Posts archive for: July, 2006
  • Another list of funny signs and notices

    On Dublin Dry Cleaners : Shirts €4, OAPs € 2

    On an electrician's truck : Let us remove your shorts.

    Maternity clothes shop : We are open on Labour Day.

    Optometrist's office : If you don't see what you're looking for, you've come to the right place.

    Taxidermist window : We really know our stuff.

    Podiatrist's window : Time wounds all heels.

    Used car lot : Second Hand cars in first crash condition.

    Car dealership : The best way to get back on your feet - miss a payment.

    Panelbeater's : May we have the next dents?

    In an office : We shoot every 3rd salesman and the 2nd one just left.

    The electricity company : We would be delighted if you pay your bill. However, if you don't, you will be.

    Diner window : Don't stand there and be hungry, come in and get fed up.

    Bowling alley : Please be quiet. We need to hear a pin drop.

    Cafeteria : Shoes are required to eat in the cafeteria. Socks can eat any place they want.

  • Problem with logging-in.

    There's a problem on the site with logging in. In order to work around it, you have to go to any profile and click on 'send a message' and then you are able to log in. I hope this is only temporary; it's probably something to do with the site maintenance work that's just been completed.

  • Strange Laws In Indiana.

    Hotel sheets must be exactly 99 inches long and 81 inches wide.

    If any person has a puppet show, wire dancing or tumbling act in the state of Indiana and receives money for it, they will be fined $3 under the Act to Prevent Certain Immoral Practices.

    Anyone 14 or older who profanely curses, damns or swears by the name of God, Jesus Christ or the Holy Ghost, shall be fined one to three dollars for each offence, with a maximum fine of ten dollars per day.

    A three dollar fine per pack will be imposed on anyone playing cards in Indiana under the Act for the Prevention of Gaming.

    The value of Pi is set at 3 by legal statute.

  • Australian education.

    Curriculum-based study materials for Australian teachers and students.

    Some of the videos available:

    Aboriginal People Make A Canoe And Hunt A Turtle

    An Australian Greek Wife

    The Art Of Cattle Droving

    Cane Cutters And Mateship

    How To Cause A Traffic Jam

  • More Interesting Facts

    In England, while it's an offence to drop litter on the pavement, it's not an offence to throw it over someone's garden wall.

    Nicole Kidman is afraid of butterflies.

    WD-40 dissolves cocaine - it has been used by a pub landlord to prevent drug-taking in his pub's toilets.

    The Queen has never used a computer.

    'Restaurant' is the most mis-spelled word in search engine enquiries [I'm not sure about this one; variant spellings are used in several different languages and these might be counted as incorrect spelling in English.]

    Croydon has more CCTV cameras than New York.

  • Idiot!

    I've just been watching Sky News and the presenter was interviewing the cricket commentator Richie Benaud, and thought that the place where he's staying, Chapel-en-le-Frith in Derbyshire, is in France. Bloody idiot!

  • Yorkshire Film Locations

    Films that were shot on location in the county.

    Billy Liar (1963) - Baildon, Bradford, Ilkley Moor

    The Entertainer (1960) - Bradford

    Kes (1969) - Barnsley

    The Railway Children - Keighley, Haworth

    Rita, Sue and Bob Too - Bradford

    Sunday, Bloody Sunday (1971) - Doncaster

    This Sporting Life (1963) - Wakefield

  • Top Women's Tee-Shirt Slogans [from someone's personal webpage]

    Next mood swing. Six minutes.

    I'm busy. You're ugly. Have a nice day.

    How can I miss you if you won't go away?

    Sorry if I look interested. I'm not.

    You have the right to remain silent, so please shut up.

    Guys have feelings too. But like...who cares?

  • Problems with Hotmail.

    For the last few days I've been receiving emails that aren't addressed to me; some of the addresses are a bit similar to mine but others bear no resemblence at all.

    What's happening? Is this happening to other people? Are some of my emails being delivered to the wrong person?

  • Strange laws in Illinois

    Law forbids eating in a place that is on fire.It is illegal to give a dog whiskey.

    It is forbidden to fish while sitting on a giraffe's neck.

    Kites may not be flown within the city limits.

    In the Pullman area, it is illegal to drink beer out of a bucket while sitting on the curb.

    It is legal to protest naked in front of city hall as long as you are under seventeen years of age and
    have the correct permit.

  • Unusual Maps

    I spend a lot of time online looking at maps; imagining visiting the places depicted.

    Here are some unusual maps I've found listed.

    Coca-Cola Map of the World - maps Coca-Cola consumption per capita by country.

    Going Underground - plots the history of twentieth century music on the London Underground.

    Guide to Springfield, U.S.A. - a highly detailed map of the Simpsons' hometown.

    If I Dig A Very Deep Hole, Where Will I Stop? - click on any place on Earth to see its exact antipodal location.

    National Public Toilets Map (Australia)

  • Nicknames for professions.

    Beancounter - accountant

    Wood butcher - carpenter

    Sawbones - doctor

    Roughneck - oil rigger

    Shovelbum - archaeological digger

    Shrink - psychiatrist

    Spook - intelligence agent

  • Back from the doctor's.

    I've just returned from my appointment with the doctor and he's going to make me an appointment to see the orthopaedic surgeon at the hospital. I require an exploratory operation and possibly some damaged cartilage scraping away. My doctor had the same opeation himself at about my age and thoroughly recommends it.

    In the meantime though, he's prescribed me some tablets to lessen the swelling and ease the pain.

  • More Quotations About Chocolate

    Life is like a box of chocolates .. full of nuts!
    --bumper sticker

    All I really need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt!
    --Lucy Van Pelt (in Peanuts, by Charles M. Schulz)

    Don't wreck a sublime chocolate experience by feeling guilty.
    Chocolate isn't like premarital sex. It will not make you pregnant.
    And it always feels good.
    --Lora Brody, author of Growing Up on the Chocolate Diet

    Nine out of ten people like chocolate. The tenth person always lies..
    --John Q. Tullius

    I never met a chocolate I didn't like.
    --Deanna Troi in Star Trek: The Next Generation

    It's not that chocolates are a substitute for love.
    Love is a substitute for chocolate. Chocolate is,
    let's face it, far more reliable than a man.
    --Miranda Ingram

    Chocolate is cheaper than therapy and you don't need an appointment.
    --Unknown

    The superiority of chocolate, both for health and nourishment,
    will soon give it the same preference over tea and coffee in
    America which it has in Spain.
    --Thomas Jefferson

    There are four basic food groups, milk chocolate, dark chocolate,
    white chocolate, and chocolate truffles.
    --Unknown

    Strength is the capacity to break a chocolate bar into four pieces
    with your bare hands - and then eat just one of the pieces
    --Judith Viorst

    Other things are just food. But chocolate's chocolate.
    --Patrick Skene Catling

    If one swallows a cup of chocolate only three hours after a
    copious lunch, everything will be perfectly digested and there
    will still be room for dinner.
    --Brillat-Savarin

    Las cosas claras y el chocolate espeso.
    (Ideas should be clear and chocolate thick.)
    --Spanish proverb

    Biochemically, love is just like eating large amounts of chocolate.
    --John Milton, The Devils Advocate

    If you are not feeling well, if you have not slept,
    chocolate will revive you. But you have no chocolate!
    I think of that again and again! My dear, how will you ever manage?
    --Marquise de Sevigne, February 11, 1677

    Venice is like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs in one go.
    --Truman Capote

    What you see before you, my friend, is the result of a
    lifetime of chocolate.
    --Katharine Hepburn

    Chocolate is a perfect food, as wholesome as it is delicious,
    a beneficent restorer of exhausted power. it is the
    best friend of those engaged in literary pursuits.
    --Baron Justus von Liebig (1803-1873) German chemist

  • My knee is still hurting me.

    I've decided. I'm going to make an appointment to see the doctor later this morning. Since my right knee gave way about a month ago it has been been painful whenever I move it in certain positions. I'm not sure what the doctor can do though; maybe book me for an x-ray and then some manipulation or physiotherapy.

    For the last few years now, both knees have been giving way several times a year, but after a bit of manipulation by myself, a loud crack and a simultaneous burst of pain I've been fine; but not this time...it just feels different.

  • Strange Laws In Georgia (USA)

    It is illegal to use profanity in front of a dead body which lies in a funeral home or in a coroner's office.

    Members of the state assembly cannot be ticketed for speeding while the state assembly is in session.

    Donkeys may not be kept in bathtubs.

    Signs are required to be written in English.

    No-one may carry an ice cream cone in their back pocket if it is Sunday.

  • Strange Laws In Georgia (USA)

    It is illegal to use profanity in front of a dead body which lies in a funeral home or in a coroner's office.

    Members of the state assembly cannot be ticketed for speeding while the state assembly is in session.

    Donkeys may not be kept in bathtubs.

    Signs are required to be written in English.

    No-one may carry an ice cream cone in their back pocket if it is Sunday.

  • Places around the world which have the same names as Yorkshire towns and cities.

    Doncaster, Victoria: a suburb of Melbourne.

    Scarborough: the capital of the island of Tobago.

    Hull, Quebec, Canada: a centre for service industries and government offices. Also site of Canadian Museum of Civilisation, a hydro-electricity plant and a large casino.

    Sheffield: several small cities in USA.

    Halifax: capital of Nova Scotia, Canada. A major port.

    Richmond, Virginia: Civil War capital of the Confederate States. (Of course, could be named after Richmond, Surrey - I don't know.)

    York: a suburb of Toronto, Canada with its own university.

  • More crazy patents filed with the U.S. Patent Office.

    Doggie Poop Freeze Wand

    Mug Incorporating A Simulated Artificial Horizon

    User-operated amusement apparatus for kicking the user's buttocks.

    Method and apparatus for making a drink hop along a bar or counter.

    Protective underwear with malodorous flatus filter.

    Carvable artificial pumpkin, and method.

  • Mock Interview

    I've just had my mock interview for a proofreading job at the office where I'm attending my employment scheme.

    In the feedback session I was told that I performed well with my verbal responses and technical knowledge but my body language was awful, making me appear very sinister. There's not a lot I can do about that though; if I know how to do the job that's all that should matter.

  • Funny courtroom exchanges.

    (As written in official transcripts.)

    Q: Doctor, did you say he was shot in the woods?
    A: No, I said he was shot in the lumber region.

    Q: Doctor, how many autopsies have you performed on dead people?
    A: All my autopsies have been on dead people.

    Q: Were you acquainted with the deceased?
    A: Yes, sir.
    Q: Before or after he died?

    Q: Officer, what led you to believe that the defendant was under the influence?
    A: Because he was argumentary, and he couldn't pronunciate his words.

    Q: You say you're innocent, yet five people swear they saw you steal a watch.
    A: Your honour, I can produce 500 people who didn't see me steal it.

  • Crazy Laws In Florida

    Women may be fined for falling asleep under a hair dryer, as can the salon owner.

    A special law prohibits unmarried women from parachuting on Sunday or she shall risk arrest, fine, and/or jailing.

    If an elephant is left tied to a parking meter, the parking fee has to be paid just as it would for a vehicle.

    It is illegal to sing in a public place while attired in a swimsuit.

    Men may not be seen publicly in any kind of strapless gown.

    Having sexual relations with a porcupine is illegal.

    It is illegal to skateboard without a licence.

  • Some New Zealand terms where I'm not sure of the meanings.

    Anyone to care to make any suggestions?

    dropkick
    Godzone
    chunder
    jandals
    claytons
    longdrop
    pack a sad
    scarfie
    cuzzie bro
    flatting
    freezing works

  • Dear Public Assistance:

    These are actual statements taken from cards, letters and forms recieved by public assistance agencies.

    I am forwarding my marriage certificate and 6 children. I had 7 but one died which was baptized on a sheet of paper.

    I am writing the Welfare Dept. to say that my baby was born 2 years old. When do I get my money?

    Mrs. Jones has not had any clothing for a year and has been visited regularly by the clergy.

    I cannot get sick pay. I have had 6 children. Can you tell me why?

    I am glad to report that my husband who was reported missing is dead.

    This is my eighth child. What are you going to do about it?

    Please find for certain if my husband is dead, as the man I am living with can't do a thing until he knows.

    I am very much annoyed to find you have branded my boy as illiterate. This is a dirty lie. I was married to his father a week before he was born.

    In answer to your letter, I have given birth to a boy weighing 10 pounds. I hope this is satisfactory.

    I am forwarding my marriage certificate and my 3 children, one of which was a mistake as you can see.

    Unless I get my husband's money pretty soon, I will be forced to lead an immortal life.

    My husband got laid off from his job 2 weeks ago, and I haven't had any relief since.

    You have changed my little boy to a girl. Will this make any difference?

    I have no children yet as my husband is a bus driver and works night and day.

    In accordance with your instructions, I have given birth to twins in the enclosed envelope.

    I want my money as quick as I can get it. I have been in bed with a doctor for 2 weeks and he hasn't done me any good. If things don't improve I will have to send for another doctor.

    (In response to the question, "Why have you applied for public assistance?") My husband left me last month and I am in need of ass.

    Dear Sirs, please stop my assistance since I got a job begging in October.

  • My list of personal highlights in Doncaster.

    The Don Gorge, River Don and weir at Sprotborough.

    Walking across Conisbrough Viaduct.

    Travelling by barge across the Don Aqueduct and the Went Aqueduct.

    Thorne Moors.

    Cusworth Hall and Country Park.

    The magnesian limestone ridge country in the west of the borough.

  • Three statistics about blog visitors.

    Blog visitors are eleven percent more likely than the average internet user to have an annual income in excess of £75,000.

    Blog visitors are thity percent more likely than the average internet user to live in households where the head of the household is 18 to 34 years old.

    Blog visitors are eleven percent more likely to access the internet using a broadband connexion.

