Who's for a voddy?

So here it is, my first blog since god knows when. I know, I'm a literary let down but please don't hold it against me, it's nearly Christmas you know!

Well, I've finished for the festive season. A month off, I know! I have spent my first day of the break sat on my arse, drinking tea, watching DVD's and watching people get stuck in the snow at the bottom of my driveway. Yup it's been snowing here. I won't go on about it, we all know what snow looks like etc, but it's caused chaos. If it's not cars getting stuck, gritter lorries have got stuck and I had to drive at 10 miles an hour to get home from my folks last night, I know it's completely out of character and un-natural for me, haha. Needless to say I'll have to dig the car out if it's needed.

I don't know about you lot but I really could do with a festive tipple or two. I think I might treat myself to a small, oh who am I kidding, large festive voddy this weekend. Would be rude not to. Cheers!

Is everyone all sorted for Christmas? I'd like to say I am, but I'm not going to lie, I'm not. Nope, I've written 1, yes 1 christmas card and bought 2 presents. I know, I'm crap. I always say you can't put that much love in a card anyway.

It's been a while since I've shared some pearls of wisdom from my mother, hello mum. Apparently, she was watching Wok Wan the other day, not Gok Wan. Honestly, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree!

I have a bit of good news for you lovely folks, I've been promoted. I know, me, promoted, who'd have thought it. I'm currently a senior poetry editor on an online publication called the Black Market Review, http://www.blackmarketreview.com/, and when the current Edito

r in Chief leaves after the publication of the next edition, I'm taking over the job. I want to apologise in advance if I f*ck it up and get the boot. I'm very excited but also so nervous, so please keep your fingers crossed for me.

I think I shall leave it there for now. I promise I'll post more over the next 4 weeks.

However, if I don't speak to any of you beforehand, have a fantastic Christmas and New Year, and here's to 2011 and what surprises it has in store for us. Who know's what'll happen but hopefully it'll be a fantastic journey for each of us finding out.

Till next time...x

In the words of that great philosopher.....

Ahhh, it's been a while, well ok, last Friday but I was a bit pished if i'm honest...I know what a suprise to all of us that was, hahaha.

I'd like to say hello to my new followers, Hello. I can offer a Mr Kipling fruity pie with your inaugral cup of tea for stopping by and attaching yourself to my blog,. Thank you.

Well, thats been happening, ermmmmmmmmmmmmmm, well I've been back at uni now for about 5 weeks and am struggling with sentences longer than half a dozen words and that aren't in small columns after spending the summer reading very little other than the Metro and Grazia. So I'm about 4 books read already and still ordering more. Will it ever end?!?!

I've been having a bit of a political rant this week, I'm not a Tory, never have been, never will be, so it shocks me not that we've been well and truly shafted by our new coalition government. I don't often get into political rants because I'm no where near intelligent or politically savvy enough to do so, but it sticks in my clack when we're promised one thing and before you know it, they've blindfolded us all, spun us round and when we've stopped spinning and the blindfold has been taken off (because we can't afford to keep it!) and what we thought was home is actually shanty town built on a dung heap. Thing is, by time the VAT has gone up, jobs have been slashed, benefits and other funding has been cut, we won't be able to afford to get sick, but we'll all end up with rickets because we can'afford any food that's got a vitamin in it. Maybe I'm being a bit of a drama queen but it just really gets on my pip. I won't go on, otherwise all you nice new followers will be off before you've finished your tea and fruity pie.

I had a good old gossip and catch up tonight with Garry, my gorgeous friend and host (when I go and visit) in Amsterdam and it makes me realise how much I miss the place. I know it's different when you go to stay somewhere for a few days and you don't live and work there, but I really do love the place. I can't wait to go back next year. A mutual appreciation of Nigella 'the kitchen goddess' was had too.

I can also confirm that my less that wonderful pool skills haven't improved. I will never be a pool shark, nope not me. Ahh well, can't be good at everything, hahaha.

Well, I'm off to make another cuppa and see what else is rattling around the cupboards for me to eat.

Till next time....x

To be or not to be, that is the question (well I thought it was)....

Don't worry I'm not quoting anymore of the bard, but I think tonight's title pretty much sums up how I feel at the moment.

I've been thinking tonight (blame the wine!) how life would be so much easier if we could get the answers we want straight away instead of having to play a constant guessing and waiting game, ultimately never getting the answer anyway, or at least not the one we want....does that make sense??

I'm in a quandry of a 'do I, don't I, does he, doesn't he' etc etc, you get the picture.

The question is, do I follow my gut instinct which generally hits the nail on the head, or do I throw caution and self respect to the wind, and go for it. Answers on a postcard please.

I'd like to think I haven't got to the ripe old age of what I am now (and not looking a day over 26...!) without picking up a bit of common sense and wise old sagey wisdom along the way, but sadly not. On these kind of matters I stumble and bumble along in complete naive oblivion and more often than not kid and talk myself into something which I could write as a chic-lit novel...don't mention the novel, it's still a very small, not even typed the title page work in progress, again blame the wine.

I am sure in time I will get the answer I'm supposed to get, quite possibly not the one I want though and I shall end up nursing my pinot grigio like a soothing tonic.

Ahh well.

Till next time....x

P.S Sorry if I sound maudling, I'm not, I'm just pondering. x

Love plus one.....

Well my lovely readers, Dolly's back at Uni and I already feel even more even thick than when I left in April. I've got more books than Waterstones and a stoop is well on the way to being formed from carrying them all, but it doesn't half feel good to be back. Life seems to be back to it's natural order again and I like it. If I thought the first year was hard, that was nothing compared to what I've got waiting for me....BRING IT ON!

I'm listening to threeten radio on itunes at the moment and being taken right back to the 80's, ahhh the memories.

Well tonight it was short but most definitely sweet.

Till next time....x

Of all the gin joints in all the world.....

Bonjour, ca va?

I know it's been a while, I do have excuses but we both know that basically it boils down to my blatant laziness.

Well I've now finished earning an honest crust. I finished work on Wednesday and I can honestly say I'm glad. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed working there and was very lucky to have a temp job which lasted the whole summer, but now I just want to get started back at uni.

I've also had my last holiday of the year too. I went to Paris. It was utterly amazing and I loved every second, though it did kind of turn into two holidays for the price of one, what started out as a one night stay turned into three nights, thanks to Easyjet, the French and Eurodisney. Yup, I got caught in one of the famous French downtools and sod the consquences strikes. Our flight home was cancelled and after much running up and down airports, sweating, exascberated pleadings and general thoughts of 'ah, fuck it' we were re-housed in euro disney for 2 days and nights. I can honestly say it's on of the funniest holidays I've ever had.

Now for anyone who knows me I am the least Disney person you know, shoes are my disney, as are handbags, clothes and other paraphanalia, but I will admit with my hand on my heart that it really is a fatantastic place if you like that sort of thing. Don't get me wrong I really enjoyed myself but after an hour shopping in the Disney store, I was starting to go slightly insane and had to make my escape and sit outside, and you certainly don't expect to see folk going past your bedroom window in a morning on a horse and have Bonanza, The Good The Bad and the Ugly, and Calamity Jane tickling your ear drums all day every day. It all just added to the spirit of the holiday though.

Paris was amazing. It is romantic and I was there with one of my best friends who I love dearly, but it would also be fabulous to share it with that someone special who captures your heart just like the city does. I am going to try and post the link to the photo's on my facebook page on here for anyone who wants a look. It is, without a doubt a city you need to visit.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=201969&id=731666864&l=a559f4833b

The highlight though, was the Eiffel tower sparkling at night. It just made the holiday for me and was so beautiful. It captivates every fibre of you and I defy anyone not to be wowed by it.

I love travelling.

Till next time....x

What would I say to my 18 year old self....

This blog has been inspired by another blog I read, http://www.ladywholunches.net/blog/ and it really got me thinking.

I am in my 30's, yes I know I don't look a day over 27 but the genes are good and the years have been kind...(ahem).

Anyway, I started writing a diary when I was 16 and I've still got it, I wrote in it and off for about three years, and I read it not so long ago. I was not so surprised to read that I haven't changed much. I still daydream (quite a bit actually) about guys, drink vodka, go clubbing (though no where near as much as I used to, c'mon I'm getting on you know) but one thing has changed dramatically in the years between 18 and now, I don't give a fuck what folk think, nowhere near as much as I used to (sorry for swearing mum, but the eff word was needed for emphasis).

I don't though. When I was going through my teens and twenties, peoples opinion of me mattered so much, it made me a bit insecure I suspect. I'd just come out the other side of puberty where I was an utter cow, probably to everyone I came into contact with, and I was a grown adult. I'd had quite sheltered life up until that point, so I think I was quite naive on how life worked, what was expected of me, how I had to act and behave etc., and now I realise that what was expected of me was no where near as bad as I thought it was. My folks only wanted me to be happy and that whatever I did, career wise etc, I did the best to my ability. That's all anyone could want from me.

I remember reading my diary about 10 years after I first wrote it and whilst I was probably having the same neurosis then as I was when I first wrote it, I felt sorry for my 16 year old self and wished that I had the hindsight to go back and change things which could have led me down a completley different path - worked harder for my exams, chosen my friends more carefully and realised that some of the clothes I wore at that age should be condemned to never been seen in daylight again (bad, bad, bad). I was trying to express myself and it didn't quite work out as planned, I didn't become a fashion leader, more of a fashion dead weight.

