Cycling in London

On Sunday we all took part in the London Freewheel Event, where along with 45 000 other cyclists we cycled along a traffic-free 12km route in central London.

The weather was perfect and it was a fantastic day out. Fresh air, sunshine, exercise - what more could you want?

London is a brilliant for communal events and there seems to be so much on at the moment. We've recently had the Thames Festival and the Open House Weekend. Watch out for the Big Draw events which will take place throughout October. They should be fantastic.

My Latest Self Development Book

I'm always on the lookout for books that help you re-think your life. This particular book was recommended to me by a friend so I decided to give it a go. As with most of these books, particularly written by Americans, you have to cut through the author's massive ego trip - 'I'm such a cool dude - makes you jealous, huh', and the 'kick ass, haul ass, way to go!' language.

Having said all that, I did enjoy it and found it very helpful. The basic messages of eliminating excess baggage in your life, automating and outsourcing the mundane and liberating yourself to focus on experiences are very sound and insightful. He's also very generous with his suggestions of additional websites/ authors to look up.

You won't want to read all of it as there is a lot of padding. However, I'd still recommend it as I'm sure most people would find some useful, practical advice within it. You might want to visit his website too.

From Amsterdam to Dublin

I've not had time to blog anything this week. From Monday to Wednesday I was in Amsterdam, or more specifically the Holiday Inn outside Amsterdam. I've still not been around the city centre, despite visiting Amsterdam several times this year. Is it because I'm really too busy? Have I become bored with travel? Think the real reason is because I'm not a great solo tourist. What's the point of seeing something amazing without saying 'wow, isn't that amazing' to whoever you're with. Must get over this. Think I'm missing out.

Thursday to Friday - after a quick pit stop in London - I was Dublin. I spent most of my time going grocery shopping with Irish women. This was bone fide market research, nothing weird, honest. They were very chatty and I learnt loads. Really enjoyed it. Must do more.

Oh Happy Day!

Derby have finally, finally, finally won a League game by beating Sheffield United 2-1 on Saturday after 36 games and almost a year without a win.

Played well too, apparently. So of course, now we've got a win under our belts we're going to start moving up the table rapidly and are dead certs for a play-off place at least. Crisis? What crisis?

Ian Fleming's Thunderball

Having read and enjoyed the Sebastian Faulkes version of a James Bond novel - Devil May Care, I decided to read an 'original' novel by Ian Fleming. Am in the middle of Thunderball and am really enjoying it. Written in 1961, it's a great period piece. What strikes me in particular is:

- the amount of smoking that takes place, how glamorous it all seems

- how women are portrayed. They're objects of desire. They talk too much, are terrible drivers and only interested in money

- how everyone drinks hard spirits especially whisky and cocktails. No-one's had a pint of beer yet

I want to see the film now. Must have a video of it somewhere.

The Growth of the Cornish Pasty

In recent times I've noticed that there are more and more Cornish Pasty shops in central London. Virtually every train station seems to have a West Cornwall Pasty kiosk - the one with the black and yellow awning. I also saw a place called the Pasty Shop at Victoria station last week.

Why are they becoming so popular? I thought we were all becoming more health conscious nowadays.

Latest 10K Run

On Sunday, I ran the Clapham 10K. Finished near the back, didn't break the 1 hour barrier, but still enjoyed it. Luckily the rain held off and it was good to run with the neighbours from our street - the Pretoria Panthers.

Looking out for a race in October - the Dulwich Park 10k on 5th Oct looks promising. Might do this.

Natural Confectionery Company Campaign

I really like this new ad campaign from the Natural Confectionery Company. Charming, quirky, with a strong product message. They could easily have gone down a worthy, good citizen direction but chose not to - which is great. Nice sweets too.

Well done Cadbury's. With the recent Dairy Milk (yes - the Gorilla again) and Trident (Mess with your Head) Campaign they've made some brave decisions on the choice of their creative work.

What's The Best Marketing Job in the World?

