Fran Brebner - ramblings of a 20something

News updates

2010-09-30T19:47:00.009+01:00

Ok, so I know I haven't blogged in ages,

but tbh there isn't really much to report.

Work is going on as normal, been away with them a few times this year, sailing and camping, all good fun.

Have had a few big celebrations this year as well, a few big birthday celebrations, and some of my friends have got married in the last couple of months. They have been wonderful occasions. There have also been trips to live tours of Strictly Come Dancing, The Strictly Come Dancing Professionals, Dancing on Ice, Les Miserables and Sound of Music Now I have a few Argyle matches, more work, and some more fab theatre trips to look forward to to see Hairspray and next year's Strictly Come Dancing.

Excuse me - please don't break our stadium!

2010-09-30T19:38:00.003+01:00

Normally when the stewards come to speak to you at a football ground, they tell you to sit down. This was not the case at Colchester the other day when the Green Army were in town. There, we were simply asked not to bang on the advertising hording, as it was broken, in a brand new (well, 2 seasons old) stadium!
The game itself was ok, we managed to salvage a draw, which given the way we played in the first half was a miracle in itself!

Apart from that, it still hurts being in League 1, getting used to the lack of media attention. It also hurts that a former manager of ours (who shall remain nameless) is managing a team in the Premier League. Match of the Day is banned (unless I really want to watch it, but then I still have to turn over when his team are on, which could be interesting this weekend when they play Liverpool). I will be making the trip down West Country in a couple of weeks, which I am really looking forward.

Green Army

2010-03-15T13:25:00.002Z

Thanks to a certain advert last summer I'm now fed up with people randomly shouting "GREEN ARMY" in really weird west country accent at me and other members of the Green Army - and not just at Argyle matches, but it happens all over. It was funny to start with, now however its just really really really really annoying!
Ok so rant over - the other Argyle stuff needs not discussing, except to say I'm looking at grounds in League 1 for next year - vv depressing.

Long time no blogage

2010-03-15T13:19:00.003Z

So - oh my life, didn't realise how long it was since last blog. However, tbh, there's not really a lot happening here. Work is the same as always - busy busy busy.
Have now signed up for Race for Life so stage one of my running plan is in place - I just need to do some actual training for it, it kinda slacked off last year so need to big up the pace again -will keep informed.
The Kidz Klub that I started in September is going okish, the kids seem to be enjoying themselves - just wish we had a few more (and a couple more leaders would be fab as well!)
Am also going to be running a Holiday Club in the summer - why oh why did I volunteer to do that!

So starts the training

2009-05-08T11:33:00.002+01:00

Having watched the London Marathon the other weekend and every year for the past few years thinking that I should get off my lazy bum and do it, I have a cunning plan - more cunning then a fox that's just been made professor of cunning at Oxford University. Ok, well, not that cunning really, I'm just going to build up slowly.
So next year 2010 I will be running the 5K Race for Life, then in 2011 the 10k Race for Life, 2012, a half marathon ( think there's one in Nottingham - not far from here), and finally in 2013 the London Marathon.
I have now started a programme to help me build up to my first goal. The first session was today, and I'm feeling ok, will update next week when I've done my first week.

Update

2009-03-20T14:00:00.001Z

So, what’s been happening? Well, a few weeks ago a group of us went to see the Strictly Come Dancing live tour. It was FAB U LAS to quote a certain Mr Revel Horwood. All the dancing was good (well apart from Julian Clary, but he was just soo funny). The night we went Gethin Jones off of Blue Peter won, which was cool.

So footballing wise, it’s been Charlton, yeah well we lost, stupid ref so not going to talk about it! I just hope Mr Sturrock can keep us up. I was planning to go down to watch Sheff Utd at Home Park, but I was just soo tired I couldn’t be bothered to drive the 5 hrs down there, then 5 hrs back the next day!
That was followed by a trip to Molineux, and a fab victory by the Argyle boys. I didn’t actually see the goal because a steward was standing right in front of me.
I went down to see Reading at Home Park, spent a couple of days there, before heading up to Swansea – well, we just kept taking the rip about the diving by the Swans players, which included the dive for the pen, which was the only goal of the game.
Norwich was next; least said about that the better! I was sooo tempted to break my Lent alcohol ban. I think the next one for me is Blackpool away, then Birmingham away, and the last game of the season – Barnsley at home, which could be mahoosive.

Work wise, busy busy busy, but all good, and am earning some nice overtime! I’m also doing an NVQ in Health and Social Care, got my first observation on Wednesday, and I need to finish some of the work.

As I’ve just said, I’ve given up alcohol for Lent – or rather my boss suggested that we did, and I’ve managed to stick to it, despite extreme provocation! Not long to go now.

Nottingham away and snow days

2009-02-09T16:57:00.002Z

So, what seems like ages ago the Green Army were at Nottingham Forrest, yet another new ground for me. I seem to be doing well for them this season. Ground was ok, nothing really to shout about, but not terrible, unlike the game - annoyingly lost 2-0.
The Green Army were also out in force in Ipswich a fortnight ago, which was cool, as a lot of people I haven't seen for AGES were there and it was really cool to see them. This time the game was better, we managed a 0-0 draw, and played well.
The next games for me Charlton away this Sat, then Wolves in a fortnight, Swansea in early March (another new ground - should be like my 7th new ground this season), then Norwich a few days later, plus maybe a couple of trips down to Plymouth!

So how we all coping with the snow? As it came down while I was at work, I ended up being stuck there till someone could (eventually) come in so I could get home. I ended up being there for like 28hrs, fun fun fun! When I go back tomorrow I'll see if the snowmen we built are still there. Works going ok atm I think, same old really.

Must dash now ttfn

News update

2009-01-04T17:18:00.004Z

So, sorry for not updating recently, but to be honest there isn't a lot apart from work and football going on.

Christmas was usual family type stuff, I was working Christmas Eve and Boxing day, but apart from that I was over at mum and dad's with my sister, grandparents and great uncle. It was really weird waking up in my own house by myself on Christmas Day - first time.
New Year's was at the parents as well, after finishing work at 10pm.

Work's going well I think, I have been there 8 months now and it seems to have gone soo fast.

So that leaves football really, so games I've been to sine last update
Sheff Wed away: won 1-0 YEAH!
Coventry away: won 1-0 YEAH AGAIN. We're not going next year as the last results have been either a 3-1 loss or a 1-0 victory.
Southampton away: 0-0 draw. New ground - was ok, just generic modern stadium, nothing really special about it, apart from our former captain now playing for them. Our fans were once again making most of the noise as there were a lot of empty seats in the home section.
Doncaster away: lost 1-0. Another new ground (literally, it being like 2 seasons old), pretty much same most other modern grounds, but not as big as Southampton. The way we played was pathetic, def not worth taking time off work for!
QPR at home: Drew 1-1. I would have been gutted if we had lost this, having to be on the train at 7am to get down there!
Cardiff away: lost 1-0, vvv unlucky, we didn't deserve to lose this. Yet another new ground for me, and next season if I manage to make it down there will be another new ground as they are moving across the road (literally) It was FREEZING in Wales the weekend between Christmas and New Year, but it was a good game. Cardiff have a standing section, and it was nice to stand at a game again, for prob the last time.
Arsenal away: lost 3-1. Well, what can we say about this. From the moment we got drawn against Arsenal in the FA Cup I was massively excited. It was a fab stadium, really nice seats (when we were actually sitting down - having issues between the people who wanted to sit down behind me, and those who wanted to stand in front of me!). As per usual the home fans were really quiet compared to 9,000 Argyle fans in full voice. I don't really care that we lost, we expected to, we played well, and scored so we were happy. This was def a game well worth taking time off for!

Next up for me Notts Forrest away, followed by Ipswich.

Ground leaderboard

1 down, 9 to go!

2008-10-20T16:03:00.004+01:00

Ages ago I came up with a list of 10 things I wanted to do before I died. Well, the other Saturday I achieved one of them - I went to an England football match at the new Wembley. It was AWESOME! I was a lil excited it has to be said -and I loved it. It was all thanks to my cousin who had an extra ticket so asked me along. We were playing Kazakhstan and won 5-1 which always helps (even if it did take till the second half to score and all our goals were scored the other end).

Now I have to think of something else to replace it with.

I'm doing quiet well on the football grounds - 27 down now, with at least 2 new grounds to do this season, poss more depending.

So what else is happening with you?

Busy busy busy

2008-09-25T11:30:00.003+01:00

So I've been told off for not blogging since like ages ago so sorry. I have no real excuse apart from just general business. So here is a long long long overdue update.

Work is going well atm, have been there nearly 6 months which seems really scary. I have a signing assessment next month, which I hope I pass because I need to really to to pass my probation.

I went down to watch Argyle at Palace this w/e which we won YEAH!!! Second win in the London area (as Watford doesn't really count as London) in a week. Caught up with my uncle and cousin afterwards, then the next day caught up with my lovely lovely sister and her boyfriend. I reckon next season Palace will win as we seem to take it in turns. Don't mention the Carling cup, Argyle just can't be bothered with it, so got knocked out by Luton, a team likely not to be in the league next season (through no fault of their own). It's a really odd stadium, it seems as if you're going into someone's house when you actually go in, and when you come out you can over look all the neighbours. Next game I can go to is next month at Derby where I've never seen us win, so am fully expecting a loss.