When I was 18 it was as if I had been given a blank note book and that each day forward was the pen I needed to document my life's day to day, dreams, goals, aspirations. I've never known what I wanted for a career, I've wanted to be everything from a Trolley Dolly to a Disco Dolly and most things in between. I kind of just became a secretary, it was definitely not my chosen career path, but it has done me good over the years and it's my trade, and will always earn me a crust when the need arises.

I look back on my life then and whilst I can't remember most of what happened (a vodka fuelled haze more likely), I do know I enjoyed myself and life. I had some good friends who are still around today and I had my family.

So what would I tell my 18 year old self now if I could go back in time (obviously wearing fantastic shoes), I'd tell myself to stop trying to hard, be yourself and when you get to your ancient and decrepid 30's, you won't give a fuck what people think about you, because you'll meet some people during your journey who will shape you into the person you're going to be. Always have a smile and a good ear and never let anyone put you down.

But most of all I would tell myself to follow your dreams, no one will do it for you and the only person you have to thank will be yourself.

Till next time....x

Black stained eyes.....

She sat staring at the dark blue line on the horizon, the thinly veiled division between heaven and hell.

Her salty, sorrow filled tears had melted the black mascara which coated each eyelash like a protective barrier against what's natural. With each tear came a black and murky streak of hate down each cheek. Never had she failed to realise how dead inside it made her feel.

She stared. Long, hard, black stares. Nothing.

Another tear released itself from the corner of her eye and taking with it more of the cold, numb pain she felt, each one representing more of what she hated about herself. Never again she vowed, never again.

The horizon never moved, it stayed that thin dark line between heaven and hell and she knew that walking that line could be what changes everything.

Rinky Dink Pink.....

Howdy doodles all 10, YES 10 of you. I think I might have to get some extra mugs and drafting in emergency chairs for everyone.


Firstly, I would like to welcome my 10th follower. Hello. I hope you like inane ramblings, cups of tea and the occasional soap box campaign (I don't campaign on behalf of soap boxes, I think they're covered under they're own union), but I occasionally clamber up onto one, rant on for a few minutes and then shuffle off back to my corner. I hope you like it, would you like a cup of tea?


I'm back from a few days of Pride parades, tequila swigging, drag queen chasing, beer slurping, more sequins than you can shake a Febo burger at, fantastic friends weekend in Amsterdam. I went over for Pride and my friend Rob's 40th birthday. It was such a good weekend and I'm cloggy home sick and want to go back again. Before you hear it from anyone else, yes I did get extremely pished on Friday night and chased drag queens around so I could have my photo taken with them. Honestly, I shouldn't be let out in public sometimes.....


I stayed with Garry again who's spare room was my home for 4 nights. I got to see all my gorgeous friends over there, I would name you all personally but you know who you are and as I always say you can't put that much love in a blog post!!


Happy 18th Birthday to Alex Moonen for tomorrow. Have a fantastic Birthday Alex.


So enough of my free flowing whitter, how are you all? Is everyone having a good summer so far, anyone developed webbed feet or trench foot because of all the rain??

Tuesday night is having tea at my folks after work night or HTAMFAWN...not very catchy, might have to work on that I think. Anyway, I was chatting away with my mum and she said to me 'I wouldn't mind one of those Ben Sherman Grills you know'....'do you mean a George Foreman Grill mum?'. Slippery slope, veeeerrrrrry slippery slope. Hello Mum!

Well I think I'll call it a night, I'm going to see what's been happening in the world on the BBC and head off for an early night. I sound such a boring Dolly, I don't blame any of you for deserting me and finding a more interesting blog to read, I won't be offended.

Till next time....x

Rollercoasters are not for the faint hearted....

I've had a roller coaster of a week this week. It's had its emotional highs and lows, turning points and all round general stuff which make each week unique to all the others.

First and foremost I want to send out all my love and support to Mike, Sue and family. I still can't find the appropriate words of comfort for you, but you are in my prayers and I will always be here. Joe will never be alone as he has two of the best parents a child could ever have.

I want to wish Rob a fantastic 40th birthday. It's so comforting to know that I have several years ahead of me before I reach this landmark of a year....though I might not get there at all after all the pisstaking i've been doing this week about Rob's age, hahahaha.

I also want to offer my congratulations to Anthony and Michael who got married last Monday, the day before my birthday. You could have waited an extra day and betrothed yourselves on my birthday!! Anyway, I am so happy for both of them, I've never known two people more suited to each other. I wish you both every happiness for the future...and why wasn't I asked to be a bridesmaid, hmm??

I was going to make this particular blog a social commentary of some ilk or other, but i've not felt the need for it today. Don't worry, my soap box is ready and waiting for an outing which I'm sure will be sooner rather than later...aren't you the lucky ones, haha

I can't believe it's August on Sunday, the summer has flown over so fast...oh wait, what summer, all its done is rain, threaten rain, and stop raining only to start again. Is it any wonder folk emigrate to warmer climbs to escape the threat of trenchfoot and needing to have an umbrella surgically removed from your hand from constant use.

It's been a while since I've shared a nugget of my mum's with you...well, in a bid not to disappoint. My mum was telling me that one of my cousins (who I've not seen since Maggie stopped the school milk) has married a Peruvian girl....from Peruvia! Yup, I think we can safely say there's not much hope for me now is there, and thank god for sat nav!

Before I say ta ra, I wanted to say a thanks to Lisa and Martin for Sunday night and putting up with my endless stream of tears.

Till next time....x

ICYBTD....

How are you liking the new Disco Dolly image change?? It's a bit funky innit?!

I'm taking part in the first ICYBTD (International Change Your Blog Template Day) organised by http://dayofmoustaches.blogspot.com/2010/07/proposal.html

I hope you like it and for those of you that can, please take part.

Till next time.....x

Carpe Diem, well after a cuppa....

I've not had chance to sit and write for quite a while, what with working and other life stuff getting in the way.

I'd like to say I'm going to sit in front of an open window and let all the inspiration blow in to me threw the gentle billowing curtain and set my fingers alight with magic words to tease and tantilise folk who might happen to read it....but i'm not. I'm sat in front of a wall with a cuppa and a cherry scone...well there was a cherry scone till about 5 minutes ago, now it's just a cuppa.

So I think that sums up my Sunday afternoon quite nicely really, apart from sorting out some clothes washing otherwise I'm going to work in a bridesmaids dress tomorrow.

I love lazy sundays which involve nothing more than nothing to do other than chilling out, watching Hollyoaks omnibuses and drinking tea ...oh, and nursing a hangover sometimes.

I hope you all have a good Sunday whatever you're doing.

Till next time....x

Today of all days.....

Firstly, I would like to thank everyone for their lovely, kind birthday wishes. I never realised I was so popular, hahaha. Thank you though, it means a lot. I'm now in bed with a cuppa and a piece of cake, damn fine way to spend a birthday i reckon.

Secondly, yes I know it's only been 24 hours but I'm going to moan....what's with the weather. St Swithen will you bugger off with your persistent pissing down. Not only has it meant i've had a very soggy birthday but also it doesn't half put a dampner (pardon the pun) on the summer. Get it sorted!!! Maybe it's my own fault to be honest, I was whittering on the other week about the smell of the summer rain, think I may have jibbered on a bit to much about it. Just goes to show, be careful what you wish for.

Anyway, my moan is over I just hope the weather picks up by the weekend otherwise I'll be wearing flippers and a snorkel to go shopping instead of a dress and flip flops.

I just want to say a big congratulations to the third years who graduated today....scary thought, that'll be me in two years!

Till next time....x

She lives!.......

I'm alive, I'm here and I'm still doing what I'm doing, in relative good working order....well almost, I'm still recovering from going clubbing on Saturday night (I'm getting on a bit now you know, it takes it's toll!).

I would like to apologise for my complete lack of blog action, general musings and mad woman rantings over the past several weeks or so. I'd like to say it's because I've become someone very important and internationally renowned as being someone very important...but it's not. I'm still working the 9 to 5, yes three months down the line Dolly is still doing a Dolly and earning a crust for the summer. I have to say I've enjoyed it, yes it's scuppered my plans of laying about in front of the telly, throwing cat biscuits at the cats every now and again, and reading something other than the Metro and Grazia, but hey, it's money and it's paying for my jollies to far flung lands such as Amsterdam (again...!), Paris (Bonjour) and Whitby (eh up).

It's Dolly's birthday tomorrow and I turn the grand old age of.... - OH, AS IF I'm going to divulge that kinda info, I want to keep you guessing that my youthful good looks and shining spirit of happiness (once I've had 2 cups of tea and a berroca) hide the true age of Ms Peg, besides isn't it rude to ask a woman her age these days?! But in the spirit of summer, I shall be (ahem) 21.....again.

My folks are back home now, fully retired and embracing the lie in's. It's nice to have them back. I've been used to them living away for over 10 years but if truth be known, now i'm in my current student state, a free meal once or twice a week and help with my assignments is a definite plus to the retirement of my folks. I love them both dearly and it'll be nice to spend a lot more time with them now.

Hmmm, what else has been happening.........I passed my first year, woop! I have to admit it was a squeaky bum moment, not that I had any doubts I'd pass (ok, maybe one or two), but for my overall mark. I am happy with it, I can do better and will do better next year, but the main thing is, I passed. I celebrated with some chocolate (didn't think that would surprise you).