Brand Manager of Puma. You've got Usain Bolt as your brand ambassador - undoubtedly the coolest guy on the planet. You also get to go to parties like this.

Dancing Man Videos

I read recently that the videos of Matt the Dancing Man are the most popular on the Web with over 10 million hits on You Tube. He's made 3 videos. For the latest one, click here.

Derby Are Bottom of the Championship

We've gone 36 consecutive League games without a win. This must be some kind of record. I remember when Arsenal went 36 games undefeated to win the Premiership title. I think not winning for 36 games in a row is even harder to achieve.

How Can London Top This?

I loved the Beijing Olympics. The performances were incredible, the ceremonies were spectacular, The Bird's Nest was stunning. So how can London follow this? We can never attempt to emulate this type of event, but instead we need to play to our strengths. Here's some suggestions.

1. Focus on the Individual Not the Collective

During the ceremonies we should focus on individual creative flair rather than the mass co-ordination that the Chinese are so good at, showcasing our global stars of music, theatre, etc.

There should be much less of a corporate feel and there should be the opportunity for different communities to come to the fore.

2. Showcase the Whole of London

Ensure that the world sees all of London rather than just the Olympic Park. It's great that other fabulous settings such as Lord's, Wimbledon, Regent's Park and Wembley will feature in the Games. I remember seeing a lot of Barcelona during their games. We should show off the beauty of London.

3. Create a Party Atmosphere

When Germany held the World Cup, they set up big screens in public places. We should do the same and encourage communal viewing of the big events. There should be a real sense of celebration everywhere with street parties and free public events. We should make the Olympics feel light hearted, entertaining and slightly eccentric. Boris set the tone with his 'ping pong's coming home' speech. More of the same please.

4. Involve The Fans More

In Beijing not all the stadia were full for various reasons. We should ensure that true fans get a chance to go to the events so the crowds can create an intense, passionate atmosphere everywhere.

5. Ignore the Cynics

We're brilliant at negativity in the UK, constantly predicting disaster and moaning about how crowded London will be, how we'll mess everything up, etc. The organisers must ignore and ride through all this and not let the cynicism drive us down.

6. Focus on the Legacy

After the Games we should ensure that everyone has an opportunity to use the facilities and that they don't become empty testimonies to extravagance. We should involve, children and schools before and during the Games so they develop a love of sport and get a chance to develop their talents.

I'm SO looking forward to London 2012. It's a privilege to be given the opportunity to host them and I think they're going to be amazing.

New Addition to the Franco Household

Talullah Lollipop Starfish. 9 weeks old. From Streatham Hill Vet.

Great Film

Recently saw The Lives of Others. It's a German film that re-enacts life in East Germany in the mid 1980s under the watchful eye of the secret police known as the Stasi.

It has everything. Outstanding acting, a gripping story, great soundtrack. No wonder it won the Oscar for Best Foreign Film. A few of us watched it and we all loved it. Can't recommend it highly enough.

Weekend in Glandore

For the past 9 years we've spent the Bank Holiday weekend staying with friends in Glandore in West Cork. Weather was a bit iffy, but it was still great to be there. I always take a picture of Mae sitting at Hayes' Bar. Here's the latest.

Jakarta

Have just arrived in Jakarta. My home for the next 3 days. Flew on an Airbus A380, the biggest passenger plane in the world, in business class with Singapore Airlines. So much space. Was the most luxurious flight I've ever been on. Saw Kung Fu Panda and Ironman. Both very entertaining. Kung Fu Panda slightly more violent.

Nice hotel - the Kristal - with a very inviting pool. Shame I've got work to do.

Same Old, Same Old

Two home games for Derby, two 1-0 defeats. The margins aren't as big, but the results are the same. We've not won a league game for almost a year. Will we be relgation candidates? Looking likely at the moment.

Olympic Withdrawal Symptoms

I can't believe its over. What am I going to do now? I've loved the Olympics. Thought the Games were amazing. BBC coverage was superb. The Chinese put on an incredible show. The athletes were outstanding. Feel inspired and uplifted. Can't wait for London 2012.