Apart from that - can't really think of anything else atm my life is really work, gym, football, sleep, eat, work ........ Am going to see Delirious next month which I can't wait for am SOOO excited.

Will try and find something interesting to blog about soon promise. Until then ttfn.

News

2008-06-19T15:02:00.002+01:00

So, what's been happening?

I have now started working for Sense East, an organisation that supports DeafBlind people. I am really enjoying it atm, the guys I work are great, seem to be getting on well with most of them, I'm getting to know the guys I support, and how best to support them. I ended up going on the holiday with them to Menorca, which was FAB, really enjoyed it, and the service users (the people who are deaf and blind) seemed to do as well. A lot of the bars around our resort were showing the soaps etc, and one showed the Apprentice, which I admit I did go and watch. It was a really weird experience, going to a really English pub in Menorca to watch the Apprentice, rather then the football which I would normally go out to watch.

What else? Well nothing really major, just ticking along as normal, looking forward to the new football season started, working out which games to go to, and therefore when to take time off work.

So what's been happening with you?

Sheffield Wednesday away

2008-04-16T15:58:00.006+01:00

So, thanks to Sky TV, Monday saw Argyle's trip to Hillsborough.

It being on the Monday meant a lot of people who prob would have come weren't able to, however it also meant that John and I were able to go back to the memorial the next day, and lay scarves on the 19th anniversary of the FA Cup game which saw 96 Liverpool fans lose their lives. It was really weird thinking that we were so close to were that had happened, so I'm glad I was able to go.

Given the history with Liverpool, and it being so close to the anniversary, this ground was always going to be emotional to go, so I'll give it a 7 on the leader board, as it was a decent ground, and there is nothing to complain about.

The game itself, well we started brightly, and scored after 2 mins (a fab free kick by Mr Halmosi), but after that was mostly all Wednesday, and we we held on for a well earned point, Wednesday equalising through a great goal.

The "Green Army" were slightly disappointing, but hey we still had a good time, Chris and John and a couple of another guys leading the singing, with some suggestions from me, which included You'll Never Walk Alone, which was again emotional to sing, but glad I did.

Next up for the Mighty Pilgrims, Preston and Blackpool at home, both potentially tricky ties, followed up by our final game of the season, away to Wolves, again vvvv tricky.

I doubt we'll make the play offs, but hopefully next year we'll be back, and make a play for the premiership (don't laugh - stranger things have happened!)

Scunthorpe away and other stuff

2008-03-14T09:12:00.004Z

So Tuesday saw the Green Army at Scunthorpe, which included James, John and me. It was FREEZING plus we lost 1-0 , plus our goal keeper got sent off, but apart from that it was a fab day! Ground was alright, nothing particularly special, will give it a 6 on the old leader board. Next up, a difficult trip to Brizzle city on Saturday, which could be interesting with one of our goal keepers suspended, and our other one ill! My next trip should hopefully be Coventry at the end of month.

What else has been happening? Well, last weekend I went to see my sister and we went to see Spamalot, which was sooooo funny. Before that we watched some rugby in a Welsh pub, which she knows well. Watching England lose to Scotland in a Welsh pub was NOT fun. Still the final game this weekend, plus the F1 season starts so YEAH! Lets hope we remember it for stuff on the track rather then court room dramas like last year.

Update

2008-02-18T09:23:00.004Z

Well, what's been happening?
Have moved back nearer my parents, and more importantly my church and friends around here. I've sorted most stuff out now, and it's looking homely. Some of my mates have already been round for a house warming, which was really cool.

The Green Army were out in force at the Crisp Bowl in LIEcester a couple of weeks ago. Most of our lil group were there, including another hanger on. The match was awesome, WE WON so yeah, a fab goal by Halmosi. Our fans were particularly kind to our former manager, as you would expect. The day out was fab. Next up Southampton tomorrow, and our current manager returning to the club that pinched him of us. Next away trip for me is now apparently Scunthorpe next month (I do get taken to all the nice places!)

Last Friday Steph, DJ, Claire, Tim, Loz and I all went to see Delirious? again, this time in Lincoln. It was amazing!

Yesterday Gemma and I went to Brimingham to see Strictly Come Dancing, The Live Tour. 3 of the judges were there, Bruno wasn't. Len and Craig had an argument (Craig being nicer!) Dancing was great - Zoe Ball/Ian (who won), Darren Gough/Lilia, Matt Di Angelo/Favia, Lousia Lytton/Vincent (something odd happening there) James Martin/Camillia, Letitia Dean/Darren, Chris Parker/Nicole (sooo bad it was untrue, but very funny), and Denise Lewis/Mathew and were all there. Sorry if that doesn't mean anything to you, but it was brilliant, and we loved it.

So I think that's all the major news from here, till next time ttfn.

Burnley away

2008-01-14T14:56:00.000Z

So Saturday saw me visit my 24th league ground, Turf Moor at Burnley. Due to the fact that trains couldn't be bothered to get me back before 7 the next morning, I drove up there, which meant leaving at 8, as John was getting in at half 10. So we met up, and soon were joined by Marcus (another stray we've picked up) Kev, James and a Burnley fan. Now, Burnley and Argyle have history shall we say, and not a happy one. We were relegated there in 1998 and they beat us in the Div 2 play off semi finals in 1994.

The game itself, well we were poor to say the least particularly in the second half, but hardly surprising as the team we put out hadn't played together. We lost 1-0 in the end which they prob deserved.

The ground: Well nothing particularly special, plenty of space under the stand, but wooden seats in the away section. Argyle fans have a chant about northern places like Burnley, which is unrepeatable on here, but its fairly accurate as far as Burnley goes. Will give it a 6 on the leader board.

Next up, Southampton at home on Sat. COYG!!!!!!!!! (come on you greens).

Random randomness

2008-01-07T15:31:00.000Z

So, long time no blog (again). So, How was your Christmas/New Year? Mine was ok, pretty much same as always. Grandparents came to stay as usual, as did my sister's boyfriend. New Years was once again a quiet affair, went over to Steph's with Phillippa and played on her nintendo wii, vvvv cool.

Still no news on the job hunt, but will inform when I have any.

Footy news: Went over to Norwich way back beginning of December. We lost (stupidly), my first game under our "new"(/old) manager. Have already rated Carrow Road, so can't be bothered to do it again! Just one comment on the game, IT WASN'T A PEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My next game was Watford. Another new ground this season. Seemed ok as a ground, however, the space underneath the stand was non exsistent! As it was freezing cold we were all getting cups of tea/coffee/hot chocolate, and there was just no room whatsoever! However, WE WON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Another goal from the FAB Chuck Norris, who we hope is going to stay at Argyle, or at the very very least does not join the disloyal twat at an evil town. It was another chance to catch up with some friends (inc Emily - with me in the pic), and even someone who I hadn't seen for ages, was vv cool to see you again. I'll give it a 6/10 on the leaderboard.

I also went to the Crystal Palace game the week after Watford. Well, what difference a week makes, we looked like a completley different team and we lost. I had to get driven back by my Palace supporting Uncle, I was glad that he didn't mention the result. Again, another chance to see some good mates, which was fabalous (yeah I know, spelt the wrong way, but it's the way I say it). Next up is Burnley this Sat where there is "previous" shall we say as we haven't won there in like, hundreds of years, and we got relegated there a few years ago.

FA cupness: Yeah for the Pilgrims beating Hull, now facing Pompey away, could be interesting. As I'm away that weekend, am kinda hoping it will be on TV, but knowing my luck it wont be.

Liverpool were PATHETIC against Luton yesterday, though actually in a way I'm kinda glad that they got the replay, gives Luton a bit more money which may just about save them.

Anyway, must be off, stuff to do. Till next time ttfn

New grounds

2007-11-27T14:32:00.000Z

Have realised I have been to 3 new grounds without rating them!

First up was Blackpool in October, 0-0 draw but hey. Luckily for us it was fantastic weather, as the away fans are in an open (ie not covered) stand. They are trying to redevelop and it could be a nice ground. However, there were no programmes on sale for the away fans, just rubbish. Will give it a 6 on the leaderboard.

Next was Charlton, also in October, 2-1 victory for us. Was a fab night out in the capital. Ground was nice (I really need to think of another word for that), great atmosphere in the away end. Will give it a 7.5 on my leaderboard.

Lastly was Sheffield United on Saturday, a 1-0 victory for us. Given everything that happened last week atmosphere in the away end was AWSOME!!!!!!! We even had a couple of "Are you watching Holloway", once when we scored, then at the end. Ground was OK, nothing to complain about, same generic stadium as most of the others. Will also give it a 7.5 on the leaderboard.

Next new away ground will be Watford in December.

Welcome back Mr Sturrock

2007-11-27T14:26:00.000Z

So Luggy is our new manager YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!! He did well for us last time he was our manager. Let's hope he carry on where he left off when he went to Southampton.
Also, welcome back Kevin Summerfield and John Blackley.

Wednesday 21st November 2007

2007-11-22T09:11:00.000Z

Well, yesterday has to go down as one of the worst days EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It's very close to the previous worst day of my life, but not quite.
First of all there was the (not so shock) resignation of the wonder that was the Argyle manager, Mr Ian "loylalty" Holloway. After all his preaching about how much he loves Plymouth, Argyle and everything to do with it, how he hates "big money players", how he hates disloyalty to the club its unsuprising that most Argyle fans hate his guts right now.
If that wasn't bad enough, we then had to watch the pathetic display by England. Least said about that the better.
What a contrast to four years ago today when we were celebrating England winning the Rugby World Cup.