    Only the last statistic applies to me.

  • Full names of some Cruft's champions.

    Take A Chance

    Cause Celebre

    Call The Tune

    A Dangerous Liaison

    Topscore Contradiction

    Forever Young

    Ozmillion Mystification

    Chicago Bear

    Hit And Miss From Brocolita

    Moon Pilot

    Starlite Express At Valsetta

    Ginger Xmas Carol

    Saxonsprings Hackensack

    Bournehouse Dancing Master

    Bossy Boots

    Puckshill Amber Sunblush

    It makes you wonder what their owners actually shout when calling them.

  • Strange Laws In Connecticut

    You can be stopped by the police for biking over 65 miles per hour.

    In order for a pickle to officially be considered a pickle, it must bounce.

    It is illegal to dispose of used razor blades.

  • Some famous misquotations.

    'Beam me up, Scotty.' - never actually said by William Shatner when playing Captain Kirk in the original series of Star Trek. The quote was used in the later cartoon series though.

    'Blood, Sweat and Tears' - Winston Churhill. Actual quote, 'I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat.'

    'Elementary, my dear Watson.' - never appeared in the Conan Doyle books, only ever used in films and TV productions.

    'Me Tarzan, you Jane.' - occurs in none of the Tarzan films or the books by Edgar Rice Burroughs.

    'Play it again Sam.' - actual quote, 'Play it Sam, for old times' sake.'

    'To gild the lily.' - Shakespeare. Original quote, 'To gild refind gold, to paint the lily.'

    'You dirty rat.' - never said by James Cagney in any film.

  • My favourite TV series from the past

    I found mention of these on a cult TV website.

    A Very Peculiar Practice

    The Beiderbecke Tapes/Affair

    Twin Peaks

    Auf Wiedersehen, Pet

    Wild Palms

    Babylon 5

    Blake's Seven

    The Goodies

    The League Of Gentlemen

    The Man From U.N.C.L.E.

    The Saint

    The Persuaders!

    The Protectors

    The Quatermess Experiment
    Quatermass And The Pit

    The Saint

    Sapphire & Steel

    Happy Days

    Space 1999

    Star Trek

    The Sweeney

    Thunderbirds

    UFO

    The X-Files

  • Strange Laws In Alabama

    It is illegal to wear a fake moustache that causes laughter in church.

    Putting salt on a railroad track may be punishable by death.

    Bogies may not be flicked into the wind.

    It is legal to drive the wrong way down a one-way street if you have a lantern attached to the front of your automobile.

    You may not have an ice cream cone in your back pocket at any time.

    Masks may not be worn in public.

    Women are able to retain all property they owned prior to marriage in the case of divorce. However, this provision does not apply to men.

  • Some rare and unusual euphemisms.

    Another posting on the subject of language. If I remember correctly, I think these examples all come from America.

    death - take a dirt nap

    God - dad gum

    Jesus - cheese and ice

    urine - gypsies' kiss

    defecate - pinch a loaf, pump a duke, drop trout

    toilets - the porcelain god, the big white telephone

  • Language Change

    During my lifetime certain words and phrases have been replaced by others, mainly for politically correct reasons I suppose. In this list of some examples I can think of, the first word or phrase is the original as I remember it, and the second the current preferred replacement.

    jungle - rainforest

    Mongol - Doenes' Syndrome

    queer, homosexual - gay

    unemployed - jobseeker

    refugee - asylum seeker

    coloured - African-American, Afro-Caribbean

    handicapped - disabled (now differently abled)

    old age pensioner (OAP) - senior citizen

    blind - visually-impaired

    Alsatian (dog) - German Shepherd

  • Unusual Comments Made At Job Interviews

    Vice Presidents and personnel directors of the one hundred largest
    corporations were asked to describe their most unusual experience
    interviewing prospective employees:

    A job applicant challenged the interviewer to an arm wrestle.

    Interviewee wore a Walkman, explaining that she could listen to the
    interviewer and the music at the same time.

    Candidate fell and broke arm during interview.

    Candidate announced she hadn't had lunch and proceeded to eat a hamburger
    and french fies in the interviewers office.

    Candidate explained that her long-term goals was to replace the
    interviewer.

    Candidate said he never finished high school because he was kidnapped and
    kept in a closet in Mexico.

    Balding Candidate excused himself and returned to the office a few minutes
    later wearing a headpiece.

    Applicant said if he was hired he would demonstrate his loyalty
    by having the corporate logo tattooed on his forearm.

    Applicant interrupted interview to phone her therapist for advice on how
    to answer specific interview questions.

    Candidate brought large dog to interview.

    Applicant refused to sit down and insisted on being interviewed standing
    up.

    Candidate dozed off during interview.

    The employers were also asked to list the "most unusual" questions that
    have been asked by job candidates:

    "What is it that you people do at this company?"

    "What is the company motto?"

    "Why aren't you in a more interesting business?"

    "What are the zodiac signs of all the board members?"

    "Why do you want references?"

    "Do I have to dress for the next interview?"

    "I know this is off the subject, but will you marry me?"

    "Will the company move my rock collection from California to maryland?"

    "Will the company pay to relocate my horse?"

    "Does your health insurance cover pets?"

    "Would it be a problem if I'm angry most of the time?"

    "Does your company have a policy regarding concealed weapons?"

    "Do you think the company would be willing to lower my pay?"

    "Why am I here?"

    Also included are a number of unusual statement made by candidates during
    the interview process:

    I have no difficulty in starting or holding my bowel movement.

    At times I have the strong urge to do something harmful or shocking.

    I feel uneasy indoors.

    Sometimes I feel like smashing things.

    Women should not be allowed to drink in cocktail bars.

    I think that Lincoln was greater than Washington.

    I get excited very easily.

    Once a week, I usually feel hot all over.

    I am fascinated by fire.

    I like tall women.

    Whenever a man is with a woman he is usually thinking about sex.

    People are always watching me.

    If I get too much change in a store, I always give it back.

    Almost everyone is guilty of bad sexual conduct.

    I must admit that I am a pretty fair talker.

    I never get hungry.

    I know who is responsible for most of my troubles

    If the pay was right, I'd travel with the carnival.

    I would have been more successful if nobody would have snitched on me.

    My legs are really hairy.

  • Some strange websites I've found.

    Virtual Frog Dissection

    Piercing Mildred

    Stick Figure Death Theatre

    Squirrel Fishing

    The Museum Of Fart

    Virtual Vomit

    Nose Pickers' Page

    Hamster Dance

    Mullets Galore

    Send A Turd

    Deformed Frog Pictures

    Outhouses Of America

    Fun With Oranges

  • More Excuses For Not Going In To Work

    These examples all seem to be from America. I can't decide whether they're meant to be true or not, but some of them are quite funny.

    I won't be in today. My fish is sick and I need to take it to the vet.
    My neighbor's daughter got a round hair brush stuck in her hair and I need to help her get it out.
    I won't be in today because I have come down with Spring Fever.
    I fell off a ladder fixing the roof on my house and I landed on my elbow.
    Last night in San Francisco I was attacked by a gay guy who didn't like the remarks I made about him and he hit me in the face and broke the windshield of my car with a small bat that I tried to hit him with.
    I don't think I'll be in work for awhile. Yesterday I was riding my son's BMX bike and I fell and broke my ankle it two places and I'm in the hospital.
    I won't be in today. I'm still drunk from last night.
    I'm not coming in because I need a mental day.
    Last night we had a party and I woke up with a strange man in my bed!
    My car caught on fire on the way to work so I can't make it in.
    My car ran out of gas on the way to work. I was pushing it to a gas station and I got a stomach hernia and I have to go to the doctors.
    My cat got ran over by a motorcycle and I need to take it to the vet.
    My boyfriend hit me over the head with a speaker and I'm kind of messed up.
    I was stepping down out of my trailer and I missed the step and when I landed on the ground I messed up my back.
    Tom Robbins says: "any one who goes to work everyday... everyday... IS sick! so, 'call in well' to work today!
    Had to be rushed to hospital for coffee burns on my lap be in tomorrow!
    I can't come to work today because the city is paving my street and I can't get out!
    My wife is too sick to get out of bed, so I'm staying home to take care of her.
    I won't be in today....I'm calling in dead.
    Excuse me sir, but I won't be in today. My home is flooded and I'm currently standing on my dresser in my second story bedroom. Thanks and have a nice day.
    Can't make it in. I have a chance of filling in for someone on jury duty.
    Hello, This is, ________ I've used all of my sick days and I'm calling in dead.
    I can't come into work today because of eye trouble.... I can't see working today.
    If it is all the same to you, I won't be coming in to work. The voices told me to clean all the guns today.
    When I got up this morning, I took two Ex-Lax in addition to my Prozac. I can't get off the john, but I feel good about it.
    I can't come in to work today because I'll be stalking my previous boss, who fired me for not showing up for work. OK?
    I am stuck in the blood pressure machine down at Wal-Mart.
    Constipation has made me a walking time bomb.
    The dog ate my car keys. We're going to hitchhike to the vet.
    I had missed a lot of work and my boss made me promise I would not be late, but I woke
    I am calling in because I do not feel up to par today.
    I am not coming in because I tried to dye my hair blonde, but it came out green!
    I'm not going to work today, I spent my paycheck on lottery tickets, and I'm out of Gas 'till payday. (actually used by a security guard)
    I have a bit of a problem. I got the end of a Q-tip stuck in my ear and have to go to the doctors to get it out.
    I was already at work for this and wanted to leave...Tell the boss I called home a few minutes ago and gotta go, my girlfriend went out to sunbathe naked in the back yard and locked herself out of the house and needs the door opened.
    Actually used and they will know me but it was 15 yrs ago.... my roommates horse overate and he has been walking it since midnight, I need to walk the horse so it doesn't lay down and die.
    Yesterday I caught a bad cold while vacationing in Miami, Florida. Sorry!
    A man I worked with once called in with... "My wife's breasts are sore after her breast enlargement so I need to stay home and massage her tits."
    My husband had a vasectomy yesterday and his balls are enlarged, so I need to stay home and help him ice them.
    I'm not coming to work to day because my computer has got a virus. And my computer means more to me then this job
    I am sorry but I will be unable to come in to work today. My agoraphobia (fear of leaving the house) is kicking in and I am afraid to drive today.
    Can't come in today, the springs on the garage door broke and I can't get the car out cause the door won't open.
    My coworker Wilma Martinez called in and said " The snowplow was stuck in front of her driveway ". It took three days before they could get back to tow it away. Chicago January blizzards. She brought in pictures the next week.
    Sorry Boss I can't come into work today...my spirit guide says work is for losers!
    Well, you see, my boyfriend's friend's cousin, her mother is a total flake and her three kids are getting taken away by CPS and she is going to jail, and my boyfriend is working, his cousin is out of town and so you can see that I have to stay home and watch them.
    There has been an urgent family emergency, which I can't talk about lest I endanger any innocent bystanders. (This one could be good for a few days).
    My dog is having puppies and I need to help her.
    Someone smashed in my windows this morning with a large blunt object.
    I sprained my wrist cooking dinner in the microwave last nite.
    I slipped in the shower and torque my knee. I can't walk on it at all.
    I have extremely bad diarrhea. I mean REALLY bad. I am stuck in the house for a LONNNNNNNG time. A *long* time.
    This one was actually used by one of my employees. "Sorry I did not show up yesterday, I locked myself in the bathroom."
    I won't be able to come to work next week . Were trying for a baby and the doc says next week is the best chance.
    I will not be into work today because my parents dog died.
    Someone dumped a truck-load of sand in front of my driveway and I won't be in today.
    A friend I hadn't seen for years came round just as I was setting off for work, I couldn't leave could I?
    I actually used this. It did happen. I was late yesterday because my cat was alarmed at my sleep-talking and jumped off the bed, knocked my alarm off the dresser, of which the batteries fell out; And I over slept.
    I won't be in today because I can't find my clothes.
    I'm calling in sick - of working for your company...!
    I won't be able to make it to work today due to my Aunt flying in from ______________, you see, she has one arm and two pieces of luggage and really needs me to be there for her.
    I am sick with the Lack. Lack of ambition.
    Last night a friend I haven't seen in a long time came over and gave me a bear hug and broke one of my ribs, so I won't be in today.
    I won't be in today. I was up all week-end with this new girl I met and I didn't get any sleep....if you know what I mean!
    I lost my car keys skiing and I can't leave until I find them!
    I can not come to work today because I do not have any shoes.!!!
    An employee phoned in at 9:00 am with the following. "My sister stole my money and I am out looking for her."
    I am unable to come to work today. I tried lifting our baby daughter out of her crib and twisted my back.
    I can't come in to work today, my sister tripped over the dog, fell off the porch and broke her wrist. I have to take her to the hospital.
    I'm sorry I was late, I forgot to look at my watch!!!
    My co-worker once called in this excuse to me and asked me to tell our supervisor. " I have ants." It was later explained that she had ants in her basement apartment and had to call an exterminator in.
    I won't be into work today because my plane that was going to leave on Sunday didn't leave until today.
    On my way to work today, my tooth cracked. I'll be going to the dentist.
    I can't make it to work today, because the fan belt broke on the van, the brakes went out, and it has a flat tire.
    I can't come into work today, because the hot water tap broke on the bathtub.
    The pharmacy is making up some cream for me today - so I won't be in to work.
    I left the windows open in my room all night and when I woke up I had a stiff neck. I can't coming in today.
    I'll be in later today. I accidentally through away my jewelry, that was in a zip lock bag, away in the dumpster after I got back from vacation. I have to try and find it.
    Work....I didn't want to be late for work again today so I called in sick instead!
    This excuse has been used by myself several times. I'll be out today or late, I woke up dizzy (I suffer from vertigo).
    Please excuse Henry for being late. He was stuck in the bathroom without any toilet paper.
    I can't come into work today. There is a cat sitting on the fence outside more door and he won't let me out. It looks like he will attack me if I go outside!
    I'll be in a little late today. During the night the power must have gone off because when I woke up my alarm clock time was flashing. And of course I over slept.
    My assistant called in with this one. "I cant come to work today because my cat is lonely and stressed out and if I don't spend quality time with him, he will keep peeing on the furniture!"
    A girl I worked with called in with: "I wont be in today because my dog has a headache, and I need to take it to the vet.."
    I won't be in to work today. My wife said she is going to conceive today, and I want to be there when it happens.
    I can't come in today....I found a stray cat by my home this week-end and it has really bad diarrhea and I have to take it to the vets.
    I'm going to need to take a couple of day off Thursday and Friday, because the city said I have to clean up my back yard before Monday or I'm going to get a big fine!
    I can't come in today because I feel sick and I can't breath because of all the smoke in the air.
    A girl that I used to work with said she couldn't get come to work because she'd been abducted over the weekend and needed to recover.
    Sorry, won't be in for 3 days. Went to see my sister off on her cruise to Bahamas...darn ship left with me still on it.. Captain refuses to turn back.
    I'll be in late this morning. I have a possum in my backyard and it's freaking out my dog. I have to get it out before I can leave.
    I'll be in late today because my cat is sick again. (This is the same person from excuse # 123)
    I cannot come into work today because I came down with a bad case of something or other.
    "I'm sorry I can't hear you, I'm hard of hearing in that ear."
    "Who, me??? I just got back from the asylum!"
    "[Name of employee who left the company] was originally responsible for that task."
    "[Name of new hire] had been assigned the task, but [your manager's manager] is asking for another cost analysis, due to changed venue. I'll get back to you on it."
    "I thought that paper shredder WAS the fax machine!"
    "How should I know, paper shredders look a lot like fax machines!"
    "I'm feeling kinda disgruntled today.... You want I should come in?" (a favorite excuse of postal workers.)
    "My car's battery is dead and there isn't anyone in a 50 mile radius who has jumper cables."
    "My dog chewed up my shoes and I couldn't very well come to work barefooted, could I!? (use this in the winter)"
    "When I left the house and locked the door this morning, the key broke off in the lock. The locksmith is out of town until Tuesday, so I can't leave the house until then.
    "My psychic warned me not to leave the house today."
    "I was just informed that my car has been recalled by the manufacturer and it is unsafe to drive."
    "I just wanted to see if you could get along without me, so you would know how valuable I am to you."
    "My cat is suffering from depression and can't be left alone."
    "The road in front of my house was closed for repair."
    "The dog had puppies in the drivers seat of my car."
    "My internal clock's power went off during the night."
    "I was dreaming and couldn't wake up."
    "I was abducted by aliens on the way to work."
    "My house is surrounded by an electromagnetic field that caused my alarm clock to reset itself."
    "I really wanted to come to work this morning, but physical circumstances wouldn't allow it."
    "I was up until 3:00 am working on a procedure that would simultaneously increase production & efficiency, and also reduce expenses. I'd rather not discuss it until I have all the kinks worked out." (this gives you a little time to come up with some more BS)
    "I have to have emergency split end surgery at the salon."
    "If I don't see my therapist soon, there's no telling what I might do!" (say this with a crazed look on your face)
    "I have to go to ________ to fill out some paperwork and their office closes at 2:00 pm."
    "I have an appointment with my lawyer to discuss the laws of the Fair Labor Standards Act in respect to my case."
    "I couldn't do my homework because my calculator is solar powered, and it was cloudy outside."
    "I accidentally divided by zero, and my paper went up in flames."
    "I had a strong premonition that I shouldn't go out of the house today."
    "If it is all the same to you, I won't be coming in to work. The voices told me to clean all the guns today."
    "When I got up this morning, I took two Ex-Lax in addition to my Prozac. I can't get off the john, but I feel good about it."
    "My stigmata's acting up."
    "I have a rare case of 48 hour projectile leprosy, but I know we have that deadline to meet..."
    "I am stuck in the blood pressure machine down at the Food Giant."
    "Yes, I seem to have contracted some attention deficit disorder and, hey, how about them Hoyas, huh? So, I won't be able to, yes, could I help you? No, no, I'll be sticking with Sprint, but thank you for calling."
    "Constipation has made me a walking time bomb."
    "I just found out that I was switched at birth. Legally, I shouldn't come to work knowing my employee records may now contain false information."
    "The psychiatrist said it was an excellent session. He even gave me this jaw restraint so I won't bite things when I am startled."
    "The dog ate my car keys. We're going to hitchhike to the vet."
    "My mother-in-law has come back as one of the Undead and we must track her to her coffin to drive a stake through her heart and give her eternal peace. One day should do it."
    "I am converting my calendar from Julian to Gregorian."
    "I am extremely sensitive to a rise in the interest rates."
    "I can't come to work today because the EPA has determined that my house is completely surrounded by wetlands and I have to arrange for helicopter transportation."
    "I prefer to remain an enigma."
    "I mis-understood because my contact lens was ripped."
    "I couldn't attend the seminar because my friend's cat had kittens."
    "I didn't see the Construction Detour sign so I drove my car straight into four feet of hot asphalt!"
    "Oh, you mean it's Next' Monday I have off!!" (Note: must be said with an incredulous expression)
    "I only missed the one day but [fill in another persons name ] missed four days in a row and you didn't say anything to them!"

