Getting Old Happens So Quickly.

14th March 2018

It's a fact of life that we all get older but just when we need more time to do what we used to do much quicker, the clock appears to speed up and the finish line becomes much clearer and not so far away. It seems like just yesterday that I was hanging the tinsel on the Christmas tree and already the special day in every Irishman's life is upon us and St Patrick is jigging up and down all around me and for some weird reason, everyone is saying "Too sure, too sure & Top of the morning to you too".

It's always been quite a mystery why so many people in England celebrate St Patrick's day when we just brush over St Georges day without even a mention for some reason but perhaps it's because we have had such a lengthy period of usually a combination of both bad weather and dark miserable days and the excuse and I do mean any excuse to let off some steam and enjoy a party is probably the reason we enjoy becoming Irish if only for a few short hours. I myself like the rest of the people who become like sheep have already prepared myself for the big day by arranging the purchase of a very large Guinness hat, green "Celtic" T shirt and green shoes for the one day this year where I might turn out and look like a very overweight and stupid looking leprechaun called "Peter Hulbert" and for no reason that makes any sense, have planned ahead and decided that against all that is expected, I may actually be tempted to have a drink of something that can only be made in Dublin to quality to be Irish. So why.....I ask myself do I do this crazy ritual with my wonderful daughter every year and never miss. Tradition is the only answer I can offer and it's the one day that I commit to every year to spend the day with my daughter.

So, I have some news for the ones who follow crazy and enjoy ending the day with a smile and not a tear and whilst it's not particularly exciting, it's at least going to caused misery to the grumpy and a smile to the happy ones among us all........and we all know who they are...!! In this time of cut back after cut back, we in the UK are all aware that one of the things that is vanishing from our high street is the local Bank and it's causing much concern among the people who like to see the local branch and staff and down want to speak through a computer or technology of any kind. The point of digital was supposed to be better for all and be accessible 24 x 7 but if this were true, why do so many not embrace it but simply fight it. Well today I found a Bank that was clearly open but not for accepting deposits, withdrawals or complaints and whilst that in itself is a problem, it also clearly states that there is "no fishing" either from that branch......!!   Please have a very Happy St Patrick's Day and drink responsibly and stay safe so that we can all meet up this time next week to say we made it.

27th March 2018

So we are the back end of March and no matter what, we are here and in a position stronger than some and better than others and as such there is no room for complaint in a world where looking back does not work and moaning simply wastes time and energy. Easter is knocking at the door for the most part of my country as many except for the spoilers who spend their time trying to ban or prevent it for some weird reason best known to them.

I was out and about in my fine City this week and whilst I was out, I had a small window of opportunity to take some pictures and share them with you. This piece of fine engineering is a well known landmark which is the bridge over a few major roads that runs down the side of Ponds Forge Swimming & Gymnastic center that is a huge asset to our city as it attracts visitors from all around the globe to enjoy the world class facilities to which it provides to all who visit. You will notice that traveling across the bridge is our very modern tram system that once again serves our city so well.

To the left, you will see the outside of our very special swimming pool and it's leisure facilities and as you may notice in the distance, there are a series of water slides inside one of the pools here to which actually goes outside and back in again at quite a speed and the kids and adults truly enjoy both slides provided here. I am very proud of my City and the way it has recovered from some very testing times over the years that started back in the 80s with over 3,000,000 unemployed to what is today a very successful City with a thriving population and very proud of it steel industry to which was the foundation that our City was built on, although some may dispute that and say that we were more famous for our cutlery and silver business which were world renowned for there quality and style. Sadly, I remember when most of this industry was moved out of the city for economic purpose and is probably made somewhere in the far east today

This week spelled the twice a year event of the changing of the clocks to which I would be grateful if someone could actually explain to me the purpose of this crazy ritual that catches so many out and causes so much mayhem for so many for so little reward to which for some weird reason nobody challenges why. However, for those who enjoy a cheeky smile at those who don't know, here is a bunch of volunteers who turn up yearly at the "Stone Henge" stones and by working in both harmony and unison, they manage to lift all of the stones forward one hour in which to comply with EU rules that all clocks must display local time in accordance with the European demand. Most if not all of the volunteers are druids and as it is EU rule, nobody is allowed to be paid for the nights work and should be proud that they were part of this trustworthy team to which they can share the stories with there children that they were part of the European workforce of volunteers who lifted the 200 tun stones forward 1 hour in accordance with the EU law which saved them from the lefties who may argue that we didn't apply a risk assessment or health and safety officer along with a IT engineer and productivity officer and site manager to oversea the work that early Man managed before he could even speak. One last word before I go, please enjoy Easter and the time we all have. You don't need to be religious of any kind but the period in time is called and known as Easter and as long as I have the strength to speak, I will defend the right to call it that.

3rd April 2018

Can anyone tell me where my home country of Great Britain has gone today. The country of pride in your Town and respect for your neighbor and compassion towards others. Where has it all gone to.

I still remember the days when Whitsuntide held its annual march through the streets to display and show off the congregation and the children used to show off their new cloths. The ladies and girls would wear their new bonnets and the local band would play ahead of the march.

