I started off this year drunk, telling someone I loved them over the phone when that wasn't the case. I won't mention names, but nothing taken away from said person, they're awesome and always will continue to be awesome, but I didn't love them.
I've done a lot of growing up this past year. Actually put my A into G and got myself a job. Although that was short lived, as were my pretty high school expectations, I've had a laugh this year. I've also learned alot about myself and other people, and for those that know me well personally, then you'll know that I have trouble interacting with others, not entirely down to general teenage awkwardness. So that's a massive step in the right direction.
On reflection 2010's a small year compared to how massive next year is going to be. I'm going to get myself another, more permanent job, I'm going to university and I'm still undecided as to whether to stay there or not. I'm taking what will probably be the last educational exams I ever take, and I've got a lot of fun events lined up. A couple of holidays, 3 comedy gigs, I'm finally going to see Bring Me The Horizon and I'm sure a lot of other cool stuff will crop up as i bugger off and become independent and all.
And the best part is, I'm looking forward to keeping you lot in the loop, via these blogs and videos, the entire way.
I'm going to get drunk for the second night in a row now, so I say this to you, whether you're a friend, youtube subscriber, twitter follower or anybody.
Thanks for helping me make 2010 a good year. I look forward to you helping me make 2011 even more epic. :D
Friday, 31 December 2010
Wednesday, 29 December 2010
Aston Villa: Potential without ambition.
BEFORE I START THIS If you don't have an interest in football (or if you insist on being American (hard not to if you are American, I know) and calling it soccer), then LOOK AWAY NOW. Or, carry on reading and be utterly confused by the situation.
STATISTICS TO START OFF WITH.
Martin O'Neill in his four seasons as Aston Villa manager managed to pick up 52% (roughly) of points.
Kevin MacDonald in his 7 games as Aston Villa caretaker manager managed to pick up 38% of points.
Gerard Houllier in his 17 games so far in charge has picked up 37% of points.
Putting it simply, O'Neill managed 1.56 points per game, MacDonald managed 1.14 points per game and Houllier's managing 1.11 points per game.
Houllier has only had 17 games, and hasn't had a transfer window yet in which to mould his team, although he has managed to get french winger Robert Pires. O'Neill was given about 8 transfer windows to form his team, spending around £120 million on playing staff. This was rewarded with 11th place in his first season on charge, followed by 3 consecutive 6th place finishes, and 2 trips to Wembley in his final season in charge (Once for the League Cup final, once for the F.A. Cup semi-final). Anybody will tell you, to finish 6th in the premier league and to come close to winning two cups in one season takes a lot of skill. Seen as though the Premier League is widely regarded as the best league in the world, that's almost like being classed amongst the best in world football, evidently Martin O'Neill took us (us being Villa) to almost stardom.
However, the financial backing stopped coming, possibly when we needed it most, to give us that final push into the Champions League. Chairman Randy Lerner introduced a sell to buy policy, where the manager had to sell off players in order to get funds to buy new ones. For a club that's always building, it's obvious that isn't sustainable. If you sell a mediocre player for £2 million, how are you meant to buy the man that could make the difference in your team for £20 million?
It is widely believed that this is the reason that O'Neill decided the job wasn't for him. The timing of his decision to leave left us in a right state, meaning that Kevin MacDonald was left as the man to steady the ship shortly before the new season started. he went some way to steadying the ship; The players were fully backing him to get the managers position, and it is believed that O'Neill had lost the faith of his players towards the end of his reign as manager. MacDonald also gave some of the younger players a chance, for example Marc Albrighton, Ciaran Clark, Barry Bannan, Andreas Weimann, Eric Lichaj. Although these players had a turbulent first few games, with them not hitting any particular pattern of winning nor losing, they've all proven, along with others (Delfouneso, Hogg) that they can do the business at the highest level. Eric Lichaj in the recent game against Tottenham was superb at keeping Gareth Bale quiet for most of the game, Albrighton's been compared to David Beckham by some and Hogg and Bannan featured in a 2-2 draw against the 'mighty' Manchester United.
These players have shown that they will perform under any manager, be it MacDonald or Houllier. However, the senior players faith obviously lies with MacDonald, as I'll explain.
When Houllier was appointed, the younger players still carried on performing, however the senior players became somewhat redundant. Friedel, Collins, Dunne, Agbonlahor, to an extent Ashley and Luke Young, and maybe even recently Stewart Downing. These have all been off form lately. This leaves the job to our younger players, who as good as they are, aren't ready to carry a team on their own in the premier league. They need the senior players supporting them, and the support doesn't seem to be there. There have been rumours of training ground bust ups between the new management team and players, and it's never the younger players that are involved, only the senior ones.
Now, for my opinion.
Houllier had lost the team the moment he was appointed. As long as a team don't want to play for a manager, they'll never put 100% in. Houllier's decision making during matches has been poor, bringing on Robert Pires who is in the twilight of his career isn't going to have a postivie impact on the match, especially when you have the bundle of energy that is Barry Bannan on the bench.
However, I think the true issue lies with the chairman. He showed ambition in the first few seasons, investing his time and money into the club and making us very successful. However, that ambition is dwindling. He's not giving any more funds, and if we want to even retain 6th we need 2/3 good players bought in to make the difference, players that could only be bought if the chairman invests. It is fine for him to expect return on what he's put in, and if he believes that we've underperformed for the £120 million then he's every right to stop investing.
Action that should be taken.
Lerner should sell the club. To a young, ambitious chairman who is willing to put time and effort into making this club as successful as we possibly can be. Houllier needs to go, and to be replaced by an ambitious manager who is also willing to give the younger players a go. Some of the older players need to be axed too, they're slowing down our play and these young players bring a spark to us.
We have one of the best young teams in the league, yet it isn't being utilised correctly. I think that with a manager who connects with the players, a chairman who connects with the club, there is no reason why we can't do what Manchester United did with the Nevilles, David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes. They won the title.
Who do I think should step in? Kevin MacDonald. His record wasn't brilliant, but considering they were his first 7 games in charge of a Premier League side they showed promise, because most men in his position would've crumbled. And he obviously connects with the players.
To summarise my points:
1. New chairman who wants to lead a club to glory, rather than make a quick buck.
2. Kevin MacDonald to be offered the managers job, and to connect with the players and utilize them how he knows best.
3. Get rid of players in the twilight of their careers. They may have served us well in previous seasons, but they aren't serving us well now.
4. Basically, I'm talking revolution, not evolution.
If this happens, I expect us to become one of the most exciting sides the Premier League, in fact, world football has ever seen. The potential is there to be a world class team, but the ambition at the moment is not. And I really do believe now is the time to fly or fall. We're falling now, but there's no reason why we can't get some wings, it's not too late.
Whatever happens, I'm Villa till I die.
STATISTICS TO START OFF WITH.
Martin O'Neill in his four seasons as Aston Villa manager managed to pick up 52% (roughly) of points.
Kevin MacDonald in his 7 games as Aston Villa caretaker manager managed to pick up 38% of points.
Gerard Houllier in his 17 games so far in charge has picked up 37% of points.
Putting it simply, O'Neill managed 1.56 points per game, MacDonald managed 1.14 points per game and Houllier's managing 1.11 points per game.
Houllier has only had 17 games, and hasn't had a transfer window yet in which to mould his team, although he has managed to get french winger Robert Pires. O'Neill was given about 8 transfer windows to form his team, spending around £120 million on playing staff. This was rewarded with 11th place in his first season on charge, followed by 3 consecutive 6th place finishes, and 2 trips to Wembley in his final season in charge (Once for the League Cup final, once for the F.A. Cup semi-final). Anybody will tell you, to finish 6th in the premier league and to come close to winning two cups in one season takes a lot of skill. Seen as though the Premier League is widely regarded as the best league in the world, that's almost like being classed amongst the best in world football, evidently Martin O'Neill took us (us being Villa) to almost stardom.
However, the financial backing stopped coming, possibly when we needed it most, to give us that final push into the Champions League. Chairman Randy Lerner introduced a sell to buy policy, where the manager had to sell off players in order to get funds to buy new ones. For a club that's always building, it's obvious that isn't sustainable. If you sell a mediocre player for £2 million, how are you meant to buy the man that could make the difference in your team for £20 million?