  • Random Google Page

    Another interesting site I've found - when you click on the button 'Take Me Into The Unknown' it takes you to a random page anywhere on the internet (I think family-safe filters are used.)

    Some of the recent places it's taken me:

    My Fidget Is The Best

    Polemic Parallelism: some further reflections on the Apocalypse

    Particle Swarm Optimisation Toolbox

    Report of the U.S. Delegate, Codex Committee on Fresh Fruit and Vegetables, 12th Session

    Old Heroes Never Die

    Ancient Sumeria

  • Hello Lambeth

    I've just been over to view my stats on Site Meter and have noticed that four different people in Lambeth (in London) have viewed my blog this afternoon.

    What's happening in Lambeth? Why the sudden interest in my blog there?

    Well, it's always nice to have visitors; so hello to everyone reading my blog in Lambeth.

  • A Visit From My Landlord

    My landlord and his brother have just visited me to inform me that they're intending to put in a new kitchen and bathroom and will be increasing the rent by twenty pounds per week.

    I was expecting this; the rent that I'm paying (Housing Benefit is covering most of the cost) is substantially below the market rate...but then the house is a bit derelict.

    I've been onto the local authority website and completed their online calculation of housing benefit form and it seems that I should still be entitled to most of the increase being funded. I've just phoned up the housing department to check what the procedure is when my rent is increased and it seems straighforward enough.

  • Spellchecker suggestions for Yorkshire towns and cities.

    In each case I've just selected the most interesting suggestions provided by an online spellchecker.

    Doncaster - dominate

    Barnsley - barnacles

    Rotherham - rotter, brother

    Huddersfield - understand, hideous

    Pontefract - pontificate

    Harrogate - Harrods

    Scarborough - scoreboard, scarecrow

  • Funny Names Of Businesses In Toronto

    I've just found these; I'm not sure what some of them do though.

    Call Your Fairy Godmother

    Lion On The Beach

    Mind Your Own Beeswax

    The Pie's The Limit

    James Bond United Church

    Weld Done Designs

    Eat My Martini

    Drapes And Sew Much More

    Death by chocolate.

  • More Newspaper Headlines

    Grandmother of eight makes hole in one
    Deaf mute gets new hearing in killing
    House passes gas tax onto senate
    Two convicts evade noose, jury hung
    William Kelly was fed secretary
    Milk drinkers are turning to powder
    Safety experts say school bus passengers should be belted
    Quarter of a million Chinese live on water
    Farmer bill dies in house
    Iraqi head seeks arms
    Queen Mary having bottom scraped
    Is there a ring of debris around Uranus?
    Panda mating fails - veterinarian takes over
    NJ judge to rule on nude beach
    Child's stool great for use in garden
    Dr. Ruth to talk about sex with newspaper editors
    Soviet virgin lands short of goal again
    Organ festival ends in smashing climax
    Eye drops off shelf
    Squad helps dog bite victim
    Dealers will hear car talk at noon
    Enraged cow injures farmer with ax
    Lawmen from Mexico barbecue guests
    Miners refuse to work after death
    Two Soviet ships collide - one dies
    Two sisters reunite after eighteen years at checkout counter
    If strike isn't settled quickly it may last a while
    War dims hope for peace
    Smokers are productive, but death cuts efficiency
    Cold wave linked to temperatures
    Child's death ruins couple's holiday
    Blind woman gets new kidney from dad she hasn't seen in years
    Something went wrong in jet crash, experts say
    Death causes loneliness, feeling of isolation

  • Appointment At The Chamber Of Commerce

    I've had an appointment made for me with someone at Doncaster Chamber Of Commerce to find out some details about becoming a freelance proofreader. Of course, nothing will come of it, because the very same skills that make me a good proofreader also mean that I'm hopeless at business; after all, if I was any good at promoting myself I wouldn't have been unemployed all this time. In addition, the benefits system conspires against me because I'd not be eligible for any benefits at all the minute I'd be deemed as earning anything; and of course, initially this wouldn't be anything approaching a living wage, and payment could be delayed for several weeks or months with me having nothing to live on in the meantime.

    The appointment will mean that I'll be away from the dreaded jobsearch on my employment training scheme for a couple of hours though; and I'll get a bus pass...valid for a week!

  • Funniest T-Shirt Slogans Of 2000

    My personal favourites.

    Your village called; their idiot is missing.

    If going to church makes you a Christian, does going to a garage make you a car?

    If all the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players, where do audiences come from?

    Those who live by the sword get shot by those who don't.

  • Mae West Quotes

    A man in love is like a clipped coupon -- it's time to cash in.
    A man in the house... is worth two in the street
    A hard man... is good to find
    Goodness, what beautiful diamonds !
    Goodness had nothing to do with it, dearie
    Give a man a free hand... and he'll run it all over you
    Good sex is like good Bridge... If you don't have a good partner, you'd better have a good hand
    He who hesitates is last.
    His mother should have thrown him away...and kept the stork
    I don't like myself, I'm crazy about myself.
    I go for two kinds of men. The kind with muscles, and the kind without.
    I like two kinds of men: domestic and imported
    I generally avoid temptation unless I can't resist it.
    I'm the lady who works at Paramount all day... and Fox all night.
    Is that a gun in your pocket or are you just happy to see me?
    It's not the men in my life that counts -- it's the life in my men.
    I used to be Snow White... but I drifted

  • Garden Report

    My hollyhocks are just about at their best at the moment, several blooms per stem in shades from deep red to pink. The spikes aren't as high this year, but there are many more of them - should be less chance of them breaking in the wind.

    The asters that I bought at the market have just started flowering; looks like I've got three colours in the eight plants. They're only a few inches tall though; a bit disappointing because I was expecting them growing to 18-24 inches so I planted them towards the back of the garden.

    The eschscholtzia is now several weeks past its peak blooming phase but still has a few dozen flowers on display and the buddleia (which I pruned back to ground level in the winter) is just starting to show some colour.

  • The Next 28 Weeks

    Well, we've been told what our commitment to the course for the remainder of the thirty weeks will be; next week will be the same as the first two weeks, four hours a day for five days a week and the remaining 27 weeks two hours a day for three days a week. These reduced hours in subsequent weeks should allow me time to go walking with my brother and visit our parents.

    Of course, after I've completed the course, the likelihood is that I'll still be unemployed...but I'll be making a new claim and will then only be short-term unemployed again.

  • Humorous Church Bulletins

    Bertha Belch, a missionary from Africa will be speaking tonight at Calvary Memorial Church in Racine. Come tonight and hear Bertha Belch all the way from Africa.
    Our youth basketball team is back in action Wednesday at 8 PM in the recreation hall. Come out and watch us kill Christ the King.
    The senior choir invites any member of the congregation who enjoys sinning to join the choir.
    This afternoon there will be a meeting in the south and north ends of the church. Children will be baptized at both ends.
    Tuesday at 4:00 p.m. there will be an Ice Cream Social. All ladies giving milk please come early.
    Wednesday, the Ladies Literary Society will meet. Mrs. Johnson will sing "Put Me in My Little Bed" accompanied by the Pastor.
    This being Easter Sunday, we will ask Mrs. Johnson to come forward and lay an egg on the Altar.
    The service will close with "Little Drops of Water". One of the ladies will start quietly and the rest of the congregation will join in.
    On Sunday, a special collection will be taken to defray the cost of the new carpet. All those wishing to do something on the carpet, please come forward and get a piece of paper.
    The ladies of the church have cast off clothing of every kind and they may be seen in the church basement on Friday.
    Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on Oct. 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in school days.
    This week's saints include a French woman (Teresa, the Little Flower), a Swedish woman (Bridget), an Italian man (Francis of Assisi), a German man (Bruno), a Jewess from the Holy Land (Mary, God's Mother). They include single people and married people. Bridget was a wife and mother. Mary was a virgin and virgin mother. If they could do it, so can we.
    For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.
    The Rev. Merriwether spoke briefly, much to the delight of the audience.
    The pastor will preach his farewell message, after which the choir will sing, "Break Forth Into Joy."
    The choir will meet at the Larsen house for fun and sinning.
    Thursday at 5 p.m. there will be a meeting of the Little Mothers Club. All wishing to become little mothers will please meet with the minister in the study.
    During the absence of our pastor, we enjoyed the rare privilege of hearing a good sermon when J.F. Stubbs supplied our pulpit.
    Next Sunday Mrs. Vinson will be soloist for the morning service. The pastor will then speak on "It's a Terrible Experience."
    Due to the Rector's illness, Wednesday's healing services will be discontinued until further notice.
    Offertory: "Jesus Paid It All"
    Today - Christian Youth Fellowship House Sexuality Course, 1 p.m.-8 p.m. Please park in the rear parking lot for this activity.
    The music for today's service was all composed by George Friedrich Handel in celebration of the 300th anniversary of his birth.
    Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our church and community.
    The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the church basement on Friday at 7 p.m. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.
    The concert held in Fellowship Hall was a great success. Special thanks are due to the minister's daughter, who labored the whole evening at the piano, which as usual fell upon her.
    22 members were present at the church meeting held at the home of Mrs. Marsha Crutchfield last evening. Mrs. Crutchfield and Mrs. Rankin sang a duet, "The Lord Knows Why."
    Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say, "hell" to someone who doesn't care much about you.
    A songfest was hell at the Methodist church Wednesday.
    Today's Sermon: HOW MUCH CAN A MAN DRINK? with hymns from a full choir.
    Hymn 43: "Great God, what do I see here?"
    Preacher: The Rev. Horace Blodgett
    Hymn 47: "Hark! an awful voice is sounding"
    On a church bulletin during the minister's illness: "GOD IS GOOD. Dr. Hargreaves is better."
    Potluck supper: prayer and medication to follow.
    Don't let worry kill you off - let the church help.

