When I awoke somewhere around 12:00 midday, I discovered my mum had gone to her GP appointment.
I rode my bike over there...to inquire have they seen her at the Tulse Hill, Hardel Rise surgery...; their reply was she had already came/and, left around 1 hour ago.
A lady who I saw standing up outside of the surgery, I asked the same questions to...pointed me in the direction she had left; however, look as I might...my mum was to be found absolutely nowhere?
I started thinking to myself...there are a number of possibilities where she might have gone...
1> Stockwell, to go check out her flat
2> Shopping, possibly, East Street...in between Elephant and Castle/Camberwell.
3> She could also have returned back home...and, I might have missed her when she was on the bus.
Anyway, I decided to return back home...; and, sure enough, no mother to be seen anywhere?
At 3:30 PM I rode my bike over to the Community Shop where goods can be brought really 'cheap'...and, there did some shopping. I brought such things as, Chocolate biscuits/Mousse/tinned Grapefruit/half-sized baked bean tins/crips/tinned fizzy drinks/-etc.; then, again, came back home...; again, no mum arrived back home, yet.
(Around 5 PM I phoned my cousin S...to explain the situation I've already quoted up above; and, basically, left it there...stating I will phone them with the latest updates.)
Time is, now, coming up 7 PM...and, still my mother hasn't showed; I feel like I'm going out of my mind with 'endless worry'...thinking to myself...'what if' this/'what if' that.../-etc.
Maybe, I should go to her flat in Stockwell...; but, what if...she isn't there...?!
Life with older people...sometimes, can be like a 'living nightmare'...she doesn't seem to understand that she's older...so, she needs to 'slow down'....she cannot move around like say when it was 10 years ago...in fact, she hasn't left the house in over 6 months long...!
Well, finally, my mum came back in, with a push basket full of shopping at around, 7:15 PM; but, she did not look good...instead, she looked 'half-dead'...and, I'm being perfectly serious about that; not in any way at all kidding. No wonder, the weather out there has been unusually 'hot'; and, she walks really 'slow'...so, having to climb up the hill to come back home...must have been sheer agony. Furthermore, she said her doctors appointment ended in disappointment...as she didn't get the drugs she wanted. I hope that doesn't mean she's going out there for another day, tomorrow/or,...?
Friday, 28 June 2019
Thu 27th June 2019 2PM-7PM St George Hospital - Eye problems: Uveitis(eye inflammation leading to 'red eye'...)
I was meant to go to Art class between 2PM-5PM.
However, my left eye kept playing up...; that is for the last 3/4/5 days...it's been getting redder and redder still.
So, eventually, I decided to phone the doctors; they told me to go down to West Norwood High Street...and, below B&Q DIY shop...there is an optician, I think, Woodfield is their name; they have emergency drop in's there.
At around 1:30 PM I went down to the opticians...and, registered my details with them for the first time. The lady there looked at my eye...and, asked me a few questions. How long has the problem been occurring for? 3 to 5 days. Is it getting better or worse? Worse. Can you think of anything that might have caused it? I told her...when I ride my bike, and, the wind is blowing hard...then, sometimes, a leaf might blow into my face; however, normally, all I do is just simply go home use water and the problem clears up. In this particular case, however, the problem hasn't gone away; even though I've been bathing the eye with water every single day.
Eventually, the lady recommended I go to St Thomas hospital...where they have emergency eye drop in clinic...between 1 PM - 4 PM.
I told her the last time I suffered 'red eye'...I went to St George's hospital, instead; so, my latest details regarding this recurring eye condition would be registered there.
She said, St George, has a really long waiting time...; so, if I wanted to be seen a lot faster...; then, it's recommended I go to St. Thomas, instead.
I went back home to have a think about it. Eventually, I decided to return back to St George hospital in Tooting; because my 'latest' records in regards to this recurring eye condition have been kept there.
Around 2PM I left on my bike for the journey toward St George's hospital. When I arrived I had to go to the Accident and Emergency department, first...in order to get a referral to the Moorfields Eye Hospital on Lanesborough Wing. First, I had to wait to speak to a nurse; who asked me for my name...which she typed into the computer; and, then, asked me to explain the problem; which I did. She then told me to 'wait'...in the big room...when a doctor will call me. After waiting for a while...the doctor called my name...; and, after asking some questions...said he would give me a referral to upstairs. After getting my referral printed out...so, I can show them at the desk at Moorfields Eye Hospital...; I went upstairs and showed it to them. They told me to 'wait'...and, somebody would call my name. Eventually, a doctor looked at my eye...putting 2 different sets of eye drops into them/and, also, asking me to take an eye test. Then, they said, I must go and wait, again; until a next doctor called my name. Eventually, a doctor called my name...and, I was see to, properly. Then, I had to wait to go and pick up my prescription medicine. Finally, I left...the time must have been somewhere around 5 to 6 PM. (All the time, I was thinking to myself I should have gone to St Thomas hospital, instead; where, I most probably would have been seen to, immediately, right away.) Anyway, I rode my bike home...; which was very difficult...as both my eyes were really blurry with eye drops have been placed in there; nevertheless, I made it back home safely...I think, the time said somewhere around 7 PM.
(The next day, I went and phoned my art teacher: Lil Sullivan; and, explained the situation to them...why I went and missed my art class...to which they were very understanding, as is usual.)
However, my left eye kept playing up...; that is for the last 3/4/5 days...it's been getting redder and redder still.
So, eventually, I decided to phone the doctors; they told me to go down to West Norwood High Street...and, below B&Q DIY shop...there is an optician, I think, Woodfield is their name; they have emergency drop in's there.
At around 1:30 PM I went down to the opticians...and, registered my details with them for the first time. The lady there looked at my eye...and, asked me a few questions. How long has the problem been occurring for? 3 to 5 days. Is it getting better or worse? Worse. Can you think of anything that might have caused it? I told her...when I ride my bike, and, the wind is blowing hard...then, sometimes, a leaf might blow into my face; however, normally, all I do is just simply go home use water and the problem clears up. In this particular case, however, the problem hasn't gone away; even though I've been bathing the eye with water every single day.
Eventually, the lady recommended I go to St Thomas hospital...where they have emergency eye drop in clinic...between 1 PM - 4 PM.