I still remember when we took assembly at school where for a few short moments we sang hymns and said prayers whilst we stood quietly and respected our teachers who led the congregation. I still recall when our local Bobby (Police) carried a small truncheon and whistle and walked our streets, they always said good morning to the public who all knew him or her by name. Where is our green and pleasant land where we used to roam and breath fresh air and where is the humanity & spirit of our great nations gone that gave the title “Great” in Britain. Nobody agrees with the changes to our country, so why do we just accept them as they happen. For evil to develop and grow, all it takes is good to people to stand back and allow it. Where did my country go......!!    

7th April 2018

So, here we all are yet again and my week has been full of it's normal up's and downs and if I (Peter Hulbert) was talking about my love life, that would be bragging but sadly it is not and it's more akin to my normal routine to which is probably more entertaining than my love life. So I started my week with 6 inches of snow on the ground and ended my week with the hottest day of the year so far and to say it is crazy weather is an understatement in more ways than one. My ability to sustain bullshit fired from a machine gun with high impact rounds is what keeps me going some-days as it come thicker and faster than ever. However, I never say die and I am no quitter and as such, quitting is for quitters and the difference between success and failure is the ability to find a way through no matter what.

So if life was so full of roses and perfume, why is there always a smell of BS when we get downwind of certain people. We all know people who are full of it and the stories they peddle is always far more interesting that the people telling the truth, sadly the reality of the BS is what affects us all in so many ways, normally in a negative way more than any positive outcome. However, for Peter Hulbert and his weird world, it is all power for the cause in the end and what doesn't kill me, makes me stronger is what I like to think. So my week started on such a positive note as it was a Bank Holiday in the UK and for the most part, much of the world too and as such it all started a little slowly with many people taking an extended break and trying to locate the rest was a real nightmare. I decided in the end that as so many people were not available or away on an early break, I might as well survive the week by doing something else and ending with a smile than a pile of frustration and because of that, I motivated myself to go out to the countryside and absorb some of natures finest fresh air, while it is still free.
So my all anticipated and eager start to April was dashed somewhat by others rather than myself but I am always focused enough to have a fall back plan and as the sun rose in the eat, so did Peter Hulbert with his camera as always. In the end, it turned out to be quite a positive experience as I rather enjoyed drinking coffee in local areas, surrounded by countryside and green fields to which I always stress that I am so blessed to live so close to.

April 18th 2018

The first real taste of summer arrived with the temperature souring into the 20% C and tomorrow is expected to be even better. I would like to stress here and now, this is not a complaint but an appeal for more after such a long winter and snow was on the ground just 2 weeks ago and as such the sight of the sun was like winning the lottery 2 weeks in a row. My local shopping center was turned into a day at the seaside today and the kids loved it. All I need is a beer and knotted hankie and I'm happy.

I took some time out today to visit my local shopping center at Fox Valley Shopping which was a pure delight to enjoy a coffee and sunshine with a few kids enjoying the fountains and the sound of music in the background. It's on days like these when I realise why Yorkshire is known all over the world as "God's Own Country" and why we who maintain it and live here are so proud of the whole place and it's magnificent history. We might be rough be we are also ready for anything the world can throw at us.  

4th June 2018

So, here we are in June and I sense that you are saying "Why was there no May post" and I would say, Good Point.....!! I would waffle a little and excuse myself before I would think up some excuse to share with you.........The truth is, my daughter was moving home and it was all hands on deck and as my past life was as a carpenter, I got the job of making all the cupboards, wardrobes and bed site cabinets. I also installed some CCTV and hung the pictures, mirrors and hanging baskets outside. All in all, it was a nice change and a real pleasure to help my daughter get a good start in life and hopefully a platform in which to build upon.  May was a time for many a record to be broken in the UK and the most notable was the temperature which set a new record of the hottest May on record. No complaints here then and if I hear anyone moan about "Global Warming", I will kick them on the shin. We had a very long and hard winter and a few weeks of sun was well earned.

For those who know me as the local cynical jokester, I couldn't miss the opportunity to share a picture that I took whilst down in my Capitol City this week and who am I to suggest a reference to whom this sign might be directed at, except that would only ever say in humor that politicians are the main target of this sign and that the warning is to the public that the people who live on this street are the political crooks who rob from the poor and give to the rich. I suppose it is always a cheap joke to send one in the direction of our Politicians and that is probably a term in general across the world but if the truth be known, I wouldn't want that thankless task as you are always between the devil and the deep blue sea and we can't please everyone. Democracy should provide a comfort that we ate least had a say but as we had a say on the future of our country and it's association with Europe to which it is almost 2 years to the day that we voted and still no change, I'm beginning to have little faith in the process of democracy today. I remember when our nation used to look down and frown upon Russia for the dictatorship and no democracy but the tables have changed in recent times and the UK is the laughing stock of the world right now.

 Whilst I am on the subject of Politics and writing about the Month of May, I would like to give a quick mention to the events that the BBC and mainstream media refuse to cover which was the events that took place in my home City of Leeds in relation to "Tommy Robinson" of which I will just offer my thoughts for Tommy and his family to whom must be truly suffering at this moment in time. I will not make a judgement as that would be wrong of me but what I will say is that I have a lot of sympathy for Tommy and his cause and his bravery and determination are to be admired in my opinion and to that end I will say no more on this issue but will refer you to Google and the press who I now believe are covering the story rather well and certainly much better than I could ever wish to.

