Silent night(s)

... and days. I will be taking a little break from blogging for the next few weeks.

Wishing you all a merry Christmas and great start to the New Year! 2014 has been amazing and exciting and eventful and certainly one of my happiest years so far. I'll be starting the new year with a lot of optimism and while I don't know what it will bring, I do know that there will be change(s).

All the best to everyone and please check back in around the middle of January! :-)


PS: I went to Westfield Stratford this morning - and it was less busy than on a normal weekend. The last couple of weeks, the shops had been open until 23:00. And today they were announcing that they are closing at midnight. Really??? I know people leave it to the last minute, but do shops really have to be open until midnight? I feel sorry for the sales assistants!

Early Christmas dinner

These days I fully rely on google to solve my problems. Or at least to find the information I need. Turned out to be a bit tricky to find a restaurant in London that offers goose. I can't actually remember how I managed to find this place in the end: The Baltic - it's a Polish restaurant, right outside Southwark station (just a 15 min DLR/tube ride from my place, too). And the goose leg was not only massive but also really yummy!

Plus half a crepe with sweet cheese, nuts and raisins.
And the pink-ish sky over Canning Town

Mad Monday

MSH Wellbeing are running this incredibly cheap promotion at the moment: a one hour massage for just £17.50! Craziness! But good craziness, of course. So, I had booked myself in for Monday as a post-event treat and for a final end of year catch up with Renato. Who wasn't there though. I don't really mind who massages me, but there is of course always the risk that somebody else just isn't quite as good. But I needn't have worried: Brian was amazing. I nearly nodded off a couple of times. And the hour seemed to go on forever. Absolutely brilliant!

And as a thank you for being such a loyal customer, I got a £25 voucher for my upcoming birthday! :-)

Let me explain

Delegates have started completing our post event survey. I've learned my lesson, and don't check the critical parts (yet - I will of course read those in due course!). They tend to annoy me. I always feel like explaining why (most of) their suggestions can simply not be implemented for practical reasons. And no, you don't have to be an event manager to see that...

But I shall focus on all the nice and positive things people have also commented on.
And I've finally switched off my work phone today!

sleep deprived

Seems that the last few weeks have had more of an impact than I thought. So far - touch wood - I at least haven't come down with my usual post-event cold, but I am just so tired. I tend to wake up early though, and then have a massive low in the afternoon.

Maybe it's just another sign of getting older and that I cannot cope with less than 7-8 hours of sleep anymore...

Sunday lunch

I have my life back. Leisurely lunch and overdue catch up with J in Greenwich:

At the Rivington Grill

Fire & Stone

Even though I eat out a lot, I'm crap when it comes to deciding where to eat. For one, there are so many areas in London that I still don't know very well and secondly, I am always torn between (risking) trying a new place and returning to a place I've already been to.

Anyhow, on Saturday after going to see Urinetown, we were wandering around Covent Garden and eventually decided to have pizza at Fire & Stone. And it's great pizza! I considered picking the Melbourne pizza, but settled for the Marrakesh (I need meat on my pizza) one instead: spiced minced lamb, slow roasted red peppers, red onions, mozzarella, tzatziki, raisins, olives & fresh mint.

mine on the left, and A's pizza Madrid on the right:
chorizo, prawns, red peppers, potatoes, garlic, mozzarella, garlic mayonnaise & chopped parsley

Urinetown

Tickets at the front of Apollo Theatre for just £18 via Time Out. The musical is only on until 3 January - so book your tickets quick! It's not your usual musical in terms of the storyline, but certainly great fun. I especially loved the bloody special effects (don't judge!) and Phill Jupitus as Hope's Dad.

the bracelet

Other than watches, I am not a big fan of jewellery for/on men. I had noticed that I. was always wearing a silver bracelet. Personally, I think he is generally really nicely dressed but the bracelet stood out as a bit ... strange really.

Anyway, last week I finally dared to ask what the story behind that bracelet was. To be honest, I expected him to say that he simply likes it. I'm glad I did ask, as the story is really quite sweet: 10 or more years ago, he went to work in the US for a year. His wife wasn't able to join him but came to visit a few times. On one of those visits, he gave her a Navajo bracelet as a present. In exchange, she decided to give him the bracelet she was wearing. Which he's been wearing ever since and has never taken off (as opposed to his wedding ring, which he's taken off on occasions such as playing cricket). He kept emphasizing that this had not actually been an overly romantic gesture as apparently, that's not how their relationship works. Admittedly, I still think it's a little weird to wear a bracelet made for women - but the sentiment behind it is very cute, don't you think?