Back From Hols

Getting back into work from 2 weeks in the sun is really tough as:

1. The weather's awful
2. The Olympics are on the telly
3. I'd much rather be on a beach in Italy

Whilst away, I managed to get through 3 good books

John Dickie's Delizia: if you love food and you love Italian history, then you'll love this
Sebastian Faulkes' James Bond novel: glamorous, escapist nonsense
Russel Brand's Booky Wook: frank, honest and funny. I'm not a fan of his but I realluy enjoyed it.

Am loving the Olympics - particularly Usain Bolt jogging through his 200 metre heats and the British cyclists. Very distracting. Must get back to my work.....

Can On You Rams!

Can you believe it, the new footie season is about to begin. Over the Summer Derby have bought 11 new players - a brand new team - in an attempt to return to the misery of the Premier League.

So..will need to learn lots of new names and try to work out who's been sold. Trickiest name - Przemyslaw Kazmierczak - Polish midfielder. As with all footie fans, I'm feeling optimistic. Hopefully Paul Jewell will be able to record his first ever win as Derby manager in our opener against Doncaster.

He's bought the players so there can be no excuses. My prediction: Derby in a play off position by Christmas or else Jewell will be gone. Let's hope it's the former.

First London game: QPR on 27th Sept. Anyone want to go??

I Love This Ad...

for Drench Water featuring Brains from Thunderbirds. Ticks all the boxes. Clear product message, funny, clever and....with celebrity endorsement.

Dove Advertising

Whenever I show Dove advertising in classes there's always lively discussion. A year or so ago most peple loved this viral ad called evolution which became an award winning Youtube sensation.

In more recent times Dove has produced this follow up called Onslaught. Opinion on this is much more divided. Is the brand becoming too strident? As a key player in the beauty industry Is it able to take such a stance?

Dove also sells skin tanning products. Is this really about honest, natural beauty? Dove is in a difficult position. It's gained huge admiration for its Campaign For Real Beauty. However it is still in the business of selling beauty products. A fine line to tread.

Offensive Advert?

This recent Oasis Cactus Kid ad is currently under investigation by the ASA following complaints that it normalises / glamourises teenage pregnancy and discourages people from drinking water. Do you agree? Should it be banned?

Emotional Rollercoaster

For the past 3 days I've been running a marketing training course with 20 people looking at the world of chocolate. These are very intense experiences. You're usually staying at a hotel / conference centre. You're with the same people all the time and get fully immersed in their problems and issues. As a trainer you have to stay 100% focused and maintain high levels of energy throughout - even if you're feeling exhausted. I hate to think how much coffee I've drunk or how much chocolate I've eaten this week.

At the end of the session you feel a huge sense of relief that its all over, happiness if its all gone well and sadness as you say goodbye to all the people you've got to know so well over the past few days. Then a combination of exhaustion and depression takes over as you try to re-enter the normal world and get back into a daily routine.

It really is an emotional rollercoaster and when the next session comes along It'll start all over again. Still, managed to return home with some chocs and sweeties. That'll make me popular.

Nice Restaurant

Went for lunch at a really nice restaurant called Dalchini on Friday. Just by Wimbledon Park tube. Chinese food, with an Indian twist. Affordable and very tasty. Recommended.

Summer Reading

I'm off on a holiday in a couple of weeks time and I want to take some stuff to read whilst I'm sitting by the pool or listening to crickets at night. Not too trashy, but not too heavy. Could be new or an old classic. Am a bit stuck. Any recommendations?

Fabulous Film

Saw 'Son of Rambow' on the flight to Bombay and really, really enjoyed it. It's about 2 boys who are making a home-made movie, based on the Rambo films. Set in the early 1980s it captures the feel of the era and the two main actors are so good - as are all the child actors. Highly recommended.