I told her the last time I suffered 'red eye'...I went to St George's hospital, instead; so, my latest details regarding this recurring eye condition would be registered there.
She said, St George, has a really long waiting time...; so, if I wanted to be seen a lot faster...; then, it's recommended I go to St. Thomas, instead.
I went back home to have a think about it. Eventually, I decided to return back to St George hospital in Tooting; because my 'latest' records in regards to this recurring eye condition have been kept there.
Around 2PM I left on my bike for the journey toward St George's hospital. When I arrived I had to go to the Accident and Emergency department, first...in order to get a referral to the Moorfields Eye Hospital on Lanesborough Wing. First, I had to wait to speak to a nurse; who asked me for my name...which she typed into the computer; and, then, asked me to explain the problem; which I did. She then told me to 'wait'...in the big room...when a doctor will call me. After waiting for a while...the doctor called my name...; and, after asking some questions...said he would give me a referral to upstairs. After getting my referral printed out...so, I can show them at the desk at Moorfields Eye Hospital...; I went upstairs and showed it to them. They told me to 'wait'...and, somebody would call my name. Eventually, a doctor looked at my eye...putting 2 different sets of eye drops into them/and, also, asking me to take an eye test. Then, they said, I must go and wait, again; until a next doctor called my name. Eventually, a doctor called my name...and, I was see to, properly. Then, I had to wait to go and pick up my prescription medicine. Finally, I left...the time must have been somewhere around 5 to 6 PM. (All the time, I was thinking to myself I should have gone to St Thomas hospital, instead; where, I most probably would have been seen to, immediately, right away.) Anyway, I rode my bike home...; which was very difficult...as both my eyes were really blurry with eye drops have been placed in there; nevertheless, I made it back home safely...I think, the time said somewhere around 7 PM.
(The next day, I went and phoned my art teacher: Lil Sullivan; and, explained the situation to them...why I went and missed my art class...to which they were very understanding, as is usual.)
Wednesday, 26 June 2019
Wed 26th June 2019 Bit of a peculiar day...awoke with mum gone/found San Mei Gallery/-etc.
Wed 26th June 2019 Bit of a peculiar day...
11AM-2PM MUM WENT OUT TO GO VISIT THE DOCTORS
Woke up somewhere around 11 AM; to find my mum had gone out...without even informing me, first. Actually, she did mention previously that she wanted to see the doctor to go and get some drugs. Anyway, I went off on my bike to go and find her...; found her at Tulse Hill...after coming from the doctors surgery; apparently, she said she did not get through; as no doctors were available.
2:30 PM BROUGHT A MONET IMPRESSIONIST PRINT FROM LOCAL CHARITY SHOP: EMMAUS
I walked into Emmaus...where I went and brought a famous Monet Impressionist print...showing 2 lovers...for £25.00. I had seen this print on sale there over, again and again; and, was really surprised that nobody had gone and brought it, yet; so, eventually, I made my mind up...today, I will. Unfortunately, the thin wooden frame is not too strong; nor is the string tie on the back used for hanging the picture up on the wall; I'm afraid, the string might break/and, the picture will either fall/break(the same as one I'd previously gone and brought had fallen down from off the wall, and, broken).
3 PM VISITED ROSEBERRY'S AUCTION HOUSE
Walked into my local auction house, Roseberry's; just to catch up with seeing what sort of artworks are hanging there on the walls. I always see some interesting stuff there...; though, the names of the artists I will usually forget; the pictures less so. The next auction date will be on: Wed 3rd July 2019.
4:30 PM STOPPED IN BRIXTON, RAILTON ROAD, 198 GALLERY: DENZIL FORRESTER SHOW: DENZIL'S DANCE
I was riding my bike on my way over to Stockwell, when I decided to stop at 198 Gallery to go and look at the artworks/and, also, life -on video- of Denzil Forrester. The exhibition is entitled: Denzil's Dance...and, it concerns pastel drawings/paintings related to reggae music dance hall...both in England/and, also, in Jamaica, itself. The video explained that Denzil is originally from Grenada; but, he emigrated to England somewhere around age 11(I forget the exact age?); and, when younger he use to collect Bob Marley ablums/-etc. I believe Denzil is, now-a-days, somewhere in his 60's(me, I'm currently aged 56).
I find looking at his artworks interesting on multiple different levels...
1> I used to attend Morley College where I went to study art as a student; on the top most 4th floor; and, Denzil's was a teacher at the same Morley College...in fact, his class was in the same room that I was studying in...only his class was, later on...so, when we were leaving...his class was just entering. If I can recall correctly -it must be over 5 years, now, since I went and attended Morley College- Denzil's class was teaching 'portraiture'; and, this was something I was very deeply interested in learning...so, I always wanted to be a student in his class; but, somehow or other, never got around to it...maybe, because funds where tight...and, my class there was FREE; however, his class had to be 'paid' for, instead.
2> As a coloured guy, I too grew up being quite heavily attached to Jamaican culture/music; so, I can quite clearly identify with that...I, too, used to collect Bob Marley albums when a teenage 'youth'.
3> I also love and do arts; and, do feel there is a great prejudice against 'coloured' people artists in this country...; most galleries tend to show artists who are 'white'...maybe, 99% white/and, only 1% black...that is, if they show 'any' black artists works at all! I'm impressed that this one guy has been able to make it, successfully, in what seems like a white man's only world. The video said, that most galleries did not wish to approach Denzil...; it was through an individual artist, Peter Doig, who has given his work the opportunity to be widely shown.
5:30 PM WENT TO STOCKWELL TO COLLECT LETTERS
I went over to Stockwell...to go and collect some letters from my mum's flat.
5:45 PM WENT TO TATE BRITAIN GALLERY, VAUXHALL
After visiting Stockwell; I went to go and visit seeing Tate Britain gallery in Vauxhall; where I went and collected some FREE drawing papers...to go bring along to my art class, tomorrow. Unfortunately, I arrived there around 10 to 15 minutes before the gallery was closing down for the evening; therefore, I couldn't stay...; and, was forced to very quickly leave.