I also learned that I. has a hand for picking up great designer clothes at bargain prices from charity shops, that the Navajo bracelet fell apart quickly and that nobody had ever asked him about his bracelet!

views and food and pressies

Views from inside the Houses of Parliament courtyard and from inside the conference venue

asparagus and artichoke starter, chicken and tarte tatin - I picked the menu not knowing that I would have to attend this meeting... otherwise I would have never picked chicken!!! Working dinner also turned out to be a bit of  a boring affair, ending on a slightly depressing note - as controversial as it gets in this country, I guess

And finally pressie time: a bottle of white from one of our suppliers, pistachios (again) from our Iranian delegate, a cool donkey from one of the exhibitors and a super sweet thank you card; and I forgot to take a picture of the impressive Christmas cake I got sent to the office

berries and chilis

I have a stack of lipsticks and lip gloss in my drawer which I basically never use. I somehow feel that lipstick looks very unnatural on me.

The Clinique chubby stick in super strawberry is an exception though. It works like lip balm for me and has a very discreet colour that I can wear every day. So, I thought, I'd be a bit more daring and try something more intense. How very fitting then that Clinique also does chubby sticks intense.

The nice lady at the counter (I actually think it might have been the same one who sold me the super strawberry one about a year or so ago) recommended three tones for me. And once on my lips I (surprisingly) liked them all (it's rather weird to have somebody else put lipstick on you...). I bought the broadest berry and chunkiest chili in the end. They actually look quite similar... The chili one is more reddish and the berry one more brownish, I'd say.

and another pointless photo...

it keeps getting better

It's the fourth time that I ran our annual event - and every year, the feedback has been: this has been an even better event! Which is of course great feedback to get.

Everyone especially loved the dinner, which I had moved to a different venue. The place and food was amazing and the atmosphere really informal - helped along by the fun Christmas crackers and their content.

Once the meeting had started, I felt really calm, very much in contrast to the last couple of weeks... And of course there were incidences happening throughout the meeting, but nothing that wasn't manageable.

The abstract review process was probably the one thing I had worried most about. And while a bit tricky to manage, I was very pleased that all the reviewers showed up. And for some strange reason most of them LIKE reviewing... I don't have to understand everything...

After a busy last day for 2014 in the office today, I was determined to switch off from work completely but I don't seem to be able to stay away from my work iphone. Too used to be on the job all of the time... Well, I am sure I'll get used to having a life again soon!

most stressful jobs

According to an American survey, Event Managers have the 5th most stressful job - just behind
1) Soldier
2) Military General
3) Fireman
4) Airline pilot.
And ahead of
6) PR executive
7) Senior corporate executive
8) Newspaper reporter
9) Police officer
10) Taxi driver

Often adding to the stress are clients' expectations (in our case, I guess our clients are the members), so many factors outside your control (weather, suppliers, people in general...) and the fact that you don't get a second attempt. It's happening there and then.

While certainly stressful, I am still surprised by the job ranking so highly on that list. What about doctors?

one more

All done. Well, there's all the post-event stuff, of course. But the event is out of the way. And after one more day in the office I'll be on leave.

Feedback so far has been very positive and I'm very pleased with all the congratulatory comments from speakers, delegates and exhibitors and thank you's I've personally had. It's been a busy four days, my feet are killing me and I am super tired - the usual.

useless

What am I doing wrong? All my understitchings never make any difference to the neck facings of the dresses I sew.

I nearly finished another two dresses when my machine stopped working. It somehow doesn't pull the bobbin thread. Very annoying. Fingers crossed, it will magically work again when I switch it on again next - as otherwise I have no idea how to fix it...

No matter how small I make the picture - looks like I need to lose some weight around my tummy...
Same pattern as this dress with a great stretchy fabric - a dream to sew with! Again no need for a zip, which made it super quick to do.

Prep all done

After a month of business and especially after the last two weeks of long hours and weekend work, it's all done now. And the rest will hopefully fall into place at the event. It's kind of weird not to have anything to do now. With the event so close, I'm not yet able to relax though. But the end is in sight.
And where the hell has this past year gone?!?

Is it true? Kind? And necessary?

I was reading a blog post the other day and while I can't remember what exactly it was about in detail (I rarely do... not sure my brain is fully switched on when I read. Or listen for that matter...) I do remember this: before we speak, we should ask ourselves whether what we are about to say is true, kind and necessary.

To be honest, a lot of what I say doesn't tick all these three boxes. That's a little sad, right? I've been thinking about my way to communicate quite a bit recently. I used to feel strongly about 'letting it all out', about not building up the anger inside. And while it can sometimes be helpful to talk about stuff, more often than not just having an angry rant isn't helpful at all but prevents me from letting go. I also wonder how much this is a sub-conscious exercise of seeking validation: e.g. surely I have every right to be pissed off?! 