It is widely believed that this is the reason that O'Neill decided the job wasn't for him. The timing of his decision to leave left us in a right state, meaning that Kevin MacDonald was left as the man to steady the ship shortly before the new season started. he went some way to steadying the ship; The players were fully backing him to get the managers position, and it is believed that O'Neill had lost the faith of his players towards the end of his reign as manager. MacDonald also gave some of the younger players a chance, for example Marc Albrighton, Ciaran Clark, Barry Bannan, Andreas Weimann, Eric Lichaj. Although these players had a turbulent first few games, with them not hitting any particular pattern of winning nor losing, they've all proven, along with others (Delfouneso, Hogg) that they can do the business at the highest level. Eric Lichaj in the recent game against Tottenham was superb at keeping Gareth Bale quiet for most of the game, Albrighton's been compared to David Beckham by some and Hogg and Bannan featured in a 2-2 draw against the 'mighty' Manchester United.
These players have shown that they will perform under any manager, be it MacDonald or Houllier. However, the senior players faith obviously lies with MacDonald, as I'll explain.
When Houllier was appointed, the younger players still carried on performing, however the senior players became somewhat redundant. Friedel, Collins, Dunne, Agbonlahor, to an extent Ashley and Luke Young, and maybe even recently Stewart Downing. These have all been off form lately. This leaves the job to our younger players, who as good as they are, aren't ready to carry a team on their own in the premier league. They need the senior players supporting them, and the support doesn't seem to be there. There have been rumours of training ground bust ups between the new management team and players, and it's never the younger players that are involved, only the senior ones.
Now, for my opinion.
Houllier had lost the team the moment he was appointed. As long as a team don't want to play for a manager, they'll never put 100% in. Houllier's decision making during matches has been poor, bringing on Robert Pires who is in the twilight of his career isn't going to have a postivie impact on the match, especially when you have the bundle of energy that is Barry Bannan on the bench.
However, I think the true issue lies with the chairman. He showed ambition in the first few seasons, investing his time and money into the club and making us very successful. However, that ambition is dwindling. He's not giving any more funds, and if we want to even retain 6th we need 2/3 good players bought in to make the difference, players that could only be bought if the chairman invests. It is fine for him to expect return on what he's put in, and if he believes that we've underperformed for the £120 million then he's every right to stop investing.
Action that should be taken.
Lerner should sell the club. To a young, ambitious chairman who is willing to put time and effort into making this club as successful as we possibly can be. Houllier needs to go, and to be replaced by an ambitious manager who is also willing to give the younger players a go. Some of the older players need to be axed too, they're slowing down our play and these young players bring a spark to us.
We have one of the best young teams in the league, yet it isn't being utilised correctly. I think that with a manager who connects with the players, a chairman who connects with the club, there is no reason why we can't do what Manchester United did with the Nevilles, David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes. They won the title.
Who do I think should step in? Kevin MacDonald. His record wasn't brilliant, but considering they were his first 7 games in charge of a Premier League side they showed promise, because most men in his position would've crumbled. And he obviously connects with the players.
To summarise my points:
1. New chairman who wants to lead a club to glory, rather than make a quick buck.
2. Kevin MacDonald to be offered the managers job, and to connect with the players and utilize them how he knows best.
3. Get rid of players in the twilight of their careers. They may have served us well in previous seasons, but they aren't serving us well now.
4. Basically, I'm talking revolution, not evolution.
If this happens, I expect us to become one of the most exciting sides the Premier League, in fact, world football has ever seen. The potential is there to be a world class team, but the ambition at the moment is not. And I really do believe now is the time to fly or fall. We're falling now, but there's no reason why we can't get some wings, it's not too late.
Whatever happens, I'm Villa till I die.
Sunday, 26 December 2010
Christmas, Cameras, Chlamydia! (wait, what?)
Good morning my lovelies.
It's 3:15pm, what the sodding hell am I on about?
Hope you all had a good Christmas! (All being the only 3 people that'll read this, those people being friends I've probably already spoken to since Christmas). I know I had a brilliant Christmas, i realised that my family isn't entirely unbearable, only 90% of the time, and that trying to act out 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' in charades is a lot ruder than you might think.
But, on to more relevant news, I'm getting a new camcorder! My mom and dad ordered me a Sony Handycam HD (Link can be found by clicking here), tripod, case and 16 gb memory card. Fun times eh! Meaning that if i'm vlogging on the move then I can look like i'm talking into a proper camera rather than my iPod, which i'm pretty sure is a lot more socially acceptable. I don't think vlogging is socially acceptable at the moment anyway though :( But i digress. I'm hoping that with this big boost to equipment, I'll be recording a lot more videos, and putting them on YouTube for you nosey little bastards. :D (sorry that was uncalled for. Click here for a hug.)
Also, I've deleted Facebook! No you idiots, not the entire website, I'm not Mark Zuckerberg who just though 'hell, whats the point.' Not that he'd do that anyway, such is the money he gets from it. I've deleted my own Facebook account. I was reluctant to do this, and i narrowed it down to either getting good grades in my upcoming exams, or retaining a 'memory' of all of my friends birthdays. My final conclusion was that alienation from my friends was, for me, the better option.
So, with no Facebook, I'll be looking for a new procrastination technique. I'm not sure what it'll be yet, but don't be surprised if i start using this a lot more often, or if i'm updating my Twitter a lot more frequently.
Before I go, i must leave you with a project that I'll aim to complete and then leave you and myself dissapointed by not doing it! I'd be bypassing a brilliant tradition if I didn't.
BASICALLY after writing this I'm going to think over the year what my goals are for 2011, things to work towards. I have one or two in mind that might surprise some people, so watch this space. I'll be making a YouTube video hopefully before the new year explaining what's going down with that. (I'm sure you can find a link to my youtube account somewhere on this page, if you can't then OH WELL.)
Anywho, I've rambled here, I'm off to go and watch the Aston Villa vs Tottenham game, which I feel unusually optimistic for. Christmas makes me feel good about everything though, so I'm going for a 3-1 Villa win.
For the record, I haven't predicted a Villa score right since early last season, so don't hold your breath.
If I don't speak to you before, Have a lovely new year celebration, whatever you plan on doing, and I look forward to seeing you all in 2011! (This really is beginning to sound like some soppy greetings card or letter prior to a family re-union, isn't it?)
Cheerio chuck, have a good'un. x
It's 3:15pm, what the sodding hell am I on about?
Hope you all had a good Christmas! (All being the only 3 people that'll read this, those people being friends I've probably already spoken to since Christmas). I know I had a brilliant Christmas, i realised that my family isn't entirely unbearable, only 90% of the time, and that trying to act out 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' in charades is a lot ruder than you might think.
But, on to more relevant news, I'm getting a new camcorder! My mom and dad ordered me a Sony Handycam HD (Link can be found by clicking here), tripod, case and 16 gb memory card. Fun times eh! Meaning that if i'm vlogging on the move then I can look like i'm talking into a proper camera rather than my iPod, which i'm pretty sure is a lot more socially acceptable. I don't think vlogging is socially acceptable at the moment anyway though :( But i digress. I'm hoping that with this big boost to equipment, I'll be recording a lot more videos, and putting them on YouTube for you nosey little bastards. :D (sorry that was uncalled for. Click here for a hug.)
Also, I've deleted Facebook! No you idiots, not the entire website, I'm not Mark Zuckerberg who just though 'hell, whats the point.' Not that he'd do that anyway, such is the money he gets from it. I've deleted my own Facebook account. I was reluctant to do this, and i narrowed it down to either getting good grades in my upcoming exams, or retaining a 'memory' of all of my friends birthdays. My final conclusion was that alienation from my friends was, for me, the better option.
So, with no Facebook, I'll be looking for a new procrastination technique. I'm not sure what it'll be yet, but don't be surprised if i start using this a lot more often, or if i'm updating my Twitter a lot more frequently.
Before I go, i must leave you with a project that I'll aim to complete and then leave you and myself dissapointed by not doing it! I'd be bypassing a brilliant tradition if I didn't.
BASICALLY after writing this I'm going to think over the year what my goals are for 2011, things to work towards. I have one or two in mind that might surprise some people, so watch this space. I'll be making a YouTube video hopefully before the new year explaining what's going down with that. (I'm sure you can find a link to my youtube account somewhere on this page, if you can't then OH WELL.)
Anywho, I've rambled here, I'm off to go and watch the Aston Villa vs Tottenham game, which I feel unusually optimistic for. Christmas makes me feel good about everything though, so I'm going for a 3-1 Villa win.
For the record, I haven't predicted a Villa score right since early last season, so don't hold your breath.
If I don't speak to you before, Have a lovely new year celebration, whatever you plan on doing, and I look forward to seeing you all in 2011! (This really is beginning to sound like some soppy greetings card or letter prior to a family re-union, isn't it?)
Cheerio chuck, have a good'un. x
Tuesday, 2 November 2010
Holte Enders In The Sky
I thought this would be fun to do, but rather than doing it on facebook, why not spam my blog! 2 posts in one night, what is the world coming to?