6:30 PM FOUND THE LOCATION OF 'SAN MEI' GALLERY IN, LOUGHBOROUGH ROAD, VAUXHALL
Recently, I went and paid for a ticket to go and do a walking tour from Vauxhall up to Van Gogh's lodgings where he used to stay, temporarily, when he was in London...living at 87 Hackford Road; the tour actually takes you inside of the actual house itself. Whereas, normally, I only get to see the 'outside' of the house...; and, its commemorative 'blue plaque'. The tour is going to take place: 3 PM Saturday coming...which should be the 29th.
7:30 PM PHONED MY ART TEACHER, LIL SULLIVAN
I called my current art teacher, Lil Sullivan, mobile phone...to ask if she wanted any help setting up her class; (I believe I helped her to get set up last week). She is a stroke victim survivor...; and, needs help carrying stuff. So, I meet her at her home in Vauxhall...on Lilford Street; and, there carry a bag of art items -which I carry on my bikes handle bars- to the Ackerman Medical Health Center...which is where lessons take place on Thursday evenings from 2-5 PM.
8:30 PM PHONED MY COUSIN, M/T(her husband)
Phoned my cousin, M/and, also, spoke to T...apparently, they were using a loud speaker phone...so, everything I spoke to M could also be over heard in the background. I spoke to them mainly about my mum...that she hadn't been going out in around 6 months; and, now, she's back on the road, again...which can be interpreted as being either a good/or else, a bad thing.
3 AM RECEIVED A POST OFFICE DELIVERY (WHICH I FOUND 'LATE')
Late at night, when I went to put the recycle waste bin outside in the street...ready for emptying. I discovered Royal Mail had left a parcel beside the bin...the which package I went and opened up...and, found inside a series of around 12 x painting boards I'd gone and ordered from off Amazon.co.uk.
GOT A PROBLEM WITH RED EYE; POSSIBLY, UVEITIS PLAYING UP, AGAIN?
For the last few days, my left eye seems to be playing up...; constantly, 'red'...and, painful to view 'light'. I've been hoping the problem is not Uveitis returning...which is a side symptom of a stomach problem: Ulcerative Colitis. Anyway, if the problem won't, all of a sudden, cure itself; then, I will have to go visit seeing the doctor's surgery, soon.
11AM-2PM MUM WENT OUT TO GO VISIT THE DOCTORS
Woke up somewhere around 11 AM; to find my mum had gone out...without even informing me, first. Actually, she did mention previously that she wanted to see the doctor to go and get some drugs. Anyway, I went off on my bike to go and find her...; found her at Tulse Hill...after coming from the doctors surgery; apparently, she said she did not get through; as no doctors were available.
2:30 PM BROUGHT A MONET IMPRESSIONIST PRINT FROM LOCAL CHARITY SHOP: EMMAUS
I walked into Emmaus...where I went and brought a famous Monet Impressionist print...showing 2 lovers...for £25.00. I had seen this print on sale there over, again and again; and, was really surprised that nobody had gone and brought it, yet; so, eventually, I made my mind up...today, I will. Unfortunately, the thin wooden frame is not too strong; nor is the string tie on the back used for hanging the picture up on the wall; I'm afraid, the string might break/and, the picture will either fall/break(the same as one I'd previously gone and brought had fallen down from off the wall, and, broken).
3 PM VISITED ROSEBERRY'S AUCTION HOUSE
Walked into my local auction house, Roseberry's; just to catch up with seeing what sort of artworks are hanging there on the walls. I always see some interesting stuff there...; though, the names of the artists I will usually forget; the pictures less so. The next auction date will be on: Wed 3rd July 2019.
4:30 PM STOPPED IN BRIXTON, RAILTON ROAD, 198 GALLERY: DENZIL FORRESTER SHOW: DENZIL'S DANCE
I was riding my bike on my way over to Stockwell, when I decided to stop at 198 Gallery to go and look at the artworks/and, also, life -on video- of Denzil Forrester. The exhibition is entitled: Denzil's Dance...and, it concerns pastel drawings/paintings related to reggae music dance hall...both in England/and, also, in Jamaica, itself. The video explained that Denzil is originally from Grenada; but, he emigrated to England somewhere around age 11(I forget the exact age?); and, when younger he use to collect Bob Marley ablums/-etc. I believe Denzil is, now-a-days, somewhere in his 60's(me, I'm currently aged 56).
I find looking at his artworks interesting on multiple different levels...
1> I used to attend Morley College where I went to study art as a student; on the top most 4th floor; and, Denzil's was a teacher at the same Morley College...in fact, his class was in the same room that I was studying in...only his class was, later on...so, when we were leaving...his class was just entering. If I can recall correctly -it must be over 5 years, now, since I went and attended Morley College- Denzil's class was teaching 'portraiture'; and, this was something I was very deeply interested in learning...so, I always wanted to be a student in his class; but, somehow or other, never got around to it...maybe, because funds where tight...and, my class there was FREE; however, his class had to be 'paid' for, instead.
2> As a coloured guy, I too grew up being quite heavily attached to Jamaican culture/music; so, I can quite clearly identify with that...I, too, used to collect Bob Marley albums when a teenage 'youth'.
3> I also love and do arts; and, do feel there is a great prejudice against 'coloured' people artists in this country...; most galleries tend to show artists who are 'white'...maybe, 99% white/and, only 1% black...that is, if they show 'any' black artists works at all! I'm impressed that this one guy has been able to make it, successfully, in what seems like a white man's only world. The video said, that most galleries did not wish to approach Denzil...; it was through an individual artist, Peter Doig, who has given his work the opportunity to be widely shown.
5:30 PM WENT TO STOCKWELL TO COLLECT LETTERS
I went over to Stockwell...to go and collect some letters from my mum's flat.
5:45 PM WENT TO TATE BRITAIN GALLERY, VAUXHALL
After visiting Stockwell; I went to go and visit seeing Tate Britain gallery in Vauxhall; where I went and collected some FREE drawing papers...to go bring along to my art class, tomorrow. Unfortunately, I arrived there around 10 to 15 minutes before the gallery was closing down for the evening; therefore, I couldn't stay...; and, was forced to very quickly leave.