  • Genuine Courtroom Exchanges

    Recently reported in the Massachusetts Bar Association Lawyers Journal, the following are questions actually asked of witnesses by attorneys during trials and, in certain cases, the responses given by insightful witnesses:

    Q: Now doctor, isn't it true that when a person dies in his sleep, he doesn't know about it until the next morning?
    Q: The youngest son, the twenty-year old, how old is he?
    Q: Were you present when your picture was taken?
    Q: Was it you or your younger brother who was killed in the war?
    Q: Did he kill you?
    Q: How far apart were the vehicles at the time of the collision?
    Q: You were there until the time you left, is that true?
    Q: How many times have you committed suicide?

    Q: So the date of conception (of the baby) was August 8th?
    A: Yes.
    Q: And what were you doing at that time?

    Q: She had three children, right?
    A: Yes.
    Q: How many were boys?
    A: None.
    Q: Were there any girls?

    Q: You say the stairs went down to the basement?
    A: Yes.
    Q: And these stairs, did they go up also?

    Q: Mr. Slatery, you went on a rather elaborate honeymoon, didn't you?
    A: I went to Europe, Sir.
    Q: And you took your new wife?

    Q: How was your first marriage terminated?
    A: By death.
    Q: And by whose death was it terminated?

    Q: Can you describe the individual?
    A: He was about medium height and had a beard.
    Q: Was this a male, or a female?

    Q: Is your appearance here this morning pursuant to a deposition notice which I sent to your attorney?
    A: No, this is how I dress when I go to work.

    Q: Doctor, how many autopsies have you performed on dead people?
    A: All my autopsies are performed on dead people.
    Q: Do you recall the time that you examined the body?
    A: The autopsy started around 8:30 p.m.
    Q: And Mr. Dennington was dead at the time?
    A: No, he was sitting on the table wondering why I was doing an autopsy.v
    Q: Are you qualified to give a urine sample?

    Q: Doctor, before you performed the autopsy, did you check for a pulse?
    A: No.
    Q: Did you check for blood pressure?
    A: No.
    Q: Did you check for breathing?
    A: No.
    Q: So, then it is possible that the patient was alive when you began the autopsy?
    A: No.
    Q: How can you be so sure, Doctor?
    A: Because his brain was sitting on my desk in a jar.
    Q: But could the patient have still been alive nevertheless?
    A: It is possible that he could have been alive and practicing law somewhere.

  • Twenty Five More Questions To Ponder

    1. Why does your gynaecologist leave the room when you get undressed?

    2. If a person owns a piece of land do they own it all the way down to the core of the earth

    3. Why can't women put on mascara with their mouth closed?

    4. Is it possible to brush your teeth without wiggling your backside

    5. Why is it called Alcoholics Anonymous when the first thing you do is stand up and say, 'My name is Bob, and I am an alcoholic'?

    6. Why is there a light in the fridge and not in the freezer?

    7. Why does mineral water that 'has trickled through mountains for centuries' have a 'use by' date?

    8. Why do toasters always have a setting that burns the toast to a horrible crisp no one would eat?

    9. Is French kissing in France just called kissing?

    10. Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, 'I think I'll squeeze these dangly things here and drink whatever comes out'?

    11. What do people in China call their good plates?

    12. Why do people point to their wrist when asking for the time, but don't point to their crotch when they ask where the bathroom?

    13. Why is a person that handles your money called a 'Broker'?

    14. If quizzes are quizzical, what are tests?

    15. Why is it that when someone tells you that there are over billion stars in the universe, you believe them, but if they tell you there is wet paint somewhere, you have to touch it to make sure?

    16. Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you but when you take him on a car ride, he sticks his head out of the window?

    17. Are Brazil Nuts just called Nuts in Brazil?

    18. How come on TV Programs they say, there are 19,112 of this species remaining - who counts them ?

    19. Why do people look into tissues after they blow their nose ? ... What are they expecting to see??

    20. Where most people will say "Oh My God!" - what do atheists say ?

    21. Is there another word for synonym? ... or thesaurus for that matter ?

    22. How is it possible to have a civil war?

    23. If you ate pasta and antipasta, would you still be hungry?

    24. For people who have difficulty reading - why is dyslexia such a complex word.

    25. If one synchronized swimmer drowns, do the rest drown too?

  • Funniest T-Shirt Slogans Of 1999

    My personal favourites.

    I fought the lawn, and the lawn won.

    If they don't have chocolate in Heaven, I ain't going.

    At my age, I've seen it all, done it all...I just can't remember it all.

    My mother is a travel agent for Guilt Trips

    Veni, Vedi, Visa: I came, I saw, I did a little shopping.

    If you want breakfast in bed, sleep in the kitchen.

    Love may be blind, but marriage is a real eye-opener.

    The trouble with the gene pool is that there's no lifeguard.

  • Some more funny signs.

    Please don't throw your cigarette ends on the floor, the cockroaches are getting cancer.

    Mr. Toskana has had an expensive divorce and now needs the money, so SALE NOW ON!!

    Our aim is to keep this bathroom clean. Gentlemen: Your aim will help. Stand closer, it's shorter than you think. Ladies: Please remain seated for the entire performance.

    Please be safe. Do not stand, sit, climb or lean on zoo fences. If you fall, animals could eat you and that might make them sick. Thank you.

    Caution: This machine has no brain. Use your own.

  • Genuine reasons for selling a car.

    As appearing in private ads in newspapers.

    Car must go, wife forgot to take pill.

    Need new car. Baby due in May.

    Broke thanks to ex. Need cash quick for solicitor.

    Under doctor's orders, told to sell the car and get on bicycle for longer life.

  • Strange search strings

    Posted on a website which claims these searches actually found their homepage...I don't know the details though.

    Role of the Die

    cartoonist humour kidneys

    cartoon role play to get horny off to

    Ewan Baird is hot!

    how long do horny toads lives

    i got questions about pencils

    Jim North -tonight you die

    Mature goodies

    Plural form of Poobah

    role of the die keenspace -I -Love -You -Jimmy -Signed -Mcdoofi

    role of the die keenspace -iwantjimmiesbabies

    santa sits on elf comic strip

    speech about myself

    telemarketer comic strips

    webcomic checkerboard wang

    webcomics that are actually good

  • Carillon Magazine

    Two of my poems have been published in the latest edition:

    JIGSAW

    Daffodils
    Outside a country phone box.

    No reply;
    I pick a bloom
    And hold it to my ear.

    SKY FILLED

    Light white
    Whipped reeds
    Torn blossoms
    A frailty so common.

    Walked by Hoober Hill
    Faces in the spaces
    Between all and each
    Perception missing.

  • Test Match Special

    I enjoy listening to the cricket commentary whilst I'm doing other things on the computer. It's very informative, entertaining and quite funny at times. All of the commentators have their own eccentricities and favourite subjects they like to discuss; in fact, sometimes the programme is actually better when there's no play to do commentary on.

    Some of the regular topics mentioned by the team are; cakes, buses, puns, ties, public schools, literature, vicars, travel arrangements, hotels, helicopters, aircraft flying overhead, trains, showbiz gossip, afternoon tea and eccentric pets and their owners.

    It all makes for very interesting listening; I've heard that the programme has even gathered a cult following in America.

  • Famous first lines of books.

    The primroses were over. - Watership Down, by Richard Adams

    It was a pleasure to burn. - Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury

    Last night I dreamt I went to Mandalay again. - Rebecca, by Daphne du Maurier

    As Gregor Samsa awoke one morning from uneasy dreams he found himself transformed in his bed into a giant insect. - Metamorphosis, by Franz Kafka

    To begin at the beginning: It is spring, moonless night in the small town, starless and bible-black. - Under Milk Wood, by Dylan Thomas

    I have to admit that I've only read the last two.

  • Some Funny Song Titles

    There's a Place in Hell for me and My Friends (Morrisey)

    You Just Haven't Earned It Yet, Baby (The Smiths)

    Shoplifters of the World Unite (The Smiths)

    Bet She's Not Your Girlfriend (The Pet Shop Boys)

    We the Cats Shall Hep Ya (Cab Calloway)

    Nothing's Gonna Change My Clothes (They Might Be Giants)

    Youth Culture Killed My Dog (They Might Be Giants)

    I Love You But You're Boring (The Beautiful South)

    I Hate You But You're Interesting (The Beautiful South)

    Happy Death Theme (The Young Fresh Fellows)

    I Got My Mojo Working And I Thought You'd Like To Know (The Young Fresh Fellows)

    I Kicked A Boy (The Sundays)

    The Shoes of the Fisherman's Wife are some Jive-Ass Slippers (Charles Mingus)

    All The Things You Could Be By Now If Sigmund Freud's Wife Was Your Mother (Charles Mingus)

    Kicker Of Elves (Guided By Voices)

    Satan Gave Me A Taco (Beck)

    Come and Smash Me Said The Boy With The Magic Penis (Sonic Youth)

    A Short Reprise for Mary Todd, Who Went Insane, But for Very Good Reasons (Sufjan Stevens)

    To the Workers of the Rockford River Valley Region, I have an Idea Concerning Your Predicament, and it involves shoe string, a lavender garland, and twelve strong women (Sufjan Stevens)

    They Are Night Zombies!! They Are Neighbors!! They Have Come Back From the Dead!! Ahhhhh! (Sufjan Stevens)

  • The Best of the Worst in British Shop Names

    Austin Flowers

    It's Curtains For You

    Beauty & The Beach

    Feast of Eden

    The Frying Scotsman

    Junk & Disorderly

    Paws For Thought

    Pizza The Action

    Sofa So Good

    Spex Appeal

    Suite Sensation

    Tan Tropez

    Wok This Way

    Right Hair, Right Now

    Vinyl Frontier

    Knead The Dough

  • Domain Name Mispronunciations.

    ExpertsExchange = ExpertSexChange

    WhoRepresents = WhorePresents

    TherapistFinder = TheRapistFinder

    PenIsland = PenisLand

    ChooseSpain = ChoosesPain

    MoleStationNursery = MolestationNursery

    PowerGenItalia = PowerGenitalia

  • Problems with foreign product names - Marketing flops.

    1. Coors Beer put its slogan, "Turn it loose," into Spanish, where it was read as "Suffer from diarrohea."

    2. Scandinavian vacuum manufacturer Electrolux used the following in an American campaign: "Nothing sucks like an Electrolux."

    3. Clairol introduced the "Mist Stick", a curling iron, into German only to find out that "mist" is slang for manure. Not too many people had use for the "manure stick."

    4. When Gerber started selling baby food in Africa, they used the same packaging as in the U.S., with the beautiful Caucasian baby on the label. Later they learned that in Africa, companies routinely put pictures on the label of what's inside, since most people can't read.

    5. Colgate introduced a toothpaste in France called Cue, the name of a notorious porno magazine.

    6. An American T-shirt maker in Miami printed shirts for the Spanish market which promoted the Pope's visit. Instead of "I saw the Pope" (el Papa), the shirts read "I saw the potato" (la papa).

    7. Pepsi's "Come alive with the Pepsi Generation" translated into "Pepsi brings your ancestors back from the grave", in Chinese.

    8. Frank Perdue's chicken slogan, "it takes a strong man to make a tender chicken" was translated into Spanish as "it takes an aroused man to make a chicken affectionate."

    9. The Coca-Cola name in China was first read as "Ke-kou-ke-la", meaning "Bite the wax tadpole" or "female horse stuffed with wax", depending on the dialect. Coke then researched 40,000 characters to find a phonetic equivalent "ko-kou-ko-le", translating into "happiness in the mouth."

    10. When Parker Pen marketed a ball-point pen in Mexico, its ads were supposed to have read, "it won't leak in your pocket and embarrass you". Instead, the company thought that the word "embarazar" (to impregnate) meant to embarrass, so the ad read: "It won't leak in your pocket and make you pregnant."

    11. Also in Chinese, the Kentucky Fried Chicken slogan "finger-lickin' good" came out as "eat your fingers off."

    12.When General Motors introduced the Chevy Nova in South America, it was apparently unaware that "no va" means "it won't go." After the company figured out why it wasn't selling any cars, it renamed the car in its Spanish markets to the Caribe.

    13. Ford had a similar problem in Brazil when the Pinto flopped. The company found out that Pinto was Brazilian slang for "tiny male genitals". Ford pried all the nameplates off and substituted Corcel, which means horse.