1. Put your iTunes, Windows Media Player, etc. on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS.
IF SOMEONE SAYS ‘ARE YOU OKAY’ YOU SAY?
Numb
WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Out Of Space
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
Take This Life
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
Dog Days Are Over
HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
I've Got Nothing
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE’S PURPOSE?
Thunderbirds Are Go
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
5 Years Time
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Joker And The Thief
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Save Me Said The Saviour
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
Stairway To Heaven
WHAT IS 2 + 2?
Diamonds Aren't Forever
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
I Predict A Riot
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Never Let This Go
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
Hit The Floor
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
A-Punk
WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Decoy
WHAT WILL YOU DO AT YOUR WEDDING?
Bitches
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
On The Road Again
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST??
I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FEAR?
Wherever You Will Go
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
Talk Dirty To Me
WHAT DO YOU WANT RIGHT NOW?
Killing In The Name
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
Blind Man
WHAT’S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
She Said
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
Don't Stop Me Now
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
Ramblin' Man
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
Dammit
WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
Three Cheers For Five Years
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
The Bitter End
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
Ruby
IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
Break Stuff
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
Another Way To Die
WHAT WILL YOU NAME THIS POST?
Ghost Riders In The Sky (for the purposes of being a Villa fan, it'll be holte enders in the sky.)
1. Put your iTunes, Windows Media Player, etc. on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS.
IF SOMEONE SAYS ‘ARE YOU OKAY’ YOU SAY?
Numb
WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Out Of Space
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
Take This Life
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
Dog Days Are Over
HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
I've Got Nothing
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE’S PURPOSE?
Thunderbirds Are Go
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
5 Years Time
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Joker And The Thief
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Save Me Said The Saviour
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
Stairway To Heaven
WHAT IS 2 + 2?
Diamonds Aren't Forever
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
I Predict A Riot
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Never Let This Go
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
Hit The Floor
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
A-Punk
WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Decoy
WHAT WILL YOU DO AT YOUR WEDDING?
Bitches
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
On The Road Again
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST??
I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FEAR?
Wherever You Will Go
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
Talk Dirty To Me
WHAT DO YOU WANT RIGHT NOW?
Killing In The Name
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
Blind Man
WHAT’S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
She Said
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
Don't Stop Me Now
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
Ramblin' Man
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
Dammit
WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
Three Cheers For Five Years
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
The Bitter End
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
Ruby
IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
Break Stuff
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
Another Way To Die
WHAT WILL YOU NAME THIS POST?
Ghost Riders In The Sky (for the purposes of being a Villa fan, it'll be holte enders in the sky.)
NaNoWriMo joins the other failed projects graveyard.
Another project I commit myself to blindly, another disappointment i set up for myself. Let's put this into context. I was going to try NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), in which you attempt to write a 50,000 word novel in 30 days, from the start to end of November. I thought to myself:
Great! A brilliant opportunity for a lot of creative output rather than spending hours on end on Facebook.
I thought that this was going to be brilliant; Something to aim towards, something to achieve in a relatively small space of time. However, this realistic view kicked into my mind earlier today:
Balls. I've got coursework to do, i'm starting psychology revision soon, and i've got to decide on a Uni. Plus i've not got a part time job working at McDonalds, and i've got a meeting with someone from the council tomorrow about looking into a volunteer job.
On reflection, this is the case with every other project i commit myself to. VEDA went well for a couple of weeks, until I literally had either too much to do, or got lazy. I don't remember which, but chances are it was a mixture of both. Also with the daily video week that never happened, I could have easily made 5 vlogs and uploaded them, however i had coursework to do and Uni applications to complete.
Truth be told, I have lots of video ideas. Literally loads. And i'd love to make them, I really would. But after doing my coursework or coming home from work, I like to be lazy. Funnily enough, I think that laziness plays a vital part in life. It's a bit like wine. In small portions its beneficial, have too much and it's detrimental. Laziness gives us a chance to shut our minds off from the world, whether that be staring, not necessarily watching, TV, or spending hours on Facebook at a time.
It sounds weird, defending idleness, but in a way idleness gives us a chance to detract from the world and to just relax.
But I digress.
I'm going to try and make more videos, I promise. I've got some really good ideas, and with me recently passing 50 subscribers, I feel a kind of responsibility. Pfft, as if these people DEPEND on me making videos.
Feels good to be blog posting again. I'm not going to promise that i'm going to post a whole lot more, because as i mentioned recently, there's a lot happening in my life about now.
But i'll try and keep you guys updated. Truth be told, I miss interacting with teh tinterwebs.
Good morning. xx
( If you're reading this on Facebook, visit my blog for more posts like this! jamesyjames1.blogspot.com =D )
Great! A brilliant opportunity for a lot of creative output rather than spending hours on end on Facebook.
I thought that this was going to be brilliant; Something to aim towards, something to achieve in a relatively small space of time. However, this realistic view kicked into my mind earlier today:
Balls. I've got coursework to do, i'm starting psychology revision soon, and i've got to decide on a Uni. Plus i've not got a part time job working at McDonalds, and i've got a meeting with someone from the council tomorrow about looking into a volunteer job.
On reflection, this is the case with every other project i commit myself to. VEDA went well for a couple of weeks, until I literally had either too much to do, or got lazy. I don't remember which, but chances are it was a mixture of both. Also with the daily video week that never happened, I could have easily made 5 vlogs and uploaded them, however i had coursework to do and Uni applications to complete.
Truth be told, I have lots of video ideas. Literally loads. And i'd love to make them, I really would. But after doing my coursework or coming home from work, I like to be lazy. Funnily enough, I think that laziness plays a vital part in life. It's a bit like wine. In small portions its beneficial, have too much and it's detrimental. Laziness gives us a chance to shut our minds off from the world, whether that be staring, not necessarily watching, TV, or spending hours on Facebook at a time.
It sounds weird, defending idleness, but in a way idleness gives us a chance to detract from the world and to just relax.
But I digress.
I'm going to try and make more videos, I promise. I've got some really good ideas, and with me recently passing 50 subscribers, I feel a kind of responsibility. Pfft, as if these people DEPEND on me making videos.
Feels good to be blog posting again. I'm not going to promise that i'm going to post a whole lot more, because as i mentioned recently, there's a lot happening in my life about now.
But i'll try and keep you guys updated. Truth be told, I miss interacting with teh tinterwebs.
Good morning. xx
( If you're reading this on Facebook, visit my blog for more posts like this! jamesyjames1.blogspot.com =D )
Wednesday, 15 September 2010
In school
BLOGGING IN SCHOOL *scoff scoff*
Meant to be writing my personal statement for university at the moment, but i've hit something of a creative block. If by that you count boredom. :)
AND I CBA TO EVEN BLOG lol.
Kthxbai. x
Meant to be writing my personal statement for university at the moment, but i've hit something of a creative block. If by that you count boredom. :)
AND I CBA TO EVEN BLOG lol.
Kthxbai. x
Monday, 23 August 2010
Portugal :)
Haven't posted in ages, thought i better had do. Starting blogs with that is becoming a habit now...
I'm in the Algarve, Portugal, and it's lovely. Just in every sense. Clear skies everyday, although it's a bit too hot for my liking... The hotel is just completely awesome too. We have a little box thing that controls all the rooms lights, and the curtains! We also have a big balcony, TV with English speaking channels (So I don't miss my daily installment of Jeff Stelling (Countdown)) and we have all sorts. So yes, 'tis good. :)
However, I'll be bored soon enough. I've finished Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime (Mark Haddon, very good read), I'm not too keen on reading Schindler's list which is the other book I've bought, and it's too hot for me to sit outside all day because hate the heat and I end up moaning and ruining everybody's holiday. Bad times.
Normally on these summer breaks to hot places, I'm a recluse in the day because of the sun, but I come into my element at night, my mood perks up and I make everybody laugh. Co-incidentally, I drink during the night. I'm of the opinion my merry moods and humourous nature are not at all linked to alcohol. Much. However, at this hotel, there aren't many bars and such around for me to sing and such in (Karaoke. :D), and the nightlife is pretty much non-existent. So I spend the days sitting doing nothing, and the nights, well, sitting doing nothing.
If somebody knows of any good bars (preferably with Karaoke and Sky Sports) in the Algarve, let me know. :)
And before you get all, 'ABSORB THE CULTURE!', no, this normally bores me greatly unless it's a massive monument, and I like to go on holiday to relax and make a fool of myself.