6:30 PM FOUND THE LOCATION OF 'SAN MEI' GALLERY IN, LOUGHBOROUGH ROAD, VAUXHALL
Recently, I went and paid for a ticket to go and do a walking tour from Vauxhall up to Van Gogh's lodgings where he used to stay, temporarily, when he was in London...living at 87 Hackford Road; the tour actually takes you inside of the actual house itself. Whereas, normally, I only get to see the 'outside' of the house...; and, its commemorative 'blue plaque'. The tour is going to take place: 3 PM Saturday coming...which should be the 29th.
7:30 PM PHONED MY ART TEACHER, LIL SULLIVAN
I called my current art teacher, Lil Sullivan, mobile phone...to ask if she wanted any help setting up her class; (I believe I helped her to get set up last week). She is a stroke victim survivor...; and, needs help carrying stuff. So, I meet her at her home in Vauxhall...on Lilford Street; and, there carry a bag of art items -which I carry on my bikes handle bars- to the Ackerman Medical Health Center...which is where lessons take place on Thursday evenings from 2-5 PM.
8:30 PM PHONED MY COUSIN, M/T(her husband)
Phoned my cousin, M/and, also, spoke to T...apparently, they were using a loud speaker phone...so, everything I spoke to M could also be over heard in the background. I spoke to them mainly about my mum...that she hadn't been going out in around 6 months; and, now, she's back on the road, again...which can be interpreted as being either a good/or else, a bad thing.
3 AM RECEIVED A POST OFFICE DELIVERY (WHICH I FOUND 'LATE')
Late at night, when I went to put the recycle waste bin outside in the street...ready for emptying. I discovered Royal Mail had left a parcel beside the bin...the which package I went and opened up...and, found inside a series of around 12 x painting boards I'd gone and ordered from off Amazon.co.uk.
GOT A PROBLEM WITH RED EYE; POSSIBLY, UVEITIS PLAYING UP, AGAIN?
For the last few days, my left eye seems to be playing up...; constantly, 'red'...and, painful to view 'light'. I've been hoping the problem is not Uveitis returning...which is a side symptom of a stomach problem: Ulcerative Colitis. Anyway, if the problem won't, all of a sudden, cure itself; then, I will have to go visit seeing the doctor's surgery, soon.
Wednesday, 12 June 2019
Tue 120619 6:30 PM Visited Young Vic Theatre in Waterloo to see Authur Miller play: Death of a salesman
SAW ARTHUR MILLER PLAY: DEATH OF A SALESMAN AT THE YOUNG VIC, WATERLOO
6:30 PM Yesterday, evening...on Tuesday, I had been given a FREE ticket by my local 'volunteering in the community' group -(a listed charity)- called: PGTB/Paxton Green Time Bank...to go and see the play: Death of a salesman, written by Arthur Miller...at the Young Vic Theatre in London, Waterloo.
-(Going to see the play actually clashed with my exercise class: Aikido; however, because seeing the play was such a 'rare' thing...happening only 6 monthly/or, once a year...when compared with my exercise class that takes place twice per week...so, I decided I might be far better off going see the play, instead.)-
The first thing I did was arrive there really 'late', as usual. I was actually meant to go and collect the ticket somewhere between, 6:30-7 PM. But, instead, I got lost...I ended up on the other side of the road...which is the London Eye end of Waterloo...when I should have been on the side where the tube station is, instead. By the time, I had managed to go figure this all out...; and, had finished chaining up my bike quite safely; the time already said 7:25 PM; and, the play started at 7:30 PM; so, I actually went and collected my ticket with just barely 5 minutes being left to spare...consequently, I counted myself extremely lucky to have been let in at all!
As the lights went out...; and, the play started...
First, I was very surprised to see...it was 50% musical/and, 50% straight play acting; not only that but the cast was mainly Afro-American (I was expecting to see an all white cast, instead); they sung/played musical instruments extremely well, though. There were 2/or, 3 actors (1 female) who were white; but, the rest, mainly, black.
Second, I had taken a packet of crisps with me...; and, as I opened up the crisps to go and eat...the noise the crisp packet made was almost deafening, especially, in the quiet silence. Eventually, a theatre visitor elder lady told me to, please, stop...and, I agreed. (I have had this sort of really embarrassing experience before...; only the last time it occurred was at a music recital somewhere along Oxford Street; again, I felt I had no choice but to, simply, stop eating.)
Third, my drink by accident fell out of my pocket onto the floor...in fact, it went somewhere underneath the seat I was sitting on. Kneeling down in the darkness, I tried to find it...but, couldn't; finally, I quit searching...and, just decided to look whenever the lights came back on, again; that is, during the break(which is when I did manage to find it).
The play lasted long...1 hr 15 min...with a 15 min break in between...then, 1 hr 30 min...right up to the end.
Fourth, when the break occurred...I was really happy to go eat/drink a bit. Only when I decided to go over to the toilets...before eating/drinking...I discovered these toilets are, actually, 'unisex'...you would think there would at least be a screen put up in front of the men's urinals...so that the women there can't see you holding your dick to go take a piss; but, no, no screen at all! Frankly, I felt very deeply self-conscious; and, also, completely disgusted! I decided to not bother with using the theatre's own provided toilet facilities. I actually went outside to go see if there was any place I could go take a leak...; but, again, found none; not even on the streets...which seemed to be really busy thronging with loads of people; plus, it was cold and drizzling down rain. So, I decided to eat the crisps/but, drink nothing...I would drink only when the play was over, instead; then, I can find suitable toilet facilities, later on. What actually happened in fact; was as soon as the play ended...I literally raced to the 'unisex' toilets to see if I could beat everybody there...luckily, I found the place completely empty; and, thus, I was finally able to take a piss...without needed to worry about 'girls' staring at me.
Returning back to the subject of the play itself. I managed to follow some of the plot...but, not entirely well. Some of it left me feeling a little bit confused? What I got was...there was a family, in this case, a black family...who had some difficulties making money for themselves...and, the father was having a bit on the side with a 'white' girl...the which relationship was discovered by the son, later. And, there were some fierce business dealings/quarrels. Er, not sure I got a whole lot more than that; but, really, I didn't care. It was a good evening's entertainment...and, furthermore, I got in FREE...; plus, I really 'loved' listening to the music...which sounded really sweet; easy listening tunes/together with bouts of the blues.