Oh how times have change. I can still remember when the "Etch A Sketch" was the cutting edge of technology and the comments wrote on this one sum it all up perfectly for me. The age of plastic brought cheap educational tools to the world and as quick as they came, the just as swiftly went. In my lifetime, I can still remember the very distinct smell of "Bakelite"which was a very basic and cheap material that led toward the plastic revolution. It was nothing like the modern materials of today and was highly flammable, very unstable and all in all a cheap and nasty material to be involved with but it did kick of the start of plastic development as it's known today.

9th June 2018

So, we are pretty much entering the center of the 2018 year where the downhill slide back to shorter days and longer nights appear more frequently and for me, that spells cold nights and frosty days at some point..........Ok, I will shut up, we haven't reached summer yet so I will stop now for 5 months and then moan again. I was in a writing mood today and decided to write a few words to someone very special in my life from who I miss dearly in every way and I hope you read my message to them below.
I wonder how many relationships have held firm just through the invention of the phone and then on the other hand how many have been destroyed once again by the phone. Technology is a wonderful thing that helps to bring the world together in so many positive ways and yet it is so often abused by so many for such little reward, sad really when you think about it. I often wonder how our ancestors would have reacted if the technology we have today was in there hands at the times when they set off around the world in search of the new and promised land. Can you imagine if the internet was alive and kicking when the Mayflower set off for Plymouth Rock or even if Captain Cook wad sat nav when he sailed the southern seas. Can you imaging getting a text from far away saying you discovered America or a selfie saying that Kangaroos had been discovered, another weird but wonderful thought would be the reverse of that thought which would be where would we be today had that be the case.......Hmmm...!!!  Ah well, day dreaming is a wonderful thing but the reality is that here we are and it is what it is no matter what you think. For me, the reality is that my life is very dependent upon technology, despite all the problems associated with it. I just hope your world is less fraught than mine is and that your communication is better placed to work than mine is on a more daily basis as my connections in life are all so far away and I am so self reliant on many things working in order to make them work. "Don't ask the next question" as I will not answer it but suffice to say my world is complex and never an easy thing to manage but I wouldn't have it any other way.

10th June 2018

I'm thinking of introducing a change to the way we name our days and true to western democracy, I will suggest a vote and if I don't get what I want, will ignore the result. As such, I propose we change the name of Sunday to boring. "Not boring day", just boring. So from 2019, it will go as follows: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Boring, Monday etc.... If you agree, stand with me. If you do not........tough..!! So, how was your day I ask myself, followed by....how do you expect to tell me as I stopped people writing on my blog. My day can be summed in a few words. Hot, Boring, F1 Canada, More Hot More Boring.......Day over.

Have you ever just stopped what you are doing be it work or pleasure and wondered what life is all about. Are we here for a reason, for a purpose and if so why ?.....What is the reason, what is the purpose or is it just blind faith that we are all here. In nature, nothing happens for no apparent reason, everything has a purpose and nothing was created by or for design. So what is our purpose and why are we all here. We don't contribute positive things to planet earth in a way that benefits others other than ourselves and we certainly show no respect for other animals or plant life that we share this planet equally with but we do take up most of the good things that are created on earth and share non of it in a way to benefit the community of other species no matter what that are. So why was Man so successful when all he did was rape the planet of good and leave a trail of bad behind for the next generation to deal with. Did you never stop and think, did you ever wonder why or like me, did you just walk blind along the road and without a care in the world. Why do some generations and cultures appear to have everything and other cultures and countries have very little if anything at all. Who created this mad world has a lot to answer for and whilst nothing is perfect, the planet fell a long way short of being right first time. The picture to the left is a wonderful image of blind faith and it emphasis's the harsh reality of nature and blind faith in so many ways.  

14th June 2018

So, we finally reached the start of "The World Cup" of football and there is no way it could go by without a mention. I am not going to mention who we show support to or who we miss or wanted to be there (Italy & Holland) as it is too greater loss that we wish to mention and as such I am totally within my rights to say I wish our boys all the very best of luck and hope that we ultimately win the trophy in the end. 

I do find it rather distasteful that as a nation, neither Scotland, or Wales ever show support for the English team when in reality we as the English always support all four of our competing nations as if they were our own. I am beginning to realise that it is more of a fashion and not a true feeling to not like England but our history is built upon success and perhaps that is the envy to which the other 3 are lacking. The rest of the world should remember that without England, there would be no football tournament as it was a 100% English invention. England have at least won the trophy once and have on this occasion managed to make it to the finals unlike Scotland, Northern Ireland & Scotland who show there dislike by refusing any support for the one team with the ability to represent the United Kingdom in a major event. I for one am proud of my great country and wish the boys every success in there attempt to bring home the trophy.

The Countdown Starts Now and Launch Is Closer Than Ever.

30th December 2016

This is a typical view over the Yorkshire & Derbyshire moorland in the middle of winter. The sky was quite blue and the sun was dropping to the west.

