Boxing day - the day after Christmas/Considering ALL of the BILLS...?!

I stayed in. Mostly, played on the laptop computer.

I should have done some computer studying, actually; but, for some reason...frankly, too many other problems to have to consider, namely, bills, bills, BILLS/-(with very little money left to pay them)-; so, I didn't do any online studying at all.

I need to pay...

Council Tax: £99.00 monthly/followed by 2 further payments of £98.00 monthly.
Debt Management: £80.00 monthly.
Gas repayment debts(£10.00 weekly/£40.00 monthly/£120.00 quarterly
Electric bill: £80.00 quarterly
Gas usage(£3.00 daily/£21 weekly/£84.00 montly/£252.00 quarterly)
TV licence: £140.00
Telephone bill: £40.00 quaterly + £100.00 fixed rate fee yearly.
Water Rate £160.00 yearly
House insurance: £24.00 monthly/(£72.00 quarterly)
-etc.

Nevermind, pay for...

Food/drink/snacks
Studying: College courses/online studying
Exercise: Gym/Class
Art Class
-etc.

In short, the endless bills just seem to run on and on and on...; and, the incoming money: £120.00 fortnightly is not enough to help pay all of that.

For example, in one month I get 2 x lots of £120.00 = £240.00.

The first £120...I have to take out £80.00 to pay Debt Management fees...leaves just £40.00 to live on for 2 weeks...leaving just £20.00 per week to live on...which is not enough even for food/drink;

The second £120...I have to pay £99.00 Council Tax bill...leaving just £20.00 to live on for 2 weeks...leaving just £10.00 per week to live on...makes things even far worse.

Basically, the outgoings are far more than are the incomings by a whole entire mile/(no wonder I'm tempted to gamble, sometimes; and, heaven help me if I ever were to lose)!

Wed 25th Dec 2013 Christmas Day

Well, the main thing I remember most about this particular Christmas day was I was totally flat broke. Just £1.00 in lose change being left in the house. Nothing else left to go pay bills with/or, to buy presents for anyone.

I mostly stayed in all day; lying in bed; and, playing on the laptop computer. I tend to stay inside of one single room; which is the bedroom; as that's where the Calor Gas heater is. I'm not much looking forwards to whenever that runs out; as to buy just 1 replacement Calor Gas canister refill costs around £35.00!

When late evening came, I decided to go for a quick 15 minute bike ride around the neighbourhood; just to see if any shops would still be open on Christmas day. Much to my surprise, I discovered there were, at least, a handful or more shops still open. I think, mostly run by people who are foreigners: Muslims/-etc. who don't necessarily celebrate Christmas day on the 25th of December.

I had £1.00 in lots of broken change: 1 x 50p/2 x 20p/1x5p/5x1p; which I used to buy a bunch of bananas.

Finally, after riding all the way down the high street up to reach Tulse Hill railway bridge; I decided it's far too cold to travel out any further; -(anyway, what's the point in finding shops for...when I'm totally flat broke!)-; so, it's time to ride straight back home, again.

CONCLUSION

Wintertime is never my most fav. time of the year; and, especially so when I'm broke; and, therefore, can't afford to keep the home heated adequately. As usual, during this most awful time of the year; I just can't wait for Winter to come and go; when the weather is a lot more heated, then, the suffering seems to be a hell of a lot less. Otherwise, one feels confined to just 'one' single room inside of the house; because, otherwise, it costs far too much to keep everywhere equally heated. Basically, the central heating system just isn't working, properly; as well as, costs far too much to keep running, constantly; furthermore, it costs a lot of insurance money to go fix it...as the 2 year Warranty is already run out. Nothing to do; but, continue suffering for, possibly, the next 3 to 6 months; through Winter/Spring...until when Summer comes. We haven't had snow, yet; thank goodness; but, I just know it's coming...if not during December; then, most certainly, at sometime during the next 2 months...either January/Feburary 2014. When the snow hits; then, it's sheer bitter hell; as inside the house is -almost- just as cold as it is outside. Consequently, we have to carry around with us 'hot water bottles' everywhere.

Christmas Eve - Went to visit Sharon/returned due to trains being cancelled!

24/12/13

2PM - I went down to West Norwood train station to fetch my mum a free copy of Metro newspaper; the only newspapers I found were those dated from yesterday: 23/12/13.

I also saw a notice board saying, due to recent bad weather, certain trains had been cancelled.

2:30 PM I left home to go and visit my cousin Sharon in Kingswood. Rode my bike down to the bottom of Leigham Court Road, to Streatham Hill train station; was told no trains going from there, today.

3:00 PM Rode my bike to Streatham train station; was told no train going to Kingswood.

3:30 PM Rode my bike to Streatham Common train station; saw it was possible to catch a train to Purley; then, from there change to Kingswood.

4:00 PM The train came; and, was going straight to Kingswood; but, unfortunately, was totally crammed full; so there was no possibility of my being able to fit in both me/and, my bike. Decided to change my bike up; when I'd finished chaining up my bike; the train left without me!

4:30 PM  The next train came along; only this time it wasn't going straight to Kingswood; instead, it was going to East Croydon; from where it's possible to change to get to Purley.

5:00 PM I caught the train from East Croydon going to Purley.

5:30 PM At Purley station I saw that all trains to Kingswood had been cancelled. I was told by the staff that if I went to Kingswood; there would be no return train back home, again; and, also, no return bus.

I decided to go back home. Purley > East Croydon > Streatham Common...where I had chained my bike up. From Streatham Common I rode back home.

7:30 PM I phoned my cousin June to say that she could come and visit us to deliver presents.