I was always planning to read some of Arthur Miller's work -(I often see his drawings/paintings online of which I'm a big fan...and, I also wanted to read some of his famous erotic novels)-; but, somehow or other, I never quite got around to reading/studying anything of his...so, I saw this as being my first opportunity to get to know his work more; not sure I realised he wrote 'plays', as well; I'd heard of the title: 'Death of a salesman' before....just never knew it was one of Arthur Miller's own works.
When the play ended, I quickly rode my bike straight off home. What was strange about that...was it was cold/wet/raining...lightly drizzling; and, all I had on top was just merely a t-shirt...; this made me ride my bike faster in order to keep warm. When I reached Stockwell...I was going to check out my mum's flat...however, I had forgotten to take the keys with me...which were left inside of my coat pocket at home; so, instead, I just continued riding off home. I believe I reached home somewhere around 11 PM.
It was a good night...not necessarily a 'great' night...but, most definitely a good one...where I'd gotten to do something 'different' from what is my. otherwise, dull and boring regular routine.
6:30 PM Yesterday, evening...on Tuesday, I had been given a FREE ticket by my local 'volunteering in the community' group -(a listed charity)- called: PGTB/Paxton Green Time Bank...to go and see the play: Death of a salesman, written by Arthur Miller...at the Young Vic Theatre in London, Waterloo.
-(Going to see the play actually clashed with my exercise class: Aikido; however, because seeing the play was such a 'rare' thing...happening only 6 monthly/or, once a year...when compared with my exercise class that takes place twice per week...so, I decided I might be far better off going see the play, instead.)-
The first thing I did was arrive there really 'late', as usual. I was actually meant to go and collect the ticket somewhere between, 6:30-7 PM. But, instead, I got lost...I ended up on the other side of the road...which is the London Eye end of Waterloo...when I should have been on the side where the tube station is, instead. By the time, I had managed to go figure this all out...; and, had finished chaining up my bike quite safely; the time already said 7:25 PM; and, the play started at 7:30 PM; so, I actually went and collected my ticket with just barely 5 minutes being left to spare...consequently, I counted myself extremely lucky to have been let in at all!
As the lights went out...; and, the play started...
First, I was very surprised to see...it was 50% musical/and, 50% straight play acting; not only that but the cast was mainly Afro-American (I was expecting to see an all white cast, instead); they sung/played musical instruments extremely well, though. There were 2/or, 3 actors (1 female) who were white; but, the rest, mainly, black.
Second, I had taken a packet of crisps with me...; and, as I opened up the crisps to go and eat...the noise the crisp packet made was almost deafening, especially, in the quiet silence. Eventually, a theatre visitor elder lady told me to, please, stop...and, I agreed. (I have had this sort of really embarrassing experience before...; only the last time it occurred was at a music recital somewhere along Oxford Street; again, I felt I had no choice but to, simply, stop eating.)
Third, my drink by accident fell out of my pocket onto the floor...in fact, it went somewhere underneath the seat I was sitting on. Kneeling down in the darkness, I tried to find it...but, couldn't; finally, I quit searching...and, just decided to look whenever the lights came back on, again; that is, during the break(which is when I did manage to find it).
The play lasted long...1 hr 15 min...with a 15 min break in between...then, 1 hr 30 min...right up to the end.
Fourth, when the break occurred...I was really happy to go eat/drink a bit. Only when I decided to go over to the toilets...before eating/drinking...I discovered these toilets are, actually, 'unisex'...you would think there would at least be a screen put up in front of the men's urinals...so that the women there can't see you holding your dick to go take a piss; but, no, no screen at all! Frankly, I felt very deeply self-conscious; and, also, completely disgusted! I decided to not bother with using the theatre's own provided toilet facilities. I actually went outside to go see if there was any place I could go take a leak...; but, again, found none; not even on the streets...which seemed to be really busy thronging with loads of people; plus, it was cold and drizzling down rain. So, I decided to eat the crisps/but, drink nothing...I would drink only when the play was over, instead; then, I can find suitable toilet facilities, later on. What actually happened in fact; was as soon as the play ended...I literally raced to the 'unisex' toilets to see if I could beat everybody there...luckily, I found the place completely empty; and, thus, I was finally able to take a piss...without needed to worry about 'girls' staring at me.
Returning back to the subject of the play itself. I managed to follow some of the plot...but, not entirely well. Some of it left me feeling a little bit confused? What I got was...there was a family, in this case, a black family...who had some difficulties making money for themselves...and, the father was having a bit on the side with a 'white' girl...the which relationship was discovered by the son, later. And, there were some fierce business dealings/quarrels. Er, not sure I got a whole lot more than that; but, really, I didn't care. It was a good evening's entertainment...and, furthermore, I got in FREE...; plus, I really 'loved' listening to the music...which sounded really sweet; easy listening tunes/together with bouts of the blues.
I was always planning to read some of Arthur Miller's work -(I often see his drawings/paintings online of which I'm a big fan...and, I also wanted to read some of his famous erotic novels)-; but, somehow or other, I never quite got around to reading/studying anything of his...so, I saw this as being my first opportunity to get to know his work more; not sure I realised he wrote 'plays', as well; I'd heard of the title: 'Death of a salesman' before....just never knew it was one of Arthur Miller's own works.
When the play ended, I quickly rode my bike straight off home. What was strange about that...was it was cold/wet/raining...lightly drizzling; and, all I had on top was just merely a t-shirt...; this made me ride my bike faster in order to keep warm. When I reached Stockwell...I was going to check out my mum's flat...however, I had forgotten to take the keys with me...which were left inside of my coat pocket at home; so, instead, I just continued riding off home. I believe I reached home somewhere around 11 PM.
It was a good night...not necessarily a 'great' night...but, most definitely a good one...where I'd gotten to do something 'different' from what is my. otherwise, dull and boring regular routine.
Saturday, 1 June 2019
020619 00:27 AM GMT Latest News...: ART/Dentist/AIKIDO/GA/New Bike/-etc.
Latest News...
EDUCATION
I'm no longer attending college, anymore; which is mainly due to lack of sufficient funds.
I would like to attend Morley College to study both ceramics/sculpture/and, possibly, drawing/computer programming/web design...that is, whenever I can afford to do so.