Its getting quite late in the afternoon and as you can clearly see, the Sun is settling down for the night in the distance.

These guys were super curios in the end and drowned out the silence with there constant Ba ba baaaa but it was quite funny as they looked liked they knew what each one was saying. The light was good for photography and I wish I had brought my camera, as it was, I just had my phone with me to at least capture a record of the moment.

Looking west and down the valley toward the distant rolling hillside of the Derbyshire border. In the bottom of the valley is Dam Flask of which is a great sight to see when the sun goes down as it creates a very dark looking stretch of calm water that is very mystical.

Above, the sheep had just been provided with there daily feed and it was clearly gratefully received as it's going to be dark in about 2 hours and very cold tonight

Looking down upon Dam Flask provides a view and impresion of just how low the lake itself is. The water always looks so black because of the shadows created my the hills as the sun drops in the distant background.

Looking back across the lake at the start of dusk provided the lake with so many features of colours to which I now regret not bringing my camera with me. However, my phone captured the moment admirably and I can't complain.

The sound of silence is only broken by the deafening sound of extreme silence. This time of day always creates such a spectacle of colour over the lake with the clouds appearing to be pink in the reflection of the lake..

Is The World Going Into Freefall Madness.

22nd December 2016

"What the Hell is Going On"................is the world going crazy?. In one week I hear that a Rusian Ambasadore to Turkey as assasinated by a Turkish Security/Police officer, followed by a mass killing of the German shoppers in an open air market in Berlin. "What is all this insanity about". It's suppsed to be the season of goodwill to others which is not a specific religious festival or tradition, just a simple simble of hope to all to show a little kindness to others and for some reason this is a signal to certain types to take presidence to this and kill others..!!. All I can say for them at this stage is I hope they are forgiven one day and come to terms with what they have done.

I have a theory about bahaviour and responses to action etc and it is a none proven theory but I susspect that if put to a vote, the majority may well agree with me and that is that love is better that hate and peace is better than war but for some weird reason, Politicians have not worked out how to profiteer or gain power through peace, unly war and dictation for some reason. For those who are contemplating anger, frustration or response to power struggles, please tell me that the picture to the left would help to calm you down in some way and not make you more angry and to that end I will feel my theory is 100% proven and successful in your individual case. If you disagree, please leave your reasons below in the space provided.

If you did write in the space provided or silently disagree, perhaps you saw the truck in the background and not the lady.......

The UK is poised and awaiting a major storm to hit our shores, I say poised but in truth I could not give a toss as in reality there is nothing I can do about it, However, I suppose it is better to be prepared in the old fashioned way of fore armed is to be for-warned but in this case it is just strong wind, rain and snow and Im sure that Eskimo's would laugh is they say it and simply take it all in their stride. Here in my part of the world (Yorkshire) we generally take it in our stride as snow is expected for Santa to do his work and we love a good moan about something and the weather is always a great reason for conversation of some kind.
I heard a story break today that whilst it will turn stormy and cold for the next few days, it will be unusually warm on Christmas day.

I am still at a point in time where I have not decided exactly what I am going to be doing at Christmas but suffice to say it will be a bore and non exciting in so many ways. However, looking forward to the horrizon, the New Year has much more values atatched to it in my world and for me, it can't come around quick enough but whilst Im waiting, the Christmas festival does give me a good excuse to smile with a cold beer while watching the time go bye and prepare myself for a long time with no beer while focusing upon duties more pressing. It is common knowledge that I am in the process of a move and over the Northern border allows me some special changes in my life and as such I am focused upon whiskey and strange money with free prescriptions and sensible people for a few years. My final location yet to be confirmed but probably already decided for so many logical reasons.

 This week brought me an amusing moment of crazy where I passed a local house of preaching in West Yorkshire (Bradford) and noticed a pile of sandles and shoes, which in itself was a little strange to me but when I saw what was atatched to the bike stand, I found myseld even more amused and as such felt compeled to take a picture for my own amusement in which I now share with you all in the hope that you see the humour and not to critisise the insigator. In order to balance up the tone of this joke or humour, I have placed another picture below of an even more rediculous situation to which made me smile as the logic of such an idea of assuming this would prevent the vehicle being removed, stolen or otherwise is beyond even my wildest imagination, However, it did make me smile.

Please remember it is the season to be merry and have a wonderul Christmas and stay safe so we can all meet up back here in the start of another week of humor and sarcasm.

6 Days To The Fat Man In The Red Coat

19th December 2016

The Global Madness to which goes under the banner of Christmas continues and I still ask myself the obvious question of "Why". Maybe it is me who is getting grumpy but I remember when we visited our families at Christmas and often just baked a cake or mince pies and took them round as a present but today it is a total commercial market of who can spend the most on others and then behind their back, discuss behind closed doors just how little they spent on you..!!

When I see the news at night of people round the world fleeing for their lives, I ask myself what they will get for Christmas and how much our world does not value money and posessions that are fundamental to life, when there are people dying for simpe needs like fresh water or a portion of food. The commercial world has so much to answer for and humanity is no longer a reality in the daily lives of others.

