toilet facilities, at least, twice; to freshen up; and, also, relieve my bladder.
My overall impression was, the place is clean; the people are friendly; and, so all in all, it's been a really 'fun' learning experience. I'd be quite happy to return back there, again.
WONDERINGS AROUND THE SHOREDITCH AREA/DISCOVERED THE GEOFFREY'S MUSEUM
After finishing my 'meditation' class; I next decided why not try exploring the area I'm in.
I went and brought a bag of chips to go and eat; costing £1.00. The chip shop owner said, I would have to wait for a time before the chips are ready. I used this time, to go outside and wonder off for a bit; with the intention of returning back to collect my bag of chips 10 or so minutes, later.
I next went into an art shop; which also sold books. I admired the Italian artist works. Asked him how much is a stylised drawing of a head + skull; he said, £20.00. I thought about buying it; but, didn't wish to waste any more money on buy artworks which I 'want'; but, don't really 'need'; after all, let's face it, I want everything in the whole wide world; which leads to me buying a whole lot of complete crap! I did, however, stop to buy a book from him concerning ASP/XML programming for £2.00.
My next trip was across the road to go and visit the Geoffrey's Museum; which I discovered entirely by accident. Basically, I wanted to find somewhere to go and eat my bag of chips in peace/where people won't stare at me eating!
I found this large open green area; where I also saw a pair of over sized large pottery cup/saucers standing in the middle of the lawn. When I started reading the notices around the place, it said Geoffrey's Museum; entrance fee, FREE. So, I decided why not go and check it out.
Basically, it's an old Victorian type of building; which is a lengthy 'block'; at least, on the outside. On the inside; there are more modern parts to the building structure. There is both upstairs/downstairs. What the museum shows is living styles/and, rooms being recreated; going from ancient times...all the way up to, modern...including furniture/paintings/household objects/-etc.
There is also a shop from which you can buy things. I noted there was a small portable wooden chess set; but, again, I resisted the urge to go buy it; as, basically, my bank a/c. funds are extremely low; therefore, I have to careful not to overspend, anymore!
There are also exhibitions which show how 'foreign' cultures have influenced English living. As with most modern day museums; there are videos/TV shows; along with audio sound.
There is another part to the Geoffrey's Museum; and, that is outside there is a large Herb Garden; that is filled with plants that come from all over the world. I actually went to visit seeing the Herb Garden, first; before going and seeing the musuem on the inside.
In the end, though, I honestly must say that I found the visit to be extremly boring; in the sense that I'm not really that deeply interested in learning too much about this particular subject. Therefore, it's ok for a novelty visit of just the once. But, I can't honestly say that I'd be in any desperate rush or hurry to return back there, ever again.
I'm not a huge fan of gardening, neither; maybe, I could take my elderly mother there; who loves gardening, one day.
RODE FROM SHOREDITCH...THROUGH DALSTON...TO STOKE NEWINGTON
After my museum visit; I decided to go and see what was being located up the road; by simply riding my bike going in a straight line.
I ended up seeing Dalston Market; then, went through to visit seeing Stoke Newington.
I would have continued travelling onwards; but, I knew I had an appointment to keep at the British Library in Kings Cross; therefore, I decided, it was time to very quickly turn back before I was late; because, I'm usually late for nearlly all of my appointments, most unfortunately!
APPOINTMENT <2>: MEET UP: 6PM-7/8PM/BRITISH LIBRARY/KINGS CROSS/LEARN COMPUTER PROGRAMMING-VISUAL BASIC
When I arrived at the British Library in Kings Cross area. I asked them where is the Cotton Room? They told me to go to the top, 3rd floor; and, then, walk towards the back of the building; and, that's where I'll find it.
Rather than take the lift upwards; I decided to walk; so that I could get to discover seeing what's on each separate floor. I saw a reading registration room on the 2nd floor. But, I didn't wish to register, yet. So, I quickly came away.