    14. Japan's second-largest tourist agency was mystified when it entered English-speaking markets and began receiving requests for unusual sex tours. Upon finding out why, the owners of Kinki Nippon Tourist Company changed its name.

    15. Hunt-Wesson introduced its Big John products in French Canada as Gros Jos before finding out that the phrase, in slang, means "big breasts." In this case, however, the name problem did not have a noticeable effect on sales.

    16. In an effort to boost orange juice sales in predominantly continental breakfast eating England, a campaign was devised to extoll the drink's eye-opening, pick-me-up qualities. Hence, the slogan, "Orange juice. It gets your pecker up."

  • Stupid Celebrity Quotes

    Question: If you could live forever, would you and why?
    Answer: "I would not live forever, because we should not live forever, because if we were supposed to live forever, then we would live forever, but we cannot live forever, which is why I would not live forever." - Miss Alabama in the 1994 Miss USA contest.

    "Whenever I watch TV and see those poor starving kids all over the world, I can't help but cry. I mean I'd love to be skinny like that, but not with all those flies and death and stuff." - Mariah Carey

    "Smoking kills. If you're killed, you've lost a very important part of your life." - Brooke Shields, during an interview to become spokesperson for a federal anti-smoking campaign.

    "I've never had major knee surgery on any other part of my body." - Winston Bennett, University of Kentucky basketball forward.

    "Outside of the killings, Washington has one of the lowest crime rates in the country." - Mayor Marion Barry, Washington, DC.

    "We're going to turn this team around 360 degrees." - Jason Kidd, upon his drafting to the Dallas Mavericks.

    "That scoundrel deserves to be kicked to death by a jackass, and I'm just the one to do it." - A congressional candidate in Texas.

    "Half this game is ninety per cent mental." - Danny Ozark, Philadelphia Phillies manager

    "It isn't pollution that's harming the environment. It's the impurities in our air and water that are doing it." - Al Gore, former Vice President

    "I love California. I practically grew up in Phoenix [Arizona]." - Dan Quayle, former Vice President

  • Something for nothing.

    I've just completed the first week of my latest employment training scheme. The syllabus is pretty much identical to all the other ones I've been on for the last twenty years, but at least I'll be getting something out of this one. Because my clothes for attending an interview in are deemed not to be up to standard I'm entitled to a free shirt, trousers and a pair of shoes.

  • Who lives on the Moon?

    Japan & Korea - rabbits making rice cakes.

    Indonesia - a woman knitting.

    China - rabbits and a heavenly maiden.

    Mongolia - a dog.

    Austria - a man switches the light on and off.

  • More geographical trivia

    There is a city called Rome on every continent (excluding Antarctica.)

    Maine is the toothpick capital of the world.

    Panama hats actually come from Ecuador, not Panama.

    The southern tip of Canada is nearer to the equator than it is to the North Pole.

    Alaska is both the furthest west, and the furthest east point of the United States.

  • Letter from a desperate customer.

    Dear Software Solutions:

    Last year I upgraded from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0 and noticed that the new program began making unexpected changes to the accounting modules, limiting access to flower and jewelry applications that had operated flawlessly under Boyfriend 5.0

    In addition, Husband 1.0 deleted many other valuable programs such as Romance 9.9 and installed undesirable programs such as NFL 5.0 and NBA 3.0 Conversation 8.0 no longer runs and House Cleaning 2.6 simply crashes the
    system.

    I've tried running Nagging 5.3 to fix these problems, but to no avail.

    Signed Desperate

  • Job Descriptions

    An accountant is someone who knows the cost of everything and the value of nothing.

    An auditor is someone who arrives after the battle and bayonets all the wounded.

    A banker is a fellow who lends you his umbrella when the sun is shining and wants it back the minute it begins to rain. (Mark Twain)

    An economist is an expert who will know tomorrow why the things he predicted yesterday didn't happen today.

    A statistician is someone who is good with numbers, but lacks the personality to be an accountant.

    An actuary is someone who brings a fake bomb on a plane because that decreases the chances that there will be another bomb on the plane.

    A programmer is someone who solves a problem you didn't know you had in a way you don't understand.

    A mathematician is a blind man in a dark room looking for a black cat which isn't there. (Charles Darwin)

    A lawyer is a person who writes a 10,000 word document and calls it a 'brief'.

  • Mottos of some famous organisations.

    Arsenal F.C. - Victory Comes From Harmony

    B.B.C. - Nation Shall Speak Peace Unto Nation

    Boy Scouts - Be Prepared

    Harrods - All Things, For All People, Everywhere

    Olympic Games - Faster, Higher, Stronger

    Salvation Army - Blood & Fire

  • Funny exam answers given by children

    When you breath, you inspire. When you don't breath, you expire.
    The pistol of a flower is its only protection against insects.
    A fossil is an extinct animal. The older it is, the more extinct it is.
    When you smell an odorless gas, it is probably carbon monoxide.
    For head colds, use an agonizer to spray the nose until it drops into your throat.
    The moon is a planet just like Earth, only deader.
    Artificial insemination is what the farmer does to the cow instead of the bull.
    Dew is formed on leaves when sun shines down on them and makes them perspire.
    To collect fumes of sulfur, hold a deacon over a flame in a test tube.
    Equator: A managerie lion running around Earth through Africa.
    To remove dust from your eye, pull the eye down over the nose.
    Momentum. What you give a person when they are going away.
    Nitrogen is not found in Ireland, because it is not found in a free state.
    Three kids of blood vessels are arteries, vanes, and caterpillars.
    Water is composed of two gins, Oxygin & Hydrogin. Oxygin is pure gin. Hydrogin is gin and water.
    A super saturated solution is one that holds more than it can hold.
    Mushrooms always grow in damp places and so they look like umbrellas.
    The body consists of three parts--the branium, the borax, and the abominable cavity. The branium contains the brain, the borax contains the heart and lungs, and the borax
    contains the bowls, of which there are five--a, e, i, o, and u.
    The alimentary canal is located in the northern part of Indiana.
    The skeleton is what is left after the insides have been taken out and the outsides have been taken off. The purpose of the skeleton is something to hitch meat to.
    For fainting: Rub the person's chest or, if a lady, rub her arm above the hand instead. Or put the head between the knees of the nearest medical doctor.
    Germinate: To become a naturalized German.
    Before giving a transfusion, find out if the blood is negative or affirmative.
    Liter: A nest of young puppies.
    Centimeter: A long insect with 100 legs.
    Magnet: Something you can find crawling over a dead cat.
    Rhubarb: A kind of celery gone bloodshot.
    Vacuum: A large, empty space where the pope lives.
    Respiration is composed of inspiration and then expectoration.
    For a nosebleed: Put the nose lower than the body until the heart stops.

  • The names of British food.

    I found this list on an American site; they seemed to be having some fun with it.

    Aberdeen Nips
    Beef Cecils
    Black Pudding
    Bubble and Squeak
    Clapshot
    Cullen Skink
    Dean's Cream
    Fitless Cock
    Flummery
    Girdle Sponges
    Hob Nobs
    Huffkins
    Hunter's Buns
    Love in Disguise
    Inky Pinky
    Knickerbocker Glory
    Marmite
    Priddy Oggies
    Scouse
    Singing Hinnies
    Slot
    Spotted Dick
    Toad-in-the-hole
    Wet Nelly
    Wow-Wow Sauce

  • Bart Simpson

    At the start of The Simpsons, Bart Simpson writes something on the blackboard. Below you can find a list of the Top 30 Things that Bart Simpson writes on the blackboard during detention.

    The Pledge of Allegiance does not end with 'Hail Satan.'
    I will not barf unless I'm sick.
    Funny noises are not funny.
    I will not conduct my own fire drills.
    I will not fake seizures.
    This punishment is not boring and pointless.
    I will not prescribe medication.
    I will not yell ' She's Dead ' at roll call.
    Teacher is not a leper.
    I will not teach others to fly.
    A burp is not an answer.
    I am not authorized to fire substitute teachers.
    High explosives and school don't mix.
    I will not grease the monkey bars.
    Organ transplants are best left to professionals.
    My homework was not stolen by a one-armed man.
    'Bart Bucks' are not legal tender.
    The Christmas Pageant does not stink.
    I am not a dentist.
    I did not see Elvis.
    I will not aim for the head.
    I saw nothing unusual in the teacher's lounge.
    I will not bury the new kid.
    I will not bring sheep to class.
    I will not eat things for money.
    I will not waste chalk.
    I will not call my teacher ' Hot Cakes.'
    I will not belch the National Anthem.
    They are laughing at me, not with me.
    I will finish what I sta

  • Strange email.

    Overnight I've received a strange email. These are the exact contents of the message.

    the buttons for him...
    "Then,Fletch," that bright creature said to him, and the voice was pylon; it hovered for a second over the road-- or did I just imagine there who might be struggling to break out of his limbs to see the

    It seems to be a tiny fragment of a novel. The email itself wasn't even addressed to me; the name of someone called Catherine appeared in the address bar.

  • Actual answers given during driving tests.

    The following are a sampling of real answers received on exams given by the California Department of Transportation's driving school.

    Q: Do you yield when a blind pedestrian is crossing the road?
    A: What for? He can't see my license plate.

    Q: Who has the right of way when four cars approach a four-way stop at the same time?
    A: The pick up truck with the gun rack and the bumper sticker saying, "Guns don't kill people. I do."

    Q: What are the important safety tips to remember when in your car ?
    A: Always wear a condom.

    Q: When driving through fog, what should you use?
    A: Your car.

    Q: How can you reduce the possibility of having an accident?
    A: Be too drunk to find your keys.

    Q: What changes would occur in your lifestyle if you could no longer drive lawfully?
    A: I would be forced to drive unlawfully.

    Q: What are some points to remember when passing or being passed?
    A: Make eye contact and wave "hello" if he/she is cute.

    Q: What is the difference between a flashing red traffic light and a flashing yellow traffic light?
    A: The color.

    Q: What can you do to help ease a heavy traffic problem?
    A: Carry loaded weapons.

  • Microsoft to no longer support Windows 98/98SE

    I think they're being a bit premature; I'm still using Windows 98SE and I've just looked, and so are over thirty percent of my blog visitors.

    On reading the report, things don't quite seem to be so bad. It points out that most current viruses won't even run/install on Windows 98; it seems that hackers tend to concentrate on attacking the corporate sector, and relatively few companies and organisations are now using a nine year old operating system.

  • Messages on answering machines or voice mail services.

    We might be in, we might be out, but leave a message and you might find out!

    Sorry we're not here to lend an ear, so leave a word and you'll be heard.

    Hi. John's answering machine is broken. This is his refrigerator. Please speak very slowly, and I'll stick your message to myself with one of these magnets.

    Hi. I'm probably at home, I'm just avoiding someone I don't like. Leave me a message, and if I don't call back, it's you.

    Ask not for whom the bell tolls.

  • Important Yorkshire Sites

    This is my own personal list.

    York - The Minster, St. Mary's Abbey, The City Walls

    Ilkley Moor

    Marston Moor and Towton battlefield sites

    Flamborough Head - Naval Battle

    Whitby - home port of Captain Cook

    Yorkshire Dales, Pennines and North York Moors

    Yorkshire Sculpture Park

    Haworth - Brontes

    Humber Bridge

    Spurn Point

    Marston Moor and Spurn Point are the only two I haven't visited.

  • More strange and unusual signs and notices from America.

    On a ski lift in Taos, NM:
    'No jumping from the lift. Survivors will be prosecuted.'

    *******

    Official sign near door: Door Alarmed.
    Handprinted sign nearby: Window frightened.

    *******

    Guys: No shirt, No service
    Girls: No shirt, No charge

    *******

    Road sign seen on the island of Cyprus
    (translation of the Greek):
    'Caution: Road Slippery from Grapejuice'

    *******

    A sign advertising a Company-wide skiing race
    'Let's see who can go downhill the fastest'

    *******

    Sign in King's Canyon in California.
    'Slow Parking Ahead'

    *******

    Two signs found on top of one another in a country
    kitchen several years ago:

    restrooms

    Please wait for hostess to seat you.

    *******

    Sign in front of church in Montpelier, VT:
    Bingo Friday night at 8:00pm
    Quickies Thursday at 7:30pm.

    *******

    Seen in a health food store_
    " Shoplifters will be beaten over the head with an organic carrot "

    *******

    "Children left unattended will be towed at parents' expense."

    *******

    At a little hole in the wall restaurant:
    the sign read: Women are not served here...
    You have to bring your own.

  • Anagrams of some Yorkshire towns and cities.

    Doncaster - not scared

    Huddersfield - derided flush; he rifled duds

    Pontefract - tent of crap

    Tadcaster - castrated

    Harrogate - hear argot

    Scarborough - so rough crag: grub or chaos

    Bridlington - blinding rot; blind gin rot

  • Some suggestions for politically correct (PC) terms from America.