Can God use you?

2007-11-22T09:10:00.000Z

That was the question we were asked at St George’s on Sunday night. Things for me recently haven’t been brilliant, and I had forgotten that God is in charge, not me. I am once again having to make some major decisions and have been trying to make them on my own. The sermon on Sunday really reminded me that I need to trust God, His plan for me and not rely on my own plan. That's what I intend to do from now on.
So can God use me? You bet He can, I’m just waiting to see how.
Am I the only Christian to struggle with this?

F1 - end of season report

2007-11-14T15:46:00.000Z

Well, tomorrow is the big appeal about the non-disqualification of some of the cars on the final race of the season. If they are actually disqualified then Lewis could win the title. Even has a HUGE Mclaren fan, I hope he doesn't win it in court, he should win it on the track (and would have done if Mclaren hadn't messed it up for him in China and Brazil) plus however much I dislike the Finnish driver (aka Kimi Raikkonen), he doesn't deserve to lose it in court.
Having said that, the FIA have appeared really biased against Mclaren, and towards the Italian team, and a fair result would be that if the other cars had illegally warm fuel, they should be disqualified.
It's hardly surprising that Fernando has heard the drums (sorry so obvious but had to be done) and left Mclaren, will be interesting to see where he ends up, and who replaces him.
The whole spying thing - I'm obviously going to say that Mclaren were hard done by, but I haven't seen all the evidence, so can't really comment on it. Just glad that Lewis and Fernando didn't lose points. Will be interesting to see what happens with the hearing into Renualt spying.
The next few weeks could be very interesting indeed, as could next season, depending on who joins Mclaren and where Fernando goes. Let's just hope its exciting for the right reasons - as in action on the track, rather then other controversy in court.

Long over due update

2007-11-12T16:35:00.000Z

Well, where do I start? First of all apologies for not writing for months, but things have been, well interesting, manic and stressful about sum it up.
I have now moved into my own flat, which I totally love. I have got everything just how I want. I love having my own space after living with my parents for 2 yrs.
My job - well least said about this the better to be honest, let's just say I'm leaving at the end of term, and have been signed off sick till then. Am trying to find another job for after Christmas.
Have been going round the country watching Argyle, first at Hull way back in August (fine win), Barnsley (stupid loss), Blackpool (interesting draw in the bright sunlight), Coventry (in Plymouth, fine victory), Charlton (excellent win, and a chance catch up with Emily, who was persuaded that night to come, and who I am trying to persuade to come to other Argyle matches in London). Next game I'll be going to is Sheffield Utd away next weekend, and another chance to meet up with the gang.
During half term I also went down to Plymouth, via Bex's Exeter, and came back via Dave's in Trowbridge. When I got there, Pete (who I was staying with) told me that Gemma and Tim were on their way down as well, and we all had lunch together (before some of us had to go and watch football), an excellent bonus to the weekend.
Anything else to report, um, well the other major news can wait till later.
Till then bfn

"We were bottom of the league say we were bottom of the league"

2007-08-23T17:31:00.000+01:00

Well, am now back from camp. It was fab! Apart from the weather (which was horrible most of the time) we had a brilliant time. My dorm - the Sneaky Spies, came bottom of Krypton Kronies (our inter dorm competition), and were bottom all week, which we decided to take pride in, so we did start singing "we are bottom of the league" when we could.
Apart from that, my dorm were brilliant, such a good laugh, even if they did keep me up till 10.45 2 nights in a row! We all learnt a lot from the week, and now I've got some stuff to think through.
So apart from that, there really isn't a lot to tell. Oh - I'm in the process of moving to my own place. Most of my stuff is over there, just need to move the final bits and pieces over soon.

Moving out!

2007-07-31T10:13:00.000+01:00

In a couple of weeks I'll be moving out of my parents - again! I'll be renting my a flat half way between my parents and my school. Last week mum and I went shopping to get sofas, a washing machine, a fridge/freezer, and other fun stuff for when I move out. I am now all shopped out, and have very little money left! All I've got to do now pack up my stuff and move out (easier said then done!)
Have got a lot of my planning for next term as well, and camp is also pretty much done.
Less then 2 weeks until the start of the footie season!

News and information!

2007-07-13T12:20:00.000+01:00

Well the last couple of weeks have gone by so quickly, I can't believe it's nearly summer - though could someone please tell the weather.
So, what's been happening? Well last weekend I went to Silverstone, it was AWESOME!!!!! The atmosphere there was amazing, particualarly when Lewis snatched pole on Saturday, I have never heard a cheer like it at a GP. Practically everyone was wearing a Mclaren shirt, and Mclaren hat - both with Hamilton on it. It was such a shame that he couldn't win, and typical that the year I go, and not support the Finnish driver (aka Kimi Raikkonen) he wins, when he didn't win any of the years I went supporting him. Apart from that, had a fantastic weekend, and am prob going back next year.
Other stuff - met my new class yesterday, which was fun. I've got a group of very lively boys, but should be able to get them under control, and a lovely group of girls. I also got to know the staff a bit better, and they are lovely. I am really really looking forward to it, and also having to move out. Will keep you updated on that.

"God didn't screw up when he made you"

2007-07-01T17:03:00.000+01:00

I've been listening to a Delirious cd recently and one line from one of the songs always encourages me:

"God didn't screw up when he made you, He's a father who loves to parade you".

It always reminds me that whatever I feel about myself, or what's happened in my life, I'm exactly the way God made me, He loves me the way I am becasue that's how He made me, and also that He's not ashamed of me, and wants to show me off. When I have moments of self doubt or low self esteem (which if you ask anyone close to me I have a lot of!) it picks me up.

Delirious?

2007-06-20T15:47:00.000+01:00

The other week Steph, Claire and I all went to see Delirious? in concert. It was amazing. They are a Christian band (hence it being at a church!). There were about 3000 people there, most joining in with the songs, and worshipping God. I got a whole heap of stuff out of it, and now can't get the songs out of my head. I also saw a few children from a school I go regularly to, and the first time they saw me afterwards they said "we saw you at that concert the other night didn't we miss?" I can't go anywhere!

I've got a job!

2007-06-12T20:53:00.000+01:00

I never thought I'd be able to say these words - but I was actually offered a job today - which of course I have accepted! It's initially only for a year, but with possibilities of something more permanent if I don't screw it up.
It's a small school, when I went for interview I got on well with the head and the rest of the staff, and I could be given space to do sporty stuff, and music stuff, which I would love!
More details as and when I know them.

"God has a plan for you"

2007-06-04T20:53:00.000+01:00

How many times have I heard that over the years? The answer is far too many. Now, am I am again hearing it. I am facing a couple of major decisions in my life, and majorly need God's guidance more then ever. The question is - how is God going to answer these prayers? Well, for that one - I'll have to wait and see. Answers come in different ways, and at different stages. The one thing I can be sure of - God will answer my prayers in some shape or form, and His plan for me will happen, nothing can stop God's will happening in my life - even my stubbornness to do it!

Next season's games.

2007-05-29T20:12:00.000+01:00

Now we know which teams Argyle are going to play next season, a group of us are (hopefully) going to plan which games we are going to go to next season. Atm, I'm planning to go to: West Brom, both Sheffield Wednesday and United, Scunthorpe, possibly Colchester, and I've been promised a weekend in Blackpool as well. As well as that I'll be going to the ones I've been to for the past couple of seasons (apart from Leeds). Knowing my luck though, all the away games I would love to go to are going to be on weekends I'm busy.
Will have to wait till 14th June for the fixture list to come out.

Missing football already!

2007-05-28T20:20:00.000+01:00

So the final final of the season was today, and I'm already counting the days until the start of the new season, and more importantly till the fixture list comes out, which according to my sources is on the 14th June. I know I've said this the past 2 summers, but it's the same every year. I can't wait!!!!!!!

"Football, fun and food at Fran's!"

2007-05-24T18:41:00.000+01:00

So last night - well, Liverpool played well, and were unlucky to lose but lose we did. As I said earlier, my home group came over to watch it. We had a whole heap of food (which I'm still eating now as I had bought too much as usual) and fun (except the whole Liverpool losing thing), even if Bill (another member of my home group) and I did spend most of the night hurling abuse at the TV and not talking to the others really.
There's always next year!

Graduation Part 2

2007-05-17T16:59:00.000+01:00

Sorry to anybody that hasn't been through a graduation ceremony, but this July, I graduate for the second time! I didn't think I would be able to as the rest of my class graduated last July, but I couldn't, and already had the certificate posted to me, so I didn't think that I would be able to go to the graduation. However, I got an invitation yesterday, so I get to graduation AGAIN! I'm so excited. My first one was in Plymouth, at the lovely Pavilions, whereas this second one is going to be in Lincoln Cathedral. I can't wait.

Do men have a sixth sense?

2007-05-15T20:50:00.000+01:00

Why is that the moment there is a sniff of a new man in your life, the ex seems to reappear on the scene? Several of my mates have said this, that if you're still friends with your ex, then don't talk to them for a little while, they immediately get in touch as soon as things start happening with another bloke, or potenially happening. Is there some kind of alert that goes off as soon as an ex girlfriend gets close to another bloke?