8:30 PM Cousin June came and delivered her presents; but, to the wrong door; no 88; instead, of no 92! So, I had to go out there -with a torch shining- in order to discover which house the wrong presents had been delivered at; then, pick up the presents and bring them back home. I then had to write a note explaining to the people who live at 88 that by accident a Christmas card had been dropped inside of the wrong door; so, please, if you find the card deliver it to 92.

Life events/Last week before Christmas 2013...

Fri 13th Dec 2013  PGTB/Paxton Green Time Bank Christmas Party

I went to Ketra Halls to the PGTB Christmas Party. I was instructed on how to build a Christmas Wreath.

I also took away a FREE art book: Creative Tension British Art 1900-1950.

I gave them one of my own 'square' format Terrence Kelly paintings showing both sea/sky.

UTILITY: GAS/ELECTRIC METERS UPGRADE

Wed 18th Dec 2013 Morning Appointment to upgrade old electric meter to pay as you go

British Gas, came and changed the Electric meter to become a 'pay as you go' meter, instead. They also left me with a top up 'key'.

Wed 18th Dec 2013 Evening HTML Code School #8 (FREE MeetUp.com event)

I went to no. 1 East Poultry Street, Farringdon, London...to attend my 2nd HTML Code School event. I listened to 2 speakers talk...including one from Microsoft. I was introduced to using Microsoft 'Surface' keyboard/tablet. I also came away with a FREE T-shirt.

Thu 19th Dec 2013 Morning Appointment to upgrade old gas meter to pay as you go

British Gas, took away the old gas meter, completely; and, capped the gas(which, in fact, was already capped); explaining that because there is no gas being used as the boiler doesn't work; therefore, there's no point paying a weekly standing charge for gas that's not even being used. When we get the boiler up and working; then, simply call British Gas to come and install a new meter for FREE.

Thu 19th Dec 2013 Morning/Evening Appointment PGTB/DPG joint event

I was meant to attend a FREE 'tea and tour' event being put on as a joint collaboration between Paxton Green Time Bank(local voluntary group)/and, Dulwich Picture Gallery. However, when I arrived; I was told that the event had in fact been cancelled; and, the lady was kind enough to give me a FREE ticket to see the whole of the gallery/as well as, view the current Whistler exhibition.

I stayed there all day long either practicing doing some drawing myself; or else, viewing artworks, instead.

I really didn't know too much about Whistler's artworks; and, was very much impressed to learn that he was a regular drawer of The Thames in London. His drawings/prints/paintings were very highly detailed so as to be pretty amazing.

11th Dec 8PM-12:00 Visited Harvey in Clapham to go and collect book

7PM I got a phone call from my marital arts pal, Havey, who lives in Clapham, Gauden Road. He said, I should come and collect my Aikido book: Aikido And The Dynamic Sphere; because he would be leaving the country soon.

8PM I went there, and, collected the book. We both drinked Guiness beer together; and, also, spent a little time doing some stand up sparring. I showed him some BJJ moves on my iPad; but, as his house is not internet connected; I couldn't show him anything more. He also showed me some hand made nunchakus; and, we practiced a few moves; however, inside of the house, space was really very limited...so we had to go really slow; and, be very careful indeed not to break any furniture/lights/hit the walls. Much to my surprise when I asked him the time; the answer was already 12:00 midnight; thus, it was time for me to return back home. He said, he would be leaving Monday; and, I might not see him again in say 6 months to possibly 5 years.

My original intention was just to go there to quickly pick up the book; then, go off and see a Cineworld movie. However, because he invited me in, I thought it would be impolite to refuse; and, as our conversation continued on and on; I didn't see the point in interrupting him to leave abruptly. Anyway, there is no emergency, I can see Cineworld movies any day of the week. Whereas, Harvey, I might not see again for quite a long while to come. I told him to tell his wife that I wish her well.

10th Dec 2013 9:10 PM Cineworld, Shaftesbury Ave., Film: Old Man

TIME BANK COMPUTER MEETING

Around 10:30 AM, the Paxton Green Time Bank Chair person called, Alison, phoned me up to request if I would like to attend a computer based meeting there. She explained that some programmers were coming to talk about programming for the TimeBank. Because, she knows I'm also deeply interested in computers/and, programming; therefore, she felt she should inform me.

I told here that from looking at my calender on iCloud; it said that I was already due to go to a Mental Health First Aid course; and, I was already late. Therefore, I would go to that course, first; and, if there was still any time left; I would try and make it over to the Timebank.

UPDATE: I didn't make it over to the Time Bank at all.

MHFY/MHFA-MENTAL HEALTH FOR YOUTH/MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID COURSE

During the morning, I went to a MHFY/MHFA-Mental Health For Youth/Mental Health First Aid course at 336 Brixton Road.

I was meant to arrive there at 10:00 AM; but, instead, I arrived around 12:00 midday. The course went on for another hour; then, it was all over and done with.

Recently, they did send me an introductory certificate concerning Mental Health; which I received through the post. I was very happy to receive it. So, naturally, I felt I ought to return back something by attending this final part of the course. The first part was like Part I/and, this was Part II.

I can't say I learned that much about Mental Health First Aid there. Or, at least, not so much that I can clearly remember it all. In fact, I can hardly remember anything...?! But, I do recall the teachers; 2 black women on the first part of the course; and, 1 white woman on this last part of the course. The teachers were all very warm and friendly; very caring, kind, and, considerate people; because, I guess, they have had a lot of experience dealing with mental health issues.