    A Criminal - unsavory character
    A Crook - morally (ethically) challenged
    Abortion - Near-Life Experience
    Alcoholic - Anti-Sobriety Activist
    Alive - temporarily metabolically abled.
    An Immigrant - a newcomer
    Assassination - involuntary term limitation
    Bald - comb-free
    Bald - folically independent
    Bald - follicularly challenged.
    Battle Fatigued - shellshocked
    Blind - optically darker
    Blind - photonically non-receptive
    Blind - visually challenged
    Body Odor - nondiscretionary fragrance.
    Broken Down Automobile - mechanically challenged
    Broken Home - Dysfunctional Family
    Bum - Displaced Homeowner
    Bum - Homeless Person
    Bum - Involuntarily Domiciled
    Cannibalism - Intra-Species Dining
    Censorship - Selective Speech
    Cheating - Academic Dishonesty
    China - Porcelain
    Chronically Late - Temporarily Challenged
    Clumsy - uniquely coordinated
    Commercial Fisherman - Flipper Whipper
    Computer Illiterate - Technologically Challenged
    Corpse - Permanently Static Post-Human Mass
    Corpse / Stiff - Metabolically Challenged
    Corpse / Stiff - Terminally Inconvenienced
    Cowardly - Challenge Challenged
    Cowboys - bovine control officers
    Crackpot - certified astrological consultant, certified crystal therapist, or certified past-life regression hypnotist
    Crime Rate - street activity index
    Dead - Actuarially Mature
    Dead - biologically challenged
    Dead - environmentally correct human
    Dead - living impaired
    Dead - metabolically challenged
    Dead - persons living with entropy
    Deaf - Visually Oriented
    Delicatessen - Corpse Farm
    Dirty Old Man - sexually focused chronologically gifted individual
    Dish Washer - utensil sanitizer
    Dishonest - Ethically disoriented.
    Dorm - Residence Hall
    Drooling Drunk Idiot - person on floor
    Drowning - aquatically challenged
    Drug Addict - Chemically Challenged
    Drunk - spacially perplexed
    Drunk / Junkie - in recovery
    Earthquake - geological correction
    Fail - achieve a deficiency.
    Fat - Differently Weighted
    Fat - gravitationally challenged
    Fat - horizontally challenged.
    Fat - horizontally gifted
    Fat - People of Mass
    Fat - person of substance
    Fictional / Mythological - ontologically challenged
    Freshman - first-year student
    Frog - amphibian American
    Full of Crap - fecally plenary
    Gang - Youth Group
    Garbage Man - sanitation engineer
    Gas Station Attendent - petroleum transfer technician
    Geek, Nerd, whatever... - socially challenged
    Ghetto / Barrio - Ethnically Homogenous Area
    Hamburger - Seared Mutilated Animal Flesh
    Handicapped - Differently Abled, Handi-Capable
    Having PMS - cyclically challenged
    Hearing Person - temporarily aurally abled
    Homeless - outdoor urban dwellers
    Homeless - residentially flexible
    Homelessness - Mortgage-Free Living
    Housebroken - Family Disfunction
    Housewife - domestic engineer
    Hunter - Animal Assassin
    Hunter - Bambi Butcher
    Hunter - Meat Mercenary
    Ignorant - factually unencumbered
    Ignorant - knowledge-based nonpossessor.
    Incompetent - Differently Qualified
    Incompetent - Specially Skilled
    Incompetent - Uniquely Proficient
    Insane People - Mental Explorers
    Insane People - Selectively Perceptive
    Insult - Emotional Rape
    Janitor - sanitation engineer
    Klutz - kinesthetically challenged
    Large Nose - nasally gifted
    Lazy - motivationally dispossessed
    Lazy - motivationally deficient.
    Learning Disability - Self-Paced Cognitive Ability
    Library - Educational Resource Center
    Logger - Wood Weasel
    Logger - Paper Pirate
    Logger -Treeslayer
    Loser - Second Place
    Loser - uniquely fortuned individual on an alternative career path
    Man-hole - maintenance hole
    Mankind - humankind
    MANkind, HuMAN, PerSON - Earth Children
    Mercy Killing - Euthanasia
    Mercy Killing - Putting Down/To Sleep/Out of Misery
    Messy - differently organized
    Meter Maid - Parking enforcer
    Midget / Dwarf - Little People
    Midget / Dwarf - Vertically Challenged
    Mute/Dumb - verbally challenged
    Not with somebody at the moment - romantically challenged -
    Off - energy-efficient
    Old - chronologically gifted
    Old Person / Elderly - Gerontologically Advanced
    Old Person / Elderly - Senior Citizens
    Panhandler - Unaffiliated applicant for private-sector funding.
    Paper Bag - processed tree carcass
    Perverted - Sexually dysfunctional.
    Pimp-mobile / Low-rider - Culturally Responsive Transportation Option
    Plagiarism - Previously Owned Prose
    Po' - financially inept
    Policeman, Policewoman - law inforcement officer
    Poor - economically marginalized
    Poor - Economically Unprepared
    Poor - monetarily challenged
    Postman - letter carrier
    Pregnant - parasitically oppressed.
    Prisoner - client of the correctional system
    Prostitute - sex care provider
    Psychobabble - constructivist feminist psychotherapy
    Psychopath - socially misaligned
    Racist - genetically discriminating
    Really Big Nosed - nasally disadvantaged
    Redneck - person of region
    Redneck - rustically inclined
    Refugees - asylum seekers
    Road Kill - Vehicularly Compressed Maladapted Life Form
    Rudeness - Tact Avoidance
    Runny Nose - nasally gifted
    Senile Bag o' Bones - Alzheimer's Victim
    Serial-Killer - Person with difficult-to-meet needs.
    Shoplifter - Cost-of-Living Adjustment Specialist
    Short - vertically challenged
    Sighted Person - temporarily visually abled
    Slum - Economic Oppression Zone
    Slut - suffering from a sex addiction (female)
    Someone who has no other reason to park in a handicapped zone - morally handicapped
    Spendthrift - negative saver.
    Stained - creatively re-dyed
    Steward, Stewardess - flight attendant
    Stoned - Chemically inconvenienced.
    Stud - suffering from a sex addiction (male)
    Stupid - differently-brained
    Stupid - intellectually impaired
    The Elderly - Senior citizens
    Thin - horizontally challenged
    Thirsty - osmotically challenged
    Tone Deaf - musically delayed
    Too old/young - other aged
    Too Tall - people of height
    Tree-Hugger - environmental activist
    Trees - Oxygen Exchange Units
    Ugly - aesthetically challenged
    Ugly - Cosmetically different.
    Ugly - facially challenged
    Unemployed - Involuntarily leisured.
    Used Books - Recycled Books
    Vagrant - Nonspecifically destinationed individual.
    Vegetable - noble unconscious hero
    Vice President - Post-Coronary Leader of the Free World
    Vocal Minority - target equity group
    Vomiting - Unplanned Re-examination of Recent Food Choices
    Waiter, Waitress - food server
    Warmonger - Peacekeeper, patriot
    Welfare Bum - economically disadvantaged
    Whaler - Blubber Lover
    White - melanin-impoverished
    White American - racially challenged
    White Boy - rhythmically challenged
    White Trash - Caucasian culturally-disadvantaged
    Wife - unpaid sex slave
    Worst - least best.
    Wrong - differently logical.

  • Some profound questions.

    1. Why does the sun lighten our hair but darken our skin?

    2. Why doesn't glue stick to the inside of the bottle?

    3. Why don't you ever see the headline "Psychic Wins Lottery"?

    4. Why is "abbreviated" such a long word?

    5. Why is a boxing ring square?

    6. Why is it called lipstick if you can still move your lips?

    7. Why is it considered necessary to nail down the lid of a coffin?

    8. Why is it that doctors call what they do "practice"?

    9. Why is it that rain drops but snow falls?

    10. Why is it that to stop Windows 98, you have to click on "Start"?

    11. Why is it that when you're driving and looking for an address, you turn down the
    volume on the radio?

    12. Why is lemon juice made with artificial flavor and dishwashing liquid made with real
    lemons?

    13. Why is the man who invests all your money called a broker?

    14. Why is the third hand on the watch called a second hand?

    15. Why is the time of day with the slowest traffic called rush hour?

    16. Why is the word dictionary in the dictionary?

    17. Why isn't there a special name for the tops of your feet?

    18. Why isn't there mouse-flavored cat food?

    19. You know that little indestructible black box that is used on planes? Why can't
    they make the whole plane out of the same substance?

    20. Can fat people go skinny-dipping?

    21. Why do you need a driver's license to buy liquor when you can't drink and drive?

  • Closest Matches To My Blog

    I've registered my blog with several blog listing or ranking sites and one of them provides a list of blogs which are the closest matches to my blog, acording to keywords and tags.

    Here are some of the more interesting titles from the list.

    Broke in Berlin.

    Chase Me Ladies, I'm The Cavalry

    Depressed Cow.

    A Ton Of Bricks

    Emerald Bile

    Trouser Quandary Resolutions

    Balls & Walnuts

  • Popular Neologisms.

    Selected from the 'Wordspy' webpage:

    bridezilla

    metrosexual

    fauxhawk

    time porn

    gaydar

    pomosexual

    himbo

    retrosexual

    ringxiety

    godcasting

    sightjogging

    ubersexual

    crackberry

    hasbian

    freemium

    technosexual

    pro-ana

    earworm

    bluejacking

    toxic bachelor

    pescetarian

    zipperhead

    brain fart

    hedgehog concept

    manscaping

    drunk dial

    masstige

    Googlejuice

    atomic sit-ups

    kidult

  • Some English Language Oddities.

    Why English is so hard to learn...

    The bandage was wound around the wound.
    The farm was used to produce produce.
    The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.
    We must polish the Polish furniture.
    He could lead if he would get the lead out.
    The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.
    Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.
    I did not object to the object.
    There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row.
    They were too close to the door to close it.
    Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.
    How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?
    I shed my clothes in the shed.

  • These are just not right.

    1. January 2000: Kathleen Robertson of Austin Texas was awarded $780,000.00 by a jury of her peers after breaking her ankle tripping over a toddler who was running amuck inside a furniture store. The owners of the store were understandably surprised at the verdict, considering the misbehaving tyke was Ms. Robertson's son.

    2. June 1998: A 19 year old Carl Truman of Los Angeles won $74,000.00 and medical expenses when his neighbor ran his hand over with a Honda Accord. Mr. Truman apparently didn't notice someone was at the wheel of the car whose hubcap he was trying to steal.

    3. October 1998: A Terrence Dickson of Bristol Pennsylvania was exiting a house he finished robbing by way of the garage. He was not able to get the garage door to go up, because the automatic door opener was malfunctioning. He couldn't re-enter the house because the door connecting the house and garage locked when he pulled it shut. The family was on vacation, so Mr. Dickson found himself locked in the garage for eight days. He subsisted on a case of Pepsi he found, and a large bag of dry dog food. This upset Mr. Dickson, so he sued the homeowner's insurance claiming the situation caused him undue mental anguish. The jury agreed to the tune of half a million dollars and change.

    4. October 1999: Jerry Williams of Little Rock Arkansas was awarded $14,500.00 and medical expenses after being bitten on the buttocks by his next door neighbor's beagle. The beagle was on a chain in its owner's fenced-in yard, as was Mr. Williams. The award was less than sought after because the jury felt the dog may have been provoked by Mr. Williams who, at the time, was shooting it repeatedly with a pellet gun.

    5. May 2000: A Philadelphia restaurant was ordered to pay Amber Carson of Lancaster, Pennsylvania $113,500.00 after she slipped on a spilled soft drink and broke her coccyx. The beverage was on the floor because Ms. Carson threw it at her boyfriend 30 seconds earlier during an argument.

    6. December 1997: Kara Walton of Claymont, Delaware successfully sued the owner of a night club in a neighboring city when she fell from the bathroom window to the floor and knocked out her two front teeth. This occurred while Ms. Walton was trying to sneak through the window in the ladies room to avoid paying the $3.50 cover charge. She was awarded $12,000.00 and dental expenses.

  • This year's walks so far.

    It had been my intention to go walking in the countryside with my brother every couple of weeks or so throughout the summer, but it looks like this might no longer be the case now since that I'm due to start my new employment training scheme on Monday.

    Anyhow, thise year's walks so far:

    1...Hickleton - Barnburgh Crags - Melton Plantation- Sprotborough.

    2...Hooton Pagnell - Hampole Wood - Hooton Pagnell - Stotfold - Hickleton.

    3...Walking along the River Don from Sprotborough to the Don Viaduct and returning along the other bank to Hexthorpe Flatts.

    4...Hickleton - Barnburgh Crags - High Melton - Denaby Ings - the confluence of the Dearne with the Don - Conisbrough.

    5...A walk along the canal from Thorne to Barnby Dun.

  • The Anagram Hall Of Fame

    Dormitory = Dirty Room

    Dictionary = Indicatory

    Schoolmaster = The classroom

    Elvis = Lives

    Listen = Silent

    Clint Eastwood = Old West Action

    Madam Curie = Radium came

    A telephone girl = Repeating "Hello"

    Western Union = No Wire Unsent

    The country side = No City Dust Here

    Evangelist = Evil's Agent

    Astronomers = Moon starers / No more stars

    A telescope = To see place

    The eyes = They see

    Waitress = A stew, Sir?

    Desperation = A Rope Ends It

    The Morse Code = Here Come Dots

    The Meaning of Life = The fine game of nil

    Slot Machines = Cash Lost in 'em

    Conversation = Voices Rant On

    Disraeli = I lead, Sir.

    Florence Nightingale = Nigel, Fetch an Iron Leg

    Butterfly = Flutter-by

    Tom Cruise = So I'm Cuter

    Animosity = Is No Amity

    Mother-in-law = Woman Hitler

    Funeral = Real Fun

    Protectionism = Nice to imports

    A Rolling Stone Gathers No Moss = Stroller on Go, Amasses Nothing

    Software = Swear Oft

    Alec Guinness = Genuine Class

    The Detectives = Detect Thieves

    Semolina = Is No Meal

    The United States of America = Attaineth its cause, freedom

    A Gentleman = Elegant Man

    Presbyterian = Best In Prayer

    A Decimal Point = I'm a Dot in Place

    Salman Rushdie = Read, Shun Islam

    Barbie doll = I'll bare bod / Babe I'd roll / Liberal bod

    Statue of Liberty = Built to Stay Free

    Eleven plus two = Twelve plus one

    Patrick Stewart = A Crap Trek Twist

    Mel Gibson = Bong Smile

    Admirer = Married

    Indomitableness = Endless ambition

    New York Times = Monkeys Write / Monkey Writes

    David Letterman = Nerd Amid Late TV

    Howard Stern = Retard Shown

    Contradiction = Accord not in it

    Debit card = Bad Credit

  • My favourite buildings/structures in Doncaster.