Back From Bombay

Just back from 5 days in Bombay. Being the monsoon season it was hot, sweaty and overcast most of the time and a bit of a shock to the system. The last time I'd been to Bombay was maybe 15 years ago, on holiday. Some things hadn't changed. It was as crowded and chaotic as ever. The traffic was still dreadful and the drivers as still the worst I've ever experienced. They think they're in a video game.

However, it does feel like a city on the move. There are certainly far few beggars on the street, there are lots of roads being built and quite a few brand new air-conditioned shopping malls with the usual international labels.

Highlight for me was the fabulous food, although I did stick to cornflakes for breakfast. As a visitor there's not an awful lot to see in Bombay, so it's the not the kind worth making a special trip to. Even the Gateway of India was covered in scaffolding.

Nice to be back home again. I like going to India but it is very full on. Makes London feel like a haven of tranquility. Am suffering from information deprivation as I had no internet access and am looking forward to some plain English food. Mmm...beans on toast.

The Asics British 10K Run

Yesterday, along with 25 000 other people I took part in the British 10K run around central London. It was a sort of mini version of the London Marathon with the famous landmarks, cheering crowds, and stirring music to keep you going.

I've not been running for the past couple of weeks due to mad work pressures so I wasn't really ready for it. Managed to finish OK, but didn't feel great and my time was rubbish. Still, a nice day out with family and friends and great to back running again.

Thanks, Big Al's

Today was the Ravenstone School Summer Fair and I was helping to man the barbecue. Fortunately the rain stayed off and profits to the school were boosted by the donation of free Big Al's burgers from my friends at Kepak Convenience Foods. They were very popular, which was not surprising as they are Ireland's number one brand.

Thanks again. Much appreciated

Is there any good news out there?

M & S share price plummets, Starbucks closes 500 outlets in the USA, oil price hits $146 a barrel, mortgage approvals down by 28%. All within a week. Was walking around Kingston town centre today and noticed that the furniture retailer New Heights has closed down. Also there was a 50% off sale at John Lewis.

So is anybody thriving at the moment? Apparently luxury brands are doing OK. Fashion sales at Harrods are up by 30% and Harvey Nicks is in pretty good shape. Equally discounters are continuing to grow. Like the Germans, we're discovering the joy of Aldi and Lidl. Key message for me. You either have to offer exceptional quality or exceptional value to survive nowadays.

Apparently alcohol sales remain buoyant. The best way to deal with the recession? You've guessed it..head for the pub.

In Windsor

Am staying in a hotel right opposite Windsor Castle. I wonder if the Queen's in. There's some lights on. Bet she's watching the tennis.

Valerie Singleton, Sex Goddess

What was most shocking about her recent revelation was not the disclosure of her affair with fellow presenter Peter Purves, but her denial of ever having lived with Joan Armatrading. I first heard this about 30 years ago and was convinced it was true, as did all my friends. How disappointing.

No More Amy...Please!

Amy Winehouse's performance at Glastonbury was appalling. She was clearly out of it and couldn't remember or be bothered to sing. I felt sorry for her band and backing singers who attempted to retain their professionalism whilst the star of the show was falling apart. She's said she wants to headline next year. Please don't let her!

In contrast I thought Jay Z was stunning. The opening was brilliant and he followed it up with a flawless, crowd pleasing performance. It would have been nice to see Beyonce do a turn, but it didn't detract from the power of the show. What was all the fuss about?

Have caught bits of Glastonbury all over the weekend. Really pleased that Elbow went down well. I really like them and have been surprised they've not been more popular.

Also enjoyed the Ting Tings who are now set to be the sound of the Summer. Karen saw them and said they were brilliant. Having one of their tracks featured in an iPod ad will guarantee them global fame. It's these stories of obscurity to superstardom that make people want to form bands.

Good luck to them.

I've Given Up on 'The Gathering'

I bought this Anne Enright book at Dublin airport largely on the strength of its Booker Prize. I've read about 100 pages and have decided to stop - which is something I rarely do. Its so dull and pretentious. Can't believe it won the Booker Prize. There must have been 100s of novels written that were much better. Not recommended.