CINEWORLD, SHAFTESBURY AVENUE, FILM: OLD MAN

During the late evening, I decided to book online to see a film at Shaftesbury Avenue called: Old Man. Frankly, I really wasn't too sure exactly what to expect...??? Judging purely from the title, alone; I thought, it might be something to do with watching an old man, literally.

However, instead, it was to do with watching much younger adults getting involved in fights/sex/torture/-etc. It was a 18+ film; and, had the texture of a comic book made 'real'. A truly top quality Hollywood style revenge movie.

Would I watch it, again. Maybe. Normally, I would say, no; watching 9 out of 10 movies just the once is enough. However, in this particular case, I would indeed consider re-watching it, twice.

Mon 9th Dec 8:25 PM - Cineworld/Haymarket/Film: Blue is the warmest colour

WENT CINEWORLD/HAYMARKET TO SEE 'BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOUR'/X RATED MOVIE

I didn't go anywhere all day long; instead, I either was watching YouTube; or else, sleeping. However, I remembered having booked in advance online to see a Cineworld movie called, 'Blue is the warmest colour', at Haymarket, 8:25PM.

I left my home pretty late...close to 8PM; but, nevertheless, managed to get there on time...as the 20 minute trailers were still running. The streets were pretty much empty; so it was easy to keep cycling along.

It was an interesting French film; reminding me of Emanuelle/and, also, sex symbol, Bridgette Bardot. A young blonde teenage girl starts exploring her sexuality by going, first, with boys...; then, with girls. The French girl has a lot of sex appeal; but, I wouldn't say she's absolutely amazing; she's pretty, though; and, young; with flawless skin; very attractive to watch; and, with good screen presence that one finds it difficult to take ones eyes off her.

Certain parts of the story bored me, though; maybe, because I could identify with it...and, so knew what was coming next; or else, because I could not identify with it...as I don't tend to get too attached to people if I can help it...certainly, I don't cry over relationships gone wrong...instead, I just simply quietly move on.

I thought the Lesbian scenes were interesting in that it's not something one tends to see being portrayed on screen too often.

Sun 8th Dec 2013 - Went Streatham Odeon to see film: Gravity

WENT STREATHAM ODEON CINEMA TO WATCH FILM, GRAVITY

This weekend Sunday 8th December I decided to go and visit Streatham Odeon to see the film called: Gravity. Instead, of using cash, I actually paid using my Odeon Premiercard points; which I wanted to do before the points expire. Right now, I have only 150 points left on my Odeon Premiercard; which means not enough left to go see another movie. You need, at least, 1000+ points to see a movie.

The film, Gravity, was good. A space adventure movie. Astronauts get detached from their space module; and, have to find their way back to earth again. It was a GREAT film...especially, watching it in 3D.

However, I'm not sure I'd wish to see the same film all over again...now that I already know the beginning/middle/end; but, it's certainly very exciting watching it for the first time...when you have absolutely no idea what's going to happen, next...?!

Life Drawing: London Atelier of Representational Art/Dulwich Art Group

LIFE DRAWING, VAUXHALL

I found a MeetUp.com group which does Life Drawing on Wednesday evenings: 6.30PM-8.30PM Vauxhall, London. They are called: London Atelier of Representational Art.

The reason why I decided to join them was, the first 4 lessons are FREE. They give you a card with 4 empty squares on it; and, each time you go they mark off a single square. When each of your 4 FREE sessions is up; then, you have to pay £8.00 per time.

So far to date, I've gone and attended 2 FREE sessions...

27th November: 2013, Female model - French/Brown skin(Arabic, possibly)

4th December 2013, Male model(older) - I mostly chose to draw the full sized 'hanging skeleton' located at the back of the room, instead. (If I had known in advance that it was going to be a 'male model'; then, frankly, I wouldn't even have bothered turning up, in the first place!)

LIFE DRAWING, DULWICH ART GROUP

Dulwich Art Group, -located in Dulwich, The Old Scout Wood Hut,- has Life Drawing/Painting sessions on...

Wed 12:00 midday
Thu 7PM evening
Sat 10AM morning

Last week, on 4th Dec 2013 Wednesday, I attended a Life Drawing/Painting session there; the model was 'male'...a young guy called, Jacob. Frankly, I really hate having to draw 'male models'; however, as somebody who is still a beginner...desperately trying my best to get the drawing to work right...?!...it was really great to watch and see how others work; some of the drawing/painting level of ability and skill was very impressive, indeed. The group was large consisting of around 15 drawers/painters.

NOTE: On this same Wednesday I actually went and attended 2 different Life Drawing classes: the first during the morning at Dulwich: 12:00 midday/and, the second later on during the evening: 6:30PM, at Vauxhall. Most unfortunately, both times, the model was 'male'...which, for me, was a really big disappointment, indeed; so, each time, I didn't come away feeling too very pleased. You do still learn a lot from drawing the 'male nude'; but, it's like boring, and, totally uninspiring to see; on the other hand, you really are meant to be concentrating puely on capturing form/details/light/shade/texture/muscles/wrinkles/hair/-etc. You shouldn't be too much concerned about who/or, what sex/how young or old/or, just how pretty the model is...; but, me, I guess, I'm not that good at drawing, yet; so, for me, at least, half of the fun is seeing a 'female nude'!

Fri 6th Dec - Went Cineworld: Best Man Holiday/Leicester Square Fair

Fri 6th Dec

CINEWORLD, SHAFTESBURY AVENUE, THE TROCODERO

I went to visit Cineworld in Shaftesbury Avenue; where I saw a late night movie. I think, the movie was:

Best Man Holiday

...which is a movie with a mostly 'all black' cast.