I was in my city centre today and as one might expect, the

 chaity collectors were out in force and with little enthusiasm

except to say that they were presumably offering there time for free "I hope". However, what I noticed in the crowds was just how many people stepped to one side to avoid the request for some money, or worse still was the embarassment of watching people lok deep into the darkest corner of their wallet or purse to find the smallest amount of currency they could find and even then it was on the basis that it would be more beneficial to them to get rid of, than actually feel generous about helping someone with a small token of kindness that may affect there Christmas in such a positive way and deep down I felt quite ashamed of what I saw.

The will of the world to help others is one that appears to have lost us all over the last 30-40 years and perhaps our values have changed to the point of insignificance and I for one would hope that it changes backwards in so many ways.

I do have a theory about much of this bad feeling and it is often self inflicted by charities and such like. I personally remember the Salvation Army using colelcted monies to trade on an investment program within the banking world that turned out to be a scam, the bad press that hit the headlines was that £25,000,000.00 was lost to a banking scam and this is just one of many countless charities that are at best "questionable" or dubious for so many reasons. I also anger at what is described as "Expences or Trustee Allowances" that are taken out of charities funds to see so called celebraties compensated for there modest contrabution toward the so called cause, they should be ashamed.

 The way I view Santa is through a cunical eye and sarcastic offering. I truly belive in the world being kind to others and for me, why not use that time as Christmas but when you see that the self inflicted death rate goes up (Suicide), Divorce rate goes through the roof and family feudes goes mad then I will always ask myself "What Good Will". I saw on the news our wonderful Prince Harry helping kids in Africa which was such a delight to watch and then when I see how many kids just want someone to play a game with them, spend some quality time teaching them etc, I ask why no one follows Harry in a local way and puts a smile on someones face for free. Maybe if you are reading this, you should just do one kind gesture for someone and spend a morning or afternoon helping someone for free and just see how good it makes you as well as them feel inside. To put it in retail terms it's "Buy One Get One Free". What could it hurt to show a little kindness to others this of all weeks ?.

For those who are with families this year, I hope you all have a truly wonderful time and for those who's families are away, overseas, working or otherwise not with you, please spare them a kind thought of good times and if possible, give them a call or something. It will make you feel better and also brighten up their day so much. For me, Im not 100% clear what Im doing this year but what I do know is what Im not doing and despite 18 years of so called closeness of freindship, have decided that Bullshit is bullshit no matter what trimmings it has on it and as I have always been regected at Christmas, bank holiday or any other event, I have turned my back forever in view of a more optimistic future and positive focus on my own life. Im very posstive about the new events in my world and expect that 2017 is going to be a bright start and a reality check to my life in the direction to which I am heading. If you want to know what they are, it's quite simple and on a need to know basis and as you do not need to know, you can simply leave yourself wondering why I never told you about the good things in my world and how the bad things are left so far down the road that I no longer care enough to share that information. If you do see Santa, please thank him for my present as it truly was a gift from God and something that a price cannot be placed upon it but suffice to say it is all I ever dreamed of and it is something that will last forever and has no possibility of "Refund" in any way.

Merry Christmas All From The Wonderful World Of Peter Hulbert and please go safe, if you are having a drink, please don't drive and lets see you all back here in good spirit in 2017. I will leave you all on a positive note with a local rendition of some mates of mine who are hoping to raise lots of money over Christmas with a great and funny song for charity, Good Luck Guys and God Bless.

The Crazy Week Of December

9th December 2016

The wekk started out totally normal "although Im not sure what normal is these days" and whilst the weather was ok this week, people certainly are not. The madness of people who belive there own lies goes on and to those who know me, you will know what Im refereing to.

It was a good week is some respects as the Monday blues soon passed over, followed by the Tuesday cray catch up which meant a trip to the office in Holmfirth and a cup of tea in my favourit cafe "Sid's Cafe" most famous for the point used in the filming of the last of the summer wine series that frequented our TV's for so many years.

My Wednesday was a little mental at times too, I had a meeting to attend but as it was warmer here that it is in Greece, it was difficult to predict how to dress or more to the point how others may dress. The meeting went well and then it was a drive back over the hills as I promised to meet up with some friends at Meadowhall for drinks and lunch and what should have been 1-2 hours of chatting, ended up being 5 hours and a Taxi drive home due to the inability to see the car through the blurred vision produced by so much beer and whiskey.

Meadowhall has excelled this year with it's wonderful Christmas display to which they always create such a wonderful atmosphere in which to shop and it's such a family friendly place to be and I recommend it to you all.

My weekend is dedicated to my very best friend in the world who is not here with me right now but overseas and due back soon, and my daughter to whom is going out on Saturday to the o2 theatre to see a live act of the Everly pregnant brothers to whom are a huge act here and have to be seen live to appreciate the atmospher of such comedy.

My history and connection with business and based upon experience tells me that anything of commen sense with stop this week and right through the Christmas period and what will be will be and what won't be won't be. Real deals will happen and fantasy is always fantasy and as such we will start ober in 2017 with a fresh smile and a positive attitude of going forward.