    I live in Doncaster and this is my personal list.

    Doncaster Racecourse

    The Mansion House

    Conisbrough Castle

    Conisbrough Viaduct

    The Don Aqueduct

    Hooton Pagnell Hall Gatehouse

    Hooton Pagnell Church Carillon

  • Excuses for not going in to work.

    I won't be in today. My fish is sick and I need to take it to the vet.
    My neighbor's daughter got a round hair brush stuck in her hair and I need to help her get it out.
    I won't be in today because I have come down with Spring Fever.
    I fell off a ladder fixing the roof on my house and I landed on my elbow.
    I won't be in today. I'm still drunk from last night.
    I'm not coming in because I need a mental day.
    Last night we had a party and I woke up with a strange man in my bed!
    My car caught on fire on the way to work so I can't make it in.
    My car ran out of gas on the way to work. I was pushing it to a gas station and I got a stomach hernia and I have to go to the doctors.
    My cat got ran over by a motorcycle and I need to take it to the vet.
    My boyfriend hit me over the head with a speaker and I'm kind of messed up.
    I was stepping down out of my trailer and I missed the step and when I landed on the ground I messed up my back.
    Had to be rushed to hospital for coffee burns on my lap; be in tomorrow!
    I can't come to work today because the city is paving my street and I can't get out!
    I won't be in today....I'm calling in dead.
    Excuse me sir, but I won't be in today. My home is flooded and I'm currently standing on my dresser in my second story bedroom. Thanks and have a nice day.
    Can't make it in. I have a chance of filling in for someone on jury duty.
    I can't come into work today because of eye trouble.... I can't see myself working today.
    If it is all the same to you, I won't be coming in to work. The voices told me to clean all the guns today.
    When I got up this morning, I took two Ex-Lax in addition to my Prozac. I can't get off the john, but I feel good about it.
    I can't come in to work today because I'll be stalking my previous boss, who fired me for not showing up for work. OK?
    Constipation has made me a walking time bomb.
    The dog ate my car keys. We're going to hitchhike to the vet.
    I am not coming in because I tried to dye my hair blonde, but it came out green!
    Yesterday I caught a bad cold while vacationing in Miami, Florida. Sorry!
    My wife's breasts are sore after her breast enlargement so I need to stay home and massage her tits.
    My husband had a vasectomy yesterday and his balls are enlarged, so I need to stay home and help him ice them.
    I'm not coming to work to day because my computer has got a virus. And my computer means more to me then this job
    I sprained my wrist cooking dinner in the microwave last night.
    I won't be in today because I can't find my clothes.
    Last night a friend I haven't seen in a long time came over and gave me a bear hug and broke one of my ribs, so I won't be in today.
    I won't be in today. I was up all week-end with this new girl I met and I didn't get any sleep....if you know what I mean!
    I lost my car keys skiing and I can't leave until I find them!
    I can not come to work today because I do not have any shoes.!!!
    I am unable to come to work today. I tried lifting our baby daughter out of her crib and twisted my back.
    I can't come in to work today, my sister tripped over the dog, fell off the porch and broke her wrist. I have to take her to the hospital.
    I'm sorry I was late, I forgot to look at my watch!!!
    On my way to work today, my tooth cracked. I'll be going to the dentist.
    I can't make it to work today, because the fan belt broke on the van, the brakes went out, and it has a flat tyre.
    I can't come into work today, because the hot water tap broke on the bathtub.
    I left the windows open in my room all night and when I woke up I had a stiff neck. I can't coming in today.
    Please excuse Henry for being late. He was stuck in the bathroom without any toilet paper.
    I can't come into work today. There is a cat sitting on the fence outside my door and he won't let me out. It looks like he will attack me if I go outside!
    I cant come to work today because my cat is lonely and stressed out and if I don't spend quality time with him, he will keep peeing on the furniture!
    I won't be in to work today. My wife said she is going to conceive today, and I want to be there when it happens.

  • Spurious Compensation Claims

    A man who tried to sue a local council after he soiled his trousers tops a list of spurious public liability claims which cost local government and insurance companies an estimated £250m each year.
    The man blamed the incident on the council's decision to close a public lavatory at the bus station and argued he was owed the cost of a new pair of trousers.

    Compiling the list, the public sector insurer Zurich Municipal said exaggerated and dubious claims were an increasing problem. They include a man who claimed to have injured his arm after slipping on steps owned by a housing association. He had jumped out of his window to avoid being caught with another woman when his girlfriend returned home unexpectedly.

    The list also features a bin man who made a claim against his council after being "startled" by a dead badger which fell out of a bag, a shoplifter who sued because she fell down stairs while running from the scene of a crime, and a motorist who claimed he did not see a traffic roundabout in daylight - despite there being a large tree in the middle.

  • It's just so pointless.

    A complete waste of my time and the taxpayers' money!

    A few days ago I wrote about my starting another employment training course at the end of the month. Well, it's been brought forward; I attended the induction session this morning.

    In the room with me there were eight other men. One was fifty five years old and was responsible for the constant care of his disabled son and whose wife would have to give up work if he were forced to continue on the course. Another man hadn't been able to hold down a job for over twenty years because of a severe sleep disorder and the young lad sitting opposite me was basically illiterate; and of course, there's myself, aged 44 and never had a job.

    At the end of the session I needed to sort out who my 'personal advisor' is and took the opportunity to explain my unique circumstances; how, in particular I need someone to have a little faith in me. The young female trainer smiled and told me that because I've been selected for the course it shows that everyone who will be working with me has faith in me. I informed her that the only reason I'm on the course is that I'd have my benefit payments stopped or reduced if I didn't attend.

    I don't think I like her patronising attitude already.

  • Recent Headlines Featuring In The Fortean Times

    Teenager builds functioning submarine out of pig trough.

    Bamboo trains of Cambodia.

    Geordie lady wakes after stroke with a Jamaican accent.

    Bionic limb based on deer antlers.

    Doctors remove 119 nails from woman's stomach.

    Operation to remove lightbulb from inmate's anus.

    Brazil's law-enforcing buffaloes.

    Shark found in desert.

  • Strange Units Of Measurement

    I'm not sure how you'd actually measure some of these concepts though.

    Happiness - The Happy
    Beauty - The Helen [Helen of Troy]
    Smell - The Hobo Power
    Seating Comfort - The Pinkwater
    Fame - The Warhol

  • Actual product instructions.

    1. On a blanket from Taiwan - NOT TO BE USED AS PROTECTION FROM A TORNADO.

    2. On a helmet mounted mirror used by US cyclists - REMEMBER, OBJECTS IN THE MIRROR ARE ACTUALLY BEHIND YOU.

    3. On a Taiwanese shampoo - USE REPEATEDLY FOR SEVERE DAMAGE.

    4. On the bottle-top of a (UK) flavored milk drink - AFTER OPENING, KEEP UPRIGHT.

    5. On a New Zealand insect spray - THIS PRODUCT NOT TESTED ON ANIMALS.

    6. In a US guide to setting up a new computer - TO AVOID CONDENSATION FORMING, ALLOW THE BOXES TO WARM UP TO ROOM TEMPERATURE BEFORE OPENING. (Sensible, but the instruction was INSIDE the box.)

    7. On a Japanese product used to relieve painful hemorrhoids - LIE DOWN ON BED AND INSERT POSCOOL SLOWLY UP TO THE PROJECTED PORTION LIKE A SWORD-GUARD INTO ANAL DUCT. WHILE INSERTING POSCOOL FOR APPROXIMATELY 5 MINUTES, KEEP QUIET.

    8. In some countries, on the bottom of Coke bottles - OPEN OTHER END.

    9. On a packet of Sunmaid raisins - WHY NOT TRY TOSSING OVER YOUR FAVOURITE BREAKFAST CEREAL?

    10. On a Sears hairdryer - DO NOT USE WHILE SLEEPING.

    11. On a bag of Fritos - YOU COULD BE A WINNER! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. DETAILS INSIDE.

    12. On a bar of Dial soap - DIRECTIONS - USE LIKE REGULAR SOAP. 

    13. On Tesco's Tiramisu dessert (printed on bottom of the box) - DO NOT TURN UPSIDE DOWN. 
    14. On Marks & Spencer Bread Pudding - PRODUCT WILL BE HOT AFTER HEATING. 

    15. On a Korean kitchen knife - WARNING: KEEP OUT OF CHILDREN. 

    16. On a string of Chinese-made Christmas lights - FOR INDOOR OR OUTDOOR USE ONLY.
    17. On a Japanese food processor - NOT TO BE USED FOR THE OTHER USE. 
    18. On Sainsbury's peanuts - WARNING - CONTAINS NUTS.

    19. On an American Airlines packet of nuts INSTRUCTIONS - OPEN PACKET, EAT NUTS.

    20. On a Swedish chainsaw - DO NOT ATTEMPT TO STOP CHAIN WITH YOUR HANDS OR GENITALS. 

    21. On a child's superman costume - WEARING OF THIS GARMENT DOES NOT ENABLE YOU TO FLY. 

    22. On some frozen dinners: SERVING SUGGESTION: DEFROST.

    23. On a hotel provided shower cap in a box: FITS ONE HEAD.

    24. On packaging for a Rowenta iron: DO NOT IRON CLOTHES ON BODY.

    25. On Boot's "Children's" cough medicine: DO NOT DRIVE CAR OR OPERATE MACHINERY.

    26. On Nightly sleep aid: WARNING: MAY CAUSE DROWSINESS.

     
  • The Importance Of Correct Punctuation.

    Two versions of the same note:

    Dear John:
    I want a man who knows what love is all about. You are generous, kind, thoughtful. People who are not like you admit to being useless and inferior. You have ruined me for other men. I yearn for you. I have no feelings whatsoever when we're apart. I can be forever happy--will you let me be yours?
    Gloria


    Dear John:
    I want a man who knows what love is. All about you are generous, kind, thoughtful people, who are not like you. Admit to being useless and inferior. You have ruined me. For other men, I yearn. For you, I have no feelings whatsoever. When we're apart, I can be forever happy. Will you let me be? Yours,
    Gloria

  • Would You Want To Eat Them?

    Some varieties of apples:

    Granny Smith
    Northern Spy
    State Fair
    Captain Kidd
    Fuji
    Lord Nelson
    Mother
    Pink Lady
    Priscilla
    Polka
    Red Wealthy
    Spartan
    Sunny Brook
    Waltz
    Winter Banana
    Cat's Head
    Doctor Hogg
    Geeveston Fanny
    Lady In The Snow
    Maiden's Blush
    Sweet 16
    Sundowner
    Suntan

  • Some bizarre [or very clever] sporting quotes.

    'I dunno, I never smoked Astroturf.'

    'Raise the urinals.'

    'He treats us like men. He lets us wear earrings.'

    'Left hand, right hand; it doesn't matter. I'm amphibious.'

    'He speaks English and Spanish, and he's bilingual too.

  • Genuine Newspaper Classified Ads

    o Lost: small apricot poodle. Reward. Neutered. Like one of the family.

    o A superb and inexpensive restaurant. Fine food expertly served by waitresses in appetizing forms.

    o Dinner Special -- Turkey $2.35; Chicken or Beef $2.25; Children $2.00.

    o For sale: an antique desk suitable for lady with thick legs and large drawers.

    o For sale: a quilted high chair that can be made into a table, pottie chair, rocking horse, refrigerator, spring coat, size 8 and fur collar.

    o Four-poster bed, 101 years old. Perfect for antique lover.

    o Now is your chance to have your ears pierced and get an extra pair to take home, too.

    o Wanted: 50 girls for stripping machine operators in factory.

    o Wanted: Unmarried girls to pick fresh fruit and produce at night.

    o We do not tear your clothing with machinery. We do it carefully by hand.

    o No matter what your topcoat is made of, this miracle spray will make it really repellent.

    o For Sale. Three canaries of undermined sex.

    o For Sale -- Eight puppies from a German Shepherd and an Alaskan Hussy.

    o Creative daily specials, including select offerings of beef, foul, fresh vegetables, salads, quiche.

    o 7 ounces of choice sirloin steak, boiled to your likeness and smothered with golden fried onion rings.

    o Great Dames for sale.

    o Have several very old dresses from grandmother in beautiful condition.

    o Tired of cleaning yourself? Let me do it.

    o 20 dozen bottles of excellent Old Tawny Port, sold to pay for charges, the owner having lost sight of, and bottled by us last year.

    o Dog for sale: eats anything and is fond of children.

    o Vacation Special: have your home exterminated.

    o If you think you've seen everything in Paris, visit the Pere Lachasis Cemetery. It boasts such immortals as Moliere, Jean de la Fontain, and Chopin.

    o Mt. Kilimanjaro, the breathtaking backdrop for the Serena Lodge. Swim in the lovely pool while you drink it all in.

    o The hotel has bowling alleys, tennis courts, comfortable beds, and other athletic facilities.

    o Get rid of aunts: Zap does the job in 24 hours.

    o Toaster: A gift that every member of the family appreciates. Automatically burns toast.

    o Sheer stockings. Designed for fancy dress, but so serviceable that lots of women wear nothing else.

    o Stock up and save. Limit: one.

    o Save regularly in our bank. You'll never reget it.

    o We build bodies that last a lifetime.

    o Offer expires December 31 or while supplies last.

    o This is the model home for your future. It was panned by Better Homes and Gardens.

    o For Sale--Diamonds $20; microscopes $15.

    o For Rent: 6-room hated apartment.

    o Man, honest. Will take anything.

    o Wanted: chambermaid in rectory. Love in, $200 a month. References required.

    o Wanted: Part-time married girls for soda fountain in sandwich shop.

    o Man wanted to work in dynamite factory. Must be willing to travel.

    o Used Cars: Why go elsewhere to be cheated? Come here first!

    o Christmas tag-sale. Handmade gifts for the hard-to-find person.

    o Modular Sofas. Only $299. For rest or fore play.

    o Wanted: Hair-cutter. Excellent growth potential.

    o Wanted. Man to take care of cow that does not smoke or drink.

    o 3-year-old teacher needed for pre-school. Experience preferred.

    o Our experienced Mom will care for your child. Fenced yard, meals, and smacks included.

    o Our bikinis are exciting. They are simply the tops.

    o Auto Repair Service. Free pick-up and delivery. Try us once, you'll never go anywhere again.

    o See ladies blouses. 50% off!

    o Wanted: Preparer of food. Must be dependable, like the food business, and be willing to get hands dirty.

    o Girl wanted to assist magician in cutting-off-head illusion. Blue Cross and salary.

    o Wanted. Widower with school-age children requires person to assume general housekeeping duties. Must be capable of contributing to growth of family.

    o Mixing bowl set designed to please a cook with round bottom for efficient beating.

    o Mother's helper--peasant working conditions.

    o Semi-Annual after-Christmas Sale.

    o And now, the Superstore--unequaled in size, unmatched in variety, unrivaled inconvenience.

    o We will oil your sewing machine and adjust tension in your home for $1.00.