The movie was interesting in that it didn't just show 'blacks' as being all a bunch of thieves/criminals; but, instead, attempted to portray them as being just normal hard working family and friends based people just like anybody else is.

On the other hand, as with most 'family films'...I would hardly say it was the most exciting or thrilling action movie to go watch. Seeing it no more than just the 'once' is really quite enough!

LEICESTER SQUARE FAIR

Afterwards, I was passing by Leicester Square when I saw they were having a fair. I decided to buy a £4.00 ticket to go on the high ride. This experience gave me a very different view of seeing both the city/Leicester Square area from upwards; as opposed to always seeing it from down below. I think, the wheel did around 4 or 5 full turns. 

I walked all around the fair; just to see what was on offer/what the cost was/and, if I could manage to afford it. I saw, at least, 3 or 4 things which I wanted to have a go on...but, didn't have enough money available to spend at the time.

a> Throw rings, and, win an iPad phone. A really hard thing to do effectively; as the rings have to go around a square box; that is almost the same size as the ring. Most people I saw who tried failed.

b> Throw rings to go on top of some bottles. Again, many people tried and failed. The small rings simply bounced off the bottles.

c> You are given a wooden stick with a hook on it; and, there is a moving table...with some ringed toys...you have to catch the toy using the hook. Again, looks easy...but, of course, it's not.

d> You thrown some balls at a set of stacked cans...3/2/1...and, you have to knock them ALL down in order to win a prize. I really wanted to have a go at this; but, again, having no money decided to return back there, later.

e> There was a spinning ride; which I also thought looked to be great fun. However, I didn't actually manage to find out the cost, yet.

Most definitely, I would like to go back there, again.

Fri 29th Nov 2013 Morning: Dentist appointment/Evening: Went Cineworld to see movie: Carrie

DENTIST APPOINTMENT

This morning I had a dentist appointment to go and get my teeth cleaned at 11:20 AM at Knights Hill dental surgery. I went; and, am glad to say I don't need to return back for another 6 months, at least.

However, I do have a further dentist appointment with head dentist George Brown on the 13th December at 11:40 AM; I think, it's a check up.

CINEWORLD

Today, Friday 29th Nov 2013, I received through the post a 'black' Unlimited Premium card from Cineworld; which allows me to watch all movies for FREE; but, also, needs to be paid for monthly at a cost of £18.90.

I'd booked to see the horror movie called, Carrie, at 21.15 PM. Carrie has unusual powers...able to make things/people move just by merely thinking about it. A very good movie to watch, at least, once; though, I'm really not sure that I'd ever wish to watch it, again. I prefer martial arts/or, other action shoot outs/-etc.

STARBUCKS

I went and visited, at least, over 10 different Starbucks stores; inside of each one of these I brought myself a 0.50p chocolate coin. My idea being to build up a series of purchases totalling, at least, 50 before Nov 2014; because this will entitle me to have 'gold card' status membership up until then; otherwise, my membership will revert back to normal. Right now, my Starbucks a/c. says I got 26 more purchases still left to go. I believe I will reach my goal before the year 2013 ends; who knows maybe even in the space of just a week or less.

Today, I used my Starbuck 'gold' membership status to order a 'hot chocolate' with cream topping/and, multiple free syrups; all created and ordered using my iPad app; I think, the cost was something like £3.xx+; but, the drink they gave me was both tall, and, absolutely delicious. I came away feeling really and truly satisfied. ;-)

MacDONALDS

I went to MacDonalds restaurant, and, ordered: Fries, Chicken Nuggets, and, a hot choclate drink. It all came to around £5.00.

EMMAEUS CHARITY SHOP

I brought some items from down at my local Emmaeus charity shop totalling £5.00.

A novel: Hui Wei - Shanghei Baby (erotic novel) £0.50p
2 x prints: Roual Duffy/Duncan Grant £2.50
1 x sketch/painting £1.00
1 x wooden sculpture/abstract female/2nd hand £1.00

MY BANK BALANCE SAYS OVERDRAWN

When I came back home; my bank balance actually said, I'm over the credit limit by £5.10p!

24 Nov 2013 Went Cineworld/Visited different churches/Starbucks card

CINEWORLD/UPGRADE FROM UNLIMITED CARD TO UNLIMITED PREMIUM CARD, INSTEAD

During the weekend I went and visited Cineworld in Shaftesbury Avenue, at The Trocadero complex.

I actually went there on Friday; and, my Cineworld 'unlimited' card pass was NOT accepted by them; because it's due for renewal; which had not been done, yet, apparently; even though I was sure I had made a phone call requesting they take out a monthly DDR from my bank a/c.

On Saturday I went back there, again; this time they confirmed that my request to upgrade to Premium card had been accepted; and, so, I was allowed in to watch the movies; I stayed there all day long watching movies.

On Sunday, I returned back to Cineworld, again; because there were still a few movies left which I had not seen, yet; usually, they have at least 7 or so movies all running together at once. On Sunday I saw an Indian Bollywood style movie. I now have just one more movie to go watch there; and, it's another Indian Bollywood type of movie. I think, I will go see that on Monday, possibly; but, if not; then, on Tuesday.

At first, I paid for my Cineworld yearly membership using a 1 time fee: £210.00. However, now, that I'm totally flat broke; therefore, it just isn't possible to pay for yearly membership anymore; therefore, I decided to switch the payment method to paying monthly, instead; which costs around £18.90 per month. The yearly cost would have been: £226.80.