Which leads me to another question: what is happening to my internal 'barometer'? I seem to be torn between being very opinionated and internal on the one hand, and on the other hand extremely insecure and clueless about 'objectively' assessing a situation (and myself). 

As always, many questions in my head, and not so many answers. Certainly no definite answers. Baby steps: if I can try to pause before I speak. And check especially for kindness and necessity (I'm not much of a liar). And then - more often than not - not speak after all...

I'm the best. I really am.

A few weeks ago, Time Out card holders were offered a free print from Firebox (worth £28). That in itself is of course brilliant. What's really cool - in addition to their products - is their communication. Their confirmation email made me smile:

"...Thanks very much for your order. You really are rather nice.
This "exciting" email is to confirm a few things you probably already know.
1. Your online shopping skills are truly exceptional.
2. Firebox has strong feelings for you.
3. See 1 & 2..."

And when they sent a survey about my shopping experience, I of course completed it and received this:
"...Many thanks for your recent survey, how very kind of you, you're the best, no really, you are.
Seriously.
We wouldn't lie...."

boooooring

It's work, work and work at the moment. How boring!!!
And tiring. Great panacea for my insomnia though.
One more week and it's all over and I can resume my normal life.

ying and yang

My phone stopped working today. Just switched itself off and wouldn't switch on again. At least a good excuse to leave the office on time (no worries  - I made up for it by doing more work from home. It's sheer endless at the moment :-( ). As always there was a queue at the o2 shop. And of course - just when it was my turn - they announced that their system was down and there wasn't much they could do and it would probably take an hour or so for the system to reboot.

Fortunately, the guy still had a look at my phone. And more importantly got it to work again. Apparently there is something wrong with the battery. I'm due for a new phone soon anyway but as I doubt that it will happen before my holiday, I took his advice and ordered another battery on ebay. So, hopefully my Samsung will last a little longer as it will of course suck big time, if it actually dies when I'm away. I'm making a mental note to pack my old non-smartphone handset just in case.

more excitingly:
I picked up my travel money today!

Morgenstund

Why it's sometimes worth getting up early:

Plans

There is a plan A. And a plan B and a plan C. Thanks to my lovely friends.
I think there is a chance that I won't go bonkers after all.
Not just yet anyway.

Usagi Yojimbo

I highly recommend the Time Out Card! In just three months, I've more than made up for the £24.50  I paid for it.

Last week, I went to see Usagi Yojimbo at the Southwark Playhouse (still on until 4 January, in case you are interested). As always you will have to check the website to find out more - sorry! But I will say that it's a small, quirky theatre, and a great play. I loved the Scottish bunny accent, the costumes, the stage set, the story. 

London really is an amazing city to live in with so much on offer!

the Geordies

Newcastle 2: Chelsea 1
First defeat of the season.
Let's hope no more will follow!

The perfect weekend

Fam trip to the Lifehouse Spa and hotel in Essex. Meditation, wellness talk, a heavenly massage and free time in the spa: steam room, sauna, salt inhalation room, whirlpool and pool (needless to say, that I did not visit the gym...).

Who would have thought that relaxing makes you so tired?! We were in bed before 23:00... Great night sleep in the comfy bed, too. Plus finally catching up with A after a busy month for both us.

Way too much food! (and the Xmas pudding wasn't even mine)

And then on to Frinton for a long walk along the seafront:

Exactly what I needed. Life is good after all. :-)

Merry Christmas to me

I bought the ring at The Spinning Strawberry - and just did a quick google search: the owner opened the store about two years ago and is still a teenager. Pretty impressive!

And the earrings (just £8!) I bought at Great Danes - a shop also in Frinton specialized on anything Danish/Scandinavian.

Finally the weekend

The work week ended with our staff Christmas lunch at the Chiswell Street Dining Rooms. With a short visit from C who brought baby Marnie. She is such a well-behaved and adorable baby and was patiently enduring being passed around. It was so cute just how much J was in love with the baby; a slightly weird moment, when he was sniffing her head...

salmon & prawn roulade, duck and chestnut and sickly sweet treacle tart

Service was a bit disappointing though. Wine was served before the aperitifs were served, which didn't come out until most people had already finished their starters. They also brought the wrong wine, which wasn't noticed until the bill arrived... Personally, I wouldn't have paid the higher price for something we didn't order, especially, as we so obviously didn't taste the wine as we clearly relied on them bringing what we had ordered. But I guess some battles aren't worth fighting. Food was just ok but also not overwhelmingly great. Quite a pity, as I had passed by the restaurant a number of times, and had been meaning to try it for a while.