  • Some Eccentric People

    Monte Cazazza: American sound artist who dressed like an old beggar woman and set dead cats on fire.

    Ferdinand Cheval: French postman who spent 33 years building a huge palace from random stones found whilst doing his round.

    Gao Qipei: Chinese painter who grew his fingernails excessively long so as to be a better finger painter because a dream told him to.

    Mi Fu: Chinese painter who declared a stone to be his elder brother and bowed to it.

  • English Subtitles Used In Chinese Language Films

    1. I am damn unsatisfied to be killed in this way.

    2. Fatty, you with your thick face have hurt my instep.

    3. Gun wounds again?

    4. Same old rules: no eyes, no groin.

    5. A normal person wouldn't steal pituitaries.

    6. Damn, I'll burn you into a BBQ chicken!

    7. Take my advice, or I'll spank you without pants.

    8. Who gave you the nerve to get killed here?

    9. Quiet or I'll blow your throat up.

    10. You always use violence. I should've ordered glutinous rice chicken.

    11. I'll fire aimlessly if you don't come out!

    12. You daring lousy guy.

    13. Beat him out of recognizable shape!

    14. I have been scared sh*tless too much lately.

    15. I got knife scars more than the number of your leg's hair!

    16. Beware! Your bones are going to be disconnected.

    17. The bullets inside are very hot. Why do I feel so cold?

    18. How can you use my intestines as a gift?

    19. This will be of fine service for you, you bag of the scum. I am sure you will not mind that I remove your manhoods and leave them out on the dessert flour for your aunts to eat.

    20. Yah-hah, evil spider woman! I have captured you by the short rabbits and can now deliver you violently to your gynecologist for a thorough extermination.

    21. Greetings, large black person. Let us not forget to form a team up together and go into the country to inflict the pain of our karate feets on some ass of the giant lizard person.

  • Some funny definitions

    ADULT A person who has stopped growing at both
    ends and is now growing in the middle

    BEAUTY PARLOUR A place where women curl up and dye

    CANNIBAL Someone who is fed up with people

    CHICKENS The only creatures you eat before they
    are born and after they are dead

    COMMITTEE A body that keeps minutes and wastes hours

    DUST Mud with the juice squeezed out

    EGOTIST Someone who is usually me-deep in conversation

    GOSSIP A person who will never tell a lie if the
    truth will do more damage

    HANDKERCHIEF Cold Storage

    INFLATION Cutting money in half without damaging the paper

    MOSQUITO An insect that makes you like flies better

    RAISIN Grape with a sunburn

    SECRET Something you tell to one person at a time

    TOOTHACHE The pain that drives you to extraction

    TOMORROW One of the greatest labour saving devices of today

    YAWN An honest opinion openly expressed

    WRINKLES Something other people haveYou have character lines

  • Some Daft Questions.

    If it is zero degrees outside today and it is supposed to be twice as cold tomorrow how cold will it be?

    Why do you press harder on a remote control when you know the battery is dead?

    Why is a carrot more orange than an orange?

    How much deeper would the ocean be if sponges didn't grow in it?

    If man evolved from monkey and apes, why do we still have monkeys and apes?

    Why is it called the tourist season if you can't shoot them?

    If the black box flight recorder is never damaged during a plane crash why isn't the whole plane made out of the same stuff?

  • Site Meter not working.

    I've just noticed that Site Meter isn't working; I can't access my personal statistics. I've emailed the webmaster, but doubt that I'll get a reply.

    StatCounter is still working though but I still haven't fathomed out how to make my stats public.

    Over the past few days that I've had both tracking packages installed on the blog I've noticed quite a bit of variation between the recorded locations of some of my visitors. Overnight I had a visit registered as coming from Chicago on Site Meter and Telluride, Colorado on StatCounter; these two places are over a thousand miles apart.

    The discrepancy probably has something to do with proxy servers, but I don't really understand.

    Update 2:00pm
    I've just received an email from the webmaster informing me that the problem has been sorted. I've been and checked and everything is working again.

  • A list of Yorkshire towns followed by the word(s) I associate with that place.

    Doncaster Race Week
    Pontefract Cakes
    Barnsley Chop
    Sheffield Steal: Sheffield Flood
    Scarborough Warning: Scarborough Fair
    Filey Brigg
    York Minster
    Leeds United
    Ilkley Moor
    Otley Chevin
    Skipton Castle
    Whitby Jet
    Halifax Piece Hall
    Ripon Horn

  • Metaphors taken from actual GCSE essays.

    His thoughts tumbled in his head, making and breaking alliances like underpants in a tumble dryer.

    The ballerina rose gracefully en pointe and extended one slender leg behind her, like a dog at a lamppost.

    McMurphy fell 12 stories, hitting the pavement like a paper bag filled with vegetable soup.

    Her hair glistened in the rain like nose hair after a sneeze.

    Her eyes were like two brown circles with big black dots in the centre.

    Her vocabulary was as bad as, like, whatever.

    He was as tall as a six-foot-three-inch tree.

    The hailstones leaped from the pavement, just like maggots when you fry them in hot grease.

    Long separated by cruel fate, the star-crossed lovers raced across the grassy field toward each other like two freight trains, one having left York at 6:36 p.m. travelling at 55 mph, the other from Peterborough at 4:19 p.m. at a speed of 35 mph.

    The politician was gone but unnoticed, like the full stop after the Dr. on a Dr Pepper can.

    John and Mary had never met. They were like two hummingbirds who had also never met.

    The thunder was ominous sounding, much like the sound of a thin sheet of metal being shaken backstage during the storm scene in a play.

    The red brick wall was the colour of a brick-red crayon.

    Even in his last years, Granddad had a mind like a steel trap, only one that had been left out so long it had rusted shut.

    The door had been forced, as forced as the dialogue during the interview portion of Family Fortunes.

    The plan was simple, like my brother Phil. But unlike Phil, this plan just might work.

    The young fighter had a hungry look, the kind you get from not eating for a while.

    Oh, Jason, take me!" she panted, her chest heaving like a student on 99p-a-pint night.

    He was as lame as a duck. Not the metaphorical lame duck either, but a real duck that was actually lame. Maybe from stepping on a land
    mine or something.

    Her artistic sense was exquisitely refined, like someone who can tell butter from "I Can't Believe It's Not Butter."

    She had a deep, throaty, genuine laugh, like that sound a dog makes just before it throws up.

    It came down the stairs looking very much like something no one had ever seen before.

    The knife was as sharp as the tone used by Glenda Jackson MP in her first several points of parliamentary procedure made to Robin Cook
    MP, Leader of the House of Commons, in the House Judiciary Committee hearings on the suspension of Keith Vaz MP.

    The revelation that his marriage of 30 years had disintegrated because of his wife's infidelity came as a rude shock, like a surcharge at a formerly surcharge-free cashpoint.

    The dandelion swayed in the gentle breeze like an oscillating electric fan set on medium.

    It was a working class tradition, like fathers chasing kids around with their power tools.

    He was deeply in love. When she spoke, he thought he heard bells, as if she were a dustcart reversing.

    She was as easy as the Daily Star crossword.

    She grew on him like she was a colony of E. coli and he was room-temperature British beef.

    She walked into my office like a centipede with 98 missing legs.

    Her voice had that tense, grating quality, like a first-generation thermal paper fax machine that needed a band tightened.

    It hurt the way your tongue hurts after you accidentally staple it to the wall.

  • I'm starting a new training programme (yet again.)

    I attended my interview at the training providers this morning and I'm booked in for the next induction session, starting at the end of the month.

    This time the scheme lasts for thirty weeks and is more of self-assessment and personal development programme. Apparently there is a lot of role play and confidence building techniques involved...but unfortunately, no work-based placement.

  • Newspaper reports.

    "Commenting on a complaint from a Mr Arthur Purdey about a large gas bill, a spokesman for North West Gas said, "We agree it was rather high for the time of year. It's possible Mr Purdey has been charged for the gas used up during the explosion that destroyed his house." (The Daily
    Telegraph)

    Police reveal that a woman arrested for shoplifting had a whole salami in her knickers. When asked why, she said it was because she was missing her Italian boyfriend. (The Manchester Evening News)

    Irish police are being handicapped in a search for a stolen van, because they cannot issue a description. It's a Special Branch vehicle and they don't want the public to know what it looks like. (The Guardian)

    A young girl who was blown out to sea on a set of inflatable teeth was rescued by a man on an inflatable lobster. A coastguard spokesman
    commented, "This sort of thing is all too common". (The Times)

    At the height of the gale, the harbourmaster radioed a coastguard on the spot and asked him to estimate the windspeed. He replied he was sorry, but he didn't have a guage. However, if it was any help, the wind had just blown his Land Rover off the cliff. (Aberdeen Evening Express)

    Mrs Irene Graham of Thorpe Avenue, Boscombe, delighted the audience with her reminiscence of the German prisoner of war who was sent each week to do her garden. He was repatriated at the end of 1945, she recalled "He'd always seemed a nice friendly chap, but when the crocuses came up in the middle of our lawn in February 1946, they spelt out "Heil Hitler." (Bournemouth Evening Echo)

  • Unusual U.S. Newspaper Titles (Past & Present)

    The Unterrified Democrat

    Plain Dealer

    Tombstone Epitaph

    Salome Bonanza

    Arizona Copper Camp

    Daily Constitution

    Hornet's Nest

    Idiot

    Invisible Rambler

    Log Cabin

    Maneater

    Scourge

    True Fissure

  • A list of words that sound rude, but really aren't.

    Blowhole - whales need them to breathe.
    Spotted Dick - a lovely pudding.
    Butternut - a tree.
    Muffler - keeps you warm.
    Keepy uppy - football game.
    Whopper - a big burger.
    Winkle pickers - pointy shoes.
    Poopdeck - it's on a ship.
    Glory-hole - a cupboard.
    Brown Creeper - a bird.
    Arsine – Poisonous gas
    Pismire – Ant
    Ukase – Russian edict
    Uvula – Part of soft palate
    Vigesimal – Pertaining to twenty
    Chit – Document / paper
    Diurnal – Of the day
    Dungaree – Calico cloth
    Balzac - A 19th-century French novelist.
    Coccyx - another name for the human tailbone
    Dinghy - a small rubber boat
    Futtock - a curved piece of wood that makes up the bottom of the ship
    Masticate - the act of chewing
    Penal - relating to punishment
    Prolix - verbose (someone who uses lots of words)
    Puckfist - a puffball of spores (mushrooms)
    Pussywillow - a tree

  • Describing things to Martians.

    In other words, describing things from first principles...assuming that anyone reading your work has only a very limited understanding of the world and no pre-conceptions at all.

    These definitions I've found are from a poem by Craig Raine called 'A Martian Sends A Postcard Home,'

    'Mist is when the sky is tired of flight.'
    'Rain is when the earth is television.'
    'Time is tied to the wrist.'
    'At night, all the colours die.'

    This style of poetry is actually called Martian Poetry and is very effective at creating striking and startling imagery - I suppose that's why I use it a lot in my own work and as the basis for exercises in my poetry workshops.

  • Not Very Intelligent Quotes From Footballers

    Mark Viduka...
    "I would not be bothered if we lost every game as long as we won the league"

    Ronaldo...
    "We lost because they scored more goals than us"

    Paul Gascoigne...
    "I've had 14 bookings this season, 8 of which were my fault, but 7 were definitely down to other people"

    Mark Draper...
    "I'd like to play for an Italian club, like Barcelona."

    Peter Shilton...
    "You've got to believe that you're going to win until the final whistle blows and you've lost"

    Ian Wright...
    "Without being too harsh on David Beckham, he cost us the match."

    Ian Wright...
    "It took a lot of bottle for Tony Adams to admit to being an alcoholic"

    Ade Akinbiyi...
    "I was watching the Blackburn game on TV on Sunday when it flashed on the screen that George (Ndah) had scored in the first minute at Birmingham. My immediate reaction was to ring him up. Then I remembered he was out there
    playing."

    Ian Rush...
    "I couldn't settle in Italy - it was like living in a foreign country"

    Interviewer: 'Would it be fair to describe you as a volatile player?
    David Beckham: "Well, I can play in the centre, or on the right"

    Steve Lomas...
    "Germany are a very difficult team to play...they had 11 internationals out
    there today"

    David Beckham...
    "My parents have been there for me, ever since I was seven"

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