The benefit of having an Unlimited Premium card membership is you can get up to 25% off all food/drink; whereas, a normal 'unlimited' membership card gives you only 10% off all food/drink.

Here's the really odd thing, though; I don't usually buy any food/drink from Cineworld; as I feel it's far too expensive. Instead, I go and buy food/drink from MacDonald's across the road/or, Wasabi, also, across the road/or else, from Starbucks with is also a part of The Trocodero Complex. So, really and truly, I'm not getting that much benefit from being a Premium member at all; that is, apart from being allowed to watch movies non stop/and, too, all over London wherever there is a Cineworld being located.

IN PICCADILLY AREA I WENT AND VISITED SEEING CERTAIN CHURCHES

I often go to watch movies in the Piccadilly area of London...either at Shaftesbury Avenue Cineworld/or else, a few streets away at  Haymarket where another Cineworld is located. Sometimes, I book a movie...only it's not being shown instantly right away; instead, you have to wait for say 1 or 2 hours long. I often use that time to either eat/drink; or else, just go for a walk around this very busy area.

Of late, I been going around the area to see all of the different churches; churches have  beautiful architecture, and, also, beautiful artworks: paintings/sculptures...which I like to both see/practice drawing. One place I like going to visit is a French church located near to Prince Charles Cinema, Leicester Square. Another place I love going to is the Hare Krishna Temple off Soho Square. There is also another Western church located around Soho Square; but, I forgot it's name. If I'm in ever in the Knightsbridge area, I will regularly go and visit seeing Holy Trinity, Brompton.

UPGRADED MY STARBUCKS CARD FROM 'NORMAL' MEMBERSHIP TO 'GOLD' MEMBERSHIP

Originally, I had taken a Starbucks card; -(which I took the precaution to go and register online, in case it ever got stolen; then, a block can be requested to be put on the card so disallowing it's use by anyone else)-; loaded it with around £10/or, £20.00. Eventually, though, I loaded it up to its full maximum limit which is a total of £150.00.

You need to use you Starbucks card, at least, 50 times in a year in order to be upgraded from 'normal' customer to 'gold'. Recently, my Starbucks card membership was upgraded to become 'gold'. They also said though that if you wish to keep your 'gold' membership status for another year; then, you will need to use it another 50 times; otherwise, you're membership will revert back to being 'normal', again. So, I have to use it 42 more times before 21 Nov 2014; in order to retain my 'gold' membership status.

What's so great about Starbucks 'gold' membership status. If I'm really being honest, not a lot; however, it does allow such things as FREE extra shots/top ups/-etc.

NOV13 - LATEST NEWS: CINEMA/ART/GAMBLING/-etc.

FRI 15TH NOV 2013

PAXTON GREEN TIME BANK AGM

Went to my local volunteering in the community group which is called, PGTB/Paxton Green Time Bank AGM/Annual General Meeting. Showed off some artworks...around 10 or so in total...each of these
was brought from off eBay for a fiver by artist: Terrence Kelly. Gave 1 of the paintings away to Sue -a Time Bank Trustee- who said she actually recognized the place Kelly had painted.

-(Unfortunately, I went and lost my PGTB DWP/Dulwich Picture Gallery FREE yearly pass for year 2013; so, I really can't wait until when January comes; when they will give me another one.)-

WEEKEND: SAT & SUN 16TH/17TH NOV 2013

CINEWORLD

I rode my bike to Picadilly; to go and visit seeing Cineworld. There I watched 3 movies.

• The Butler (History: American Slavery up to President days)
• The Counsellor (Thriller: Mexican/Columbian Drug War)
• Don Jon (Comedy: Sex addiction/Love)

NOTE: There are 2 different Cineworld movie houses; one is located near Regent's Street at Haymarket/and, the other is located on Shaftesbury Avenue, inside of The Trocodero complex.

At first, I seriously worried about not being able to pay to renew my yearly Cineworld pass; however, in the actual event; what I decided to do was instead of paying for it yearly all in one go as a lump sum; instead, to pay for it monthly; which works out to around £19.00 per month.

VISITED CHRISTIE'S AUCTION HOUSE IN PICCADILLY

Being in Picadilly, I decided to go visit Christies Auction house. In there I saw some amazing master works by artists...

• Augustus John
• L. S. Lowry
• Dame Laura Knight
• Elizabeth Frink
• John Sutherland
• Ben Nicolson
• Henry Moore
• -etc.

I was told it would be possible to go and see the actual auction itself if I came back next week at around 7PM on Wed/Thu.

I'm thinking desperately of returning straight back there, soon as possible; as they closed unfortunately before I could get to see all of the artworks on display. The current exhibition contains the works of many of my most favorite artists; and, I also get to see everything right up close(as opposed to just seeing their work inside of mere books).

VISITED TATE GALLERY

I practiced doing some drawing inside of the Tate Gallery in Millbank. As well as, I viewed many of the artists works on show. In particular, I remember seeing...

• Whistler
• John Singer Seargent
• Henry Fuselli
• -etc.

VISITED ORANGE STREET LIBRARY LEICESTER SQUARE

I recall looking at books by artists...

• Matisse

...and, at least, one other artist whose name seems to slip me, now...?!

MON 18TH NOV

Deposited £60.00 into my William Hill online a/.c Lost it all on Roulette!

Just a week or so ago; I lost £500.00 doing the same Roulette gambling!

Lost £25.00 gambling at William Hill's!

GAMBLED AT WILLIAM HILL'S ONLINE...AND, LOST(as usual).