Grumpy o'clock

I'm not a morning person. About once a month we have a conference call with our colleagues in Australia, which means that it's always scheduled at 7am. I don't usually even get up at that time, let alone be ready for a conversation. It was still pitch black outside this week at that time. That's just not right, is it?

This week I noticed that whatever I was saying, I think I sounded slightly pissed off. I just couldn't help it...

What was I thinking?

I should really stop applying for tickets just cause they are free... I blame this on my slight obsession with celebrities.

On Sunday, I went to the recording of the last episode of Miranda. Not entirely sure why they record this BBC show at the itv studios. Anyhow, the queue was relatively short and I thought it would be an experience. And it turned out to be really boring. With all the cameras in the way, you could hardly see what was going on - so you had to watch it on the screens.So you might as well just watch it on telly! Plus I don't find her very funny. She didn't even bother communicating (much) with the audience which I thought was rather disappointing. And the comedian who was doing the warm up in between takes also wasn't funny. He seemed primarily desperate for meeting women and kept going on about being single. And also kept trying to embarrass a couple in the audience. I avoided looking at him cause I really did not want to engage.

In the end we took our chance and followed another couple out of the studio.
At least the night ended with a nice (late) dinner:

At Las Iguanas at the Southbank

Southbank Christmas market

Christmas Tree cafe, Aussie BBQ in late November and a Polish sausage

prep

Finally got a pair of spare glasses and prescription sunglasses

I'm amazing

So I was told last week.

I was invited to somebody's leaving drinks (a work contact). I don't know her very well, so I might be completely wrong about this, but it seemed as if a huge weight had been lifted off her shoulders. Maybe it's just me, but I do have those days when I really would like to drop just everything and simply walk away. Don't get me wrong, I also fancy myself as a realist and I don't think that the grass is necessarily greener on the other side. But sometimes it just seems easier to make a fresh start. And yes, that may well come with all sorts of other issues.

Before the drinks, I went for a pre-drink with J. It was really nice to chat outside of work. Even if we did end up talking mostly about work. I have to admit that last week was rather stressful but - as I was saying to a friend and in my blog post yesterday - there are also so many positive things happening in my life and I really appreciate all the support I am getting. Sometimes it's just feeling understood that makes all the difference even if it doesn't change anything about the situation at hand.

The balance

I think this is the reason I haven't yet gone bonkers: the balance between the good and the challenging (aka frustrating and driving me crazy) stuff is still firmly tipping towards the good.

On Monday night I was invited to an Excel supporters' club networking event - at the Tower of London. Starting with a private viewing of the Crown Jewels and ending with a drinks and canapes reception.

I'd been to the Tower as a child but couldn't actually remember very much other than it was busy and crowded with tourists... So, being able to see the exhibition in such a relaxed way was awesome! And I was even more impressed by just being inside the Tower and walking around the ground than by all the bling. Especially as it was dark, and the buildings lit up, it was very pretty and a weirdly calm oasis in the bustling city of London. Plus I was able to catch up with J (ok, it was probably more me having a moan...) who used to be our Account Manager at the venue we use for our annual event.

I can never have enough photos of my beloved Tower Bridge!

Food and more food with a side of food

A week full of meetings and calls and more meetings. Which I generally don't mind but it of course means time away from my desk and you return to a ton of emails while still trying to do all the things that need to get done especially with just two weeks to go until our event.

How lovely to end the week with a little bit of food: the tasting for our annual dinner - one of the highlights of my year (is that sad??). After three years at the same venue, it was time for something new, so we'll be at One Great George Street this year. All nicely decorated for Christmas already and a stunning venue at any time of year.

Rest assured I did not eat all of that! Instead I won't need to cook all weekend :-)

Starters:
Asparagus wrapped in parma ham with a perfectly poached egg and sauce Hollandaise
Sweet potato and goats cheese galette
Risotto with scallops and chorizo

Mains:
Duck breast, pommes anna and leeks
Vegetable mille feuilles
Lamb with potato dauphinoise and spinach

Desserts:
Pavolova with black cherries and creme chantilly
Chocolate fondant with ice cream
and I forgot to take a picture of the tarte tatin with creme anglaise


From the archive: last year's tasting: 2013

 Have just been watching Gavin and Stacey - they crack me up!

Ahhhhh, one of those days... I had to cancel my evening plans, as I simply wasn't able to leave the office on time. Then again with just ~two weeks until our main event, that's not really surprising.
I've just been to the gym though (second time this week even!!!) and am feeling much better. And tomorrow is another day. Staff pizza lunch is in the diary - that's a start!

It's going to be fine, right?