I saw a restaurant also located on the 2nd floor; with a stair case that led upwards to the 3rd floor. I decided to take a different entrance upwards using the staircase located off to the side.
When I got to the 3rd floor, I walked past the toilets; straight around...in an L shape...to the end; then, came across a sign which said: Cotton Room Club/British Library Members Room.
When I opened the door, and, went in. I saw one extremely large wide open room; which is divided up into being two separate parts.
The first section, near the entrance door is where anybody can come and visit; sit down/use computers/eat/drink...as they also have small self-service catering place in the middle; then, at the other end of this large space is located an extremely comfortable British Library Members area, with sofa chairs/and, cushions/paintings/leaflets/magazines; but, it's reserved exclusively for the use of BL Members, only; which I'm not!
However, because the members area was unsupervised; therefore, I decided to sit in there anyway. Especially, because I was, at least, 1 hour early for my 6PM appointment.
I actually stayed inside of the BL Cotton Room Club for the next 2 hours; waiting to see if anybody would turn up to go and teach Visual BASIC. Unfortunately, nobody came; though, I did ask a few people if they knew anything about it; to which they all replied, negative.
Later on, I was to discover that the BL meeting had, in fact, been cancelled; and, the venue had been moved/changed to a hotel building being located opposite. However, I did not have my computer with me that day to go and check my emails; therefore, I just didn't know. Perhaps, it's a good thing that I couldn't get to the meeting; as I also forgot to bring my laptop with me; so, I wouldn't have been able to practice typing in any codes...!
DISCOVERED BUJINKAN NINJITSU/KINGS CROSS/WATCHED LESSON
http://www.bujinkanlondon.com
When I came out of the British Library; I decided to cross over the road; and, go wondering around King's Cross area for a bit.
I knew that somewhere around there there is a club where they do martial arts, regularly; and, sure enough, I found it, again.
Oddly enough, I can't even recall the actual physical location/address of the place by name; but, I do know it by sight. I can quite clearly remember it's on the opposite side of the street to where the British Library is; to which it's being located very near; not on the main street, though; somewhere off the main street; and, around the backstreets area.
I went in, and, asked them if they have any martial arts? I was told to go downstairs.
Well, first, I chained up my bike to a lamppost; and, then, went back in; and, downstairs.
Much to my surprise, I found I'd walked into an 'official' Ninjitsu club; that is affliated to Grand Master Maasake Hatsumi sensei. The teacher looked/sounded English. The dojo/practice room was huge; and, there were plenty of students in there; at least, around 25/if not more. Everybody mostly wore black uniforms/or, black trousers/shirt; they also wore Ninja shoes with a divided split big toe.
The lesson was extremely fascinating to watch; because, instead, of using pure strength, alone; they were, obviously, using such things as precise body positioning/called: Tai Sabaki...and, also, joint locks used to neutralise strength.
They also used body weight to trap limbs/and, so control an opponent who was down.
As well as, stand up fighting; there was ground fighting, too; sometimes, instead, of using hands to block with; instead, they used their feet to block; and, control limbs.
They used some extraordinary kicking techniques; using the inside side of the foot.
They also used nerve points/kysho; to strike both body/limbs.
I came away feeling very deeply impressed; and, wanted to try doing a lesson myself. I spoke very briefly to the teacher; who told me I should go and download the necessary forms from...
http://www.bujinkanlondon.com
...and, then, post in the membership/insurance fee.
A BAD INCIDENT TO GO END THE DAY WITH
When I came back upstairs from out of the dojo. There was an indian looking big fat security guard; and, I politely asked him if there are any leaflets available for the martial arts. He answered me, no. I thanked him for his reply; and, so, decided to leave the building alogether.
I moved towards my bike which I'd left being chained up outside against a lamp post. Only it was raining; and, I used a small size combination padlock; which needed no key to go open it with; instead, you just use your fingers to turn the combination with.
Only due to the fact that it was dark/I have really poor sight; it's raining-my hands were wet, and, thus, very slippery; I could hardly 'see' the numbers on the combination lock; and, the lock itself was really rather stiff...my wet hands just kept on slipping off of it; so, I had to spend some time struggling to go open the lock...?!