Well, being the total dreamer that I am, I decided why not have a go at doubling my money by betting £25.00 at William Hill's online.

http://www.williamhill.co.uk

Of course, the bet lost! I was playing Roulette; and, I think, in all I had something like 7 spins of the wheel; each time I bet on 30 numbers going from 1-30; well, I won once or twice, possibly, trice; however, in 7 spins, at least, 4 times the number: 0 came up; this meant I lost, repeatedly, again and again...until, eventually, I'd gone and lost it ALL! I just could NOT believe it! That I feel is regular gamblers theme song: I just could NOT believe it! I sing that same song nearly every single time I go gambling; meaning around 90% of the time, I'm sure. Yet, being a 'gambling addict' as I am; I still can't stop dreaming of winning one day...; it's so sad; but, is also most unfortunately, true.

THIS MORNING I WENT TO VISIT STREATHAM JOB CENTRE 

I went to visit Streatham Job Centre to explain to them that although somebody was meant to contact me over the phone;  to talk about my going on a training course; yet, after 2 weeks I still had received no reply. The lady made a check...; and, discovered that the people were busy through being fully booked up; thus, there was no other choice left to me...except to continue waiting. She said, I must come back and see her in another 2 weeks time; just to confirm if they had given me a phone call/or, not?!

SHOPPED AT STREATHAM POUND SHOP

In Streatham there is a Pound Shop store which is located near to St Leonard's Church. I went in there to go and do some shopping. What especially interested me was their £1.00 drinks: Mango/Guava/Lychee; these are some of the best tasting drinks ever! In all I brought 3 of each flavour totalling: £9.00 worth. My total shopping bill at the pound store was for: £28.31.

MY LATEST EPSON PRINTER IS NOT WORKING

I'm having trouble using the recent USB/WiFi Espon Printer I brought.

1> One of the ink colours as run out; and, it refuses to print anything out; unless I replace the cartridge, first?!

2> I can't seem to get the scanner to work; even though it's plugged in through a USB cable; and, I'm not actually trying to use WiFi.

3> I can't get the printer to copy anything, neither. I think, that this might be related to the problem stated in 1; namely, lack of ink. But, it could also be due to the fact that I just can't get that part of the printer up and working, neither.

CONCLUSION

I'm going to have to find the manual; whether on CD ROM disc; or else, uploaded onto my own computer; or, maybe, go and search through Epson's own online site. My problem is, I have so many other things to go and deal with; that I'm finding it very difficult, indeed, to stay focussed.

LIBRARY BOOKS STILL TO RETURN

NORBURY LIBRARY

I got to return a library book to Norbury Library called: PTSD-Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I've already gone and re-newed this book around 5 times; so they refused to renew it over the phone anymore. I was instructed, yesterday, to bring the book back to the library, instead. They also informed me that there would be a £10.00 overdue charge; even though the book costs only £9.99! Going at that rate...I might as well 'buy' the book outright if I wish to read it...rather than go pay to merely borrow it/and, then, return.

MORLEY COLLEGE LIBRARY

I also have 2 books to return back to Morley College as well...

1> Introducing Shakespeare(I think, was the title?)
2> Artists(forgot the exact title name?)

Morley College mail said that there will be an Amnesty where you don't have to pay fines; during sometime in April. So, hopefully, I will find both of these books before then...???

KINGSWOOD LIBRARY

I believe there is still one more book to return back to Kingswood House Library, Sydenham Hill. The book is about 'crime'; though, again, I forgot the exact name? I must remember to renew this book either in person/or else, over the phone; before they start adding over due fine fees...!

Not too much going on...apart from bills!

Date: Sat 16th Feb 2013. Time: 16:57 PM GMT.

STAYING IN MOSTLY

Frankly, there's not an awful lot going on in my life at the moment. There are 2 problems as to why that is...

1> I'm totally flat broke
2> The weather is awfully darn freezing cold.

For the aforementioned reasons, I've chosen to mostly stay in and not go out anywhere ever since the year 2013 began. Meaning, I haven't been to go visit the cinema/zoo/art gallery; even though I have brought a yearly pass to go and visit those places.

COLLECTED A NEW DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY YEARLY PASS FROM THE TIMEBANK

I think, it was a couple of days back, on either Thursday/Friday, when I went to go and visit Kingswood House Library; where the Paxton Green Time Bank local volunteering group office is; to go and collect a FREE Dulwich Picture Gallery yearly pass. I was really and truly grateful for that; as I love going to see DWP. I also met a new TimeBank member there, too; though, right now, I seem to have forgotten her name?!

BROUGHT A NEW EPSON WIFI PRINTER/SCANNER/COPIER/FAX MACHINE

Yesterday, I went and brought myself an Epson WF2530 WiFi printer costing around £60.00 from Amazon.co.uk; because I'm already a Prime customer with them; therefore, I didn't have to pay any P&P charges. The printer was working, yesterday; don't really know why it's not working anymore, now, today? Going to have to fix it, somehow or other...??? Anyway, buying that printer dried up all the rest of the funds I had left; so, now, I'm left with absolutely nothing to spend; nor, to pay the bills with; the worry is driving me constantly MAD!

I'M ALSO THINKING OF SIGNING UP ONLINE FOR JOBSEEKERS ALLOWANCE

I went on line sometime last week to make a Job Seekers Allowance application; but, did only partially fill it in; decided to return back there to fill the rest in; but, so far haven't done so; will most probably finish filling in the online application, today.

I'm not too very much looking forwards to the Job Centre sending me out to go and look to find jobs in the utterly freezing cold; but, I guess if that's what's got to be done; then, so be it.