25/11/2014

- no comment -

messy

I had my second skype coaching session over the weekend. Like the first session, I found it really useful but I also felt caught up in a messy chaos of conflicting thoughts. What seemed really clear to start with, suddenly got all muddled up. I've got more homework to do and think it will be important to really make time to think about the questions she's asked. I feel that I need to take a more active role in the process. And maybe just in my life in general...

Nevertheless, it feels good to move forward. Still lots to do to get to the point I want to get to. But at least I've now identified and put 'it' into words.

I do at times wonder what it looks like in other people's heads...

Anger Management

I just read an article on 'How to be less angry'. One of the advice given was: Do not vent after the incident. I used to think that letting it all out was healthy. But realized that venting primarily meant re-living the negative experience and feeling the anger all over again. Not very helpful, and especially pointless when it comes to the little things that happen all the time. Better to make a conscious decision of not holding on to it (anything). 

Just me?

Just me or is this a little weird?
Seen at the Chinese supermarket, apparently a Thai product

Another one done

I bought this floral fabric at John Lewis back in April. As a complete beginner, I had purchased 1.5 metres to make a pencil skirt. Way too much fabric, of course, so I decided to make a shift dress instead. I was a little apprehensive, as at £16 a metre (also a beginner's mistake to shop at John Lewis...) this is the most expensive fabric I bought so far and I of course didn't want to ruin it.

I'm quite pleased with the result even though I am not sure about the pleats on the top. I also decided to line the top (not like me to add extra work for myself but I figured the expensive fabric was worth protecting) and that unfortunately means that the dress is a little bulky around the top due to the neck facing and lining.

After the success with the last dress, I again sew the zipper in by hand. Took some time, but was certainly worth it, I think. Even though I have to admit that I am little nervous about the seams busting when wearing it.

New Look pattern 6184, version E but without the belt

Too much choice!

I went to Brixton to check out Simply Fabrics and to get a zipper for the dress I am currently sewing (and finished today!). I disappointingly left with only the zipper. They had quite a few nice fabrics but most of the them were cotton and I was looking for something with at least a bit of stretch or more flowing fabrics. As I was already on the Victoria line, I spontaneously decided to go up north to Walthamstow Market. And what can I say: I spent at least 30 minutes in just one shop! I don't even know its name, but it's the one closest to the station and they have so much choice for so little money.

I eventually left with these four, all priced at £2.75 per metre. For two of them I already know which dresses I want to re-sew with them; not entirely sure what I will make out of the other two. But I have enough patterns to choose from...

Le week-end

Every day on my way to and from work, I pass the Candid Arts Trust. Many times did I think to myself that I should check it out. And in six and a half years, I never stepped inside... Until yesterday evening, when I met T for coffee in the cafe on the second floor. It's a really cool and 'alternative' place which reminded me of the typical student cafes in Germany.

From there, we headed to La petite auberge - a French (who would have thought?!) bistro on Upper Street in Islington. I've been once before - more than a year ago. You can get a Tastecard deal, which isn't valid on Fridays though.

The food was so good and I left absolutely stuffed and after a lovely catch up with the girls :-)

might not look very appetizing but the crepe with chestnut puree, strawberries and Chantilly was so yummy!!!
Thank God that I am not counting calories...

Cover girl*

I spent half a day proof-reading the programme book for our annual meeting. Normally, I quite enjoy proof-reading (much more than writing copy - much easier to correct other people's work!) but there was a lot of science-y stuff. I started off quite motivated, and soon realized that it would take forever to read this word for word. So, in the end I primarily checked for missing sub- and superscripts....One has got to set priorities!

In less than four weeks it will all be over!
I'm kind of waiting for the panic to set in...

(*and as per usual my photo as part of the welcome message looks nothing like me - helps with being incognito at the event!)

How things change

Last week I went up to Edinburgh for the day (for work).

Edinburgh is one of my favourite cities but this time, I didn't get to see any of it. But instead spent all day in meetings... Especially the afternoon meeting was a bit of a waste of my time really but hey, that's how it goes sometimes.

And at least I had the chance for a quick drink and catch up with M at the end of the day, before I had to rush back to the airport - with a lovely Scouse cab driver. Talking footy and feeling happily tipsy.

Plane breakfast was terrible. No idea why I ate it anyway... 

happiness all round

I probably had the nicest welcome at my massage place this week: R seemed as happy to see me as I was to see him! Given that this was only the third massage with him, I was actually really surprised he remembered me. Especially as I hadn't been for more than two months (I think).

We spent the first half hour chatting away, and then I enjoyed the second half in silence - partly cause it's more difficult to speak when lying head down... Best of all: the massage was free as it was my sixth one! Happy times!