Cheerydee :) x
I'm in the Algarve, Portugal, and it's lovely. Just in every sense. Clear skies everyday, although it's a bit too hot for my liking... The hotel is just completely awesome too. We have a little box thing that controls all the rooms lights, and the curtains! We also have a big balcony, TV with English speaking channels (So I don't miss my daily installment of Jeff Stelling (Countdown)) and we have all sorts. So yes, 'tis good. :)
However, I'll be bored soon enough. I've finished Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime (Mark Haddon, very good read), I'm not too keen on reading Schindler's list which is the other book I've bought, and it's too hot for me to sit outside all day because hate the heat and I end up moaning and ruining everybody's holiday. Bad times.
Normally on these summer breaks to hot places, I'm a recluse in the day because of the sun, but I come into my element at night, my mood perks up and I make everybody laugh. Co-incidentally, I drink during the night. I'm of the opinion my merry moods and humourous nature are not at all linked to alcohol. Much. However, at this hotel, there aren't many bars and such around for me to sing and such in (Karaoke. :D), and the nightlife is pretty much non-existent. So I spend the days sitting doing nothing, and the nights, well, sitting doing nothing.
If somebody knows of any good bars (preferably with Karaoke and Sky Sports) in the Algarve, let me know. :)
And before you get all, 'ABSORB THE CULTURE!', no, this normally bores me greatly unless it's a massive monument, and I like to go on holiday to relax and make a fool of myself.
Cheerydee :) x
Friday, 9 July 2010
How long!?
How long's it been since I last posted?
I geniunely don't know by the way, I cannot be bothered to go back and look :P
Erm yeah, just a quick post (Quickie LOL)...
Quick.
Yes, there you have it :D
I geniunely don't know by the way, I cannot be bothered to go back and look :P
Erm yeah, just a quick post (Quickie LOL)...
Quick.
Yes, there you have it :D
Tuesday, 15 June 2010
World Cup and Hair.
The world cup's started. Yup.
So, now to the secon- I's joking :')
I often get asked who I think will win the world cup, and I think either Brazil or Germany. Brazil for their flare, Germany because they seem to be robots intent on winning at any cost. North Korea could surprise, seen as though their home country may well kidnap the players families should they not perform.
I also get asked if I think that England stand a chance. Well, as long as we're still in the tournament, we stand a chance, the same applies for anybody. However, getting out of our group comfortably looks out of the window now, with pressure on. I can see us beating Algeria and drawing against Slovenia, because they looked solid against Algeria. This would mean we probably qualify in second place, behind Slovenia, I think.
This means we probably draw Germany in the next round. My hypothesis is that if we beat Slovenia, we'll get through to the semi's as we avoid Germany. If we lose or draw to Slovenia, then we get Germany, and if we beat Germany, we go through to the final because if we can beat Germany, we could well beat anyone.
Now for my hair. I was bored of the orange turning a horrible ginger, so had it coloured red last night. I know I'm not doing it any favours with all this colour and straightening, but what the hell. And, inevitably, I've had people question my... 'inspiration'. No, I'm not copying Charlie McDonnell, or my good friend Dean, or anyone. Although I realise I lack originality with this less than extravagant hairstyle, I like it and those who question me for it are pretty pathetic.
I'm doing the occasional BlogTV show, you can watch me here, you can follow me on it too!
If you're reading this on facebook, go to my blog to read my others!
So, now to the secon- I's joking :')
I often get asked who I think will win the world cup, and I think either Brazil or Germany. Brazil for their flare, Germany because they seem to be robots intent on winning at any cost. North Korea could surprise, seen as though their home country may well kidnap the players families should they not perform.
I also get asked if I think that England stand a chance. Well, as long as we're still in the tournament, we stand a chance, the same applies for anybody. However, getting out of our group comfortably looks out of the window now, with pressure on. I can see us beating Algeria and drawing against Slovenia, because they looked solid against Algeria. This would mean we probably qualify in second place, behind Slovenia, I think.
This means we probably draw Germany in the next round. My hypothesis is that if we beat Slovenia, we'll get through to the semi's as we avoid Germany. If we lose or draw to Slovenia, then we get Germany, and if we beat Germany, we go through to the final because if we can beat Germany, we could well beat anyone.
Now for my hair. I was bored of the orange turning a horrible ginger, so had it coloured red last night. I know I'm not doing it any favours with all this colour and straightening, but what the hell. And, inevitably, I've had people question my... 'inspiration'. No, I'm not copying Charlie McDonnell, or my good friend Dean, or anyone. Although I realise I lack originality with this less than extravagant hairstyle, I like it and those who question me for it are pretty pathetic.
I'm doing the occasional BlogTV show, you can watch me here, you can follow me on it too!
If you're reading this on facebook, go to my blog to read my others!
Monday, 14 June 2010
Question Time
SHOULD I POST MORE? Yes.
SHOULD I STOP MAKING PROMISES I DON'T KEEP? Yes.
CAN ENGLAND WIN THE WORLD CUP? Bugger off, 'course we can't.
DO I KNOW HAVE RED, RATHER THAN GINGER HAIR? As of the evening of 14/06/10, yes.
DID I WATCH GLEE? Am I the pope?
WHO ARE GOING TO WIN THE WORLD CUP? Brazil.
WHO ARE GOING TO BE RUNNERS UP? New Zealand.
AM I GAY? No, I just don't like homophobia.
WHEN ARE YOU BACK ON YOUTUBE? I don't know. I hope sooner rather than later. Hope.
WHAT YOU DROPPING AT A-LEVEL? French or English.
WHO DO YOU FANCY? Nobody atm.
ARE YOU CHRISTIAN? Nope, agnostic.
THE GAME? I just lost it.
WHO'S YOUR FAVOURITE YOUTUBER? Alex Day.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF 'VUVUZELAS'? I think they add to the atmosphere, so stop moaning. Actually, carry on, it makes me laugh.
DO YOU LOVE ME? Might do.
EMILE HESKEY? Biggest arsehole on planet earth. As long as he's playing football.
FAVOURITE T.V. PROGRAMME? Tough one... Doctor Who.
FACEBOOK OR TWITTER? Facebook > Twitter
JAMES CORDEN? Stole my first name. But still a funny guy.
DID YOU ASK YOURSELF ALL OF THESE QUESTIONS? Most of them. Such is my sad life :-)
WHAT ABOUT THAT ONE? Yup.
AND THAT ONE? Yes.
SHOULD YOU STOP DOING THIS NOW? Erm... Yeah.
SHOULD I STOP MAKING PROMISES I DON'T KEEP? Yes.
CAN ENGLAND WIN THE WORLD CUP? Bugger off, 'course we can't.
DO I KNOW HAVE RED, RATHER THAN GINGER HAIR? As of the evening of 14/06/10, yes.
DID I WATCH GLEE? Am I the pope?
WHO ARE GOING TO WIN THE WORLD CUP? Brazil.
WHO ARE GOING TO BE RUNNERS UP? New Zealand.
AM I GAY? No, I just don't like homophobia.
WHEN ARE YOU BACK ON YOUTUBE? I don't know. I hope sooner rather than later. Hope.
WHAT YOU DROPPING AT A-LEVEL? French or English.
WHO DO YOU FANCY? Nobody atm.
ARE YOU CHRISTIAN? Nope, agnostic.
THE GAME? I just lost it.
WHO'S YOUR FAVOURITE YOUTUBER? Alex Day.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF 'VUVUZELAS'? I think they add to the atmosphere, so stop moaning. Actually, carry on, it makes me laugh.
DO YOU LOVE ME? Might do.
EMILE HESKEY? Biggest arsehole on planet earth. As long as he's playing football.
FAVOURITE T.V. PROGRAMME? Tough one... Doctor Who.
FACEBOOK OR TWITTER? Facebook > Twitter
JAMES CORDEN? Stole my first name. But still a funny guy.
DID YOU ASK YOURSELF ALL OF THESE QUESTIONS? Most of them. Such is my sad life :-)
WHAT ABOUT THAT ONE? Yup.
AND THAT ONE? Yes.
SHOULD YOU STOP DOING THIS NOW? Erm... Yeah.
Saturday, 5 June 2010
SORRY!
OMG JAMES, WHY HAVEN'T YOU BEEN MAKING BLOGS?!
Well i've been in disneyland paris. I kind of forgot to say. Sorry. But during that time, I've had a ton of video ideas. I've got a good 3 or 4 now. Don't expect one anytime soon though. They'll take time to make, time I don't have with my exams. I'm HOPING to start filming as soon as the afternoon of my last exam, seen as though I'll have thursday and friday free for filming. Good times.