Champs league final issues

2007-05-15T11:29:00.000+01:00

Next Wednesday is the Champions League Final - with LIVERPOOL playing AC Milan (again - have I gone back 2 years?), and thanks to my home group leader being fab, we're not going to have home group that night, instead we're having a social and watching the match. Some how it's ended up being here. Now, there shouldn't be a problem with this, however, if the worst should happen, and Liverpool lose, as I fully expect us to do (I have such faith in my second team) I have no idea how I will react, which is my major major concern, especially if it goes to pens and we lose it on them, people will not be able to talk to me, which will be really rude. I know it's only a game, but it's like the biggest club match ever!
Ah well, we'll just have to see what happens in Athens next Wednesday.

End of season party

2007-05-06T21:05:00.000+01:00

Have just got back from Hull, and watching Hull take on Argyle. It was a really nice ground, possibily one of the nicest I've been to. A negative thing though - it didn't have any burgers or anything, just pies or hot dogs, so they lose marks for that, so I will give them an 8.5 on the leader board, when I get round to it.

That aside, it was a fab ground, the fans near us were great, but then we all started off by singing about hating Leeds! As it was the last game of the season and the result didn't really matter for either of us, we had a party. The best part - WE WON!!!!!!!

Now its just waiting until next season before seeing John, Kev, Kev and the rest of the guys again.

Cricketing Sunburn!

2007-05-03T20:49:00.000+01:00

Yesterday Dad and I went over to Nottingham to watch some cricket. Recently I've been getting into cricket and Dad loves his cricket, and he's been to many Argyle games over the seasons, I thought I better go with him to return the favour.
We had a fab day out really enjoyed it. The weather was brill, and unfortunately I got major major sunburn, even though I put loads of suntan lotion on, repeatedly through out the afternoon.
I think we're planning on going back soon, but who knows when.
Next up - a trip to Hull this weekend.

46 things Women can't do!!! (from an email from a mate)

2007-04-30T12:15:00.000+01:00

1/ Know anything about a car except its colour
2/ Understand a film plot
3/ Go 24 hours without sending a text message
4/ Lift
5/ Throw
6/ Run
7/ Park
8/ Read a map
9/ Rob a bank!
10/ Sit still
11/ Tell a joke
12/ Play pool
13/ Pay for dinner
14/ Eat a kebab while walking
15/ Argue without shouting
16/ Get told off without crying
17/ Understand fruit machines
18/ Walk past a shoe shop
19/ Make a decent bacon sandwich
20/ Not comment on strangers clothes
21/ Use small amounts of toilet paper
22/ Let you sleep with a hang over
23/ Drink a pint gracefully
24/ Get a round in
25/ Throw a punch
26/ Do magic
27/ Like your friends
28/ Eat a really hot curry
29/ Get to the point
30/ Buy plain envelopes
31/ Take less than 20 minutes in the toilet
32/ Sit in a room for 5 minutes without saying " I'm Cold "
33/ Go shopping without telephoning 20 friends
34/ Avoid credit card debt
35/ Dive into a pool
36/ Assemble furniture
37/ Set a video recorder
38/ Not try to change you
39/ Watch a war film
40/ Understand why flirting results in violence
41/ Spend a day by themselves
42/ Go to the toilet by themselves
43/ Buy a purse that fits in your pocket
44/ Choose a video quickly
45/ Fart
46/ Get this far without having argued with at least 1 of the above

46 is soo right. I argued with a lot of them!

Important Virus Warning

2007-04-30T12:08:00.000+01:00

There is a new virus, code name "work". If you receive "work" from your colleagues, your boss, your significant other, via e-mail, phone or anything else do not touch "work" under any circumstances. This virus wipes out your private life. If you should happen to come in contact with this virus, follow these steps: 1. Put on your jacket 2. Round up two good friends 3. Go straight to the nearest pub. 4. Order three drinks, 14 times. You will find that "work" has been now completely deleted from your brain.
Tell this virus warning immediately to at least 5 friends. Should you realise that you do not have 5 friends this means that you are already infected by this virus and "work" already controls your whole life.
PS; I have the anti-virus programme called "Skive" if anyone is interested.

I'm an (honoury) Auntie!

2007-04-24T19:11:00.000+01:00

About 3 1/2 weeks ago one of my friends, Debbie, had a little baby boy called Alfie, so major congrats to her, and proud father, Paul. On Saturday I went over to see them, and went for a coffee with Debbie and Alfie. They are such cool parents, they are so relaxed, and little baby Alfie is such a sweetie, particularly when his Dad was waking him up, and he didn't really want to be woken up!
While I was there, Paul kept calling me "Auntie Fran", which kinda made me feel grown up.
They're the first of my close friends who've had a baby, and we're all really excited.

More Godly Play

2007-04-24T11:25:00.000+01:00

Godly play is starting to spread at my church, and is really quite exciting. The other Sunday Helen and I did a sesson at the 11 o'clock service which went well, and I think the plan is that we are going to do more in the future.
Next week I am doing a story (or possibly 2 if I have time to learn it) at Home Group, which I am looking forward to, but also nervous about. Will let you know how it goes.

How times change!

2007-04-23T21:04:00.000+01:00

3 years ago today - St George's Day - I handed in my 12,000 word University dissertation, which was the last piece of coursework I did for my degree, and was pretty much the final thing of my course. Then I was still living in Plymouth, living a carefree student exsistence. Now- well, now I'm a supply teacher trying to find a job and still living with the parents.
The next day, Argyle won the Div 2 championship, against the team who were managed by the person who now manages Argyle, Mr Ian Holloway. The two goal scorers that day - Mickey Evans and David Friio have both since retired.

What will happen in the next 3 years? Only God knows that.

Chasing escaping guinea pigs is so much fun!

2007-04-16T21:02:00.000+01:00

Note to self: always have help to stop the guinea pig trying to escaping when trying to move him!
The other day my guinea pig, Chuck, decided that ducking under my arm and running into one of the flower beds, and round and round a very thorny bush, when I was trying to move him from one hutch to the other, would be fun. Mum and I had other ideas though. It was not fun trying to get him out from under the bush, and I've still got the scars to prove it. We did eventually get him, and now he's sulking in the corner of his hutch.

The culprit now behind bars!

Highlight of the game: the pre match burgers!

2007-04-16T20:45:00.000+01:00

Ok - footie related post coming up!
So, Saturday saw Gemma G, Lou and me going to Sincil Bank to watch Lincoln take on Wrexham. Lincoln lost 3-0, and never looked like scoring, and didn't play that well.
During the second half we were trying to decide what the title of this post should be. As Lou kept threatening to castrate the Lincoln players for not playing well enough, there were suggestions related to that, but we all decided on it being that the highlight wasthe pre match burgers, as Sincil Bank does really really good burgers!
Anyway, the rest of the day: we all had a cool day, until one of Gemma's former flatmates decided that she was going to come to the football as well, but said that before hand she needed to buy a couple of things, as well as having to go somewhere else beforehand. Gemma (and I to be honest) were getting slowly more annoyed with this person, as we were getting later and later for the game, having to pick food up at the ground as well! In the end it didn't matter, we got there on time, and got food!

This is Jesus in His glory.

2007-04-12T20:18:00.001+01:00

There is a chorus of a song that goes:

This is Jesus in His glory
King of Heaven dying for me.
It is finished, He has done it,
Death is beaten, Heaven beckons me.

Over Easter I was once again watching The Passion of the Christ, and during the acutal cruxifiction scene, I was really reminded of it that song, and how true the words are, and it's been going round in my head ever since!

A non football related post!

2007-04-12T20:10:00.000+01:00

Having seen how many of my recent posts have been football related, it is time for one not football related.
So - F1 season is underway. Lewis Hamilton has made a blinding start, but having said that, it is still early days, so I'm not getting carried away, but he is doing fab so far. Alonso has made a good start for Mclaren as well, so yeah well done boys, keep it up!
Hopefully Dad and I are going to Silverstone later this year, which I am well excited about.
We'll have to see what happens this weekend.

Slight sense of deja vu!

2007-04-12T15:13:00.000+01:00

So a Liverpool Chelsea semi final in the Champions League - again! This time I don't think we'll be so lucky as to go 180 mins without conceding a goal, or "scoring" enough to go through. Even if we do, I can't see us beating either Man U or AC Milan in the final.
Ah well, we'll see what happens over the two legs of the semi final.
COME ON LIVERPOOL!!
P.S PSV should never have had a man sent off last night - he didn't deserve it, it was a yellow card at the most, a straight red - never.

Jammy Jammy Leeds

2007-04-10T20:15:00.000+01:00

Argyle were so unlucky on Saturday (where I've said that recently?) We didn't deserve to lose (which we did btw). We played really well, were all over Leeds, particularly in the second half, yet they come away with the win! Still we had a fab day out, made lots of noise (as always), and the Leeds fans were also in full voice, which was a little bit intimidating, but was also good to hear some noise from the home fans.
Can't believe that the next Argyle game I go to will be the last of the season, as I can't go to any game before Hull at the end of the season.
I got very told off by John because I'm not going Luton to see the Luton Argyle game this weekend, and am instead going to see Gemma G in Lincoln, which am really looking forward to. Full reportage to follow when I get back! Till then am watching Man U hammer Roma, not sure about the Chelsea game though.