Well, after say 2 or 3 minutes long of me still struggling to go open up my bike combination padlock; the security guard could see my phlight from where he was sitting behind his desk. For some reason, he got it into his mind that I was interested in 'stealing' the bike. He came rushing out of the building, and, started telling me off; insisting that he already knew exactly who the owner was; and, it was NOT me! Furthermore, if I didn't move away from the bike, he would go call the police...!
Naturally, I felt really quite angry and bitter towards this total complete stranger telling me to get away from what is my 'own' property; and, him putting his hands on my bike in order to hold it away from me.
I honestly felt like swearing at him. But, at the same time, I didn't wish to leave a really bad impression; as I still wanted to attend going to classes inside of the same building where this security guard worked.
I even went and spoke the padlock combination out loud; just to confirm I knew it; but, he wasn't even interested in listening to me! Eventually, I got the combination right; and, the padlock, quite suddenly, popped opened; thus, my bike could be removed from being attached to the lamp post; and, be ridden, again.
A number of the Ninjitsu students were passing out of the building. I said to them, that this security guard is telling me that I'm 'stealing' my own bike; which I brought from Brixton/Halfords for the sum of £150.00/together with accessories costing me a further £50. Their reply was, they have everything recorded on CCTV.
My bike had 2 other locks on it; neither of which I'd actually used to secure the bike up against he lamp post; instead, I thought, the combination padlock would be enough. In order to prove that the bike was really mine; and, I didn't by some chance guess what the combination padlock was...??? I took out of my pocket a set of keys; and, proceeded to use one of these keys to go open up one of the other key locks located on the bike. Having witnessed seeing this clear evidence of bike ownership; then, the security guard did finally seem to relent...silently agreeing that I really must be the bike owner...because my key had worked inside one of the 3 locks; then, he started walking off with absolutely nil apology, of course! After which, I really couldn't resist it, but, to go call him a 'fucking asshole'; even as I rode off into the pouring rain.
I shouldn't have said that, I know; but, he had gotten me so completely worked up; that I felt I, really and truly, hated him; why did he decide to go pick on me; was it quite simply because I was 'coloured'...-some people seem to think if you're 'coloured'; then, you must be a born crook! Believe it or not, it's true that this even includes 'coloured' people security guards, as well; who also tend to think like that-...why didn't he chose to go pick on somebody else, instead.
I was willing to go beat him up; or, at least, punch him in the face; first for insulting me by absolutely insisting that I was a 'theif' of my 'own' property; and, 2nd for lying to me, that he already knew who the 'real' bike owner was; and, thirdly, for putting his hands on 'my' bike. After all, I'm sure, he wouldn't want me to go put my hands on 'his' property. To me, this guy was just taking total liberties with me; and, getting away with it for free; thus, he truly deserved swearing after.
Honestly, I'm not too sure how this incident is quite likely to influence my being able to go back into this same building, again, in future; but, it's possible the security guard could try to refuse my entrance in there because I was rude to him by swearing!
Anyway, I just left for home; feeling really relieved that the security guard didn't call the police; and, also, glad that, at least, I don't have to walk all the way home in the pouring rain, and, with no bike; which is what the security guard seemed to expect...!
I got home really late...way past middnight...maybe, past 1PM! My mum was not too pleased with my coming back home ever so late; but, at least, this time she didn't make a huge fuss about it! Instead, I just explained that I had ridden out to somewhere 'far'; so it had taken me a long time to ride all the way back, again.
Tuesday 19 June 2012
Tai Chi...?! VS BiPolar/MD-Manic Depression
1> I joined Tai Chi at Soho Square, Chinese Medical Centre/£4.00 per class
Sun 1PM-2PM
2> I joined West Norwood Library Tai Chi class/£2.50 per class...
Tue 11:30AM-12:30PM
I also went and paid to join two different Tai Chi classes at Morley College/£100 each class college term/total: £200.