I've had a furniture re-shuffle at DP towers, and it's looking a lot more homely it has to be said. Out with the old and in with the new, it seems to be a saying which can be applied to many different people and situations at the moment, you know who you are.

But generally, all in all, for the most part (late nights are really starting to take their toll now) I'm happy with my lot in life at the mo. Ok, so I didn't win the euromillions on Friday night - damn, Jason Statham hasn't moved in next door - double damn, and I've not been spotted in the queue at Sainsbury's to be the next Bond girl and drive around in an Aston Martin....you know I was saying I was happy with my lot, I lied!!

I've been keeping in touch with some of the gorgeous lovelies on my uni course and I think they're having a pretty good summer too, by all accounts. It'll be nice to get back in September to have a proper catch up with them...and start working on my pool skills again.

Well I think I shall leave it there for now, I've finished my maltesers so had better crack on and do some more work. I promise I won't leave it so long next time.

Till next time...x

Toad...

Sitting on a lily pad
Waiting for a wave
To carry me across the pond,
to see my good friend Dave

Now Dave he lives across the pond,
on a patch of soggy earth
He lives there with his Mum and Gran,
and has done since his birth

Dave's not quite as big as me,
in fact he's rather small
And for a toad on this big pond,
does not bode well at all

But Dave's my very best friend
I love him more each day
So here I sit on my lily pad
for a wave to take me his way.

Excited, just a little bit.....

This coming Friday night marks the release of Sex and the City 2, the movie premier to beat all movie premiers. Yes, I will be there, opening night ready to ooh and ahh, and get insanely excited....and Jack is coming along with me, sorry Jack I'll be a giddy kipper! I can't wait....have I mentioned I'm excited??!

Talking of films, I went to see Prince of Persia last night and I loved it. It's really good and Jake's Gyllenhaal's english accent is really good too. A definite recommend.

So how is everyone doing? I tell you something working the 9 to 5 doesn't half play havoc with a lie in and your social life. I never really bothered about it before, but now I'm used to having so much time to myself I don't know how I managed to fit work in around everything.

There's a poetry reading at the Pilgrim pub in Liverpool tomorrow night. Some of my fellow creative writing writers are heading over there. Good luck guys, have a great time. I was supposed to be going but Dolly's mum is coming for a visit so I can't make it. I'll definitely be there for the next one though....I need to get writing some poetry!!

I was having a bit of a daydream on the train the other day and I realised I don't think I've ever been so chilled out and happy with my lot at the moment. Ok so a lottery win would come in spectacularly handy right now...note to self, buy a lottery ticket at the weekend, but I am happy. I hope it doesn't change.

Following on from my blog the other day about the summer fashion, sitting in Starbucks window on a hot, sunny afternoon in Southport doesn't half open your eyes to what people think is suitable attire for wandering up and down the high street...some of the sights were to say the least, shocking!

Well lovelies, it's back to my keyboard and worky type stuff....ok, so I can't fool you lot it's daydreaming and a kit kat!

Till next time....x

Here comes the summer...

I've been for a lunch time wander around Liverpool today and you can certainly tell summer is on the way. It was really warm and sunny and the emergence of maxi dresses, gladiator sandals and ropey fake tan is on the up.

I'm a pale english rose with freckles. I don't really tan just go a barely there hint of colour mixed with red patchy bits. My legs never tan, I could sit in the sun for 10 hours a day and they'd still stay the same shade of pasty milk bottle white. I've tried fake tan and it's not been successful...it goes streaky no matter how much i exfoliate, moisturise and massage, spray etc and the colour never looks natural, more like i've dropped a bottle iron bru down myself. So I'm sticking with the fair english maiden look...and it's cheaper too. I have seen some sights today though. A couple of the girls (and lads for that matter) looked like they'd been dipped in cuprinol fence stain, one girl's fake tan was that patchy she looked like she had clouds on her legs and Amy Winehouse has got a lot to answer for with the matted bouffants which seem to be being sported this year.

The maxi dress is also a big fashion trend this summer but one I think might avoid myself to be honest. I don't suit dresses and clothes that are so full of fabric you could use them as a teepee for scout camp. Don't get me wrong I love maxi dresses but prefer them slightly more simpler and not something which if the wind caught it would blow up round your nether regions showing off Bridget big knickers and a 'week before I'm due for a wax' pant beard. Attractive......errr no. (I would like to state for the record....I would never be so slovenly!!).

Well on that Gok Wan type blog (well more Not Quite Wan, than Gok Wan) I shall leave it there. I hope everyone enjoys their summer whatever the weather, cos I know I will be.

Till next time...x

Random, very random....

Don't panic i'm still here, though I'm sure you've all been glad of the peace and quiet....yeah yeah, you lot will tell me anything.

Dolly is doing a Dolly (Parton) and working the 9 to 5. Yes, I'm back slaving away over a hot keyboard earning some cash over the summer. Not sure how long the temp job will be lasting but while it does, it means I can save some money for September, and keep the wolf from the door and pay my mortgage....oh and eat, hahaha. I'm working in a really nice office with really nice people, but what makes it even nicer is knowing I'm not there for my life's duration and it's only temporary. Call me mad, but I honestly don't think I could ever go back to being a full time secretary again. It was good whilst it lasted but my life is too short to carry on doing something that was making my soul die bit by bit.

In other news....I inherited three chickens (well 2 hens and a cock...err, stop making up your own jokes please...!!) for a short time on Thursday. Paxo, Sage and Onion, (ok, so I named them) somehow managed to find their way into my garden. I only knew about this when my sister-in-law text me with a picture. I've always said I've wanted chickens but for them to just turn up un-announced without asking if I've got a spare bit of grass for them is a bit rude. Needless to say, they'd gone by the time I got home...shame. They were also saved from sudden death at the jaws of my two cats too who were inside Dolly Peg towers when my new visitors arrived, otherwise i'd have had giblets and feathers everywhere.

Living across the road from a church I get to see my fair share of weddings during the summer and there was one yesterday and they had a caribbean steel band playing outside when the couple came out from saying their 'I do's' and pledging their eternal throth to each other. The band were brilliant, so myself, my niece Belle, my friend Debra and my Mum (hi mum) were stood in my garden dancing away to the band. We were shaking our hips and getting in the groooooove...sorry I got carried away with myself then. It was a great idea and definitly better than listening to the sound of the passing 49a bus and the occasionl fire engine, and definitely put me in the mood for summer.

Well lovelies, the sun is out in Southport again today. No idea how long it will last so going to make the most of it whilst it's here, and I'm off to enjoy the samples and delights of the day.

I've put two pics on today one of Paxo, Sage and Onion, and one of a couple of street entertainers in Southport yesterday. They actually looked much better than some we get (the street entertainers, not the chickens) so thought I'd share it with you.

Till next time...x

Warp factor....

I had my final exam of the first year today...it went ok I think, not the highest mark I'll ever achieve but I'm confident I passed (just!). I'm now no longer a first year, I'm in limbo waiting to start my second year..SHIIIIIT!

It's flown and I mean literally flown over, where has the time gone...well I can definitely see it's gone onto my waistline and over curvaceous booty (I've never been one to starve myself in a crisis that's for sure), I've got more grey hairs (when you see me, lie and tell me you can't see them), and my eyes look more like pissholes in the snow than eyes, but hey I wouldn't change it for the world...ok, I'm lying I would!

So it's off into the big wide world, looking for a job for the summer to pay for another little jaunt to the Dam, get my car fixed and pay my mortgage - oh the glamour! I'll still be here doing a bit of writing, reading and reporting back on life's strange anomoly's and such...well, you know me, I do like to whitter on a bit.

I tell you what's on the top of my list of things to do whilst I'm off....have a bloody good lie in tomorrow morning, I can hear my bed calling me now. Sleep well lovelies.

Till next time...x

Which camp did you pitch your tent in?...

I'm not one for spouting political type stuff, mainly because I don't know much about politics, but that's not to say I don't take an interest and at the end of the day I want what's best for me.

Today it's Election day and all we've had for weeks is party campaigning etc etc., and today it's finally D Day. So which camp did you pitch your voters tent in? I'm a new supporter to Nick 'the dark horse of the election' Clegg and i've surprised myself, as I've always supported 'Things can only get better' Labour for years, and the day I vote for David 'would you buy a used car of this man' Cameron, is the day they cart me off for electric shock therapy! My tick is firmly in the Cleggsters box this time. I think as a nation we need a change, we need a new and fresh perspective on how our country is run. We've been dominated by the same parties for donkey's years, and as the saying goes, a change is as good as a rest.

OK, so we're suddenly not going to end up thousands of pounds richer by the end of next week and have endless days of sunshine, it's going to take a long time to get back to any kind of normality, but the fact that it looks likely we could be in for a hung parliament this time shows that people are sick to the back teeth and want a change.

When I went to do my bit for Queen and country this morning it was really busy and I had to queue...I've never had to queue before when I've gone to vote!!! Before you think I'm up there with the bra burning feminists of this land I'm not, but I think that we live in a democracy and if you're given the opportunity to vote you should use it, and you don't necessarily have to go and stand in a school hall or portakabin to do it. You can't complain about the state of the nation if you don't do your bit to try and change it.

So, we shall just have to see what happens this evening and overnight with the results...it really is going to be tighter than an 80's rock stars jeans but it's going to make compulsive viewing.