HEALTH/DENTIST/LOWER TOOTH FILLING
I went to see the dentist just 2 days ago...290518 4:15 PM evening. He found a hole in my lower back tooth; which he decided to fill in. Then, the rest of work he did was to give the teeth a quick clean. I was told my next due appointment there was not until January 2020/next year; and, that I must note this down...as the receptionist said they will not be writing me any appointment note...as the appointment is too far away.
KEEP FIT/MARTIAL ARTS
At 56 I feel far less inclined to exercise. Consequently, I don't tend to find myself doing push up's/sit up's/walking/running, anymore. Instead, I mostly tend to stay in/as opposed to go out...and, watch people working out on YouTube...that is, I watch it...but, don't actually get up and do hardly anything at all in terms of actual 'movement'...!
I gave up going to Krav Maga in West Norwood...due to financial problems. I told the guy in charge, Remi; that I would pay him for the year...he gave me his bank a/c. details: sort code + a/c number; said I can make payment in two parts...£270.00 x 2. However, I haven't been able to afford this, yet. The next option -which in the long run turns out to be more expensive- is pay £70.00 monthly, instead; perhaps, for a time I will revert back to this option. I'm still beginner 'white belt' due to not turning up there, regularly; one month on/next month -or, two/three months- off.
However, recently, I did join in doing Aikido lessons at Kingswood House Library in Sydenham Hill. The cost is £10.00 per week/lesson twice weekly: Tue/Thu evenings 6:30-8:30 PM...with one lesson being thrown in for FREE.
UNEMPLOYED/CAN'T FIND A JOB...?!
I still haven't found a job, yet; even, though, I'm doing Job Search, constantly...at: findajob.gov.uk. I remain forevermore hopeful...but, as I get older...I'm currently aged 56...I kind of wonder if I will ever find a job?
I sign on at Streatham Job Centre, regularly, every fortnight.
GAMBLING ADDICTION
My gambling addiction never ever goes away; as soon as I get my hands on any money at all...no matter how small/big...I immediately think of doubling/trebling/quadrupling it/-etc. But, I also know that the reality is...I'm much more likely to loose absolutely everything, and, end up with a totally nil balance?! So, I been trying to gamble low...around £10.00 at most. However, when I lose that £10.00; then, the temptation to chase after one's losses by depositing another £10.00 is, well and truly, dreadful; thus, it's possible to have your losses completely run away if you aren't really careful.
Just last week Thursday evening, I went and attended Gamblers Anonymous at All Saints Clubhous, 131 Cleveland Street, (almost directly opposite London's Post Office Tower/nearest tube station: Great Portland Street Tube Station). There were two meetings, I think, the beginner's meetings start around 6 AM/and, the late meetings start at around 8 AM. I went to the 8 AM meeting. I never feel truly comfortable there...as, in reality, I tend to be a very shy and private type of person; and, voluntarily I have to take the chair in the middle of the room, and, speak to everybody there; this always makes me feel both embarrassed and vulnerable to the extreme -having to trust so many compete and total strangers-; for that reason, I don't tend to go there 'regularly'; instead, after 1/2/or, 3 meetings...I tend to drop out for the next 2/3/up to 6 months long.
ART
Currently, I joined in a Facebook group called: 'Self-portraits Sundays'...I think, I did 6 Sundays so far to date; this Sunday will make the 7th.
I also went and joined stroke victim artist, Lil Sullivan; -(who I first met as a PGTB/Paxton Green Time Bank member at Kingswood House Library)-; who is teaching Portraiture during the evenings...2-5 PM on Thursdays at Ackerman Health Center, Patmos Road, Vauxhall, London.
I also went and joined, for a monthly membership subscription fee: myblueprint.com; which teaches art based video instruction...covering such things as perspective/urban landscape drawing/-etc.
EDUCATION
West Norwood Library, has re-opened, again. But, I must be careful about taking out too many books; because I keep on forgetting to re-new them on time...; which only leads to the build up of further and further fines...all of which I can ill afford.
I note they have 3 things going on at the library which I still haven't checked out, yet...
1> Picturehouse...I think, the membership fee is something like £62.00 per year.
2> Chess club, I think, they meet during the weekends...probably, evening
3> Tai Chi, I think, they have it upstairs...; forgot exactly when...but, I have seen posters/with a phone number on it, being located here and there. (Just worried about the cost...?)
COMPUTING/WEB SITE BUILDING/PROGRAMMING
Currently, I only have one desktop PC to use at home; and, it is running Windows 10 Professional; otherwise, I tend to use iPad 4 whilst in bed. My laptop computer isn't working; and, I've gone and lost my iPhone 5(will need to buy another, soon).
Of late, for the last 3 days or so, I've been working on building myself an art based web site using HTML/CSS; but, it still isn't finished, yet. When I'm done, I intend to house it at the following URL address:
http://www.paulramnora.com/art
I should be working on studying programming more: Python/VueJS/Javascript/-etc.; but, most unfortunately, I seem to have gotten either completely distracted doing other things 'arts'/or else, just felt too lazy.
TRAVEL
Recently, I went and brought a new bike costing £350.00 Carrera Model from Brixton Halfords; mainly because the last bike Apollo Guru Model got stolen from outside of Tate Britain gallery(the thieves had used 'wire cutters' to cut straight through the 2 combination padlocks attached to both front/back wheels). To go with my new bike; I also went and brought 2 x top security: 8/10 rated thick chain lock(s) this time around. So, far the bike is still safe; nothing stolen, yet(touch wood).
EDUCATION
I'm no longer attending college, anymore; which is mainly due to lack of sufficient funds.
I would like to attend Morley College to study both ceramics/sculpture/and, possibly, drawing/computer programming/web design...that is, whenever I can afford to do so.
HEALTH/DENTIST/LOWER TOOTH FILLING
I went to see the dentist just 2 days ago...290518 4:15 PM evening. He found a hole in my lower back tooth; which he decided to fill in. Then, the rest of work he did was to give the teeth a quick clean. I was told my next due appointment there was not until January 2020/next year; and, that I must note this down...as the receptionist said they will not be writing me any appointment note...as the appointment is too far away.