 If you are intending on pissing someone off this week, beware as they may have CCTV and that probably says more about them than it will about you. Anyone with CCTV is automatically a susspicious person as they need more protection from the rest of us. I have a B_tch of a neighbour and her husband is a Tw_t to whom no one ever speaks to, they have been involved in Dog fighting, arguments, threats of abuse and the list goes on and this week it was my turn to piss them off. Ha ha haaaa........they can't touch me with a barge pole but what I can say is it was super funny watching them try. The big problem with them is he is a dirty minded pervert whom is very dissliked by all because he is an alcholic and she is a nasty peice of work who just loves trouble, I hasten to say one wrong word in my face and they will rest easily with a lengthy sleep and a peaceful few days nursing the sore point of contention.

Im looking forward to some news from York and Turkey over the coming few days and if that news comes, I shall be dancing in the street in January if not before.

Can I just offer a health warning to anyone who may be looking to purchase some mince pies from Iceland this year, check out the package and you may need to smell the content to satisfy yourself that it does not smell of fish. If we are to belive the packageing, the content of these pies is "Minge" and it's very much an aquired taste in anyone world. What I would say is a fresh one is much better than an old or out of date one. These were found on a shelf in an Iceland in Sheffield and whilst it might be a special offer or taste, I would prefer the traditional ones as I know where they have been and what they are made of, the last thing I would want to find in these would be a curly hair or even worse. I like a bit of Christmas spirit but somethings are taking it too far and Im not 100% sure they are approved by Santa or any of his Elf's but it could explain via a process of eliminination just how Rudolf got his red nose or why Santa always says "Ho Ho Ho". It does beg the question why Santa gets a mince pie in every house he visits and probably explains why he empties his sack so often and rumiges in so may stockings in such a short period of time. I suppose I would be the same if I had not had any "Ho Ho Ho" in 12 months too.

December 2016 & Winter Is Here

5th December 2016

What can I say that will not be said by everyone writing a diary in my part of the world, fog, fog, fog and more fog. It was so thick when I arrived back on planet earth and the sun barely broke through although toward the later part of the afternoon, it did show it's face briefly. However, I did say briefly as it showed it's face at 3.00pm but by 3.30pm it had gone for good and the temperature dropped so quickly that the inevitable happened and the fog simply came back with a vengeance and was very thick on the M1 motorway as I headed south for about 20 miles.

The weekend was something that was affected by the sad news about Andrew Sachs and the sad news of his end to his life. It was sad because we all grew up watching this wonderful performance as Manuel the Spanish waiter in Faulty Towers and brought so much happiness to so many fans.

I have to venture out tomorrow and I'm hopeful that the fog has lifted before I set off as it is very dangerous on the roads with so many ignoring the speed signs and driving like they have nine lives. I will up-date you all about my day out when I return tomorrow and share where I have been and what I got up to.

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Peter Hulbert : A Week Of Reflection

Peter Hulbert : A Week Of Reflection: 19th November 2016  



24th November 2016

Its been a very event full week to say the best, in fact if ever there was a week where many things happened except the ones that you planned for, this was it. As many people know, most of my quality friends come from overseas and they are all irreplaceable for so many reasons but while each and every one has there own culture, character and charm, they all share morals that are without question and would shame people in my country who claim to be friends.

Well, I suppose you want at this point to know what did go right........or wrong depending upon your attitude. In truth, nothing went right this week and everything got delayed because of the things that went wrong. However, delays are part of life and so are the events that we never planned for. There is a wonderful motto as used by the English desert rats in WW11 which is "Expect the unexpected" although quite how you expect the unexpected is beyond me but I do take the sentiment and understand the message it offers.

My week started by a call from my dearest and most loyal friend from a country far far away whom had an accident and fractured there ankle and whilst it was not a full blown break, these things are so painful in so many ways and cause so much inconvenience to ones daily life, the knock on affect was to tumble down the line and cause myself much concern in so many ways. However, as is the nature of the beast, a one legged friend is a thousand times better than the two legged back stabbers I have in abundance here in my world and life and despite the pain, they found the strength to continue albeit in a slower form.

As the festive season has kicked in here in the UK, my week of post office parcels and deliveries has been many and the excitement of opening what almost always turns out to be something boring and less exciting as one expected gets me through the days and weeks sometimes. I am planning to visit my City next week to view the Christmas lights and atmosphere in all it's splendour and as usual, I suspect will end up in some bar with my daughter having a beer and burger.

I will thank you for your support in reading the daily life as boring as it is but hey ho, it's sometimes better to read about my life than worry about your own.

Floods Of Sheffield In November 2016

21st November 2016

The Buzz word for today is "Wow". We were told that flooding only takes place every 400 years in Sheffield but once again, there is a slight mis-calculation of about 390 years as the place is suffering high river water levels and road flooding in many places in the City with major problems with both traffic and even to the point that the Supertram has been affected.

Below are a few short videos from the last time we suffered this fate in Sheffield and fortunately accidents and injuries were down to a minimum but sadly one very young boy playing by a river in millhouses park was washed away and drown.

The building to the left & right in this picture was made famous by Mr Tony Blair who suggested that Forgemasters (the buildings in reference) were being conned by Iraq who were in fact making the worlds biggest guns and placed an order with Forgemasters for Gas pipes to which Mr Blair said was huge gun barrels and thus resulted in the Iraq war. The result being many lost lives and injuries, instability in the Middle East and Islamic fractions world wide turning toward terror.