And some more food

I had been looking forward to a yummy Byron burger all day, when S cancelled our dinner plans at the last minute... I was already resigned to having to actually cook for a change, when one of my colleagues suggested going for dinner.

It all works out in the end :-)

More half price food at Banana Tree

Seeing the therapist

I had a facial booked the other day. While I've always loved being pampered, I also used to dread being alone with a stranger and the awkwardness of: do we speak? Do we not? What do we speak about?

Nowadays, I am feeling a lot more relaxed. Happy to chat, happy to listen, happy to relax in silence.
Bruna is a wonderful beauty therapist. She's warm and the right kind of chatty and she always extends the treatment time :-)

I've been writing and deleting this last sentence dozens of times now as I can't figure out how to word this appropriately. It's just so lovely to see how much light and love and insight and wisdom I am letting into my life from all sorts of random and unexpected encounters.

Am I starting to sound like an esoteric hippie yet? :-)

Lucky?

A few weeks ago, I saw a message on Facebook: somebody's sister was doing a coaching qualification and was looking for 'volunteers' for her to practice on. I contacted her and had a complimentary first session via skype. Which didn't go very well... From my point of view she kept asking me the same question, to which my answer was 'I don't know'. So, it got a little bit frustrating.

We agreed that this wasn't going to work and we'd leave it at that. A week later, she emailed me with another coach's contact details who she recommended. So, I contacted her and she offered me three free sessions. I had the first one on Sunday. And it was great! I got some new insights which I hope will help me move forward.

One of the things she observed, was that I kept using the word 'lucky'. I seem to regard most - if not all - of my achievements in life as having gotten lucky rather than taking credit for them. It still gets me how I am clearly set in the way I look at (my) life and how it takes effort to change my point of view and sometimes to simply be less judgmental of myself.

MIC

Made in Chelsea is one of my guilty pleasures. I strongly recommend following Rick Edward's twitter feed while watching - makes it 100 times more hilarious!

nice

There have been so many moments in the last year or so (and I've probably written about most of them on here...always nice to read them back) which make me very grateful for the lovely people I have in my life. The last week was especially busy and I was feeling absolutely exhausted on Friday. A jet lag-style tiredness which made me feel as if my mind was just blank (some people might ask how that is different from other days... and they might have a point...) and I couldn't get my brain to work.

At the end of last week, we had a leaving do for a colleague. On my way home, one of my colleagues who I had been chatting to, sent me this message: It was lovely talking to you.

Isn't that sweet?

Moreover, I've been complimented on my jewellery, dresses, my hair and was told that I look glamorous last week. I was wondering whether I never used to really 'hear' the nice things people said, or whether I've attracted nicer people into my life. Probably both. And maybe I've become a bit of a nicer person, too. At least, I'd like to think so. (it  may also just mean that I have better taste these days - with regard to what I wear)

Zettelwirtschaft

I had another coaching session last week. I went in full of anger and frustration and it all came spluttering out. I surprised myself with how emotional I got - verging on bursting into tears.

Looking at one particular question, he asked me what I saw as the possible ways forward. I came up with two alternatives. He wrote them both down on pieces of paper and placed them on the floor. We then began a 'game' of standing either at equal distance in between the two papers, or either on one or the other.

I am very skeptical when it comes to these kind of things and immediately thought to myself: what a load of bullocks... Some weirdo exercise he'll have read about in some coaching book. But I am glad I went with it anyway. It was strange to experience how my feelings and views on those two alternatives changed dramatically depending on where I was standing.

I left feeling not only more calm but also comfortable with both options. Equilibrium was restored and I just felt that everything will be ok. Either way.

At the Vaudeville

Isn't that a great word? And it's also a nice little theatre on the Strand which is currently showing Forbidden Broadway- a parody of musicals. Now, I actually like musicals. And I like comedy. Thus a perfect combination!

Pilates with Candice

One more down, and one more to go. Before the end of the year.
In comparison to the annual meeting, this evening event with just ~120 people was of course tiny. Hassle with the venue didn't make it any easier though. And it reminded me what I don't like about working in events...

Anyhow, most importantly, none of the guests realized what went on behind the scenes, feedback has been positive. Everyone happy, and me knackered after a busy week and a bit of insomnia.

Once we all sat down for dinner in a room that resembled a cafeteria rather than a fine dining room (food was great though - especially the lamb and the mix of desserts), I started to relax a bit. And had some interesting conversations about guns, and private pilates lessons with Candice (not a fitness DVD as I first suspected). The - not so new - revelations that I don't like the taste of wine and skiing (no relation between the two), led our photographer to the realization that I am not the perfect woman after all...