Karen's at Glastonbury

....and I'm looking after the kids for the weekend. About a week ago, I got an email from Glastonbury saying that tickets are still available. I found this really surprising. Usually tickets sell out immediately.

Why is this the case? Has Glastonbury become old / middle class? Are there too many festivals? Is it too expensive? Aren't the acts very popular this year? Is it the weather?

Will watch it on telly instead and see if I can spot her in the crowd. Apparently it's raining at the moment. Surprise, surprise

Oh No, The Gorilla Ad Won!

At the Cannes International Advertising Film festival, the Infamous Cadbury Gorilla ad won the top award. In Adland, this is like winning the Oscars. Still don't like it, still don't think it will have a long term impact on sales...but what do I know. The industry loves it and everyone talks about it so it must be doing something right.

My mate Michael Sheehan is a huge fan. We argue about it all the time. He'll be delighted.

New Clough Movie

Over the past week have been too busy to blog. Heavy work schedules, plus a weekend in Italy - which was very nice, thank you - have kept me away.

Since then, Italy are deservedly out of Euro 2008, Wimbledon is taking place and the new footie season is round the corner. Doesn't time fly.

Anyway, thing that caught my eye was the preview of the New Clough Movie which looks very exciting. Is based on the fab book The Damned United and features the fab actor Michael Sheen as Old Big 'Ead himself. Is out next year. Can't wait.

The Tram Shed Tooting

It's hard to find a nice pub in Tooting, but this place is really good. Recently renovated by the same people who restored the Balham Bowls Club, it has a huge industrial style interior, with lots of second hand furniture and kooky features.

It's right opposite the KFC on Micham High Road, near Tooting Broadway. Not a great location but a great place for a drink.

Community Spirit

It's often said that one of the downsides of living in London is the lack of community spirit. Well, in our neighbourhood the Furzedown Festival takes place, which this year is from 21st June to 6th July. Am particularly looking forward to the comedy night.

The Apprentice Final

Have not been following the Apprentice closely, but have managed to catch the last couple of episodes and think that the most solid candidate won.

Most of the candidates weren't particularly strong, but what struck me overall was how badly the women presented themselves and how the blokes were fundamentally decent. Think Adrian Chiles was a really good host. I remember him from Radio 5 Live. He's destined for great things.

So Pleased England Did Not Qualify

On the radio today a flag manufacturer was moaning about the fact that sales of the English flag were disappointingly low due to England's failure to qualify for Euro 2008. Apparently it will cost the British Economy £2 billion. Can't be helping Gordon's plight.

However, I'm delighted we didn't get through. No more false optimism, jingoism, big screens, penalty shoot-outs, stress, failure, crying footballers, depression and sackings.

Let the other countries feel the pain for once. Let's just sit back and enjoy the footie. Or...we could find something more interesting to do instead.

Great Article

Loved this article in Saturday's Guardian. Was written by Haruki Murakami, one of my favourite writers about why he runs. I had no idea that he was such an enthusiastic runner. I loved the quote 'pain is inevitable, suffering is optional'. Sooo true.

On average, I try and go for a run every other day. No matter how often I run or how much I improve, its always painful. However, if I don't run for a few days, my physical and mental well being begins to deteriorate, so I guess I've got to keep it up...no matter how painful.

Saturday Afternoon. View of The Allotment

Friday Night. View From the Terrace of the Design Museum

Following The Rain

Yesterday it rained all day in London, but the sun shone today. Today I've been in Dublin and its been rainy and miserable all day. Sod's law.

New Season, New Derby County

So far this Summer Derby have signed 6 new players with more on the way. It looks like there will be a completely different team on show when the new season starts in August. None of them are household names, but at least they'll bring fresh energy to the club after our disastrous season.

So...as always with Derby we live in hope. Straight back into the Premier League? No problem.

Great Place For Coffee and Cakes

Last week we cycled to Petersham Nurseries, a very posh garden centre just by the river near Richmond with a fab cafe serving amazing cakes. It's also home to a restaurant, where the head chef is Skye Gyngell. The menu looked great, but was very expensive, especially as it's only open for lunch. However, given the wealthy neighbourhood, I'm sure it's very popular.