As you will see by the depth of the water levels on Brightside lane Sheffield, the water reached over the top of car roofs and many were simply washed away. From my own memories, I always remember the air sea rescue helicopter lifting people out of a flooding building in Sheffield, not an everyday event for my City.

Congratulations !!

18th November 2016

I want to dedicate this post to a very dear friend of mine from a place far away right now but to whom will be on our shores very soon.

This person to whom I have decided to protect there identity until they allow permission to use there name and details has climbed the biggest mountain ever over the last few years but in particular 2016 which has seen my friend battle every obstacle ever and overcome tragedy and adversity on a grand scale, only to keep picking themselves up on each and every occasion and carry on through to the finish line.

My friend had a dream of becoming a Doctor from a very early age and whilst it has yet to be confirmed, that day came today and the reward for such dedication is something I'm truly proud to share with everyone I know. My friend spent some 6 months in reviser school after studying for 4 years and over the last 6 months has had exam after exam and despite holding a job and long distance travel to and from to work & school, somehow found the strength to keep going and see it through. Amongst many prestigious positions of responsibility held along the way, the one memorable one to myself which I was so proud of was the President of the student Union.

When I reflect back over the last year especially, I remember so many down moments and so few up ones but it's not the struggle that I remember today but the moment of joy which came today and the reward for all that dedication will be success on a grad scale.

I want to show my gratitude to my friend for all the pain and suffering and dedicate a song for them to hopefully enjoy and see the meaning and intent of such a powerful tune:

  

My second dedication is in memory for my friends family whom I know was there in a spiritual way to watch over the whole process and send a message of hope from where they are today.

The USA Presidential Elections 2016

9th November 2016

Wow, who would have bet on the result of Donald Trump entering the Whitehouse except to apply for planning permission to turn it into another Trump Tower. Well in truth, many of us saw it coming and it was clear to see. It is the same ethos of the BREXIT syndrome, the simple truth is people voted for change, even non specified change such as Brexit. We don't need it spelling out, it plain and simple that across the world, the people and masses are tired of what's happening in their lives and want change. We want peace, we want corruption to end, we want fairness and we want to enjoy our lives together. I can't speak for Trump but what I can say is it is a clear signal to the world that people in the USA want change. I can't speak for my Government but once again, the majority voted for change. Stop calling us stupid, we are not stupid, but stupid people are calling us stupid.  

I would like to wish Mr D Trump every success with his appointment and lets all pray that this a another opportunity to cold water on any talks of war and that the whole world can learn to get along together and share our space on the planet in peace.

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14th November 2016

Today is a bit of a weird one in as much as that the whole world is excited about the phenomena which is taking place right now in our skies, "The Super Moon". We have not been so lucky here in the UK as it's a little cloudy outside, although for about 10-15 minuets, there was a break in the cloud enabling me to see what is something quite weird. If we are to believe the experts, it will be over 50 years to the next one and I suspect I will miss it.

My weekend passed without drama and whilst I was invited out to my Daughters for Sunday lunch, I was pleasantly surprised at the wonderful detail and quality of the meal, to which I truly enjoyed. My daughter and her partner made a 1st class lamb hot pot to which was truly a delight.

I'm routing for someone very special this week who is feeling so alone while studying for the final event and exam on Friday to which I am fully confident they will pass which is their PHD exam and will grant them the privilege and status of Doctor from Friday and has made me so proud and honoured to be a part of. I have never witnessed someone go through so much hard and testing times and come through to be stronger and display such qualities that would put so many to shame.

There are many good things planned for the week ahead and in order not to bore or create a lack of interest, I have decided to keep this posting short so as to provide some better updates as the week goes by.

I want to thank you all for your support on the twitter account and facebook as well as the google + which seems to offer you all a smile at the jokes and pictures.

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15th November 2016

Today (Tuesday) was a bit of a long haul as there was little to do and as such the day simply drags by. However, to flash through my day would at least be fair to share it with you.

It started out rather a mild day with broken cloud and occasional bright spells of sun light and as it was at least dry, a walk was the order of the day. I am as I have mentioned on many occasions rather a lucky person in that my local park is a very urban affair, surrounded by trees and wide open spaces with a small lake with fishing platforms on for anglers and cutting right through the park from one end to the other is a stream to which my daughter used to catch stickleback in some 18 years ago.

Oh how the years fly bye as she is now planning for her wedding day in the distant future. Im so proud that she has her own home and truley lovely partner and it's quite a rare thing today to see people so happy and despite the struggle of life, the one thing that is very noticable is that they are truly happy with each others company which to me, is really important.

My good friend will be wakening up in a few short hours and they have two more days of study before the big day that they worked so hard for and will result in a highly qualified position of responsibility to which they truly deserve.

I have been reading many news items today in regards to BREXIT to which some are frankly disgusting and should be treated with contempt. This country have a vote, it was a very simple vote of Yes - No. Yes to stay in Europe or No to Europe and leave. Im sick and tired of high profile politicians bleating on and suggesting we are stupid and conned. I am not stupid and was not conned. I know what "In or Out" means and I voted out as did the majority of this country, so why do those who do not respect democracy recognise what we the people voted for and realise it is they and not us who are stuipd and don't get it. We don't give a toss what the deal is or was, we want out. 