I need to get JSA in order to cut doing having to pay regular bills such as Council Tax/and, also, Benefit repayment fees/Dental fees/undiscounted bus pass/-etc.

MARTIAL ARTS

I was meant to complete doing, at least, 4 more kickboxing lessons at Seymour Place Leisure Centre near Marble Arch; which I'd already gone and paid for; however, the freezing cold weather put me off completely on travelling out so far; together with having to carry around loads of gym bag equipments, which I found to be really heavy and awkward. In order to avoid these problems altogether; I just stopped going there.

If I do decide to continue with studying martial arts; I don't think it will be in that same place; I'll most probably chose to go somewhere a lot closer to home; and, also, that's a hell of a lot less expensive.

COLLEGE

I'm thinking of joining up to go do a college course; but, having no money to go pay for it is what has caused me to completely ignore going down that particular route; otherwise, I would love to be in college full time.

LIBRARY BOOKS TO RETURN

I have library books to return to...

Morley College
Norbury Library
Kingswood House Library

...and, if I can't find them or return them immediately, right away; then, I should at least remember to renew them over the phone; in order to avoid being stuck with loads of unnecessary overdue charges.

STUDYING ONLINE

So far, I've been back to visit both...

http://www.conquermaths.com
http://www.lynda.com

...but, I've not visited...

http://www.universalclass.com

...nor any of the many others I paid to go and study with online! I feel really bad about this...; but, it's just impossible to do absolutely everything together at once; when there are so many other things I wish to do both online/offline...?!

CONCLUSION

So far we're already reached mid-February; and, I haven't been going out nowhere all year, yet. I'm pretty sure though that situation will soon change; and, then, I will be going out there regularly, again, once more; especially, whenever the weather improves. I'd love to go out cycling; but, hate cycling around in the freezing bitter cold.

Visited cousin Sharon

SAT 06 2013, SAW 2 CINEMA MOVIES

1> The Impossible/(Tsunami in Thailand) Streatham Odeon/£7.40

2> Texas Chainsaw 3D/(horror) Cineworld/Shaftesbury Ave/The Trocodero/FREE Unlimited Membership

SUN 07 2013, VISITED COUSIN SHARON

Yesterday, I visited seeing my cousin Sharon in Kingswood, Surrey. I travelled by both train/bike; left home around 1PM. I saw her 6 year old son, Domenic; but, the 2 other children -twins 1 year old- were asleep. She and her husband gave me lots of food/drink. Beef, potatoes, brussel sprouts. Sherry(sweet)/Riocco(red wine). After which we went and watched TV. I left there late somewhere after 10PM.

MON 08 2013, VISITED COUSIN SHARON, AGAIN

Today, I returned back to see Sharon, again. This time to go and collect a Christmas/New Year present they gave me; namely, a full sized coloured frosted glass chess set. This time I didn't stay; just went; had a short conversation; then, left. She and her husband were in the process of pulling down the Christmas tree. I would have stayed longer; but, I sensed they didn't really want any company; so, I just made my excuse that I'm going to the cinema; and, then, went straight back home.

CONCLUSION/CONSTANT WORRYING ABOUT HOW I'M GOING TO PAY ALL THE BILLS WITH ALL SAVINGS FAST RUNNING OUT COMPETELY

When I arrived back home; I didn't even bother going out again.

Right now, there are so many other things playing on my mind; such as the fact that I have loads of bills to pay;  but, little or no money to go pay these bills with. Frankly, this situation scares me to death! (Though, I try not to over worry myself; so as not to go completely out of my mind; by putting my mind elsewhere, instead; such as on watching TV/Internet/Books/-etc.)

Recently, I went and got in touch with a company called: National Debtline. They sent me some budget forms to go fill in. I'm thinking I might just do it; even though I'm already registered with another debtor company called: PDH-Personal Debt Helpline; PDH expects me to pay them £200 monthly; they also deduct £30 for their own expenditure, as well. It seems to me that National Debtline can handle my debts a hell of a lot cheaper as they said they wouldn't charge me any fees.

031113 to 040113 Betting addiction: lost £250.00!

3RD JAN 2013

MORLEY COLLEGE/HAVEN'T SIGNED TO TAKE ANY COURSES THIS YEAR, YET

So far I've still not signed up to go and study a Morley College course; because I don't have sufficient money to be able to pay for lessons, yet; nor am I sure exactly which course(s) to take, next? Computing is important, I think, it terms of finding employment realistically speaking; but, I find doing art a hell of a lot more fun even though I don't have sufficient 'talent' to be able to sell any of the artworks I make. So, the choice I feel I'm being faced with is do art and starve; or else, do computing and hopefully you will have at least a fighting chance to be able to survive. Most unfortunately, I'm not the type of person who can face dealing with practical reality; instead, I tend to live out the whole my entire life following wholly impractical dreams...?!

ONLINE COURSES

I already went and signed up last year to go and take loads of online courses; but, then, I either never or hardly ever went back to go and study online; boy, what a complete and total waste of money! The problem is my mind is being filled with so many things to do both online/offline...that I find it really and truly hard to stick with doing any online studying. Instead, I just go online to check email; pay bills; surf; gamble; buy stuff, -etc. Which basically means I mostly tend to go online purely in order to waste both precious time and money!

I can think of, at least, 2/3/or, more classes that I've been very badly missing out on...; for all of which I've already gone and paid for the year; starting from last year, 2012...; and, then, extending into 2013.

http://www.lynda.com
http://www.universalclass.com
http://www.conquermaths.com
-etc.