You go Cleggster...give me a C, give me an L......

Till next time...x

Cloggy Dolly and the 8 bananas.....

Well I survived...just, but my voice didn't. I'm nursing dulcet tones huskier than Mariella Frostrup with a chest infection, which while it might be sexy for the most part, loses it a bit when I have a coughing fit, but we can gloss over that minor detail.

Well, first and foremost I want to say a HUGE thank you to my gorgeous friend Garry for giving me a home for the past few days whilst I was there. He really is a fabulous friend....and little does he know I'm moving back in next week, hahaha (oh and it's dark orange not RED!). I was touched (not in that way!) by all of the Amsterdam lovelies this weekend, I love and miss you all.

Well, it's been an eventful few days to say the least, I managed to get sunburnt on the one day of hot weather and I'm nursing a huge bruise on my leg, no idea how I got it, I've also got a huge bruise on my arm because I kept banging it on the door handle...you'd think I'd learn my lesson from the first half a dozen times I did it, nooooo, I carried on doing it.

Queens Day itself was a fantastic day with so much orangeness, drinking, dancing and good times that I hardly took any photos at all, and thats not like me, I normally end up getting completely snap happy. I've got a few on my phone so i'll try and find one which doesn't a) make me look like life size orange with legs b) a dodgy looking carrot or c) pissed!

Dolly went for dinner with Mary, Dette, Gisele and Rob on Saturday night to Gaucho's and I've not laughed so much in god knows how long, I was limp with laughter. We did end up though with a lovely present for Garry and a matching one for Gisele...and I'm still finding toothpicks!!! A word to the wise though, might be best not asking me to order Empenada's for your starter if we should happen to go together, you could end up with 8 bananas instead, hahahaha (you had to be there I think for that one...ahem). I'm also on a mission to see if I can get mutton flaps over here (now you lot are just being filthy), it's a joint of mutton meat, trust me...would I lie to you??!!!

Sunday was spent in the pub watching the footy, reading the papers and trying to avoid some very disappointed Ajax supporters from the pub 2 doors down. Riot police and undercover rozzers everywhere...I nearly ran outside begging to get myself arrested, nevermind the footy hooligans, you just don't get that at Southport FC!

And to top off an already fantastic weekend, I went to see Imelda May at Melkweg. She was fantastic. I've not heard her music before but I would definitely go and see her again, check her out if you get the chance. Fantastic voice. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZucJAkzCNq8&feature=related (not sure if this breaks copyright, but hey, it's on youtube!).

Well I think I'll leave it there, you're all probably nodding off by now anyway I've whittered on that long. It's going to take another day or two to fully recover I think and bring my raspy, knackered voice back to normal. Anyway...

Till next time...x

Greetings from the Netherlands....

This is just a quick blog to let all 8 (and my mum) know Dolly is still alive and loving her trip to Amsterdam.

I'd like to apologise to anyone who I might have sent a drunk text too over the past few days but it's not a proper holiday till you've had one of those from me...and predictive text when drunk is like giving a hand-grenade to a terrorist, not a good idea!

Anyway, I'm back on Tuesday and normal service shall resume not long after that.

Love you all,

Till next time...x

Koninginnedag, Hier kom ik!....

Ok, so my dutch isn't wonderful but at least I tried (and cheated...I used babelfish!).

Well, today we had our last first year creative writing session today...it was a presentation session where we could stand up and read out some of our work to our year group peers. It was a great morning, but also tinged with a bit of sadness as I'm not going to see everyone for nearly 5 months now, I've been so used to seeing the same faces since September, it'll be strange. It also means I need to go out and ply my secretarial wares and get myself a job for the summer. I also found out I've had 2 poems published in Question Mark. A good day all round.

But before there's any talk of working for a living, I've got Amsterdam on Wednesday for a week. Whilst, yes part of it will be spent in the pub the other part will be spent chilling out, reading and doing some writing. Oh yes, Dolly's going all continental!!

Well I shall leave it there, I need to finish my assignments which are due and try and sort out my packing which will consist of throwing clean clothes in the case and ironing when I get there, hahaha.

I also want to wish all of my fellow LIT1000er's good luck for their presentations this week, I have faith in all of you (yes, even you) that you'll be absolutely fine and I'll be thinking of you...in the pub with a beer in my hand...woo hoo! Good luck guys.

Right, I'm off. I've got tea to drink, work to do and partying to be done. I've been listening to Handsome Boy Modelling School's song The Truth, fantastic song, and I've also been having a bit of classical today and Andre Rieu is hitting the spot...and yes I've been waltzing around the bedroom - I got a bit dizzy though so gave up!!

I shall see you all when I get back!

Tot de volgende keer...x

That was the week that was.....

Well my lovelies, it's Friday (thank God!) and I'm sat at home nursing a stonker of a cold, a croaky squeak of a voice and a cuppa.

Presentation was done today and is now out of the way and not to be worried about anymore. All went ok, I was nervous and talked into the piece of paper a lot, but hey, I had 1953 words to try and tell people without sounding like an incompetent muppet, pressure! But all was received well, I stumbled on my questions a little bit but that will come with practice and confidence, it's a learning curve (ooh, I do sound naff don't I??). I planned to use diversion tactics and wore some nice shoes so people might not notice what was going on above the ankles, not sure if it worked. I did apologise to my group in advance for the utter pile of poop I was going to present to them. All in all though I was happy with how things went.

I've just spent a great afternoon with Martin playing pool. We had such a laugh my cheeks are hurting from laughing. The scores pretty much evened themselves out and I think we can declare it a draw even though we ended potting some of each others balls, and potting the white on a fairly regular basis. Jack joined us as well later on and the three of us had a really good afternoon (well I hope the other two did, I know I did, hahaha), especially after it being one of those weeks.

I need to sort out my wardrobe attire for my holiday next week. I am staying with my gorgeous friend Garry for the week...god help him! hahaha, I'm joking Garry, I am well house-trained and make a cracking cuppa :-)

I'm reading out at our group presentation for Creative Writing on Monday (if my croaky squeak holds out that long)...nerves again. I'm not standing on that bloody stage again though, no siree! The only time you'll see me on stage again is accepting my oscar!

Right lovelies, I hope you have a great weekend and whatever you do it makes you smile.

Till next time....x

Get your finger out Aeolus!....

I apologise in advance if this turns into a rant but I'm not arf getting pipped off with this volcanic ash business. Whats going on??! The reason for my 'on the verge of hysteria-ness' is I'm going away next week for a few days and I need all this volcano ash to be gone, spewing the other way or just generally not there. I'm selfish I know, but I'm sure I'm not the only one to be having a moan about it, natural disasters don't half scupper your plans sometimes. If it doesn't settle I'm considering water skiing over, I admit not the most attractive look I've ever carried off it'll be like watching a penguin on two ice lolly sticks!, but it beats swimming or rowing there.

And whats with having no wind to blow it in the other direction? It's sods law, because I can bet you a pound to a penny as soon as I book to get my hair done it'll be hurricane fred outside ready to get my salon spruced tresses looking like the wild woman of borneo, coincidence, hmmmmm..........

It was the same at christmas with the eurotunnel train fiasco, all the controls had frozen so the trains wouldn't work...err, hang on, don't the trains operate under the sea away from all the ice and snow????

I feel better for a moan now, I've got it off my chest.

So my jaunt to the land of red light bulbs and tulips is next week. I promise I won't mention Amsterdam till I get back because I do have a tendancy to whitter on about it and I can tell you're all bored already, so I'll shut up. But I will say this, it's a beautiful city and if you get the chance to go, do, and go off the tourist trail, that way you find some fantastic bars etc., and save yourself a few euros too.

I hope you all had a great weekend by the way.

Till next time...x

P.S....

The flight to Amsterdam is booked! WoooooHoooooo!

TFI Friday!....

I am so glad it's Friday today. It has been one of those weeks I can tell you. My workload is about the treble the size of the amount of time I've actually physically got! So tomorrow is spent in the uni library trying to get my head around my Shakespeare presentation which still only consists of 2 slides and a brief plan. Because of my jaunt to Amsterdam at the end of the month all my remaining assignments need to be in for before I go!!!! I am currently having a stress.....so I suppose I should get off here and get some work done but I thought I'd have a calming lull before the storm.

My goodfriend Talullah performed from her musical repetoire last night in Brighton and she's shared a couple of video's for her adoring fans to watch on her blog. Please take a look, you can find the link to her blog at the bottom of mine, and please say hello...she doesn't bite.

So what are you all up to this weekend, I hope you've all got good things planned. I shall definitely be having a little (ok, large) glass of wine on Saturday night, it would be rude not to.

Right gorgeous lovelies I'm off, it's curry night tonight and I'm cooking - you can't beat a good curry.

Have a fantastic weekend.

Till next time...x

Disco Dolly.....

I don't know about you lot but sometimes there's nothing better than throwing out a few shapes listening to your music (at this moment in time, my shapes are in the privacy of my own bedroom for fear of scaring the elderly or causing distress to motorists going past the kitchen window), get the music on and my feet are twitching to show everyone how much of a mooooover I am...(ahem!!).