I reckon you should stick to the cafe. I can certainly recommend the lemon poppyseed cake.

Internet Entrepreneurs

One of the great things about the internet is that it has encouraged people to start new businesses. Here's 3 examples invented and run by friends of mine.

Brume, which sells decorative window film, stickers and curtain poles.

Defeet, which sells copper coated pot feet to stop snails attacking your plants

Pink Bamboo, which sells Asian influenced girls clothing

Do check them out and help them to become millionaires!

Well Done Boris

One of the first initiatives undertaken by Boris Johnson was to review and to cut the Greater London Authority and Transport For London advertising budget, saving £20 million. The marketing press were up in arms over this, claiming it to be short sighted and headline grabbing.

However, I think it was a great decision and sets a good example for the government who have spent £1.5 billion on advertising since it took office in 1997.

The intentions behind some of the ad campaigns have been positive, particularly those aimed at reducing gun crime and encouraging cycling. However why does the Major need to advertise? He can discuss these issues and launch campaigns on tv programmes and via newspaper features rather than resort to paid for advertising space. Word of mouth and pr are nowadays much more powerful communication media and he has the presence and charisma to get his message across. Also some of Ken’s initiatives were ego driven eg his free magazine and needed to go.

Hopefully, the money saved will be spent on more important stuff. Good for us, bad for advertising agencies.

Satrurday Night on The South Bank

Went to the Real Greek Restaurant on Saturday night, just after we'd visited the Duchamp, Man Ray and Picabia exhibition at Tate Modern. I think this restaurant chain has been around for some time, but it was my first visit and I really liked it. Very informal, contemporary with simple, fresh food. Tate Modern's a great place to go in the evening. Its quiet, easy to get around and there's a bar with a great view of London. I've not been to Skylon yet, but apparently its really good.

We saw a few people getting ready for the Moonwalk to raise money for breast cancer research. Well done to them all. It was a very chilly night.

Isn't the South Bank brilliant?

A Trip to The Cinema

Last night we went to see Mike Leigh's latest film, Happy-Go-Lucky which was fantastic. As ever, the acting is brilliant and the dialogue is sharp, natural and insightful. However, unlike other Mike Leigh films, this is a life affirming, feelgood movie built around a central character who's outlook on life is to live in the moment and to exude joy. I also loved the familiar London settings which gave a snapshot of modern London life.

However, this is not mushy or sentimental in the style of Richard Curtis movies and there are moments of real tension and sadness which make it feel more authentic and less one dimensional.

Best film I've seen for ages. Highly recommended.

Allotment News

The recent hot weather coupled with a warning letter from Wandsworth council has encouraged me to sort out my allotment over the past couple of weeks. Now its looking fantastic with loads of new crops emerging.

What's great about being on the allotment is the sense of tranquility you feel and the sense of achievement you get from growing your own veg. You also find that you meet a real cross-section of people who are never short on advice and help.

I learnt recently that some people organise their gardening activities around the phases of the moon. When the moon is waxing, the earth is 'exhaling' and releasing. This is the time to sow flowering veg. When the moon is waning, the earth is 'inhaling' and absorbing. This is the time to water, use natural fertilizers and sow root veg. I tend to work around the weather.

What I'm Reading

Took a train to Manchester and back yesterday which gave me the chance to make some decent progress on 'A Thousand Splendid Suns'. I'm really enjoying it. The author also wrote 'The Kite Runner' which I loved, but I think this is shaping up to be even better.

I'm so looking forward to picking it up again. Recommended.

Football Memorabilia

I'm now the proud owner of a shirt signed by Gianluigi Buffon the World Cup winning Italy and Juventus goalkeeper.

In order to raise money, schools hold auctions whereby a whole range of weird and wonderful items are put up for sale. I couldn't resist bidding for Buffon's shirt at an event on Saturday and amazingly I won. I've always rated him as one of world's best goalies.