Just a quick blog to let you know what's happening in the life of James :-)
Well i've been in disneyland paris. I kind of forgot to say. Sorry. But during that time, I've had a ton of video ideas. I've got a good 3 or 4 now. Don't expect one anytime soon though. They'll take time to make, time I don't have with my exams. I'm HOPING to start filming as soon as the afternoon of my last exam, seen as though I'll have thursday and friday free for filming. Good times.
Just a quick blog to let you know what's happening in the life of James :-)
Saturday, 29 May 2010
Promises, promises...
I have to stop making promises! Because I never keep to them. There WON'T be a video up this week, or next, or probably next. Sorry for saying there will be, but there's been a lot of shizz happening.
A promise I will keep to though, is that when I eventually do return, i'll watch all of my videos back and note any promises I did make. I will then fulfill these, no matter how ridiculous.
Just a quick post to say sorry basically... This also probably means that the schedule will go out the window too. *sigh*
If you're reading this on Facebook, then read it on my blog instead - jamesyjames1.blogspot.com
A promise I will keep to though, is that when I eventually do return, i'll watch all of my videos back and note any promises I did make. I will then fulfill these, no matter how ridiculous.
Just a quick post to say sorry basically... This also probably means that the schedule will go out the window too. *sigh*
If you're reading this on Facebook, then read it on my blog instead - jamesyjames1.blogspot.com
Wednesday, 26 May 2010
General 'What?' Phrases.
1. When you tell someone you're going on holiday and they respond with "Anywhere nice?" No actually, I'm going to the slums of Rio De Janeiro. What do you think!?
2. "Can you hear me?" "No." Wait a minute...
3. "It's opposite day today." Or is it...
4. "I'm dying out here" Yes, like the rest of humanity. We're all dying all the time, really.
5. "Have you had a haircut?" Nope, got short by itself.
6."Don't spill it!" Woops, I just did because I presumed that you wouldn't mind.
I have a very analytical mind, so phrases and sayings like this never fail to amuse me :-)
2. "Can you hear me?" "No." Wait a minute...
3. "It's opposite day today." Or is it...
4. "I'm dying out here" Yes, like the rest of humanity. We're all dying all the time, really.
5. "Have you had a haircut?" Nope, got short by itself.
6."Don't spill it!" Woops, I just did because I presumed that you wouldn't mind.
I have a very analytical mind, so phrases and sayings like this never fail to amuse me :-)
Tuesday, 25 May 2010
Nope, here's a bigger win.
*sigh*
Did you expect much more of me? I've been bored of my hair for rather a while now, so here is the official unveiling of it to the internet. Taa daa! (fanfare)
I have my reasons. I can hear you all cry "ALAS, he's copied Charlie and Dean!".
Well actually, I haven't. Dying my hair an extravagant colour was my decision and wasn't influenced by anyone, and as I was fully aware, having my hair red would make it seem as though I'm copying these two. So, I stuck a load of orange in it for good measure. As you do.
Monday, 24 May 2010
Most Epic Win Of My Life
Oh my dear lord. I'VE JUST FINISHED MY FINAL EVER FRENCH EXAM EVER FINAL EVER EVER FINAL ARGH! :D
For those who don't know, I don't like french. So, I decided to take it at A-level. Which, for me, soon proved to be a big mistake. So today, I took my final exam and low and behold, IT'S OVER!!
I'm very excited as well... Because, coming back hopefully very soon, is my youtube channel. There's no guarantees, but I'm hoping to have finished up my video within the near future... But i've missed vlogging. I don't regret going on a break, because it has helped me knuckle down and actually do some work.
Expect a video up within the next week. It won't be the actual video I've been hyping up, more just a bit more hype for that video. See, my blog readers, how privileged you are! You get backstage gossip. Well, I don't have a stage. Hence, no back of it either. Yet. ;D (NO, that's not saying I will.)
SO to commemorate EVERYTHING going splendidly, let's have a really positive song!
How about some 'Celebration' by Kool & the Gang? :D
It's right here!!!
For those who don't know, I don't like french. So, I decided to take it at A-level. Which, for me, soon proved to be a big mistake. So today, I took my final exam and low and behold, IT'S OVER!!
I'm very excited as well... Because, coming back hopefully very soon, is my youtube channel. There's no guarantees, but I'm hoping to have finished up my video within the near future... But i've missed vlogging. I don't regret going on a break, because it has helped me knuckle down and actually do some work.
Expect a video up within the next week. It won't be the actual video I've been hyping up, more just a bit more hype for that video. See, my blog readers, how privileged you are! You get backstage gossip. Well, I don't have a stage. Hence, no back of it either. Yet. ;D (NO, that's not saying I will.)
SO to commemorate EVERYTHING going splendidly, let's have a really positive song!
How about some 'Celebration' by Kool & the Gang? :D
It's right here!!!
Friday, 21 May 2010
Somewhat Compelled...
I woke up this morning with a major case of CBA. I mean, my dad woke me up at 8:30, And it took me till 10:30 to be ready to revise. And I started revising, but all the words just look a blur, especially when they're in a foreign language. I don't think I'm ill or anything, but I can tell it's going to be a not too productive day. Of course I'll try and change this, but it's come at an unfortunate time, seen as though my french exam in on monday. My only saving grace is that, after monday, I only have 2 subjects to revise for, and one of those is psychology which is a lot of fact learning. I still stick with my theory that English and languages are the hardest subjects to revise for.
All of this being said though, I feel somewhat compelled to make a video for youtube. The only thing stopping me is that I promised to be back with a bang, and the video I want to make really isn't that special. However, don't be surprised if you do see a video up tonight. If I'm right and today isn't going to be productive in terms of revision, then it'll be productive in terms of youtube.
There's something that's confused me concerning youtube too. It's not bad, don't get me wrong, but when I announced that I was going on a break, I couldn't have timed it any worse, because I was starting to build up my number of subscribers. During VEDA (Vlog Everyday In April), My number of subscribers rose to about 35ish. Since I've announced my break though, it's risen again to 41. With the new video in the pipeline, I'm feeling quietly confident that I may well hit 100 within the year. The part that's confusing me is that I've gained 6 since the break... Strange.
Another thing I'd like to clear up for people, is that FourNerdyTeens probably won't be returning. Seen as though Emily's concentrating on writing, Gabby has rare access to a camera, I'm working on my exams and my own channel and Dean the same, it looks unlikely for a return in the near future. But, never say never. I've just realised just how much of a paradox that phrase is.
Also, in my sheer boredom, I've devised a list of important dates in the calendar of James.
14th March - Birthday
17th November - Anniversary of my first youtube upload on Jamesyjames1
31st December - New year
Interesting fact for you, it's 180 days until my 'youtube birthday', and 218 days till christmas. :-)
God I'm bored.
A song! Today's song is 'Make Me Wanna Die' By The Pretty Reckless. The sole reason is, after you've listened to it a couple of times, you're hooked.
Check out 'Make Me Wanna Die' Here :-)
'Everytime I look inside your eyes... You make me wanna die!'
Also, in my sheer boredom, I've devised a list of important dates in the calendar of James.
14th March - Birthday
17th November - Anniversary of my first youtube upload on Jamesyjames1
31st December - New year
Interesting fact for you, it's 180 days until my 'youtube birthday', and 218 days till christmas. :-)
God I'm bored.
A song! Today's song is 'Make Me Wanna Die' By The Pretty Reckless. The sole reason is, after you've listened to it a couple of times, you're hooked.
Check out 'Make Me Wanna Die' Here :-)
'Everytime I look inside your eyes... You make me wanna die!'
Thursday, 20 May 2010
Revision IS going to be the death of me.
ARGH I've overdosed on relentless (for readers who don't know what relentless is, 1. you haven't lived and 2. it's only an energy drink, don't worry), AND I'm actually going out of my mind.
Day one of study leave began with me getting up at the reasonable time of 8:30, only to be ready by 10:00 because i got somewhat sidetracked by Jeremy Kyle. It was at this point that this study leave reminded me a lot of GCSE study leave, in the fact that daytime T.V. which I normally find repulsive, actually becomes vaguely interesting.
Although I am actually trying my hardest to revise, there are a lot of distractions that during my 20 minute breaks here and there are trying to extend to 20 minute breaks, for example, writing a blog. However, I am persevering and after some self testing this morning, I'm starting to get somewhere with French. Which makes me very happy indeed. :)
So to commemorate my celebration, I've given myself an extended 40 minute break, hence undoing all of my good work. This is what makes me laugh about myself, I'm very self critical and when I do find flaws, I just leave them be and don't try and work on them. My excuse for this is that I'd rather be flawed than perfect. The real excuse is, unfortunately, laziness.