Hush

Dinner at the Mayfair branch (voted Tatler restaurant of the year 2014). Even after seven years in London, I still have no idea where the different districts actually are... - this place is near Bond Street, in case you are interested.

Anyhow, Manchester was hosting a dinner in the private dining area on the second floor. And as it was a relatively small group of ~40 people, I met quite a few new and nice people. I have high hopes for my contact with somebody from Cathay Pacific and am already daydreaming about flying business to Hong Kong next year... ;-)

While I never understand why so many people pick chicken for a dinner (especially when feeding events people), this chicken wasn't too bad. And that is quite a compliment from someone who isn't keen on chicken!

I like the chair on the plates and yes, that was one massive piece of cheesecake!!!

Adding to my collection of notebooks.
Maybe I should take this as inspiration and finally start writing my book!!

The Prince and I

The Parliamentary and Scientific Committee is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. And as nobody from our organization wanted/could attend the reception - I got the chance to go.
To Buckingham Palace.

And yes, it was amazing - as you would expect. Not surprisingly, the palace is absolutely stunning. Well, the bits we got to see anyway. The Duke of Edinburgh aka Prince Philip is an Honorary Member of the Committee and was hosting the reception and did a short welcome. He kept mentioning the 60th anniversary but nobody dared to correct him. He then made an effort to basically speak to everyone in the room: pretty impressive and exciting!

Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take photos inside the palace. The ladies' bathroom was a bit of a surprise: it has wooden Victorian toilets! (google it - I can't properly explain it)

HIM

No, I am not suicidal. Just re-discovered this song on my ipod the other day. 

What am I doing?!

I don't think I am generally a clumsy person. But I seem to be when it comes to sewing. When I am not knocking over my pins, I accidentally self-harm with the sewing scissors...

I have no idea how I managed to do this, but I basically stabbed my thigh. Very unfortunate, especially as I wasn't wearing trousers at the time (a combination of having just tried on a dress and the fact that even in autumn, my flat is pretty warm)... So, my left thigh is now graced with a big scratch, and my right thigh has a big bruise - from walking into the toilet door at Abbey bar (and no, I wasn't even drunk).

The scissor incident reminded me of how I managed to stab myself in the arm with those big metal scissors we only ever used for cutting wrapping paper at home. I was probably 13 or so, and again cannot remember how it happened. For years, you could still see a mini scar...

much more 'impressive' in real life...

A couple of years

It's more than two years ago now, that I attended meditation classes regularly. I kept meaning to go back, but there was always something else on, or I simply forgot. I finally returned for a session last week when their course started on: Live the life you want.
And who doesn't want that?

It was the same guy doing the course as when I stopped going two years ago. While I found the classes really useful back then, everything just made much more sense now..
I might be a slow learner, but I'm glad that I have at least learned something in two years.

the class takes place at Sadler's Wells and this time
we were in one of their rehearsal rooms with lots of wonderful props

And dinner beforehand at Banana Tree

Seriously?

I went to Abbey Bar on Friday night. Just after 18:00. So not late or anything.
And I got ID-ed. I was like: did I just hear you right? I'm nearly 35! Anyway, I got my German driving licence out (good thing I carry it with me) and as people generally don't know where to look for my date of birth, I pointed to it. And in the process accidentally covered up my photo. And the guy said: could I please see the photo.

Seriously? I've just told you how old I really am. If I was under 18 with a fake ID, do you really think I would pretend to be 34??!

Anyhow, I guess I am now at an age, where this is actually flattering...

Christmas come (very) early

I think it's safe to say that this is the earliest (6 November) that I've ever received a Christmas present. And not only one but TWO. Plus lunch at the Savoy.
I'm one lucky girl!

My first ever baked egg (so yummy!), the biggest piece of pork ever;
super crispy roast potatoes and sticky toffee pudding

Isn't the Savoy very pretty?

Such a cool present - thanks, Santa G! :-)

Not that I would ever forget Edinburgh

2 for the price of 3

For just £9 I got a ticket for some more contemporary ballet at the Royal Opera House: they were showing three pieces: Ceremony of Innocence, The age of anxiety and Aeternum.

I had a great seat - really far up in the amphitheatre but with a straight on view of the stage (whereas before, I've always been on the balcony with side views). I of course hadn't read up on any of the pieces, and I could not work out what the first one was about. At all. There was so much going on on stage, too, that I never quite knew where to look.