In my youth (not that long ago I'll hasten to add) I spent my weekends thus: Friday night - me and my friends would go to what's now Alpine (but in its dim and distant past it used to be called the Brahms and Lizst), and spend our Friday nights in there. Saturday nights we'd be going dancing round our handbags...classy! I'd spend at least 2 hours getting ready doing the usual prep a girl of clubbin age would do - I actually think I'm single handedly responsible for the hole in the ozone layer with the amount of hairspray I used, I'm sure I kept Vidal Sasson in business for years with my mousse and hairspray spending alone. Then we'd head off to the Kingsway in Southport or the Paradox in Aintree for a night of dancing, with the occasional smooch thrown in for good measure. Sunday, nursing very sore feet from wearing such ridiculous shoes and trying to chip off the layers of mascara from my eyelashes......good times.


What's brought on this trip down memory lane...well, I'm listening to my ipod as I type this and thinking I haven't been clubbing for absolutely bloody ages - which will soon be rectified when I go to Amsterdam for a few days at the end of the month - and harking back to the days when I had very few cares in the world, and the most important thing I had to worry about was driving lessons, working and wondering what to wear.


I had the time of my life and wouldn't change it for the world and would love to go back to that time just to be a fly on the wall...laugh hysterically at myself, and make sure there was no photographic evidence which could be wheeled out for later years embrassment

Oh my god, I looooove this song!!!



Till next time...x

Well.....

Ok, ok so I jinxed the weather and it's freezing again. From 2pm this afternoon it's been cloudy, cold and greyer than it was yesterday. That's the last time I do a weather prediction...a weather girl I'm not, obviously!

However, that doesn't mean to say it's detracted away from my lovely mood. I only had a brief chance to catch up with my online life this morning before I had to spend an hour making myself look presentable for uni today, and I was reading blogs posted and saw one to Dolly from Martin, I can honestly say it's left me speechless at the genuine, heartfelt words. I'm truly touched by what he said, thank you so much Martin ;-)

Sorry this blog has taken me so long to write, I've been on the phone to one of my best mates, Di. When we get talking there's no stopping us and the conversation can cover anything from Abba to Zulu Warriors (and whatever happens to fall in between). Hi Di.

I got my 1950's fiction piece back yesterday and I'm really chuffed with my mark so I'm going to submit it for a writing competition. Why not, I've nothing to lose and possibly lots to gain. We have to take risks in life or else we'd never achieve anything. I've taken a risk today, it's something I had to do. Whilst it's not parachuting onto a li-lo in the middle of the mersey or volunteering to climb snowdon in a tutu and fairy wings (oh what a vision that creates....), it's a personal risk.

Tomorrow it's a trip to central library in Liverpool AGAIN! I'm thinking of moving in there with a sleeping bag and a thermos. I'm slowly making my way through books in there for assignments like Tiger Woods made his way through extra-marital hi-jinks (allegedly!!). Shakespeare is quite honestly killing my brain one cell at a time and there's not many in there with a capacity over 0.000000001% so, I need all the help I can get. My workload list is mounting up to, so it's about time I actually applied myself and got some work done....think I'll just make a cuppa first, anyone for a cuppa??

So I'm 3 weeks away from finishing my first year as a student, only another 2 years to go before I can (hopefully) walk up onto that stage in my cap and gown, trying my best not to trip up the steps, go arse over tit and falling at the feet of the main handshaker who gives us the pieces of paper we've accumulated a third world debt for, a stoop from carrying so many books and an aversion to reading any material other than The Metro or Facebook status updates. I know in my heart I have not one single second of regret doing this, it's the best decision I have ever made...and there endeth the sermon according to St Dolly of Peg.

Till next time....x

Ssshhhhh.......

I'm going to whisper this as I don't want to jinx it but it looks like we might be in for a nice spell of sunny weather next week. Don't panic I'm not getting my bikini out just yet..or at all, it's actually written into the constitution that I should never be seen in public in swimwear that exposes anymore than 10% of my body!

My Dad's gone back to Germany today to finish his teaching contract before he retires at the end of June. Even though he's been working away for 15 years it still makes me sad when I have to wave him off. My Mum is home for good now and getting stuff sorted for moving into their new des'res at the end of April. They're going to be living 10 minutes up the road so I can pop in for my tea and for company for my Mum, till my Dad's home again. I've spent some proper time with them over Easter and it's been lovely.

I've been trying to battle my way through Shakespeare this week and it's not going well. Much respect to the bard and all but he doesn't half waffle on a bit....sorry but he does, it's been a chewy assignment this one to say the least.

Well it's back to uni on Monday, I'm quite glad as I need to get back into some sort of routine again, and I've missed everyone (well, most people) though with my car being as sick as sick can be, it means I'll have to get up earlier so I can get the bus, I don't mind though, give me my ipod and a window to stare out of and I'm a happy little bunny. I've not got done half of the work I wanted to get done in fact I would probably say I achieved 0.000001% (yes, that much!) of what I wanted to do - 2 slides of a power point presentation and reading isn't really productive, ahh well, it'll all turn out good.

I'm off to Amsterdam for a few days at the end of this month so I'm booking my flight on Monday, I can't wait. It'll be great to catch up with everyone as I've not seen them since last year...thank god for Facebook and Twitter!

Right my gorgeous lovelies I shall leave you to enjoy the rest of your weekend whilst I go in search for some hayfever tablets, I've been sneezing for an hour...damn pollen!

Till next time...x

Prize giggler.....

I love to laugh, it's part of who I am, I love going to stand up comedy gigs etc etc., fantastic. I've just watched the Comedy Gala on Channel 4 and my chuckle muscles are hurting from laughing so much, bloody fantastic and all for charidee.

I have to laugh as well because not only at yesterdays motorway madness (the M65 isn't the funniest of places to break down, but then again it's not the Gaza Strip so not the worst of places), I wanted today to be productive, get my Shakespeare presentation up and running...I've started the first 2 slides - slide 1, William Shakespeare, slide 2, title of presentation - progress indeed, but not really as much as I wanted to get done but hey ho, I spent most of it either fannying about on the internet or watching telly. Lazy arse!

I want to wish my Dad a happy birthday for today. My Dad (with my brother) came to rescue me yesterday and furnished the pockets of the Halfords bosses so my car can get fixed, thanks Dad. I'll make you an extra special birthday cuppa when I see you tomorrow :-))

I thought I'd leave you with a giggle or two courtesy of my lovely Mum. When I was talking to her yesterday she told me she'd been busy not thinking(!) and that her and my Dad want to get the ball on the move for looking for an abode (bless her and her metaphors!). Happy Birthday for tomorrow Mum (I think I've ruined my chance of a birthday card later in the year don't you?). Lol

On a small note I don't know whether any of my faithful band of readers have been watching Wonders of the Solar System but it's been amazing. Now, I'll be the first to admit that my GCSE physics doesn't quite carry me on programmes like this but I've learnt quite a few things from it, not that I'll be transferring my degree to particle or quantum physics anytime soon, English it'll have to be. If you get the chance to watch it on iplayer, please do.

Till next time....x

Not quite a cracking day.....

Sorry for the really lame ass blog title, I couldn't think of anything Easter related which could sum up my day really.

To say it was one of those days is an understatement. After being kept awake till 2.15am this morning by my neighbours having a party and their music so loud I could hear every single lyric, to the point that Duran Duran's 'Reflex' was mingling into Atonement and I've seriously gone off Florence and the Machine for a while. I was that furious I was going to let their tyres down this morning on my way out but I didn't in the end, I did receive some excellent advice from my friend Tony on how to do it effectively, and not the girly way (which I would have done and probably not very successfully). All is quiet tonight thank god.

So after peeling myself out of bed this morning (it took every ounce of energy I had believe me) I headed off to Burnley to spend the day with my family, but it took me longer than usual as my car decided that today was the day to introduce the death rattle and spew smoke out as I was hurtling along the motorway. Needless to say I spent an hour sat on the hard shoulder, getting beeped at (why do other drivers do that, beep when you've broken down...?) waiting for the RAC, playing 'I Spy' for one (trust me, there is no challenge after you've done Car, Lampost, Road, Grass and Car again), and having my brother tell me off for not getting him to look at my car sooner when I first realised there was a problem! So I ended up in Burnley an hour and a half later than planned. The rest of the day was lovely and had lots of cuddles with Belle (my niece), and a lovely roast dinner.

So my car is still in Burnley waiting for my dad and brother to fix it for me (they're good to me). Don't think I'll be on the Formula 1 engineering team any time soon, hehehe.

Just checked Jesus' tweets on Twitter and he's ok....phew.

Anyway, I hope you all had a lovely Easter ate loads of chocolate and enjoyed the intermitent sunshine spells. I could fill this void with so many Easter and egg puns but I don't think I could cope with the groaning. I'm off for a cracking cuppa which I'm sure will be eggcellent...think I'll leave it there before I get lynched!!

Till next time....x

Happy Easter....

This is just a quick one to wish everyone a Happy Easter (and lots of chocolate too!) and hopefully the sun will linger around till after the bank holiday and make it a good'un.

I'm spending Easter Sunday with my folks (for the first time in about 10 years, as they're home for easter this year), bro and his family...lots of cuddles and drools from Belle.

I'm keeping an eye on Jesus' tweets over the weekend so I'll keep you posted on developments.

Have a great holiday!

Till next time....x

A daydream a day......

What a miserable day weather wise...utter poop!