KEEP FIT/MARTIAL ARTS
At 56 I feel far less inclined to exercise. Consequently, I don't tend to find myself doing push up's/sit up's/walking/running, anymore. Instead, I mostly tend to stay in/as opposed to go out...and, watch people working out on YouTube...that is, I watch it...but, don't actually get up and do hardly anything at all in terms of actual 'movement'...!
I gave up going to Krav Maga in West Norwood...due to financial problems. I told the guy in charge, Remi; that I would pay him for the year...he gave me his bank a/c. details: sort code + a/c number; said I can make payment in two parts...£270.00 x 2. However, I haven't been able to afford this, yet. The next option -which in the long run turns out to be more expensive- is pay £70.00 monthly, instead; perhaps, for a time I will revert back to this option. I'm still beginner 'white belt' due to not turning up there, regularly; one month on/next month -or, two/three months- off.
However, recently, I did join in doing Aikido lessons at Kingswood House Library in Sydenham Hill. The cost is £10.00 per week/lesson twice weekly: Tue/Thu evenings 6:30-8:30 PM...with one lesson being thrown in for FREE.
UNEMPLOYED/CAN'T FIND A JOB...?!
I still haven't found a job, yet; even, though, I'm doing Job Search, constantly...at: findajob.gov.uk. I remain forevermore hopeful...but, as I get older...I'm currently aged 56...I kind of wonder if I will ever find a job?
I sign on at Streatham Job Centre, regularly, every fortnight.
GAMBLING ADDICTION
My gambling addiction never ever goes away; as soon as I get my hands on any money at all...no matter how small/big...I immediately think of doubling/trebling/quadrupling it/-etc. But, I also know that the reality is...I'm much more likely to loose absolutely everything, and, end up with a totally nil balance?! So, I been trying to gamble low...around £10.00 at most. However, when I lose that £10.00; then, the temptation to chase after one's losses by depositing another £10.00 is, well and truly, dreadful; thus, it's possible to have your losses completely run away if you aren't really careful.
Just last week Thursday evening, I went and attended Gamblers Anonymous at All Saints Clubhous, 131 Cleveland Street, (almost directly opposite London's Post Office Tower/nearest tube station: Great Portland Street Tube Station). There were two meetings, I think, the beginner's meetings start around 6 AM/and, the late meetings start at around 8 AM. I went to the 8 AM meeting. I never feel truly comfortable there...as, in reality, I tend to be a very shy and private type of person; and, voluntarily I have to take the chair in the middle of the room, and, speak to everybody there; this always makes me feel both embarrassed and vulnerable to the extreme -having to trust so many compete and total strangers-; for that reason, I don't tend to go there 'regularly'; instead, after 1/2/or, 3 meetings...I tend to drop out for the next 2/3/up to 6 months long.
ART
Currently, I joined in a Facebook group called: 'Self-portraits Sundays'...I think, I did 6 Sundays so far to date; this Sunday will make the 7th.
I also went and joined stroke victim artist, Lil Sullivan; -(who I first met as a PGTB/Paxton Green Time Bank member at Kingswood House Library)-; who is teaching Portraiture during the evenings...2-5 PM on Thursdays at Ackerman Health Center, Patmos Road, Vauxhall, London.
I also went and joined, for a monthly membership subscription fee: myblueprint.com; which teaches art based video instruction...covering such things as perspective/urban landscape drawing/-etc.
EDUCATION
West Norwood Library, has re-opened, again. But, I must be careful about taking out too many books; because I keep on forgetting to re-new them on time...; which only leads to the build up of further and further fines...all of which I can ill afford.
I note they have 3 things going on at the library which I still haven't checked out, yet...
1> Picturehouse...I think, the membership fee is something like £62.00 per year.
2> Chess club, I think, they meet during the weekends...probably, evening
3> Tai Chi, I think, they have it upstairs...; forgot exactly when...but, I have seen posters/with a phone number on it, being located here and there. (Just worried about the cost...?)
COMPUTING/WEB SITE BUILDING/PROGRAMMING
Currently, I only have one desktop PC to use at home; and, it is running Windows 10 Professional; otherwise, I tend to use iPad 4 whilst in bed. My laptop computer isn't working; and, I've gone and lost my iPhone 5(will need to buy another, soon).
Of late, for the last 3 days or so, I've been working on building myself an art based web site using HTML/CSS; but, it still isn't finished, yet. When I'm done, I intend to house it at the following URL address:
http://www.paulramnora.com/art
I should be working on studying programming more: Python/VueJS/Javascript/-etc.; but, most unfortunately, I seem to have gotten either completely distracted doing other things 'arts'/or else, just felt too lazy.
TRAVEL
Recently, I went and brought a new bike costing £350.00 Carrera Model from Brixton Halfords; mainly because the last bike Apollo Guru Model got stolen from outside of Tate Britain gallery(the thieves had used 'wire cutters' to cut straight through the 2 combination padlocks attached to both front/back wheels). To go with my new bike; I also went and brought 2 x top security: 8/10 rated thick chain lock(s) this time around. So, far the bike is still safe; nothing stolen, yet(touch wood).
Tuesday, 23 January 2018
2017
EDUCATION
NOV/DEC17
I went to LearnDirect in Croydon where I completed doing 3 courses: Warehouse/Retail/Health &Social Care; each course lasted approximately 2 weeks long; and, was paid for by Streatham Job Centre. I did attend, at least, one job interview at Thornton Heath Tesco as a stock item counter but I failed.
2018/JAN The next time I went to visit LearnDirect in Croydon to sign up to do either Customer Service/Hospitality...they refused to let me sign up for any further courses. They said I already had Business Admin Level 1 on my CV. Customer Service was already a part of courses I'd done Warehouse/Retail. Hospitality, was too large a jump. So, I came away feeling very deeply disappointed.
2018 ARTS
Tue 16JAN Went Studio Upstairs in Croydon for my 1st FREE introductory group session, morning only: 10AM-1PM
Tue 23JAN18 Went Studio Upstairs in Croydon for my 2nd FREE introductory group session.
Tue 060218 Joined Studio Upstairs, Croydon for £30 per session 10AM-5PM. The contract I signed lasts for 3 months.