But I digress. Back to the point, I can see why my school have dramatically shortened GCSE study leave now. Because for me, study leave was 'go to Walsall everyday and spend an excessive amount of money on domino's pizza and maybe take the odd exam'. (Side note, Walsall is where I used to go with my friends of a weekend, and my spellchecker doesn't recognize it. What's funny is the correction it's giving me is 'Walhalla', which I'm pretty sure is some Scandinavian language for 'Hell'. Which, Walsall funnily enough is.)
Anyhow, I digress again. During this short time of study leave I've had (3 hours), the urge to simply not revise is simply horrible. During GCSE, the majority of people don't really take in just how tough it is at the time, and I know that if i wasn't going to 'Walhalla' everyday and actually revising, then I could have got some really good grades, rather than the average ones I did get.
The only 2 thoughts getting me through this at the moment are summer, and the world cup. I know I bang on about the world cup far too much, but I'm genuinely excited. 20 odd days now!
And this ties in with me being excited for summer, because I've got a very funny feeling that this summer is to be a good one. The past few have ended in disappointment for me for one reason or another, so this one stands a god chance of being a lot better. I'm kicking it off by going to center parcs with my best friend in the world, and hopefully not as much fat is coming with me this time. One of my distractions, horribly enough, is exercise.
Anyhow, that's today ramble almost over, just got a song to show you guys :)
Today's song is 'Just A Day' by Feeder. This is a great pick me up song, so if you're in the same position as me, studying for exams and bored out of your mind, take a few minutes off to listen to this song, it'll pick you up a lot! :-)
Check out 'Just A Day' Here!
'How come we've ended up like this? Whose gonna catch me when coming down to hit the ground again?!'
Day one of study leave began with me getting up at the reasonable time of 8:30, only to be ready by 10:00 because i got somewhat sidetracked by Jeremy Kyle. It was at this point that this study leave reminded me a lot of GCSE study leave, in the fact that daytime T.V. which I normally find repulsive, actually becomes vaguely interesting.
Although I am actually trying my hardest to revise, there are a lot of distractions that during my 20 minute breaks here and there are trying to extend to 20 minute breaks, for example, writing a blog. However, I am persevering and after some self testing this morning, I'm starting to get somewhere with French. Which makes me very happy indeed. :)
So to commemorate my celebration, I've given myself an extended 40 minute break, hence undoing all of my good work. This is what makes me laugh about myself, I'm very self critical and when I do find flaws, I just leave them be and don't try and work on them. My excuse for this is that I'd rather be flawed than perfect. The real excuse is, unfortunately, laziness.
But I digress. Back to the point, I can see why my school have dramatically shortened GCSE study leave now. Because for me, study leave was 'go to Walsall everyday and spend an excessive amount of money on domino's pizza and maybe take the odd exam'. (Side note, Walsall is where I used to go with my friends of a weekend, and my spellchecker doesn't recognize it. What's funny is the correction it's giving me is 'Walhalla', which I'm pretty sure is some Scandinavian language for 'Hell'. Which, Walsall funnily enough is.)
Anyhow, I digress again. During this short time of study leave I've had (3 hours), the urge to simply not revise is simply horrible. During GCSE, the majority of people don't really take in just how tough it is at the time, and I know that if i wasn't going to 'Walhalla' everyday and actually revising, then I could have got some really good grades, rather than the average ones I did get.
The only 2 thoughts getting me through this at the moment are summer, and the world cup. I know I bang on about the world cup far too much, but I'm genuinely excited. 20 odd days now!
And this ties in with me being excited for summer, because I've got a very funny feeling that this summer is to be a good one. The past few have ended in disappointment for me for one reason or another, so this one stands a god chance of being a lot better. I'm kicking it off by going to center parcs with my best friend in the world, and hopefully not as much fat is coming with me this time. One of my distractions, horribly enough, is exercise.
Anyhow, that's today ramble almost over, just got a song to show you guys :)
Today's song is 'Just A Day' by Feeder. This is a great pick me up song, so if you're in the same position as me, studying for exams and bored out of your mind, take a few minutes off to listen to this song, it'll pick you up a lot! :-)
Check out 'Just A Day' Here!
'How come we've ended up like this? Whose gonna catch me when coming down to hit the ground again?!'
Wednesday, 19 May 2010
EMA
I've always wondered what EMA stand for... oh that's right, INEQUALITY.
The EMA system is one of the most unfair systems I've ever seen. For those who don't know, it is a grant given by the government to those who stay in full time education after the statutory leading age. This isn't where my problem lies, my problem lies in the fact that it is for students whose parents annual income is below £30,000.
You can already see my problem. Where I understand that kids whose parents earn over 30 grand have 'privileged' lives, the same does not apply to me. I don't qualify for EMA, and I have to admit I do live relatively comfortable at home. However, the same can't be said in terms of my finances. I don't wish to divulge into how much money I personally have, but I can tell you, it's not very much at all.
I have to earn every penny I get, and I don't see why it's fair that somebody should get up to £30 a week for turning up to school, when I do exactly the same. In my opinion, this system should be made a lot fairer.
This system shouldn't have been implemented in the first place I think, not with the current rules to it anyway. I'd like to see fairness bought into it by giving it to everyone. Yes, even me, the 'spoilt little rich kid'. However, the boundaries should be opened up more. Each claim should be reviewed independently. Although this would be a clerical nightmare, if a system of this magnitude is going to be implemented, it should be implemented fairly.
Another option is to scrap EMA all together. This is the one policy of the conservative party I actually agree with. Like I said at the start, this system promotes inequality. This could be read as me being bitter, but even if I was receiving EMA, I would feel the same way, because the 'class' divide in britain is still about just as much as before this system was implemented, and now in further education I think EMA shows the 'class' divide even more so. Not good.
Todays recommended song, on a much brighter note, is 'Firestarter' by The Prodigy.
Keep an eye on my youtube channel in the coming weeks. You'll see why I'm suggesting this soon enough.
(Yes, this is me announcing I'll be back soon enough.)
Check out 'Firestarter' on this link :D
'I'm the firestarter, twisted firestarter!'
The EMA system is one of the most unfair systems I've ever seen. For those who don't know, it is a grant given by the government to those who stay in full time education after the statutory leading age. This isn't where my problem lies, my problem lies in the fact that it is for students whose parents annual income is below £30,000.
You can already see my problem. Where I understand that kids whose parents earn over 30 grand have 'privileged' lives, the same does not apply to me. I don't qualify for EMA, and I have to admit I do live relatively comfortable at home. However, the same can't be said in terms of my finances. I don't wish to divulge into how much money I personally have, but I can tell you, it's not very much at all.
I have to earn every penny I get, and I don't see why it's fair that somebody should get up to £30 a week for turning up to school, when I do exactly the same. In my opinion, this system should be made a lot fairer.
This system shouldn't have been implemented in the first place I think, not with the current rules to it anyway. I'd like to see fairness bought into it by giving it to everyone. Yes, even me, the 'spoilt little rich kid'. However, the boundaries should be opened up more. Each claim should be reviewed independently. Although this would be a clerical nightmare, if a system of this magnitude is going to be implemented, it should be implemented fairly.
Another option is to scrap EMA all together. This is the one policy of the conservative party I actually agree with. Like I said at the start, this system promotes inequality. This could be read as me being bitter, but even if I was receiving EMA, I would feel the same way, because the 'class' divide in britain is still about just as much as before this system was implemented, and now in further education I think EMA shows the 'class' divide even more so. Not good.
Todays recommended song, on a much brighter note, is 'Firestarter' by The Prodigy.
Keep an eye on my youtube channel in the coming weeks. You'll see why I'm suggesting this soon enough.
(Yes, this is me announcing I'll be back soon enough.)
Check out 'Firestarter' on this link :D
'I'm the firestarter, twisted firestarter!'
Sunday, 16 May 2010
Homophobia
My last post was a whole 3 days ago?! Shocking. But yes, these past 3 days have been so busy... (facebook). I'm even on it as I'm posting this. But yeah, today I'm posting about homophobia.
This is an issue I take incredibly seriously. To start of with, 'homophobia' is NOT a hatred of gays. homophobia is a fright of becoming homosexual, and homosexuals. Hatred is just a by-product of this. For example, you're scared of spiders, you hate them. Simple.
But what annoys me is that, even in todays society, homophobia is still rife. It's not as acceptable or as commonplace as it was in my parents generation, and it's certainly not as blatant. Until it's called into question. The problem is that, if homosexuality becomes the topic of conversation, it also becomes the elephant in the room, so to speak. People get all nervous and don't know how to react. Society tells them to conform to homophobia, their morals tell them otherwise. This shouldn't be the case.