Joys of baby sitting!

2007-04-04T11:21:00.000+01:00

Last night I was baby sitting for a lovely couple at my church, and got paid for it - YEAH (as is usual)! When I was driving away, I was thinking - what exactly did I do? The little girl was in bed, and didn't wake up or anything, so all I did was sit on their sofa watching their TV (last night the Liverpool game - and while we're at it, don't mention the Argyle result) and drinking their coffee. It's the same when I go round to the other couple of families I baby sit for, I put the children to bed, and then settle down to watch their TV. It can be the easiest money ever, as long as everything goes ok!

10 men for 89 mins! or 3-0 and they still wont sing!

2007-04-01T14:25:00.000+01:00

Yesterday Dad, I, Kev, Kev, John, Andy (the second Kev, John and Andy are friends of Kev's who I've become friends with) and a whole load of other Argyle fans made the trip over to Ipswich to watch Ipswich take on Argyle. However, the Lino, sorry Ref's assistant, made it pointless about 46 secs into the game when he sent off Matt Doumbe (pictured) for a so called professional foul when the ref wasn't going to give anything. As our fab manager said, how can it go from not being foul, to being a professional foul, and Doumbe being the last man. In the second half he came and sat in the stands with us, and he got a fab reception from all our fansIpswich did of course go on to win. Even when they were 3-0 up, the Ipswich fans didn't sing at ALL! Our fans decided to have a party, with Andy and the two Kevs leading the conga, and telling me off after the game for not joining in.
Next weekend - LEEDS! We better win else I'll not be able to listen to Radio 1 for the next few days!

Godly Play

2007-03-27T17:13:00.000+01:00

Recently I have become involved in Godly Play, and have put a link to the official Godly Play website. It's a way of teaching Bible stories using props with a script, not using eye contact, then having some "wondering" questions, and having a response time, where the children (or adults) are free to respond to the story in what ever way they want - if that's doing some art/craft, reading more in the Bibles, playing with the things used for that story, having a wonder outside (for adults if there is a suitable outside) or just sitting doing nothing. I really like it. One of the things that I particularly like about it is the way it allows whoever's partaking in it to get as much or as little out of it as they can that particular day, which I think is great.
I'm sure there will be more details about this coming up.

Dancing Generation

2007-03-27T09:58:00.000+01:00

I've only just managed to find this song, which we sang at the Children's Ministry Conference back in January. Helen and I were jumping around to this soo much, it was really quite funny!

YOUR MERCY TAUGHT US HOW TO DANCE, To celebrate with all we have, And we'll dance to thank You for mercy.
Your glory taught us how to shout, We'll lift Your name in all the earth, And we'll shout to the praise of Your glory.

It's the overflow of a forgiven soul, And now we've seen You, God, Our hearts cannot stay silent.

And we'll be a dancing generation, Dancing because of Your great mercy, Lord, Your great mercy, Lord.
And we'll be a shouting generation, Shouting because of Your great glory, Lord, Your great glory, Lord.

Ice Ice Baby!

2007-03-25T14:34:00.000+01:00

Yesterday, Claire (on left), Steph (on the right) and I all went over to Nottingham to watch some ice hockey. Steph is a Nottingham Panthers fan, and persuaded us to go over to watch a match. We had such a fab time, it was brilliant. The Panthers won - which is always good. I've never been to an ice hockey match, and was told to keep my eye on my puck, as that would be the only way I would keep up with it. I will def be going again - in fact, if Notts Forrest come up this season, we've all decided that if the Panthers are playing at home the same day as Notts Forrest play Argyle at home we'll go to both matches.

Unlucky

2007-03-12T15:01:00.000Z

I am soo gutted, disappointed, and every other kinda word like that today. Argyle got knocked out of the FA Cup last night. We played really well, and had our chances, but were just unlucky. Anyway, watched the draw for the semi finals today, and surprise surprise Watford got Man U at home. This has happened the last few years, the club who's knocked Argyle out of the cup go on to play Man U at their home ground. It's a conspiracy I tell you!

Well done - you lost!

2007-03-08T21:32:00.000Z

So Liverpool are through to the quarter finals of the Champions League. YEAH! Cue major celebrations. However - we did actually lose on the night, only went through on away goals. I kinda forgot the whole losing part whilst I was celebrating, and breathing huge sighs of relief at the same time.

Loftus Road

2007-02-26T09:41:00.000Z

So Saturday saw Queen's Park Rangers (aka QPR) take on the might Argyle at Loftus Road. I was really looking forward to this, however was a little dissappointed at the ground, so only gave it a 6 on the leaderboard. It needs major modernising, the seats need spreading out a bit more, and they need to order enough food, at half time they basically only had cheese and onion pasties! However, all the Argyle fans were in full voice and we all had a fantastic time, even though we could only manage a 1-1 draw. Shame the ref couldn't spot a major foul on Luke (or Lee according to the Times last week) McCormick just before QPR's equaliser. We did have a man sent off, but that was 2 yellow cards, and can't really comment on either, prob both deserved. We must do better this weekend, and also when we face Watford in the quarter finals of the FA Cup on the 11 March, 6pm on BBC 1.
Picture of the QPR mascot with a banner about their former manager - Ian "Olly" Holloway, now Argyle's manager.

Strength will rise

2007-02-14T11:19:00.000Z

While we were at the Children's Ministry Conference, we sang this song:

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord. We will wait upon the Lord, We will wait upon the Lord.
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord. We will wait upon the Lord, We will wait upon the Lord.
Our God You reign forever, Our Hope, our strong deliverer.
You are the everlasting God, The everlasting God. You do not faint, You won't grow weary. You're the defender of the weak, You comfort those in need. You lift us up on wings like eagles.

These words really spoke to me, and also ecouraged me, that God does lift us up on wings like eagles.

Rain did not stop play!

2007-02-12T19:48:00.000Z

Have just got back from a brilliant weekend in Plymouth. It pretty much rained the whole weekend, particularly this morning, but this did not stop me having an AMAZING weekend. As usual I spent most of the time going from coffee shop to pub to football stadium (which we will brush over), back to pub, etc, spending time with different mates and catching up on several months worth of news.
I have no idea when I will get back down there, and each time I go down I realise how much I miss it, and how much I miss all my friends down there, and how much they all mean to me.
For now - it's back to the same old routine.

Supply and Demand 2!

2007-02-06T16:57:00.000Z

Having said ages ago that doing supply is fab - well I've changed my mind (as a women it is my prerogative). It's OK unless the school I get called to is horrible, and the children just don't listen to you, spit, swear, and fight the whole time, like they did at the school I went to today. I really hated it, and my voice has nearly gone.
Let's hope for better things tomorrow.

News News News

2007-02-05T20:10:00.000Z

So what's up with me then?
Last weekend I was in Eastbourne at a FAB children's ministry conference, with 7 other leaders from my church. I learnt soo much from it my head is spinning with ideas, and I really wanted Monday off to think about stuff (oh yeah and to watch the draw for the 5th round of the FA Cup - Argyle got Derby at home, how rubbish is that!), but instead I had to work in the afternoon. Helen (another leader at Children's Church) and I were dancing around, trying not to bash into each other during the great worship sessions at the conference, but unfortunatley we didn't have space to do the funky chicken dance on the Saturday night.
Work is going ok - keeping busy due to lots of illness around here, which is good - money wise. I'm getting to go to a load of schools around here, which can't be a bad thing.

Argyle stuff - through to the 5th round of the FA Cup, somehow.
I went over to Wolves on Saturday with dad. Shame we couldn't win!

I'm going down to Plymouth this weekend, catching up with some mates, one of who I haven't seen since for over a yeah at least I think - which I'm sooo looking forward to, and to celebrate some birthdays, and an engagement (not mine before you ask! have to find a decent bloke first)
Can't think of much else to add.
TTFN

"1-0 and they screwed it up"

2007-01-14T16:04:00.000Z

For once I'm not talking about Argyle! No - this time I'm talking about Norwich City, who when 1-0 up against Argyle yesterday, at Carrow Road managed to conceed 3. 2 were great free kicks from Akos Buzsaky, one which only just went over the line, but hey. The rest of the game was ok, not much else to report. It's the first time my dad's seen them win! (apart from the Derby game on sky)
The Argyle fans were, as always in full voice. The home fans tried to sing - but only when they scored, and until we equalised.
The ground was pretty average, same as most other modern grounds just in green and yellow, have put it in my leaderboard.
Let's hope we can keep this up, and hope we beat Peterborough in the replay of FA Cup third round.

Liverpool vs Arsenal

2007-01-11T11:10:00.000Z

Sorry - footie rant coming up. Why did I decide to watch the whole Carling Cup quarter final on Tuesday night? I very nearly switched over for the second half, as the first one was so awful. One of the Arsenal goal's was offside, not that it made much difference!
The only good parts were Stevie G's goal and Dudek's save for the pen (about the only thing he did right all night!). We must do better against Watford on Sat, else we're in serious trouble!

News

2007-01-08T12:30:00.000Z

To be honest there really is't that much to report right now. Over Christmas we had a manic housefull, which was fun. New Year was a really girly affair with one of my mates coming over, and we did the girlly eating pizza and ice cream and watching films.
I dragged my dad to see Argyle play at Derby (which we lost).