The second piece was much more 'understandable' and I did enjoy the dancing and the music. But I also realized how tired I was. So, I actually left before the third piece. I don't think I've ever left during an interval. But no point really, especially as I also knew that I had to do some work which I wanted to get out of the way before Sunday so that I can enjoy a whole day off.

pet hate

Only when I started sewing did I learn that the vertical slit at the back (or side) of jackets and skirts/dresses is called a vent. Most people will know that the vent is often (always?) sewn together with a simple seam when you buy clothes in shops. It's one of my pet hates that people don't remove that seam when they start wearing the piece of clothing.

The button from the back of my new coat fell off the other week, and when I finally got round to sewing it back on, I noticed - to my embarrassment - that my coat has a vent. And it was still sewn closed...

The Infidel at Stratford

Several years of living in East London - and it's taken me until last week to visit the Theatre Royal Stratford East...

They are currently showing The Infidel - David Baddiel's musical based on his 2010 film. Given the musical's success, it has just been extended by a couple of weeks until 15 November. And it's great! Very funny and an amazing cast. 

Dark and cold

The Indian Summer is well and truly over. And it's gone rather cold. Well, appropriately cold for November, I guess. On Monday night I finally had another massage booked after a rather long non-massage time because of my new tattoo. When I was walking along Regents Park to the appointment, in the dark (it wasn't even 18:00...), I remembered how I am not a big fan of winter. My instinct is to go into hibernation or at least turn into a couch potato... Who wants to leave the house in such weather?

I somehow managed to go out every night of this week though. Combined with a busy work week, I'm now feeling absolutely knackered.
But: it's the weekend now!

Let me check my diary

I like planning ahead. But even for me this is a bit extreme:
We are running an event in Hong Kong next May and one of our business partners contacted me last week - and asked whether he could take me out for a drink then.
Let alone that I generally work evenings during an event. As he knows very well. As he's been trying to take me for a drink for the last four years...

So sad and so very beautiful

Hand job

After weeks of procrastinating about my polka dot dress, I finally put the zip in. And I am so glad I took T's advice and did it by hand: while it took forever, it went really well! And I am considering always hand-sewing zippers in the future. The result looks much better than the ones I used the machine for.

I'm nearly done, only that the inside seams look terrible... I haven't yet decided whether to overlock or put a bit more effort in and use French seams instead. Secondly, I am also torn about whether or not to remove the sleeves again. They don't look quite right to me. And lastly, I will also need to lose a bit of weight, as it's a bit tight round my tummy... Other than that, I am quite pleased with it :-)

123456789

I have so many pins and passwords that I generally write them down. Too bad though when I can't work out what my 'encoded' scribbling means... So, I've just managed to block my online banking for one of my German accounts. Of course I can't remember my bloody telephone banking pin either. So, I now need to write a good old letter to request new pins. Argh.... I clearly need to find a better system/more memorable pins.

Incidentally, I also forgot my passcode for my business credit card last week which I needed for an online booking. Which had the benefit that the flight I was about to book had gone down in price by the next day! One of the rare occasions when being forgetful turns out to be advantageous....

how could i forget

that feeling. the feeling that i grew up with. that makes me feel as if everything around me is pitch black and i don't even know where or how to switch on the light again. when i am not even sure there is much point in looking for the light switch.

i honestly have no idea how i managed to struggle through this for years as a child and teenager. and while it really got to me yesterday, it's also a huge relief to know that while others have not changed, i have changed. not only do i have a support system around me* and i am incredibly grateful for that but i have also learned to pull myself out of that miserable feeling.

i guess i cannot ever protect myself from letting people make me feel like that. but it's good to know that the feeling doesn't last anymore.


* and as has been the case so many times over the last year or so, the love and understanding came from a very unexpected source. the mysterious ways of the universe.

plum

I feel that washing my hair daily, now that it is short and it stands in all directions when I get up in the morning, hasn't been very good for my hair. So, I decided to colour it, as that usually makes my hair really soft (and nothing to do of course with me spotting a few white hairs...).

Of course it didn't work this time. Instead, my hair now smells of chemicals and it was a pain to wash the colour stains off my neck... Not that EVERY time I've coloured my hair in the past, I've promised myself never to do it again...

top: before and after; the colour is called plum something or other
and the difference is clearly more visible in the light
bottom: looking more red while it's on and with flash

Hubbub

Birthday brunch with A at Hubbub, a cafe near Mudchute. A very residential area, where you wouldn't expect a cafe/restaurant. Nice and quirky place (any place with sofas wins me over instantly! Yes, I do love friends) and I'd definitely be back. They also accept the tastecard, but while you can't reserve a table (other than for big groups), you do need to call in advance to tell them that you are bringing the tastecard. Slightly annoying and pointless in my view, but hey, I do appreciate that they are not making it THAT easy to claim a discount.

my eggs Benedict and scrambled eggs with salmon and cream on toast