3> Tai Chi, Wed 4PM-5PM
4> Tai Chi, Thu 7PM-8PM
Unfortunately, I've not been going along to attend any of the the lessons. Which means I'm totally wasting both precious money/time!
This situation makes me feel, really and truly, deeply depressed. Why won't I go along to attend classes, regularly; especially, when I already went and paid for it! The problem is, I suffer from BiPolar/Manic Depression utterly unpredictable mood swings; and, when I'm feeling down...then, I just will NOT go out anywhere/no matter how important the appointment is.
It's only when my mood swing is up, again; that I do actually manage to leave the home.
Tuesday 3 April 2012
Gambled £100...lost it ALL!
Been gambling at WilliamHill.co.uk web site, again...
The previous week, played Roulette, lost £100.00!
Sun, 1st April 2012 - Played Roulette lost £50.00!
Tue, 3rd April 2012 - Bet £100.00 on Roulette. I was winning at one point, around £146.00; but, I wanted to make it a round figure sum of £150.00; before I knew it I had started losing; until my balance said, £0.00!
Typically, of an 'addicted' gambler; they never know when to stop; when ahead you are meant to take the money and run; something I always seem to forget?! I think, the real problem is...that over time, I've lost so much money to the bookies that winning £50.00 is absolutely nothing at all; when compared to the 100's/1000's/10's of 1000's I've already gone and lost to them; this is why I find it so difficult to quit; when I feel I just won back what amounts to peanuts. The truth is one should never feel tempted to go chase after one's loses...or else, your loses will just ceaselessly grow...; just remember to quit when you're ahead, and, that's it. If you can't do that; then, simply, don't gamble!
So, far to date, my total loss during the past 2 weeks is:
£100.00
£ 50.00
£100.00
======
£250.00
If I keep on going at this rate; then, it certainly looks like I'm going to have to return back to go and visit GA/Gamblers Anonymous.
The previous week, played Roulette, lost £100.00!
Sun, 1st April 2012 - Played Roulette lost £50.00!
Tue, 3rd April 2012 - Bet £100.00 on Roulette. I was winning at one point, around £146.00; but, I wanted to make it a round figure sum of £150.00; before I knew it I had started losing; until my balance said, £0.00!
Typically, of an 'addicted' gambler; they never know when to stop; when ahead you are meant to take the money and run; something I always seem to forget?! I think, the real problem is...that over time, I've lost so much money to the bookies that winning £50.00 is absolutely nothing at all; when compared to the 100's/1000's/10's of 1000's I've already gone and lost to them; this is why I find it so difficult to quit; when I feel I just won back what amounts to peanuts. The truth is one should never feel tempted to go chase after one's loses...or else, your loses will just ceaselessly grow...; just remember to quit when you're ahead, and, that's it. If you can't do that; then, simply, don't gamble!
So, far to date, my total loss during the past 2 weeks is:
£100.00
£ 50.00
£100.00
======
£250.00
If I keep on going at this rate; then, it certainly looks like I'm going to have to return back to go and visit GA/Gamblers Anonymous.
Thursday 23 February 2012
Thu 23 Feb 2012 Recieved FujiFilm FinePix S4500
Around last week I ordered from...
http://www.qvcuk.com
...a £200.00 FujiFilm FinePix S4500 digital 'bridge' camera; which was delivered to me this morning. My intention is to practice using the camera for a month; then, return it back to them.
As, ultimately, I wish to buy a more higher spec FujiFilm FinePix digital 'bridge' camera such as the £203.00 HS20/or, the £400.00 HS30.
http://www.qvcuk.com
...a £200.00 FujiFilm FinePix S4500 digital 'bridge' camera; which was delivered to me this morning. My intention is to practice using the camera for a month; then, return it back to them.
As, ultimately, I wish to buy a more higher spec FujiFilm FinePix digital 'bridge' camera such as the £203.00 HS20/or, the £400.00 HS30.
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