Think I'll get it framed and hang it in the house in Italy.

Business According to Morrissey

Over the weekend I read that Morrisey lyrics are going to be used to teach students about business. Apparently 3 academics have written a paper called 'Business Relationships the Morrisey Way' which is published in the British Food Journal

However, I bet most of the students weren't born when the Smiths were in their heyday. Would love to see them try to do the same with more recent artists eg Business Relationships the Winehouse Way

Officially The Worst

Even if Derby beat Reading on Saturday (which they won't), they will become the worst team in the history of the Premier League - something we've known for some time.

The only good thing to emerge is that next year Derby will play local rivals Nottingham Forest in the Championship. The 2 teams are supposed to hate each other, but they don't really. They missed each other so much they had to invent the Brian Clough Trophy for whenever they play.

Weekend in Norfolk

Have been away with friends in Norfolk over the weekend, staying in their house in the lovely village of Great Massingham. It has all the trappings of a typical English village: the village green, duck ponds, ancient old church and of course the converted gastropub. This one was called The Dabbling Duck. The food was fantastic with lots of local produce.

I'd not been to Norfolk for many years and really liked it.

PS Still can't believe Boris won!

I Hope You Voted

I find voting a very emotional process. Going to the Polling Station, marking your cross, putting it in ballot box. I think to myself, 'this could make the difference',

It reminds me of how hard people fought to get the right to vote and how lucky we are to live in a country were free and fair votes are the norm. Just looked at the BBC at so far, looks like Labour are in big trouble. Gordon's really up against it now. What about Ken? We'll know tonight apparently. How exciting.

What's The Fuss All ABout?

Apparently, this photo of Miley Cyrus aka Hannah Montana for Vanity Fair has caused huge controvesy. This may be terribly naive of me, but I really can't see why it's so offensive. In today's Guardian, Germaine Greer compares it to 'a child prostitute from Casablanca, vintage 1900'

Compared to the explicit images of young girls that you see everyday in mags, MTV, soap operas I see very little to get angry about.

Barcelona!

Always reminds me of this Freddie Mercury song whenever I hear it. Have been here since Sunday afternoon to get ready for a workshop and meet a client. Managed to miss the Clapham 10K run and cancelled Sunday lunch with friends. Not great.

There are compensations though. Am staying in a very modern 5 star hotel on the outskirts. There are remote controlled curtains in my room and a very fancy shower with all kinds of jets.

As ever, not looked around the city. Partly due to lack of time, but mostly because I'm not very good at being a solo tourist, particularly in the evenings. Much more fun listening to Radio 4 on my laptop and following the Derby game on the BBC. Arsenal eventually scored 6. My sister Angela had texted me to say it was 7. Not so bad after all.

Perfect Saturday

Got up early. Sun shining. T-shirt and shorts weather. Did stuff with the kids in the morning: gym / Stagecoach. Spent the afternoon digging and planting on the allotment. Friends round for dinner. (polenta and grilled lamb) Played mah jong. No Derby game, so no post-result depression.

Going Down the Allotment

I've had my allotment for 3 years now and this year I've done hardly any work on it. I've got loads of excuses: dodgy weather, weekends away, work commitments. Also not having a regular journey to work nowadays means I can't pop in on the way home like I used to.

Feel really guility about this. Some people dedicate so much time and effort that my patch looks pathetic. I'm going to do some serious work on it this afternoon. At last!

What I've Been Reading

Have just finished Ian McEwan's On Chesil Beach which I really enjoyed. I was hoping not to like it, but I did. A nicely constructed well paced plot, finely observed characters and a great eye for detail.

He's a great writer but there's something quite irritating about him. He's so on top of his game that I feel he showboats. It's like he's trying to demonstrate the depth and range of his language and trying to impress us with his intellect. His books also feature too many middle class, well educated and talented characters for my liking.

Still worth reading though. And less than 200 pages too.