Well I hauled my ass to uni this morning and after much fannying about over carrels etc etc, ended up sat at the library computers happily typing away for my reading as a writer essay when Jack very kindly let me know I can't use the book I was writing about, I had to use a piece of fiction! Dagnabbit! 'Yes Man' by Danny Wallace is an absolute laugh out loud read but it's a memoir of sorts, so can't use it, boooo! So I'm back home again.

To counteract the grey miserable weather I've been having a daydream about how, instead of having to work, how I'd love to spend the summer if money wasn't an issue. I'd go travelling probably to America, hire a convertible and travel round, maybe go coast to coast, have some fantastic music blasting out and not a care in the world for a while. However, reality will have me either sat behind a desk secretarying for the summer or scanning peoples baked beans....a girl can dream can't she.

Along the same idea but on a slightly different tack someone on twitter asked the other day whats your idea of heaven (as in happiness, not the place we go when we fall off our twig)...so I had a little think and I'd have to admit it's the small simple things which are heaven to me. Chocolate (like that's a suprise!), getting into a bed of nice clean sheets, standing in a hot shower and letting the water run over me for a few minutes, cuddles from my neice, the first cup of tea of the day and (now this is going to make me blush, but pah!), a first kiss. What are yours (keep it clean, my mum reads this)?

I heard a beautiful song on the radio this morning - Elvis 'I Just Can't Help Believing'. I've never heard it before so I stayed in bed an extra 5 minutes to listen to it. A truly gorgeous song.

Well I think I'll put the kettle on and wait for my folks to arrive...chippy tea tonight, yummm!

Till next time....x

Where is it?.....

I've been sat here for a few hours trying to get some work done and quite honestly it's flowing as well as frozen treacle!

So I've taken to procrastinating for a bit to try and take my mind off it and tease a lightening flash of inspiration...I'm still waiting. I've had a shower, made yet another cuppa, put some washing in the machine, fed the cats, checked flight prices for Amsterdam, wandered up and down the flat and tweeted. Nothing as yet....I hate writers block, I really do. I can't even decide what music to listen to so I'm shuffling through iTunes like a bored 5 year old. I've settled on Florence and the Machine...Dog Days are Over is a fantastic song!

Though I'm wondering if it is writers block or my mind is restless and just won't settle. I've an idea it could well be the latter and I think I know why, oh well, I am sure all questions will be answered in due course.

Well I've procrastinated enough, time for one last visit to the kettle before I crack on and try and tease something out of my befuddled brain.

Till next time....x

We've been robbed, robbed I tell you.....

What a weekend! I don't know about you lot but I'm shattered. Losing the hour has knocked me off kilter...it always does, I always feel robbed by the blatant theft of 1 hour of sleep...it's taken away from you, without a word of apology!


Well Dolly went to the wedding reception last night and, please forgive me, but it's not the most thrilling night out I've ever had, and I was home well before midnight before I turned into a pumpkin...from a green pea!! One of the main reasons for the lack-lustre evening was due to a couple of petty minded (so-called) friends who were there. There's no need for bare-faced rudeness and I was actually quite restrained. It helped that I hadn't had a wine or two otherwise I'd have tottered over in my 4 inch heels and made my feelings clear, but to be honest they're not worth having as friends if they're going to carry on like that. Sorry, I needed to have a rant, all finished.


Well I've had a week of chilling out and I'm actually (please slap me if I ever say this again), looking forward to doing some uni work next week. I've had enough of daytime telly to last me at least a lifetime if not longer....if I watch anymore Jeremy 'I'm the only man who can find out who the daddy is' Kyle, 'oh! don't touch the wet paint' 60 Minute Make-Over and 'who will buy this derelict dump' Homes Under the Hammer, I might do myself an injury. Enough is enough...


The song of the day is KT Tunstall's 'Suddenly I See'. I heard it on the radio in the car on my way to see my family and sung my little heart out. The lyrics really kind of sum-up how I view life at the minute...in a good way. Give it a listen if you get the chance.



Till next time....x

Does my blog look big in this?.....

Dolly's off out tomorrow night to a wedding reception....2 friends of mine, Gail and Darren got married in Barbados a few weeks ago, and they're having a party tomorrow night at a hotel in Southport to celebrate they're happy occassion, which brings to the issue of what do I bloody wear??!

Now, my waistline exands and contracts more than your average pair of elasticated waist casual slacks, so I've a wardrobe full of clothes in various sizes ranging from 'wow, you look fantastic, have you lost weight?' to 'you look really well, that teepee style frock is really flattering' (code for, have you put weight on??). So I opened up the wardrobe doors the other night hoping to find a) Narnia b) Gok Wan and c) a miracle dress which i'd forgotten about and makes me look like I've got the figure of Beyonce. I have to admit, I found none of the above so I had a rummage around to see what I could find.

After sifting though umpteen pairs of shoes, enough scalves to keep a scarf shop going for months (now I know why i'm in a permanent state of skintness), and clothes I've not worn since Spandau Ballett were in the charts first time round (I'm sentimental, don't blame me), I think I've found an outfit, a nice green 50's style dress I bought about 4 years ago which I am going to accessorise up and add a little Dolly twist. That's after I've managed to squeeze myself into a pair of magic pants the size of a post-it note and with more lycra than Chris Hoy's cycling shorts!

Hopefully I'll get some nice pics for tomorrow night and might even be brave and post one on here, looking like a cross between a giant pea and a drag queen (no laughing!!).

Till next time...x

A little bit of what you fancy.....

Well week 1 of the 3 week break is going well...i've done all of nothing and it's been fab. The weather's been grim so that's aided my plan of doing very little. Its been nice it has to be said. I'm going to have to get my head down though I've a ton of work winking at me from the corner of the desk, so a concerted effort to flick through the pile maybe made tomorrow.

As you all know I love my food and I do like to cook every now and again...leftover chilli is sitting the fridge as I type, but I do also have a bit of an odd passion, I love recipe books. I very rarely use them, I just love reading them..it's like porn. My personal favourite is Nigella, that woman is an absolute wonder and indulges in food porn like no other. But I've since discovered a new contender for this crown, Sophie Dahl. She has a new show on BBC2 called The Delicious Miss Dahl, and it's awesome. If I could split my time between her house and Nigella's - like a child between two divorcing parents and dividing my time between them - then I would be a happy bunny.

I'm of the mindset that a little bit of what you fancy...(errr, food wise, you rude bunch of creatures!!) does the mind and soul the power of good, I don't see the point in denying yourself something as this only leads to being completely miserable. I however have absolutely no willpower so do have to use restrain when walking past Thorntons.

Life is for living and loving, so make the most of it, just don't forget to throw in some fruit and veg along the way so we can enjoy it that little bit longer!

Till next time...x

The one and only......

Well it's the first day of my three week break from uni and so far I've had a great big ol' chill out. My couch has got an my arse shaped dint in it from a weekend of my arse creating said dint. I've only moved off the couch to make tea, food, answer the door and bathroom visits (too much information I know, but we know each other well enough now we can share these things!). It has been heavenly bliss on a stick, but it won't last forever.

I can't say my lie in's have been much to blog about though, I've got roadworks going on outside Dolly Peg towers, have done for nearly 3 weeks now and at 8am, I'm getting woken up by JCB's, jack hammers and workmen digging up and filling in the same bit of road even on saturday morning. I have to admit I was 'that close' to stropping out there in my pj's and slippers and telling them to take their jack hammers and stick it where the JCB's don't shine, but I didn't look my best, more 'hell's occupying screaming banshee' than 'demure Dolly'. Needless to say I pulled the duvet over my head and muttered to myself for half an hour before I got up and stropped around the flat!!

My lovely gorgeous mum has taken pity on me and sent a Tesco food shop for me....ok, I may have heavily hinted at it on Saturday when I rang up, but I am very grateful nonetheless. Ordering with Tesco online is a bit faffy if you don't do it very often so the element of surprise is always what my mum has ordered, and in what quantity it will turn up. Well I am now the proud owner of.......1 Apple! Trying to do my bit for the 5 a day campaign (I wrote them on the list so that counts aswell, obviously!) I asked for some apples. I've now got 1 single, solitary, juicy green golden delicious. It's a beauty and I've included a little pic of it in all it's glory. This has happened before with bananas, mum thought she was ordering 1 bag but instead just 1 arrived. In my mothers defence she only uses the online ordering service 2 or 3 times a year and it always changes during this time, but it still makes me laugh.

It's not boding well for me is it.....?!

Till next time....x

Happy days...........

Good afternoon and welcome to the weekend!

Before we go any further I've got an announcement to make....it's Martin's birthday today, he's the big 19...Happy Birthday to youuuuuuuuuuu! I would sing some more but I'm a bit croaky today and I don't want to ruin a good day! Have a great Birthday Martin :-)

Well the 24 hour takeaway exam paper has been done and it quite honestly nearly killed us. I got the grand sum total of 4 hours kip, some people got even less than that, so I was lucky. It was bloody hard work I don't mind telling you, and I don't hold out much hope for a cracking mark, so long as I pass I'll be happy.

The afternoon was spent playing pool and having a good giggle and I had a great time. I can't say I was a challenging opponent but that doesn't matter, my entertainment input was enough, and I'd definitely be up for doing it again. Last night I was exhausted, I just fell into bed and sparked out asleep. You know though when you've been asleep, had a good 8 or 9 hours (well more like 10 in my case, lol) and it feels like you've not slept at all, that's how I feel today, so it's telly and movie day today, bliss.