Happy Halloween 2016

30th October 2016

I would just like to wish all of my friends and followers a Very Happy Halloween and please stay safe and enjoy the fund and parties.

Despite what people may think, I did not model for the picture below but I might know who did ?

I may share that persons name one day but for now my lip's remain tightly closed....!!

I understand the quote below could be argued in court or questioned in a debate, I may even loose but who gives a toss, I sure don't....!!

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1st November 2016

Well the big Halloween came and past without too many issues, I saw my first ever killer clown disguised as a 12 year old kid with a red nose and bright yellow hair. He didn't look like a killer but if the press were to be believed, he is probably a mass murdered and responsible for terrorising half the world. Me, I prefer to see him as a crazy kid dressed up for a bit of fun.

There seemed to be many kids out this year with pumpkins and one wonders why schools don't embrace the opportunity to show the kids how to cook a pumpkin and make a soup, a vegetarian lunch and a pumpkin pie out of the contents to encourage the kids to eat healthy, be creative and embrace the whole experience from a more positive way. One might say "Buy one, get 3 more free".

I have been having some issues with my computer this week and after reading on the internet, I'm not the only one. It appears that when up-grading to windows 10, some of us have lost the sound on our computers, fortunately I have another to fall back on until the problem is resolved.

My best friend is away for a few days this week and due back on the 4th and to say It has been quiet would be an understatement, however, the rest of my week has been very normal in so many ways. I'm heading out in the morning on business and my meeting on Monday was very positive and had many good things come from the meeting.

We have a very big event arriving in the next few days here in the UK. The 5th November is the time we remember Guy Fawkes who in truth was a terrorist and tried his very best to blow up our parliament, some might suggest it should be done again but not I. Its really a commercial event to sell fireworks and burn rubbish on bonfires, many of our parks and recreation areas have fun fairs and events happening, it's kind of weird to celebrate what was an attempted mass murder event but I suppose we are British and it only makes sense to us.

Autumn is in full swing now and whilst Monday the 31st was truly a very warm day, it's predicted to turn very cold from the 2nd onwards and that would suggest that my wearing of shorts every day may well be ending for a while.

I hope you enjoyed my swipe at humour above with the pictures and comments, they were selected to coincide with Halloween and despite people asking, it truly is not my butt as the pumpkin although I do know who's butt it is and I did have a hand in the creation. (It was my idea)

I would like to thank you all for supporting my Twitter feeds, it's truly appreciated and you are still welcome to follow my Facebook account if you wish and as always, your support is truly appreciated.

I hope you enjoyed a moment in the world of Peter Hulbert through my blog site and I will endeavour to keep it updated on a regular basis to keep the interest flowing.

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2nd November 2016

Today was a super day !. Have you ever had one of those truly lazy days when you wake up late, have a shower late and simply enjoy th elongest cuppa in the morning in total peace and quiet. "That was me today". I had the laziest day ever as I had no reason to go over the hills to Huddersfield and as I was running late and no cimmitments today, I simply thought sod it....!!

It was quite a shock when I got up this morning though as someone had painetd white frost everywhere outside, so the buzz word was a nice hot cup of tea would solve any problems I had to deal with today.

Im stil trying hard to hold my end up with the commitment that I made to write and update my blog on a daily basis and whilst it easy to say I will do a thing, in reality there is somedays when there is little if nothin to say, that said, sometimes that is more interesting that an actual event to report on as we reflet our thoughts of doing nothing and it's sometimes more interesting to hear that someone else has nothing to do instead of admitting that ourselves have nothing to do. My point in question might be the watchers of "Big Brother" who spend all day sitting around doing nothing except watching someone else sitting around all day doing nothing. Its a weird sentement but true none the less.

I will confirm that throughout my day I was tuned into my headphones and absorbing the moment with a great musical genius to which I hope you will also gain some pleasure from as I did:

Life has always had it's up's and downs but when Van Morrison appears, the down period stop's and the up time re-appears like and Angel in the skies....!!

Wortly Hall On A Foggy Day In Autumn 2016

27.10.2016

This is quite a wonderful spectacle to see, whist the road itself is quite a boring one to photograph, the way the beech trees grow across and create this wonderful natural arch and conopy over the road is a dream to photograph. The bonus to this road is because it is not so popular for motorists to use, it allows for good pictures without the frustration of traffic.

This is quite

This shows a slightly different view of the road and trees and some of the overhanging vegetation looks quite creepy at night.

These are the slightly foggy and misty grounds of Wortley Hall. Its a local spot for weddings and a venue for events etc.

I have little if no knowledge of fungi but what I have learned in life is that nature almost always uses red as a signal for danger and as such I prefer to take pictures and not handle these little fungus or toadstools to which the Elves have probably cast a spell upon.

Below is a fungus that I only know as a "Stink Horn" although I susspect there is a more accurate name probably in Latin but I grew up calling them stink horne which was a name we were taught at school for this fungi.