I believe that it is my generations turn to sort out this problem. There are too many middle aged or elderly people who think that homosexuality is unacceptable, because that's how they were bought up. But we live in modern times, where, although children and teenagers are formed by their parents, their viewpoints are also shaped by the media. I believe it is the media and parents responsibility to show that, although homophobia was the case 20/30 years ago, it needn't be now.
I was watching a program about homophobia on ITV the other night, and the reaction that some football fans gave about homosexuals was shocking, and bought me to the point of cussing. However, it pleased me in a way, because ITV were basically saying 'this ISN'T right'. It showed some homosexuals feelings towards homophobia, and the impact homophobia truly has on homosexuals.
But this is a step in the right direction. We should live in a society where the constant message from media, from role models, and from parents, is that homosexuality is o.k, and homophobia shouldn't be acceptable.
For the record, i'm completely straight. I'm writing this because I know the impact homophobia has, and I've seen it first hand. And for me, it's truly heartbreaking that in this world that we live in, a world meant to be building equality, that equality is all too often shattered.
Today's song, on a brighter note, is 'The Bitter End' by Placebo. I thought this would be an apt song, seen as though lead vocalist, Brian Molko, is openly bisexual and still an icon in modern rock.
Check out 'The Bitter End' right here :-)
'You shower me with lullabies, as you're walking away'
This is an issue I take incredibly seriously. To start of with, 'homophobia' is NOT a hatred of gays. homophobia is a fright of becoming homosexual, and homosexuals. Hatred is just a by-product of this. For example, you're scared of spiders, you hate them. Simple.
But what annoys me is that, even in todays society, homophobia is still rife. It's not as acceptable or as commonplace as it was in my parents generation, and it's certainly not as blatant. Until it's called into question. The problem is that, if homosexuality becomes the topic of conversation, it also becomes the elephant in the room, so to speak. People get all nervous and don't know how to react. Society tells them to conform to homophobia, their morals tell them otherwise. This shouldn't be the case.
I believe that it is my generations turn to sort out this problem. There are too many middle aged or elderly people who think that homosexuality is unacceptable, because that's how they were bought up. But we live in modern times, where, although children and teenagers are formed by their parents, their viewpoints are also shaped by the media. I believe it is the media and parents responsibility to show that, although homophobia was the case 20/30 years ago, it needn't be now.
I was watching a program about homophobia on ITV the other night, and the reaction that some football fans gave about homosexuals was shocking, and bought me to the point of cussing. However, it pleased me in a way, because ITV were basically saying 'this ISN'T right'. It showed some homosexuals feelings towards homophobia, and the impact homophobia truly has on homosexuals.
But this is a step in the right direction. We should live in a society where the constant message from media, from role models, and from parents, is that homosexuality is o.k, and homophobia shouldn't be acceptable.
For the record, i'm completely straight. I'm writing this because I know the impact homophobia has, and I've seen it first hand. And for me, it's truly heartbreaking that in this world that we live in, a world meant to be building equality, that equality is all too often shattered.
Today's song, on a brighter note, is 'The Bitter End' by Placebo. I thought this would be an apt song, seen as though lead vocalist, Brian Molko, is openly bisexual and still an icon in modern rock.
Check out 'The Bitter End' right here :-)
'You shower me with lullabies, as you're walking away'
Thursday, 13 May 2010
Revision :|
Oh dear.
I've set myself an extremely ambitious target of 80 hours of revision, 20 of which have to be done by tuesday, another 20 by friday or thereabouts. It'll be tough, but hey, revision wasn't made to be easy. I hope that with 20 hours for each subject, I can buck each subject up by at least half a grade, which could prove to be all the difference.
What's given me this massive kick up the bum is the fact I got about a D (maybe a C) on my English coursework. I'm hoping for B's in all of my subjects, so this was a real setback for me. However, looking on the more positive side of things, I've got an A/B in my ICT coursework. So it's not all doom and gloom.
I went to see the new Iron Man film earlier, and I was very impressed! I'm not quite sure what it is about it that makes it good, but it has that 'wow' factor to it. I'd definitely recommend it! Not so much the hotdogs at the cinema though. Eww.
On my posts from now on, I'm going to leave a lyric and youtube link to my favourite song at that moment in time, or a song I think you guys should check out. This post's song is 'The Best Of Times' By Sage Francis, and it's not normally my cup of tea, but I completely love the honesty behind the lyrics.
Check it out right here! :-)
'Technology made it easy to stay in touch whilst keeping a distance, so we just stay distant, and never touch, now all we do is text too much.'
I've set myself an extremely ambitious target of 80 hours of revision, 20 of which have to be done by tuesday, another 20 by friday or thereabouts. It'll be tough, but hey, revision wasn't made to be easy. I hope that with 20 hours for each subject, I can buck each subject up by at least half a grade, which could prove to be all the difference.
What's given me this massive kick up the bum is the fact I got about a D (maybe a C) on my English coursework. I'm hoping for B's in all of my subjects, so this was a real setback for me. However, looking on the more positive side of things, I've got an A/B in my ICT coursework. So it's not all doom and gloom.
I went to see the new Iron Man film earlier, and I was very impressed! I'm not quite sure what it is about it that makes it good, but it has that 'wow' factor to it. I'd definitely recommend it! Not so much the hotdogs at the cinema though. Eww.
On my posts from now on, I'm going to leave a lyric and youtube link to my favourite song at that moment in time, or a song I think you guys should check out. This post's song is 'The Best Of Times' By Sage Francis, and it's not normally my cup of tea, but I completely love the honesty behind the lyrics.
Check it out right here! :-)
'Technology made it easy to stay in touch whilst keeping a distance, so we just stay distant, and never touch, now all we do is text too much.'
Monday, 10 May 2010
More politics...
Another day, another barrage of politics on the news. But, whereas all we've been hearing is 'OMG HUNG PARLIAMENT!', we've heard something different. That being that Gordon Brown is stepping down as leader of the labour party. For me, this didn't come as too much of a shock, I suppose the pressure of britain not wanting him in power must have got to him. However, I do commend his decision, because to swallow his pride like that must have took some courage.
However, this leaves us with a possibly similar situation as when Blair left. With the Lib Dems and Conservatives not seeming to come to an agreement, and labour with a new leader sooner rather than later, we may well end up with yet another unelected PM. Which nobody wants, as we've seen from this election.
I still stand by me hating the conservatives and David Cameron though. What has surprised me is how i've come to dislike Nick Clegg too. I know I've sung his praises before, but as with all the political parties, they are no longer run as representatives of the British people, more a company, keeping things concealed. Especially with these talks, and the Conservatives and Lib Dems holding their cards to their chests very closely.
This annoys me greatly. As a citizen of Britain, I feel a right to know what is happening about my government, and I KNOW I'm not on my own there. Millions of citizens are, in my view, being cheated out of their right to a fair government, because truth be told, we aren't getting the answers we want from our politicians. The TV debates went someway to resolving this, but the hung parliament has bought about what seems to be a civil cold war.
What do I know though. I'm a 17 year old with no right to vote, hence no right to an opinion. Yet it seems to me, I have some valid points. Don't get me started on the voting age. :-)
However, this leaves us with a possibly similar situation as when Blair left. With the Lib Dems and Conservatives not seeming to come to an agreement, and labour with a new leader sooner rather than later, we may well end up with yet another unelected PM. Which nobody wants, as we've seen from this election.
I still stand by me hating the conservatives and David Cameron though. What has surprised me is how i've come to dislike Nick Clegg too. I know I've sung his praises before, but as with all the political parties, they are no longer run as representatives of the British people, more a company, keeping things concealed. Especially with these talks, and the Conservatives and Lib Dems holding their cards to their chests very closely.
This annoys me greatly. As a citizen of Britain, I feel a right to know what is happening about my government, and I KNOW I'm not on my own there. Millions of citizens are, in my view, being cheated out of their right to a fair government, because truth be told, we aren't getting the answers we want from our politicians. The TV debates went someway to resolving this, but the hung parliament has bought about what seems to be a civil cold war.
What do I know though. I'm a 17 year old with no right to vote, hence no right to an opinion. Yet it seems to me, I have some valid points. Don't get me started on the voting age. :-)
Sunday, 9 May 2010
Is it really England's time?
With the 2010 world cup fast approaching (33 days, to be precise), there is a lot of media hype as to whether England can win it or not. Everywhere you look there is offers saying 'If England win the world cup, money back'. However, do we actually stand a chance of claiming back all that money, and watching England raise the coveted trophy for the first time since 1966?
I have, as always, 2 views. However, for the purposes of this blog, it'll be 3.