I'm still not very compus mentus today so I shall leave it there I think, normal service shall resume again soon, I promise.

Till next time....x

Fingers crossed.....

I hope you all had a great St Patricks day and the nation is awash with guiness and a whiskey chaser!

I was convinced the world was conspiring against me today.....my tinterweb abandoned me in my hour of need!! Bloody technology, it'll never catch on! But suffice to say, I'm back (some may welcome this, others may have been glad of the peace and quiet). It's our 24 hour takeaway exam paper tomorrow, so if you never hear from me again it didn't go so well and I'm being talked down off the end of the pier...well actually more bribed with a cuppa and a kitkat.

Following on from my rather piss poor pool attempt on Monday, I've thrown down the gauntlet to Martin and challenged him to a few games to show off my fanastic 'potting the white' skills, and my 'trying to gently tap the ball into the pocket but it riqochet's off the corner into the middle of the table' moves. Oh yes, the challenge has been accepted dear readers, we just need to arrange a date and time. Dolly 'Pool Plankton' Peg is going to get her ass whooped!

Till next time...x

Snog a frog.....

I haven't gone mad or insane and I'm not pissed....yet! I've just posted a little limerick of sorts about about a Frog and a Wig. I hope you like it and makes you smile. The inspiration came from a question on my blogger profile, so in the space of 10 minutes I wrote 'The Frog and the Wig'. Just goes to show the smallest things can be inspiration for something.

I don't really know how to top my creative outpouring about frogs, wigs and snogs so I think I'll leave it there for tonight.

So,

Till next time...x

The Frog and the Wig.....

There once was a frog who lived in a bog
With not a single hair on his head
He lived in the bog, this lonely frog
Until the Princess said...

'Oh dearest frog who lives in the bog,
how would you like some hairs on your head?
I can grant you this wish, and make you a bit of a dish
In one very simple step'.

'I shall give you one kiss to bring you your wish
of a head of hair so grand.
And after my kiss you shall be my prince,
and live with me in this fair land'.

'Not a wig you shall need from my promise indeed,
for you shall have everything you desire.
I love you dear frog, who lives in the bog
and soon you shall be my sire'.

Poor, very poor....

I'm hanging my head in shame this afternoon, my pool skills are, well....shite! Went for a few games after the seminar today, and I don't think I'll leave uni a pool shark, not even a pool goldfish...more of a pool plankton. I am nothing if not entertaining though, which I think is more of an endearing quality than being any good.

It was a good seminar today, talking about dialogue (hahaha pardon the pun) etc. Funny how a conversation can turn so quickly from carpal tunnel syndrome to more blush worthy topics in one easy sweep We're not in now for three weeks over Easter. I'm looking forward to the break just to catch up on myself and try and catch up on some writing too. My folks are home for Easter aswell, so I'm more than sure I'll have some pearls of wisdom to share with you all, courtesy of my mother...you have been warned!

We were talking in the seminar as well about books that have influenced us in some way, the impact they've had, the writing style of the author and I was thinking about this in the car on the way home, and wondering who my literary influences are. I guess it's writers like Danny Wallace - he's the author of Yes Man and Join Me, which are two of the funniest books I've read. Music is also a big inflence too, Elbow and their song Mirrorball is one of my favourite songs of all time, a truly beautiful love song, please listen to it if you get the chance and you'll see what I mean.

Till next time...x

Ooops.....

I've just realised I forgot to say how fantastic Insanity Beach were on Friday night. I have to admit I'm a little bit of a groupy and always go to watch them when they're on at the Fox and Goose. I cut some rather superb shapes and shook my booty with them best of them, fantastic night. I'll let you know when they're next on again.

Right, I think that's everything. If I've forgotten anything else...well it's obviously not that important!

Till next time....x

A celebration....

Firstly, I want to wish my Mum a Happy Mothers Day! I know I forgot to send a card (that makes me such a crap daughter), but I always say you can't put that much love in a card!! You know I love you so much and I appreciate everything you do for me.

I got another assignment out of the way this weekend (I don't normally do uni work over the weekend), it's the one I was telling you about the other day, choosing our own topic, question etc etc. Well it's all done, all 1874 words of it, so I think that's worth a celebration in itself.

While I was in uni yesterday holed up in my little carrel there were applicant visits and tours going on around and about campus, I did feel a bit like a goldfish at one point. There were groups of potential students and their parents wandering round, getting a feel for the place. I know how nervous I was when I first started and I'm not quite a spring chicken, but it must be really nerve-wracking for 18 and 19 year olds. Though I have to say it doesn't bode well for students when you can't tell the difference between the male and female loo's. I walked in to find some poor un-suspecting lad drying his hands in the ladies loo, and looking a bit confused and embrassed when I walked in. I can't deny it, I did laugh...not in his face that would be just rude, but after he walked out. It made me chuckle when I was driving home too, sad I know.

Well, not to harp on with my obsession for sunshine and blue skys but it's another lovely sunny day, just right for Mothers Day. So I think I will sign off and make the most of it.

Have fun my faithful band of 8 readers!

Till next time....x

It most certainly is....

I've just done a quick show of hands...ok, I'm actually on my own at the moment, so I put up both hands to give it an overwhelming majority, and it's FRIDAY...the weekend, the time to party, let your hair down and make hay whilst the sunshines (which I bloody hope it does!).

It's been a long week uni wise (I won't bore you with the details) but it's been helped along by the sunshine and my good mood, so tonight I'm going to let of some steam and i'm off to see a band at the Fox and Goose (I mentioned it on yesterdays blog). My ears will probably ring for about 2 days so if I look at you with a slightly glazed look, I can't hear you so you'll have to shout.

This afternoon though I am going to indulge in some writing. There's a writing competition I want to enter so I'm going to work on that I think. The closing date is April, but I need to make a start on it now...if anyone wants the arduous task of reading it, going through it with a red pen, telling me it's poop and then getting drunk with me, please raise your hand now....all offers gratefully accepted :-) The rest of my weekend will be spent chilling out, catching up on some work and hoping the good weather continues.

Well I'm going to make a cuppa and put on some 80's music to get the weekend off to a rather nice start.

Till next time....x

And it continues....

Well the fantastic weather continues this week...I feel like a weather girl - "and over Southport there will be copious amounts of sunshine which will continue with the good mood and good music"...ok, I think it's good music, others may have a different viewpoint.

I was going to write this from the comfort of my front step with a flake and a vimto catching a few of the suns rays etc, but I couldn't see the screen so I had to come in to do it.

So how have we all been this week, I realise I'm always the one doing the talking and never ask my faithful band of 8 readers...yes, 8 of you now (hi mum, again!), wow aren't you lot lucky reading my whitterings, I'm sure there's something more exciting to read a few blogs down if you get bored.

I've got a bit of a dilemma on my hands at the moment and not sure what to do, obviously I'm not going to go into specifics on here but it's not serious and I'm not dropping out of uni to be a supermodel (yet!) or anything (do I look mad, actually don't answer that!!), but my horoscope from the paper (kindly donated by Lisa) was pretty spot on today so I'm considering being brave...just one last time.

Right, well I'm off to go and finish my vimto on the front step. You've got to love the sunshine, you really have.

Till next time...x

P.S. I'm going to see a band, Insanity Beach, tomorrow night (Friday) at the Fox and Goose in Southport. They're a fantastic rock band who do covers and their own material, so if you're at a loose end feel free to join me and my mate Debra. I'll be letting off some steam after frazzling my brain with assignments etc all week.

Insanity.....

Anyone fancy a beer, it's my round. I've been sat working, reading and staring at my assignment all day, and whilst I may be 963 words down, I am still 963 words short...hence that's why I've turned to alchohol....I'm getting crisps as well, any preference on flavour??

For this assignment we've had to come up with our own topic, assignment question etc etc and we have to write 2000 words on it. I, rather stupidly (I'm consulting medical professionals shortly) have chosen Gothic. Why, oh why. I would've had more success teaching a donkey the hula hoop, but, in saying all that I am enjoying the challenge a teeny weeny bit, but blimey it's hard work.

Anyway, back to more cheery topics. Things are going well for the purchase of the caravan I was harping on about last night, I've had a rummage down the back of the couch and at the bottom of my handbag, and I've raised (drum roll)...£1.36, 2 euros and a pen. So it's going well, and I'll soon be able to afford the key to put in the lock. There is a silver lining to all this, just gives me more time to plan the road trip and buy a current road atlas, and not use 2003's AA road companion. It's all in the planning!!!

Right, I need another drink, anyone fancy joining me?

Till next time....x

Bring on the summer....

You know when you get reminded of a song which just epitomises summer, sunshine, good times and general merriment all round, well that happened to me yesterday and I've had the song on a loop practically ever since. Martin mentioned in his blog yesterday about the song 'California Soul' by Marlena Shaw and it has just made me smile and put me in a great mood ever since. Thanks Martin :-) It has to be a definitive summer song and I defy anyone not to imagine warm summer days, and long summer nights when they listen to it. Fantastic.

Well, it was our option module presentation today and I think I've made my decision. My I's and T's are pretty much punctuated (does that make sense...I don't think it does, oh well), and I've decided Contested Masculinities and Writing The Supernatural are the ones for me. I've just got to put the ticks in the boxes....that's the bit I'm really nervous about, wow, proper grown up stuff. Lol

Well back to summer and good times etc etc, my neighbours have bought the most amazing little caravan and I want one! I've attached a pic so you can see how fab it is. Anyone fancy chipping in and getting one with me and coming on a road trip??