Kev told me off for not meeting up with them, so when the FA Cup saw Argyle play at Peterborough, (which is about 20 mins down the road) I went down early, met them off the train and watched the game with them. It was great standing at a football ground again, I haven't done that since watching reserve games at Home Park.

Don't get me started on either of these games. I usually try not to swear at football games, however the ref at the Peterborough game deserved it. He was awful, for both sides. I can't believe we only drew, and now we have to have a replay down at Home Park.
We must do better against Norwich at the weekend, else my vicar (a Norwich supporter) will really be rubbing it in.
I really can't think of any other news to report at this moment in time. Until next time, with hopefully more exciting news..

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2006-12-20T20:14:00.000Z

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone.

Relaxation

2006-12-11T21:54:00.000Z

WOW! Claire and I had such a FAB weekend. We went to a Spa for the weekend. We were well and truly pampered, and we're well and truly relaxed. It was all due to my mum saying that she would pay for me and a friend to go to a spa when I passed my PGCE, so mum, Claire and I would love to say a massive THANK YOU!!
How does the girl who goes to football matches and hurls abuse at football players go with the girl that goes to spas, gets manicures, pedicures and facials?

Get better soon Mr Paul "Captain Marvel" Wotton

2006-12-11T21:48:00.000Z

Having seen the nasty injury Mr Wotton (captain of Plymouth Arygle) got on Saturday, I want to wish him a speedy recovery, and lets hope he's not out for too long, and it's not the career ending injury some people think it is. However, in the mean time, he will be missed.

"He's only got green blood!" (chant from some of the Argyle fans)

Day trip to Brum!

2006-12-04T10:39:00.000Z

So Saturday saw Kev, me and prob around 2000 other Argyle fans making the trip to Birmingham, and more specfically St Andrew's. I met up with Kev, and a few of his mates (a few of who I had seen before at Coventry). We took the pub route to the ground, which was fab - with me never having to buy a round! (the joys of being the only girl with a group of lads!) Unfortunatley we kinda lost 3-0, but hey it was a good day out.
The ground itself was ok (have updated the leader board), nothing special considering they were in the Premiership for a few years. At least their fans were making some noise, which can't be said for all the grounds I've been to.

Boredom Central!

2006-11-23T17:21:00.000Z

The days I don't work are really annoying, and long. I'm now getting into a routine, listen to Chris Moyles till 10, then do stuff for an hour, before switching over to watch old Holby City and Casualty, then lunch, then Neighbours, Doctors, sometimes Murder She wrote, then do stuff before watching Friends at 5.
I should really use my days in a more productive way, like going swimming or reading more from God's word, or other Christian books. Recently I have been making my Christmas cards (need to make more though), and will soon be making the tags to go on pressies. This will prob be about the only year I get to do them, so am making the most of it.
Any one any other ways of living up my days?

News update

2006-11-23T16:47:00.000Z

So, what's happening here? The answer is not a lot. Had our camp reunion on Saturday, which was cool fun, saw some of my friends who I haven't seen since then, and the first thing Owen says "Why aren't you at Southend?" The cheek! (btw - Argyle were playing at Southend that day). We went to the London Eye, which was FAB! We manage to get 50 odd people round the tube on a busy Saturday afternoon without losing any one (despite our best efforts!).
Spent today going Christmas shopping with mum, which was interesting.
Any ideas of what to get my dad?
Anyway, in a effort to make this less diary like, the job side of things is starting to get me down now - like really get me down, but hey God is in control and has a plan for me, I'm just finding it hard to remember that sometimes.
HORRAH for Liverpool winning a match last night.
Oh yeah - and Australia to win the Ashes!

I admit LIVERPOOL WERE RUBBISH!

2006-11-16T19:48:00.000Z

Ok, so I only saw highlights (or rather lowlights) of the game on Sunday, but Liverpool were RUBBISH! Sorry, but we were awful against Arsenal. We can't play in London for some reason, or in yellow. RAFA SORT IT OUT!!!!

Right, rant over now. Argyle played some decent stuff against Leicester on Saturday, shame we couldn't take some of chances to score.

Ground Leaderboard

2006-11-02T15:16:00.006Z

So here it is a leaderboard of all the grounds that I have visited: (can you tell I'm bored!) Most of these are from a post I did earlier, but I have changed some of them.

1=Emirates (Arsenal) 9
1= KC Stadium (Hull) 9
1= Madejski Stadium (Reading) 9
4. Ricoh Arena (Coventry) 8.5
5. Walkers Stadium (Leciester) 8
6. Home Park (Plymouth Argyle) 7.75
7= Bramall Lane (Sheffield Utd) 7.5
7=. Carrow Road (Norwich City) 7.5
7= Molineux (Wolves) 7.5
7= St Mary's (Southampton) 7.5
7= The Valley (Charlton) 7.5
12 Pride Park (Derby County) 7.25
13= City Ground (Nottingham Forrest) 7
13= Elland Road (Leeds) 7
13= Keepmoat Stadium (Doncaster) 7
13= Hillsborough (Sheffield Wednesday) 7
13= Ninian Park (Cardiff) 7
18 Sincil Bank (Lincoln) 6.75
19= St Andrew's (Birmingham) 6.5
19= Oakwell (Barnsley) 6.5
21 Portman Road (Ipswich) 6.25
22 Selhurst Park (Crystal Palace) 6.2
23= Bloomfield Road (Blackpool) 6
23= County Ground (Swindon) 6
23=Glanford Park (Scunthorope) 6
23= Kenilworth Road (Luton)
23= Loftus Road (QPR) 6
23= Sixfields Stadium (Northampton) 6
23= Turf Moor (Burnley) 6
23= Vicarage Road (Watford) 6
31 London Road (Peterborough) 5
32 Ashton Gate (Bristol City) 4

This will be added to when I go to new grounds.

Plymouth, Selhurst Park and Pip the Polo

2006-10-30T10:13:00.000Z

Last weekend I made a trip down west country way. I had a fab time - as per usual. Caught up with a few friends who I hadn't seen for ages, went up to Home Park to watch the Argyle boys in action against Burnley (0-0 but hey great game). Kev, Daz and Owen took the rip out of me for not making it down that often, but it is pretty difficult to go down to Plymouth and back in a day, as most weekends I have to be back to help at Children's Church on a Sunday morning.
On Saturday I went to Selhurst Park to watch Crystal Palace against Argyle, with my Palace supporting uncle. I left slightly happier then he did! (i.e Argyle won, 1-0 thanks to a goal by Nick Chadwick). Our traveling supporters are some of the loudest people around - even on a train back to Victoria after the game. I just felt really sorry for my uncle and any other Palace fans on that train.
The other major news of importance is my new car. Having had a slight accident in Mary the other week, and Mary being written off as a result, I had to get a new car. On Wednesday mum and I looked at the VW Polo, and later that morning I test drove a 2 year old one, which I really liked, so bought it, and picked it up on Saturday morning. I AM MOBILE AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!! It's been so frustrating not being able to go anywhere without someone having to pick me up, or my mum or dad driving me, but now I can! My friends have decided to name her Pip. Other suggestions were: Pippa, Minty (being a Polo), Polly and Ferdinand (so she could be Fran's Ferdinand - but seeing as Rio Ferdinand scored against Liverpool the other week, it wasn't going to happen).
Can't think of much else to say right now, am going to organise a trip to watch Argyle in Leicester in a couple of weeks.

Embrace, Barnsley and Chris Moyles

2006-10-19T19:28:00.000+01:00

So Claire and I went over to Leicester on Monday to see Embrace. They were FANTASTIC! We had such a fab time, except that it meant getting back at about midnight. However, that aside, they were brilliant. It was a fab way to celebrate my birthday.

On Tuesday, Dad and I went up to Barnsley to watch them against the Argyle boys. This was the first time that I had been to Oakwell. It was a pretty decent stadium, definitely lacking in atmosphere - but then it was a Tuesday night so there weren't that many people there. I give it a 6.5/10. At some point so I'll do a leader board of all the grounds that I have been to. Again this was a pretty late night, getting back around midnight. The game itself was good. Argyle should have won (um, how many times have I said that before) but in the end it was a 2-2 draw.
Today - well today was so cool. Chris Moyles was doing a book signing in Peterborough. I decided to queue up at get him to sign my copy, which he did. He seemed a really nice guy, friendly and chatty, shaking hands with every one, thanking them all for coming.

Now I am just waiting for something really exciting this weekend - details to follow.

Birthday time!

2006-10-16T11:26:00.000+01:00

So today is the magic day - I turn yet another year older. Last night a group of us went out to dinner to celebrate. I thought that not a lot of them knew, but turns out most/all of them did, or at least had their suspicions and asked Claire for confirmation.
Due to the presents various people got me I can listen to my Ipod on my new speakers (thanks to parents and grandparents), whilst reading "The Gospel according to Chris Moyles" (thanks to Claire), drinking a class of wine (thanks to Nicola), eating chocolates (thanks to Rob) and the last pieces of my "Cars" cake (thanks to Felicity). Rumors have it that when I see Gemma G there may be other pressies!
Later Claire and I are going over to Leicester to see Embrace - I'm very very excited.
What else is news? Well watched the Argyle Derby game on Sky yesterday (3-1 win to the Argyle boys) while Owen was texting me to find out if people (i.e. Derby goal scorer) was offside. I thought the cheek of it - he was like max 20 yards away, and I was like 280 miles away! He didn't even ask me if I was watching it - just assumed, correctly as it happens but hey that's not the point.
Anyway, must dash now. See thee later.