MY CAT

Recently, during around the end of last year 2012, I brought a black kitten. I try to buy her enough food in advance; stocking up around 2 to 3 months worth; constantly worrying to myself that when the money runs out...as, I'm sure, eventually, it will; then, I might not have enough money left to be able to keep/feed her any more. Maybe, I will have to give her over to Battersea dogs/cats home? Though, that's the last thing I wish to do; as I dearly love my cat. Furthermore, I was meant to get her sterilized; but, just couldn't afford to do it, yet? The last thing I want is her coming in and having kittens; which would mean loads more mouths to go and feed...!

I give my cat 3 different kinds of food to eat everyday; so it has a wide selection to chose from...

1 x dry food/Supacat for kittens (pellets)
1 x meat/or, fish in liquid jelly (packet)
1 x cheap cat food brought from the pound shop (packet)
+ I change it's water, at least, once/sometimes, twice every day

SPOKE TO NATIONAL DEBTLINE

I spoke to National Debtline over the phone; they said they would send me a budgeting pack; as well as, they mentioned to me certain strategies to bring down my current bills. Namely, if I have less than £16,000.00 in savings; then, I should re-apply to the benefit office for Job Seekers Allowance. I should also ask to claim Council Tax benefit. -Etc.

WENT HALFORDS BIKE SHOP BRIXTON

I went to Halfords bike shop in Brixton where I brought...

1 x pair of bike pedals (one of my bike pedals  broke!)
1 x batteries pack
1 x accessories pack: pair of lights: front and  back/lock/pump
1 x pair of lights: front and back


KEEP FIT/THE GYM GROUP/CANCELLED MEMBERSHIP

December 2012 I received an email from...
http://www.thegymgroup.com
...which said I could rejoin them for £20.00 monthly Direct Debit with no joining fees; I decided to accept.

However, after not going there much; instead, I decided to cancel The Gym Group membership in January 2013. Thus, saving me a totally unnecessary £20.00 per month. If I could afford it; then, this fee would have been ok; but, right now, I can't. I can however reconsider joining them again whenever my financial circumstances do improve.

MARTIAL ARTS/KICK BOXING/CANCELLED £85 MONTHLY DDR YEARLY CONTRACT

I went to Seymour Leisure Centre, Seymour Place; which is located just a few streets away from Baker Street tube station; to go take a kick boxing class. So far to date, I've taken around 5 lessons in all during the end of last year 2012. As usual, I enjoyed going to the class; nice people/teachers; but, being a complete 'beginner' myself; therefore, I have to admit I feel pretty much useless...too stiff/heavy/slow/awkward...compared with the more highly effective, supple, smooth movements of far more experienced people than myself. Of course, I already know it takes plenty of time, practice, patience in order to get improve; but, I'm not too sure that I have that sort of absolutely 'necessary' time, patience, practice deep down within me...?! Nor indeed enough money to keep on paying to go take lessons costing £85.00 monthly for 2 lessons per week: Tue/Thu 1 AM/or, alternatively, 7:30 PM.

One of the reasons I went to kick boxing class, today, 3rd Jan 2013 7:30 PM; that is, apart from with the aim of going training; was to go and sort out the problem of my having gone and signed a year long contract; starting from 3 JAN 13 to pay £85.00 monthly DDR/Direct Debit; the contract to be administered by a company called: Harlands. I told my bank to cancel this contract as I just can't afford it. Next thing I know, Harlands sent me a letter saying my contract was 'fixed'; and, it's not possible for me to suddenly withdraw out of it. However, when I first signed the contract, I was told by the instructor that I could cancel it before the contract becomes due on 3 JAN 13. So, I went to ask Seymour Kick Boxing instructors to go and cancel the contract themselves; the girl who I spoke to on the phone, yesterday, 2 JAN 13 was called, Denise; and, it's she who I went to see this evening to have some further talks about this. She said she would get it cancelled for sure; and, made a photocopy of the letter than Harland sent me. She said they should contact me within a weeks time in order to confirm that the contract has been cancelled; and, if I don't hear from them I should get back in contact with her directly.

OTHER MARTIAL ARTS

Right now, I'm not doing any other martial arts styles; because I just can't afford to do these; that means I've stopped doing...

Aikido
Tai Chi
Boxing
Krav Maga

4TH JAN 2013

GAMBLING ADDICTION

When I came back in late evening around 11PM from having gone and attended my kick boxing lesson; I then moved over to the computer to do some online gambling.

-(I already guessed that this year: 2013; was not going to be a very good year for me; because it's got the unlucky number 13 in it.)-

I tried betting on Roulette at...
http://www.williamhill.co.uk
...and, ended up losing £250.00.

The game went like this...
At first, I doubled my money by winning £508.00;
only I didn't wish to quit, yet;
instead, I wanted to win more;
to try and double £500 to become 1 grand, instead.

Next, I lost half of that £500 to become £250.00
then, I won £450.00;
then, I lost and was down to £150.00;
finally, I was left with around £9.00;
which is when I finally decided to quit!

Needless to say, I'm going to bed now
feeling very sad and sorry for myself, indeed.
Wondering what the hell kind of madness it was
that made me not wish to quit when I knew I was ahead...?!

I really can't believe it,
I'm virtually flat broke;
after having 95% of all my savings vanish into gambling;
and, rather than saving the little money that's left;
I chose to go and gamble it all;
like I really and truly can't stop!

Anyway, I went and made an appointment with GamCare
to go and have counselling in regards to my doing non stop compulsive gambling;
this appointment is on Monday coming.

(LATEST UPDATE: I didn't go to the GamCare meeting. Forgot?!)