REMINDERS:
060218 Dulwich Picture Gallery sent me a letter to rejoin, membership costs £40.00 yearly.
2017 KEEP FIT/BOXING/MARTIAL ARTS
I haven't been doing too much keep fit, I'm afraid. In particular, running is out due to both legs suffering from severe Achilles Tendonitis.
I stopped going to Krav Maga; which was £60.00 per month because I couldn't afford it. The last time I paid; I did not even turn up for the whole of that month! I think, that must have been OCT/NOV17?
For 2 months NOV/DEC 2017 I joined Croydon Boxing Club. The cost was £26.00 monthly ( discount: JSA/Job Seekers Allowance). I didn't do any sparring there; just, once, with a fellow 'amateur' outside of the ring; instead, it was mostly skipping/shadow boxing/speedball/heavy bags/(no weights)/-etc. Eventually, I had to stop paying the DDR due to my having far too many other financial commitments.
2018/JAN So far, I haven't signed up to do any 'regular' keep fit; but, I'm looking around at different places here and there. In particular, I'm using both the Internet/and, such things as MeetUp app. To search to find different clubs.
I went to:-
JAN18
Boxing club in Shadwell, 63 Martha Street, Tarling East Community Centre, Tue evening.
Krav Maga Tulsa Hill Church (my friend Sunil invited me)
Krav Maga in Peckham Rye Tue evening.
Escrima in Streatham Wed evening.
Silat in Shadwell Thu evening. (Only watched.)
Escrima in Streatham Wed evening Paid £25.00 for 1 month/4 x lessons
FEB18
070218 Escrima, Streatham, Wellfield Road, Wellfield Centre
2018 NEW BIKE
070218 I haven't had a bike since last year Nov17. Today, I went and got a new bike costing £136.00 from Brixton Halfords, Apollo Guru model (the cheapest bike they had available). I also brought £50 worth of Bike Repair cover, meaning labour will be FRE; but, I still have to pay for any needed parts.
EDUCATION
NOV/DEC17
I went to LearnDirect in Croydon where I completed doing 3 courses: Warehouse/Retail/Health &Social Care; each course lasted approximately 2 weeks long; and, was paid for by Streatham Job Centre. I did attend, at least, one job interview at Thornton Heath Tesco as a stock item counter but I failed.
2018/JAN The next time I went to visit LearnDirect in Croydon to sign up to do either Customer Service/Hospitality...they refused to let me sign up for any further courses. They said I already had Business Admin Level 1 on my CV. Customer Service was already a part of courses I'd done Warehouse/Retail. Hospitality, was too large a jump. So, I came away feeling very deeply disappointed.
2018 ARTS
Tue 16JAN Went Studio Upstairs in Croydon for my 1st FREE introductory group session, morning only: 10AM-1PM
Tue 23JAN18 Went Studio Upstairs in Croydon for my 2nd FREE introductory group session.
Tue 060218 Joined Studio Upstairs, Croydon for £30 per session 10AM-5PM. The contract I signed lasts for 3 months.
REMINDERS:
060218 Dulwich Picture Gallery sent me a letter to rejoin, membership costs £40.00 yearly.
2017 KEEP FIT/BOXING/MARTIAL ARTS
I haven't been doing too much keep fit, I'm afraid. In particular, running is out due to both legs suffering from severe Achilles Tendonitis.
I stopped going to Krav Maga; which was £60.00 per month because I couldn't afford it. The last time I paid; I did not even turn up for the whole of that month! I think, that must have been OCT/NOV17?
For 2 months NOV/DEC 2017 I joined Croydon Boxing Club. The cost was £26.00 monthly ( discount: JSA/Job Seekers Allowance). I didn't do any sparring there; just, once, with a fellow 'amateur' outside of the ring; instead, it was mostly skipping/shadow boxing/speedball/heavy bags/(no weights)/-etc. Eventually, I had to stop paying the DDR due to my having far too many other financial commitments.
2018/JAN So far, I haven't signed up to do any 'regular' keep fit; but, I'm looking around at different places here and there. In particular, I'm using both the Internet/and, such things as MeetUp app. To search to find different clubs.
I went to:-
JAN18
Boxing club in Shadwell, 63 Martha Street, Tarling East Community Centre, Tue evening.
Krav Maga Tulsa Hill Church (my friend Sunil invited me)
Krav Maga in Peckham Rye Tue evening.
Escrima in Streatham Wed evening.
Silat in Shadwell Thu evening. (Only watched.)
Escrima in Streatham Wed evening Paid £25.00 for 1 month/4 x lessons
FEB18
070218 Escrima, Streatham, Wellfield Road, Wellfield Centre
2018 NEW BIKE
070218 I haven't had a bike since last year Nov17. Today, I went and got a new bike costing £136.00 from Brixton Halfords, Apollo Guru model (the cheapest bike they had available). I also brought £50 worth of Bike Repair cover, meaning labour will be FRE; but, I still have to pay for any needed parts.
Wednesday, 24 May 2017
240517 Re-joined Lambeth College
STUDYING
0517
Recently, I went and re-joined Lambeth College.
230517 Completed doing my AAT/Associaton of Accounting Technicians at Lambeth College/Clapham Centre, yesterday.
230517 Signed up at Lambeth College/Brixton Centre to go study beginners ICT for 1 month.
ART
Brought a 1 year membership to Tate Gallery starting 1ST JUNE 2017.
So far, I've seen two exhibitions at Tate Britain, Pilmlico:
0517
Recently, I went and re-joined Lambeth College.
230517 Completed doing my AAT/Associaton of Accounting Technicians at Lambeth College/Clapham Centre, yesterday.
230517 Signed up at Lambeth College/Brixton Centre to go study beginners ICT for 1 month.
ART
Brought a 1 year membership to Tate Gallery starting 1ST JUNE 2017.
So far, I've seen two exhibitions at Tate Britain, Pilmlico:
- David Hockney (excellent art works/colourful/stylish/large)
- Queer Art (quality artworks: Nijinsky sculpted mask/drawings of Audbury Beardsley/-etc.)
FITNESS
Did mostly bike riding; and, that's about it.
- No martial arts(too broke to be able to afford it?!)
- No running/walking(legs hurt/Achilles Tendonitis injury)
- No shadow boxing(too lazy/mind on other things studying: arts/computing)
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