Sports, sports and stupidity!

2006-10-09T19:52:00.000+01:00

So this weekend saw England take on Macedonia. The least said about that the better - so we wont say anything about that rubbish performance. A couple of weeks ago after England thumped Andorra 5-0 I text some mates saying that it was a rubbish performance and I was ashamed to call myself an England fan. At that time I was being sarcastic, however it was all true on Saturday.
On Sunday I got up at 5.45 to watch some cars going fast in Japan (i.e. the Japanese Grand Prix). With the title race finally balanced it was essential viewing. However, I had to get ready for church during it, due to having to go out fairly soon after it. It was while I was away from the TV that the engine in Mr German's car decided to blow up and had the race to his title rival Mr Alonso. How annoying was that! It could have waited like 5 mins for me to get back - but no! I walked away from TV Mr German was in the lead, I come back and he's gone!
Anyway - 1 more race to go and it could go either way (though more likely to be Mr Alonso.) I'm so excited.
PS 1 more week to go!

Celebrations

2006-10-03T14:43:00.000+01:00

So it's just under 2 weeks until I turn another year older. Every year I tell myself that I wont make a big deal about it, and I wont tell anyone. Usually I get too excited about it and everyone knows. This year however is different, only a few of my close friends know. I don't know why I do this, I just don't want to make a big thing about it.
I am however really excited about what I'm doing on the actual day its self, Claire and I are going to see Embrace and I can't wait. A group of us are going out to dinner as well the day before hand, which will be really cool.
I also do the usual look back at the last year of my life. Well this year's had it's ups and downs, but generally its been a good year, particularly meeting Claire, Vicky, Debbie, and all the other guys at my new church. I just pray that by this time next year I'll be in a full time job, either looking for a house, or in my own house, where ever God wants me.

Top day out!

2006-10-03T14:28:00.000+01:00

On Saturday I (eventually - thanks to highways agencies digging up roads I wanted to go on) made my way over to Coventry and met up with Kev to watch the mighty Argyle boys in action. We had an awesome day out. Argyle were fab, particularly in the second half. What was more - WE ACTUALLY WON! It was only the 3rd time that I've seen them win away. It was no more then we deserved. I was shouting/screaming/dancing so much that I seriously lost my voice, which is now back. Anyway - I just hope we can keep it up.
PAFC GREEN AND WHITE BARMY ARMY!

Alan Smith

2006-09-28T11:30:00.000+01:00

Having said that I hoped Alan Smith would make a full recovery after the FA Cup where he got really injured, it was great to see him come on against Benfica on Tuesday. Let's hope he continues his recovery.

........ it is now!

2006-09-22T16:45:00.000+01:00

A while ago I said that I had a wait to gain the PG side of my PGCE. Well it finally game yesterday. Now I am a fully qualified NQT! Hopefully I'll get a job soon! (or maybe not!). I'm still doing my supply teaching, which is going well. There hasn't been much, as its the start of term, but things are going to start picking up soon.

The Hamster

2006-09-21T12:19:00.000+01:00

I'm sure I'm not the only motorist who is "rooting for" (quote from Jeremy Clarkson) Richard Hammond to get better and recover from his crash yesterday. I just hope he does make a full recovery.

Joys of Sat Nav!

2006-09-21T11:48:00.000+01:00

Mum decided that we needed to buy a generic Sat Nav system, so we did. It is fab. No longer will I faf about with maps, getting stressed about not knowing where to go, particularly when it's just me in the car. It will change the route if you go wrong, or can't turn down a road that it wants you to, generally without shouting at you to turn around, which is just brilliant. It is really useful for me, as I'm driving around to different schools, in different towns, where I haven't been before, and don't really know where I'm going. I can now arrive nice and relaxed, whereas I could arrive stressed (just ask Owen!)
The only thing is, that it doesn't think the part of the road I live on exists, so if I go a particular route it does actually try to get me to turn round.
Now it's like - how did we cope with just maps, and we've only had it a week!

Bye Mr German Bootmaker/Kimi

2006-09-14T09:47:00.000+01:00

So the worst kept secret in F1 is now official - Michael Bootmaker (Schumacher - in case your wondering) is retiring, and Kimi Raikkonen is going to the Italian team (team that begins with F and ends it errari). Most of us in the know pretty much knew this already. Even though at the moment I'm a Kimi supporter, once he leaves to join said Italian team I will despise him. Instead I will be supporting the person who I'm not particularly fond of - Mr Fernando Alonso.
Though I dislike Mr M Schumacher, I can not dispute the fact that he is a great driver, controversial at times, but still great. No one can win 7 world titles (and a possible 8th this season) and not be counted as great. I wish him well in his retirement.

Andy Johnson

2006-09-09T17:58:00.000+01:00

I hereby acknowledge that I was wrong about Andy Johnson. He is clearly not rubbish, having scored against Liverpool twice this afternoon (although there was more then a little bit of luck about one of them!)
How did I just know that he would score against Liverpool having slated him in a previous post and to Ben "Everton fan" Kay (who still owes me a pint from last season)?
Liverpool - you must do better on Tuesday against PSV!

I NEED SLEEP!!!!!!!!

2006-08-25T12:49:00.000+01:00

So I'm back from camp now and am absolutley shattered. Camp was fab, I had a really cool time. I ended up going surfing, and really enjoyed it. It's typical that the first time I go surfing is after I have left the seaside!
Anyway, what else happened - um, we all went on a limo ride, which was amazing! I really loved it.
The other leaders in my dorm and I each gave the members in our dorm £5 to go and buy us a top and accessory, for our last night party. To be fair to them, they didn't do too badly, it could have been so much worse.
My dorm were ok, had some strops but generally they were great. One of them was a Liverpool fan, so we got on really well.
I'm sure there's more to say about it; oh Owen was accused of being sexist, becasue of a joke between me and him about girls not being able to play football. I did also steel his jumper at one point, and was wearing it around camp for ages before he actually noticed!
Now I am catching up with some sleep, and also the programmes I missed while I was away.

Camping in the rain!

2006-08-14T16:43:00.000+01:00

So, I spent the weekend camping at Silverstone (home of British motor racing) watching the GP masters (ie various former F1 drivers, such as Nigel Mansell), and various other races. My friend Elspeth and I had such a fab time. It's been two years since I last went there, and even longer since I saw Elspeth, who I met at a CU leaders training week back in 2003, and haven't seen since (trying to explain that to some drunk lads in a nearby tent was really quite interesting.) We decided to majorly save up so we can camp for the proper British Grand Prix in 2008, as we think next year will be to soon.
Anyway, it was tipping down with rain, and stupidly windy most of Saturday night/Sunday morning, so not much sleep was had by us. However, our little tent stayed put, whereas some guys near us lost their, well what can only be described as a gazebo (where they parked their BMW) during Saturday. We didn't really laugh (much).
The races themselves were brilliant, well except for Nigel Mansell not managing to complete a full lap. Apart from that they were great races.
Now I am basically ready to go to camp on Wednesday, I just need to pack. So I will see you all sometime next week when I come back.

"All I once held dear"

2006-08-10T10:59:00.000+01:00

On the way back from Plymouth I was listening to this song:

All I once held dear, built my life upon, all this world reveres and wars to own, all I once thought gain I have counted loss, spent and worthless now compared to this.
Knowing you Jesus, knowing you, there is no greater thing,
You're my all , you're the best, you're my joy, my righteousness, and I love you Lord.

Now my hearts desire is to know you more to be to found in you and known as yours,
to possess by faith what I could not earn, all surpass gift of righteousness.
Knowing you Jesus, knowing you, there is no greater thing,
You're my all, you're the best, you're my joy, my righteousness, and I love you Lord

Oh to know the power of your risen life and know you in your suffering
to become like you, in your death my Lord, so with you to live and never die.
Knowing you Jesus, knowing you, there is no greater thing,
You're my all, you're best, you're my joy, my righteousness, and I love you Lord.

It got me thinking about a time in my life, a couple of Christmases ago, when I thought that I had everything I really wanted, and I was really happy. I even said to my housemate that I was waiting for everything to come crashing down. Slowly but surely God took all the things that were making me happy, and brought me to complete reliance on Him, so the first line is really appropriate to what was going on in my life then. Also, the changes in my life then did teach me that there is no greater thing then knowing Jesus.

Pubs and Coffee shops

2006-08-10T09:40:00.000+01:00

So I am back from a fab weekend down in Plymouth. I had a brill time, catching up with friends, wandering from pub to coffee shop, back to pub, walking round the Hoe and Barbican with Pete, a friend who I was staying with, and getting sunburnt while doing it.
I even got to see the might Argyle boys in action against Wolves. Before the game I bumped into Mick McCarthy (Wolves manager), and did get a little excited about it. So, we didn't lose like I said, but we did only manage a draw, when we should have won (um, where've I heard that before)! I had forgotten how frustrating watching Argyle at home was. Typically my friend who supplies our goalie with gloves only tells when I'm down there that he might have been able to get me free tickets! He says that he might try another time that I go down.
Owen threatened to buy me another cocktail when we went for a post match pint of non specific, but I managed to persuaded him not to, thankfully.
Now I'm back home, and preparing for Camp, which starts next Wednesday. I've done a lot of stuff, but now have to do some final touches.
Oh - and looking forward to something MEGA exciting this weekend, but details to follow.