Till next time....x

A little goes along way....

I had a great fiction class this morning. I always learn a lot from them, not just from our tutor but from everyone else in the group and I also learn a bit more about myself every time.

I wrote something quite heart felt today, personal to me. It was a piece of short fiction that we had to edit down, and it was the last paragraph I wrote which kind of summed it all up really. I read it out and felt quite embarrased, daft really, I'm 35!! I'm debating whether to share it with you all or not...I'll have a think about it.

We have to choose our 2nd year option modules this week, scary times. We've got a whole year talk on it tomorrow. I think I've pretty much decided though on what I want to do, it just kind of dots the I's and crosses the T's for me. Funny to think it is going to start shaping my whole degree. For the first time since I started uni I am actually scared shitless, I don't mind telling you. I just want someone to give me a hug and tell me it'll be fine and to stop being neurotic. Lol

It's another beautiful sunny day today and so in celebration of this, our summer, I have treated myself to some flowers...pic attached, again sorry it's fuzzy.

Till next time...x

I 'heart' Liverpool....

I've had a great day today...for a Sunday, cos I'm normally not struck for Sundays.

I went into Liverpool for a few hours today, which is one of my favourite places. I love the diversity, the buildings, the history, the shopping, the people...pretty much everything. I had to go to central library for some books (obviously, I wouldn't be getting a Black and Decker work bench from there would I...?!), and because it was so sunny I sat on the steps of the building next door, with a cuppa and my book. I took a couple of pictures which I will add to this (if I can do it right, lol), apologies if they are a bit fuzzy but I took them on my phone.

I have always liked Liverpool, I worked there for over 10 years until I was made redundant last year but I still go back and one of my favourite places to visit is The Tate, it's my inspiration for some of my writing as well as being somewhere for a few hours of pure escapism (and looking at some of the stuff and thinking....'nope, I just don't get it'!).

You just can't beat a bit of culture daaaaaarling!

Till next time....x

P.S The photo is the view from my spot on the steps, it's the back of St Georges Hall and the gardens.

Oranges are not the only fruit......

I attempted to add a new skill to my very sparce bow the other day...juggling, yes juggling. I don't mean the 'juggling a working and family life' kind of thing because, well A) I don't have a working life, I'm a student and B) I'm single. I mean juggling props, fire, cats...anything you like really.

I used 2 lovely ripe juicy oranges for my initial foray into such circus skills and if I'm being truly honest with you readers, it didn't go particularly well, in fact I would go so far as to say, shite! (sorry mum).

I stood over the couch so it would make it easier for the oranges to bounce when I dropped them, instead all I ended up doing was picking them up off the floor every 5 seconds, concussing a cat because it got in the way of my second attempt and ending up with 2 very bruised oranges.

I really don't think I'm going to be giving up my life anytime soon to run away and join the circus, I don't even the Cirque de Soleil will have me because I don't look particularly good in a glittery leotard, and I can't speak french very well. I'm proud of my valiant effort though, but my bow is going to remain sparce for now.

It has got me wondering what else I could try my hand at though, imagine how good being an expert in speed knitting, clog dancing or professional hedgehog wrestling would be on your CV...nope, I'm on my own with that one then!!

Till next time....x

Trumpet blowing!....

Ladies and gents, here's my second Dolly whittering of the day and this one is reserved purely for unashamed self-promotion and the promotion of others.

As you know I started writing this literary masterpiece of a blog (ahem....oh ok, attempt at some kind of writing type stuff), and I can honestly say I love it. It's a catharsis and allows me to be me, honest and open with all 4 of you trusted, special readers out there...well, 5 now, my mum's read it, Hi Mum!

But I also want to promote the blogs of 2 lovely friends of mine as well.

Firstly, this is a link to Martin's blog: http://martinisblogtastic.blogspot.com/. It's really funny and it's written by a thoroughly nice guy. Please read it, if you don't well I'll cry...and we know that's not going to be pretty!!

Secondly, here's a link to Jack's blog: http://thethoughtsofabrokenclock.blogspot.com/. He's a mere little bud to this business we call blogging, so please read it and give him loads of encouragement.

Writing is hard work sometimes so I hope all 4 of you, I mean 5...sorry mum, like and enjoy what you're reading.

Right that's enough from me.

Till next time....x

P.S. if the links to the blogs don't work, I'm sorry but my lack of techywhizz skills is well known, but you can type the links into the address bar at the top of the screen....even I can manage that. Go on, you know you want to......!

I hate loving food....

I'm sat here typing this with a packet of rennies and a cuppa next to me moaning about how much food I've eaten tonight....ouch :-(

It's my own fault though, I went to my friends for tea where I was very well fed...mince and onion over chips with bread and butter pudding and custard for afters (very northern), lurvely. The thing is though my troffing didn't stop there. Oh no, we went out to a local film night and there were 'refreshments'. We all thought it would just be some stewed tea in a styrofoam cup with a couple of jammie dodgers and a viscount biscuit, nope it was a full sandwich buffet with cake, scones and tea. Well it would be rude not to have a little something after folk have gone to so much trouble making it. Hence now why I'm in pain and about to change into something with an elasticated waist!

I love my food and for anyone who knows me can see the evidence of this pure, unadultered, passionate love, I think my arse is going to need it's own uni card at this rate! I've always loved my food, I've never been one of those girls who sits and picks at a meal and I've never been one to starve myself in a crisis either...if anything it has the opposite effect.

I do though need to take myself in hand and start eating more healthily and stop kidding myself that just walking up and down the fruit and veg aisle in Tesco's counts towards my 5-a-day!!

Oooh, I need another rennie.....

Till next time....x

Hallelujah....

The sun it is a shining and with it some warmth and happiness.

I've just come back from having lunch with one of my friends, and for the first time since September last year we sat outside and stuffed our faces. It was heavenly, I think I may even have added to my freckle count too.

Don't get me wrong there's still a slight chill in the air but the sun's out and everything seems to be ok with the world....well for now, I'm sure I can find something to moan about just give me a bit of time.

Last night I went to a book reading by Jenn Ashworth at uni and it was really good (sorry to rub it in Martin!). Jenn's book A Kind of Intimacy is an absolute must read, it's very funny and is very northern, in sense of humour as well as setting. Jenn also writes a blog too, Every Day I Lie a Little, which I follow on here too.

As a newby writer myself it's great to go to things like this because it's always interesting to hear how other people write, where they get their inspiration from, motivation etc etc., and it also gives you the spur to carry on with your own writing because you know that you're not the only one with writers block sat there trying to figure out how to link 2 things together with absolutely no clue, so after 14 cups of tea, cleaning out the cat litter tray and scrubbing the loo to try and take your mind off it, you fnally get the spark.

I find staring at a blank computer screen (with it switched on...obviously) the most daunting thing ever, but I know writing is what I want to do with the rest of my days, so I keep staring till it all falls into place.

Anyway, on that note I'm off to make a cuppa and clean out the litter tray....

Till next time....x

You couldn't make it up....

Now, as I've written before I love my glossy magazines but I have to draw the line at the real life women's weeklies, I'm sorry I can't stand them.

Last night the BBC (now if they're making cuts to make programmes on subjects like this, they're best saving their money), showed a programme about a real life womens weekly, Real People, and you genuinely couldn't make this stuff up.

I turned it on to see an Elvis impersonator singing to donkeys, because he felt he had a spiritual connection to A) Elvis an B) Donkeys......insert your own jokes; a woman who had a brain haemorrhage whilst trying to, well lets just say enjoy herself in the privacy of her own home....(ahem), and a woman who was being poisoned by her husband, he was putting mercury in her tea and this is to name but a few.

What has become of folk where we feel we have to sell embarassing stories of ourselves

for money, is nothing sacred anymore. I genuinely felt sorry for these people (apart from the Elvis impersonnating donkey entertainer), that they felt they had to do this.

I am all for a good gossip, I love nothing more than a juicy titbit to lift the spirits but I don't want to see people's dirty laundry flying about, I know times are hard but a bit of pride goes a long way!!

Till next time....x

It takes over your life...

Techology is not my friend nope, it doesn't like me in fact I would go so far as to say...it hates me.
I'm not a techy whizz geek by any stretch of the imagination, I can find my way round a lap top and can use the internet with the best of them, but thats it.

The latest technology revolution is the iPad, which basically just looks like an iPhone on steroids. What does it do which is so different to the itouchyphonepods everyone was raving on about not so long ago. I tell you what it doesn't do, fit into a clutch bag on a night out and I can't tuck it into my bra for convenience when I'm wandering around town shopping, with Kasabian blasting in my ears. What I'm saying is it's not very girl friendly!

Now, I love my iPod (yes, it's pink...I know you're not surprised) as it means not only can I listen to the musical soul food I love, it also means I can drown out the everyday drone of boring people and ignore everyone...anti-social, moi...never let it be said!

But really, how practical is this technology becoming, what's going to be next, the iThinker which we charge up at night as we sleep, the iCar for those people who are just to busy to drive the car themselves or the iLife for all of those who are too busy to have one because we're waiting for all our technology to charge up so we can get on with the daily humdrum.

Technology is taking over, it really is...though how cool would it be if our computers could make a cuppa?!!

Till next time...x