The first is realistic. Realistically, we can, but it's going to be just as hard as it has been for the past God knows how many tournaments. England are a lot like the Aston Villa of international football, crying out for silverware to reward them in how they've come along, but never quite getting there. I think it may well be another case of false hope again. It's all good and well suggesting that England are favourites because of the team we've built and a better manager, but we said that for Sven, and he got us nowhere in terms of silverware. Also, you have to take other teams into account. Other countries such as Portugal, Argentina and Brazil have some world beaters in their squad, and whilst we do have the likes of Rooney, who've we got supporting him? Emile Heskey. Not quite Ronaldo or Messi.
That being said, there is my second, optimistic view. Yes, we can and will win it. This almost new team of fresh faces will be looking to make a huge impact in world football, and where else better to make it than the world cup? And seen as though the majority of footballers care solely about money now, imagine the job offers these players would get at some of the big teams in the world. Also, you could argue that a lot of the other countries previous super star status has been lost, purely with age and not being able to produce a team, more so a group of individuals. England have been shown to work well as a team, even if we don't have the strongest players, and this could well prove to be the key behind Capello's inevitable success (remember, optimism!).
My third and final view, is patriotism. This isn't so much as a view, but a stance. I will be fully behind England all the way, as should my fellow countrymen. Forget the media's non-belief, believe that this year is our year. 44 years of false hope... It's got to come to an end sooner or later. And when I see England flags all over the country, and I see the support this great team really has... You've got to believe that those 44 years are coming to an end much sooner rather than later.
I have, as always, 2 views. However, for the purposes of this blog, it'll be 3.
The first is realistic. Realistically, we can, but it's going to be just as hard as it has been for the past God knows how many tournaments. England are a lot like the Aston Villa of international football, crying out for silverware to reward them in how they've come along, but never quite getting there. I think it may well be another case of false hope again. It's all good and well suggesting that England are favourites because of the team we've built and a better manager, but we said that for Sven, and he got us nowhere in terms of silverware. Also, you have to take other teams into account. Other countries such as Portugal, Argentina and Brazil have some world beaters in their squad, and whilst we do have the likes of Rooney, who've we got supporting him? Emile Heskey. Not quite Ronaldo or Messi.
That being said, there is my second, optimistic view. Yes, we can and will win it. This almost new team of fresh faces will be looking to make a huge impact in world football, and where else better to make it than the world cup? And seen as though the majority of footballers care solely about money now, imagine the job offers these players would get at some of the big teams in the world. Also, you could argue that a lot of the other countries previous super star status has been lost, purely with age and not being able to produce a team, more so a group of individuals. England have been shown to work well as a team, even if we don't have the strongest players, and this could well prove to be the key behind Capello's inevitable success (remember, optimism!).
My third and final view, is patriotism. This isn't so much as a view, but a stance. I will be fully behind England all the way, as should my fellow countrymen. Forget the media's non-belief, believe that this year is our year. 44 years of false hope... It's got to come to an end sooner or later. And when I see England flags all over the country, and I see the support this great team really has... You've got to believe that those 44 years are coming to an end much sooner rather than later.
Friday, 7 May 2010
WHAT!?
It doesn't surprise me that the conservative's got the majority of the seats in the election, although we've been left with a hung parliament. However, WHY are the lib dems considering joining forces with them?! I've forever said that i'd consider having a bigoted UKIP or BNP state over a conservative one under David Cameron, such is my dislike for him.
If I could have voted, it would have been Lib Dems, and i was disappointed with the shortfall in votes for them. However, they still have a key role to play in this parliament, and i would much rather see a Labour/Lib Dem coalition than any government headed by Cameron. He isn't in touch with the british people at all, and I get the impression that he cares about catering for his millionaire friends rather than us normal brits. Also, i think that the fundamental differences between the Lib Dems and Conservatives means that even if they were to form a coalition, it wouldn't necessarily be a successful one.
However that being said, the Conservative swings are obviously reflective of what the british people as a whole want, rather then just myself. This goes someway to showing that the voting system is outdated, and the first past the post system is, as (I think) Alistar Darling said, 'on its last legs'.
So, as for where i stand, I have two views; What I think should happen, and what i want to happen.
What i think should happen is that there should be another election, because if the popularity of conservatives shines through again, we'll have a right and just election. As for the party though, much is left to be desired for fairness and justness.
What I want to happen is a labour and lib dem coalition, because i personally think this would be the best system to take us through to the future, but it obviously wouldn't be representative of what the british people want, just me.
If I could have voted, it would have been Lib Dems, and i was disappointed with the shortfall in votes for them. However, they still have a key role to play in this parliament, and i would much rather see a Labour/Lib Dem coalition than any government headed by Cameron. He isn't in touch with the british people at all, and I get the impression that he cares about catering for his millionaire friends rather than us normal brits. Also, i think that the fundamental differences between the Lib Dems and Conservatives means that even if they were to form a coalition, it wouldn't necessarily be a successful one.
However that being said, the Conservative swings are obviously reflective of what the british people as a whole want, rather then just myself. This goes someway to showing that the voting system is outdated, and the first past the post system is, as (I think) Alistar Darling said, 'on its last legs'.
So, as for where i stand, I have two views; What I think should happen, and what i want to happen.
What i think should happen is that there should be another election, because if the popularity of conservatives shines through again, we'll have a right and just election. As for the party though, much is left to be desired for fairness and justness.
What I want to happen is a labour and lib dem coalition, because i personally think this would be the best system to take us through to the future, but it obviously wouldn't be representative of what the british people want, just me.
Let me know your thoughts! I think this topic is VERY interesting at the moment.
P.s, I gave up on capitalization of the parties towards the end, sorry!
Thursday, 6 May 2010
At school!
LOLZ i'm at school posting. What a maverick I am.
Erm, nothing really to post on this blog, other than deans showing me some cool tricks later to make my blog look all nicer (i.e, an actual format or something, rather than just text.)
I shall now leave my friend Mickael to make a post:
OMD this fag totally cant spell my name as i am not from spain or mexico but whatever JASME see i can do it tooooooooo xD
p.s the game
For being a douche, it is staying as 'mickael' and sorry about you losing the game. Don't worry, I did too.
Expect a post fairly soon, 'cause i'll probably be trying out new tips and tricks and stuff i learn from dean (:
Au Revoir x
Erm, nothing really to post on this blog, other than deans showing me some cool tricks later to make my blog look all nicer (i.e, an actual format or something, rather than just text.)
I shall now leave my friend Mickael to make a post:
OMD this fag totally cant spell my name as i am not from spain or mexico but whatever JASME see i can do it tooooooooo xD
p.s the game
For being a douche, it is staying as 'mickael' and sorry about you losing the game. Don't worry, I did too.
Expect a post fairly soon, 'cause i'll probably be trying out new tips and tricks and stuff i learn from dean (:
Au Revoir x
Wednesday, 5 May 2010
Take a break...
I'm just having myself a quick break from revising, so I thought i'd post...
How are you all? (all being the very few that'll read this)
Me? Oh i'm great thanks. I might be getting myself a job at McDonald's which is good, because I've been needing a job for a while, just haven't been bothered to get one. However I am a bit miffed with one of my teachers, because i e-mailed her a while back with coursework, it's due in today and I still haven't had any back. Bad times.
I'm going to be making this look all a bit snazzier with layouts and colours and different pages and stuff soon enough, because for the moment this is my main means of communication with the tinterweb world. =)
Tuesday, 4 May 2010
Interacting :-)
What is the point in me having a blog? I'm doing nothing with it, it's just sitting here. Like, 'hello... I have feelings too!' Well it doesn't, it's a blog. Either way, heres a post!
I very much doubt that many of my youtube viewers read this, but what the hell. As you may or may not know, I'm on an indefinite break from youtube, because I have to concentrate on revising (nice going James, you're making a blog.)
However, truth be told, I miss interacting with the online community, so I've decided I'm going to through the form of blogging... Don't expect miracles or fireworks. Both can be hazardous to health. And there are reasons as to why I'm blogging as opposed to youtubing at the moment;
1. Youtubing takes a lot of effort. To record, possibly re-record, edit, and post a video can take hours. Even a decent vlog takes a while to make.
2. I feel as though I can open up more on blogs, because whereas youtube for me is more about entertaining people, but a vlog is about letting people know what is going on in my life and how I feel about it.
So there you have it, why I'm on blogger rather than youtube.
Check out my friend dean too, he blogs regularly and there's some cool stuff going on over on his page... (between me and you, he could be a big hit ;D)
I'd give you a link but I don't know how yet. I'll get to grips with this thing soon enough. :-)
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