Watch out Plymouth - I'm coming down!!!!!!!

2006-08-01T16:06:00.000+01:00

While I was speaking to Kev on Friday, I was persuaded that I should go down to Plymouth this weekend to go to the first game of the season. Well, it has to be said that it didn't really take that much persuading on his part. The ticket for the game arrived this morning, and I sorted my train tickets out this morning - and the guy at the ticket office in the train station has a brother-in-law who is an Argyle fan, so he asked me if I was going down for the first game of the season. I haven't been down since last December, and I am really excited about going down, and catching up with mates, and also going to Home Park again, even though they will probably lose!

So what's news?

2006-07-20T13:58:00.000+01:00

Well, for some reason I haven't written for ages, basically because not a lot has happened.
James left yesterday to go back to America. On Tuesday night we had a BBQ for him (which he demanded), having had a surprise BBQ for him on Saturday night as well! Trying to organise both of them was quite interesting, which was left to me as both of them were at my house. We got him an England shirt with his name on the back, which he really loved, and promised to wear when he gets back.
As term has finished I have no more supply work, which gives me time to work on stuff for camp, which I am getting round to slowly.
Football news: Argyle are playing Real Madrid in a friendly in Austria tomorrow, which is really cool - I just wish I was there to watch it!
A couple of fab players have extended their contracts, which is fab, and we've got a couple of new signings, who I will comment on when I get to see them play.
So don't think there is much other news. So what's news with you?

Supply and demand!

2006-07-07T16:47:00.000+01:00

Have just finished a full day's supply teaching at the school I did my last placement at. I also got called in to do a couple of afternoons as well this week, and have also been booked in for next week. My bank manager might be slightly happier with me now, and I might actually be able to afford the full amount for camp, and also the bills for repairs to my little car.
It has to be said I was majorly worried about how much money I would have over this summer, and if I would be able to afford to go to camp, and if I could pay to have my car fixed. However, as James said to me "the Lord will provide", and the Lord has provided, and I am extremely grateful.
I have now worked out that I have spent time in every year in Key Stages 1 and 2 now, which is a cool thing to say, when I only started training in September.
Supply teaching is soo cool - you just turn up on the day, get told what to teach, teach it, mark any work, and then leave. There's none of this major hassle like proper lesson planning, med and long term planning etc that you do for normal teaching. I love it! (I give it a couple of weeks - then I'll be saying I hate it!)

Penalties, penalties, penalties!

2006-07-03T14:02:00.001+01:00

Ok so England lost to Portugal on penalties. Slight sense of déjà vu anyone? Why can't England win a blinking penalty shoot out? They need the coaches that Liverpool have as Liverpool can win penalty shoot outs. I'm not blaming any of the penalty takers, or Paul Robbinson, becasue it's not their fault. If the coach had chosen the right squad, and included some fit strikers, then we might have won the game. Also had flipping Christinao Ronaldo not got Wayne Rooney sent off, then who knows what would have happened. The ref wasn't going to send Wayne off until Ronaldo got involved. If he comes back to Man U - man the first training season will be fun, plus he will get the reception he deserves at most away games next season - particularly at Anfield!
Ah well that's the World Cup done for another 4 years. Bring on 2010 under Steve McClaren.

They think its all over..............

2006-06-29T20:41:00.000+01:00

Well my final teaching placement is over now, and I have gained qualified teacher status! Just have to wait for a bit to gain the Post Graduate Certificate of Education.

Welcome Mr Holloway

2006-06-28T17:54:00.000+01:00

So Argyle have appointed Ian Holloway the new manager. Well this comes as a massive shock to some of us (or not as the case may be!) Let's hope he does well - as he did at QPR. For now its welcome and good luck and lets see what the new season will bring.

Match assessment - better, must do better still!

2006-06-26T20:30:00.000+01:00

Sorry if you really can't stand football - but I love it!
So England are through to the quarter finals, where we will undoubtedly get knocked out by Portugal. My reasons for thinking this - well, judging on recent performances we wont beat a better class of opposition, which Portugal are. Also, its Luiz Felipe Scolari and he's knocked us out in the quarter finals in the last World Cup and also in the European Cup. One difference, in both those games we took the lead early via Michael Owen. Yeah well - he wont be scoring any goals for a long time to come! I wish him a speedy recovery, and hope he will return to the quality player that he is. Somehow I think he may have played in his last World Cup though - I can't see him still playing for England in 4 years time.
We did play better against Ecuador though, and we have shown that we can score goals in the second half. However now we're in the quarter finals, we need to step up a level.
Ok footie rant over. Am trying to organise a trip to Plymouth in August, but the stupid FA decided that having home games the weekend either side of camp (where I could go down and see them and then head on up to camp - only in Barnstaple) would be LAUGHABLE! Instead they've put a home game the weekend during camp. I haven't spoken to Owen - but I can imagine he's not happy about it. Last year we missed 2 home games, and this year we're missing 1. Opps - I said footie rant over, never mind. Ok so footie rant is over now.
Really it is!

News Flash - I DIDN'T GO TO THE PUB!!!

2006-06-19T19:37:00.000+01:00

Well - this weekend was training weekend for the camp that I'm doing this summer. It was cool to catch up with some of the other leaders - and get to know the new ones. It's weird to think that I am now the longest serving female leader - apart from the three who are the management team, who have actually only been doing it a couple of years longer then me. Anyways - was also busy winding Owen up (who was apparently broke so couldn't afford to come) about the stuff that I'd volunteered him for - like doing arts and crafts, life guarding etc (things that he would really hate doing to say the very least!)
As is normal on training weekend, we went and did some "evangelism with the locals" (commonly known as a trip to the pub) on the Friday night. However, this weekend we had the option of going on the Saturday night as well. Normally, as some of you might have guessed I would have jumped at this chance, but not this time. This time I was far too tired and stayed with some of the other guys watching Narnia. I hope this is not a sign of things to come!
Training weekend was cool, busy and hectic as always but cool fun.

Match assessment - must do better!

2006-06-15T19:29:00.000+01:00

Having just watched the England Trindad and Tobago game I have say WE WERE RUBBISH!!!!!!! Ok so we won, but we played soo badly that we could have lost - and saying that against Trinidad and Tobago is huge. If it takes us until the 81st min to score against them, what hope have we of scoring against a better side - like Brazil for example! Sven - SORT IT OUT! Having said that- we are through to the knock out stages so YEAH! I'm sure more England related posts will be written over the course of the next month or so.

Good bye Mr Pullis

2006-06-14T20:34:00.000+01:00

Well, finally the announcement that we all knew was coming has finally come. Tony Pullis (Argyle manager) has left the building! He has done a good job, but if he wants to go back to the club that sacked him, fair play to him. I hope the board make the right decision about his replacement. There are of course the usual rumors about replacements going around - some interesting characters are apparantly in the frame. Ah well - will wait and see, but for now goodbye and thank you Mr Pullis.

Forgiveness

2006-06-14T19:16:00.000+01:00

Last night I saw a really moving play called the Hiding Place - based on Corrie ten Boom's book of the same name. It is all about how her Christian faith, and her belief in God helped her forgive a Nazi soldier who she had seen beating other women up in a concentration camp.

The book is set in Holland during the Second World War, Corrie and her family hid Jews and did some resistance work. Eventually she got arrested, put in prison (where she tried to convert the chief officer) and then sent to a concentration camp. After she got released, near the end of the war she went round Europe preaching about forgiveness. On one such occasion, a man came up to her, and told her he was a guard at that concentration camp, and has since become a Christian. He then asks her to forgive him. She prays that Jesus will help her to forgive him, and says that she will shake his hand. As she shakes his hands, she is suddenly able to forgive him.

It got me thinking - if she can forgive him for that, how is it that I find it hard to forgive people that do lesser things?

Madness I tell you!

2006-06-01T15:39:00.000+01:00

Having written about standing in the pouring rain waiting to see Westlife - here is the proof! This is a picture of Gemma and me standing waiting to go in. Most people ended up getting the macs - in whatever colour the woman was selling them in at the time.

Final Teaching Practice (TP) so far

2006-05-29T13:44:00.000+01:00

So, 2 weeks down, 4 to go, and now IT'S HALF TERM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. So far tp has been ok, better then I thought it might be. Planning is so much easier for this one, because all the Year 2 teachers do it together, which is great. Last week one of them said - let's do the world cup the week after half term. The ironic thing is - I said no let's not do it, because those that aren't really into football wont be interested and it will hard to enthuse them about it. However, I was overruled, and have since loved doing the final planning and making resources for it. Sheets that I have come up with are going to be used in the other Y2 classes, which will look good when my tutor comes in again. He came in last week when we were having a Japanese day and observed me teaching all Y2 (and my year 1) children how to say 1-10 in Japanese, which he really loved, and he told me that he isn't worried about me at all, which is nice to be told.
Must be off now and continue making resources for our World Cup week.