Italian Election Results

Whilst we were in Italy, the elections took place and amazingly at 71, Silvio Berlusconi is back for the third time with a convincing majority. I do my best, but I really can't make sense of Italian politics. This is Italy's 62nd government since the War and Prodi's previous government lasted less than 2 years. People we spoke to in Italy had divided opinions. However, most viewed Prodi as a disaster.

Will Berlusconi lead Italy to a brighter future? Well the Economist doesn't seem to think so.

Back from Italy

Just back from a week's holiday in Tuscany where, as ever, we had some fantastic food. Best restaurant we visited was called The Fiorentina in the town of Sansepolcro. Definitely worth going to if you're in the area.

On the last day we decided to visit the lovely Adriatic coastal town of Cesenatico, birthplace of the great cyclist Marco Pantani who is a local hero. The surrounding beach looked really nice, but will no doubt be packed with umbrellas during the summer. Had probably the best spaghetti alla vongole I've ever had in my life. Worth re-visiting for this reason alone

What I'm Reading

Bought Nick Hornby's Slam at Dublin airport yesterday and am really enjoying it. It's written through the voice of a 16 year old and - at least to me - is very convincing. As with all his books, it's sharp, funny and very easy to read.

I've always been a big fan of his. I'm always impressed by his ability to tell stories through the eyes of other people, for example, the middle class woman in 'How To Be Good'. He writes about stuff that I can really relate to: football, music, parenthood, growing up.

Really looking forward to picking it up again. Recommended.

Poor Arsenal

Last night I caught the end of the Liverpool - Arsenal game which Liverpool won 4-2. On the radio I heard some Arsenal fans sounding so sad and dejected. Do I feel sorry for them? Of course not. They compete for trophies every year, they've got a fabulous stadium and some of the best players in the world. You should try supporting Derby. Then you'd feel depressed every week.

Olympic Protesters in Paris

After our day at Disneyland, we decided to visit the Eiffel Tower. There were lots of people lining the streets as we got out of the Metro station and discovered that the Olympic Torch Procession was about to pass by. We decided to watch and found that we were right next to the pro-Tibet protesters who were trying to disrupt proceedings. Despite the heavy police presence it was very easy to jump out into the road and you could tell that the athletes looked pretty scared. According to BBC reports the event had to be cut short

When everything quietened down we queued to go up the Eiffel Tower only to find that 3 men had climbed up it and managed to unfurl a pro-Tibet flag. we watched the whole incident unfold. We even saw the firemen climb up and eventually arrest them.

Not exactly the day out in Paris we planned but all very exciting.

Visit To Disneyland Paris

On Sunday we went to Disneyland as part of our long weekend in Paris. I wasn't really looking forward to it and was pretty cynical about Disney. However, both Mae and Lia absolutely loved it and I have to admit I had a good time too. The Park was much smaller than I thought - which was good - and was easy to get around. I'm not keen on the scarey rides so was happy to avoid them and the queues for other stuff were much shorter.

We met up with Gaelle, who used to look after the girls when she was a language student and who now works at the posh Disney hotel. Fortunately, she volunteered to take Mae on the Space Mountain Ride which apparently is amazing. Overall, a great day out and an experience the kids will never forget.

The Dream's Over

Remember this day last year, when Derby beat West Brom at Wembley to join the Premier League? What an amazing day.Well, last weekend Derby were officially relegated. The first team ever to be relegated in March and likely to be the worst team ever in the history of the Premier League. Since that final, we've lost our manager, captain, player of the year and chairman. Our performances this year have been unbelievably poor and it's been an embarassment watching them. We had our chance and we blew it.

Derby have always been a badly run club. Despite having a large and loyal fanbase, TV money and American investment, we always seem to be on the brink of financial ruin. Will next year be any better? Well, I doubt we'll be gain immediate promotion. Paul Jewell has done nothing so far to encourage any optimism, but hopefully we'll manage more than 1 win.

So next year in London, it'll be Crystal Palace and Charlton rather than Tottenham, Chelsea and Arsenal. How sad is that?