Andor definitely sits in the former category. Whilst shows such as The Mandalorian and Ashoka, and films such as Rogue One have helped to flesh out the main story arc, none have resonated with fans in quite the way that Andor has. I think this is largely to do with the writing. The dialog is crisp and realistic. It contains exposition when it needs it but can be subtle and rewarding for the viewer who likes to make connections for themselves. The acting too is wonderful. In particular Denise Gough, who plays Dedra Meero, gives an absolute gem of a performance.

All in all, Disney and the creators of this show have set the bar to a new height. Please keep it up!

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• Sea Cadets. I am now the Officer in Charge of Worcester Unit and although it has been extremely busy, I am finding it very rewarding. Whilst on the subject, I am further along with the officer programme and and now just waiting on my commission which is real personal landmark.
• I have changed jobs. I left the university in December and am no longer an outdoor instructor. It was a difficult decision as I miss the work and the people but my new role is proving very rewarding. I am now helping to develop a training centre that delivers qualifications related to the UK’s Confined Space Regulations (1997). I am hoping to add to our portfolio but until then I am busy studying, qualifying and deliver a whole new range of skills.
• No new cameras yet. However I am still taking lots of photographs in both digital and film and so new videos are on the way.

Hopefully you’ll see much more of me here and on my various Social Media platforms.

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A while back I had high hopes for Mastodon, but it does not seem to have attracted the attention of many. Of course there is also Threads but I’m not entirely sure that model won’t differ too much from Elon’s before long. Bluesky however is a joy. It is entirely free and you don’t have to be famous to get verified. The biggest thing going for it though, in my opinion, is it is just like what Twitter used to be like in the beginning. If you haven’t already, go check it out.

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Hopefully this answers some questions but please comment if you have any insight or feedback for me.

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I think I currently have around twelve different video projects that are incomplete and ideas for several more. I could blame my busy work life but the truth is, poor mental health sucks your enthusiasm from you. Even for things that you normally enjoy.

I have proven to myself several times lately, that I am capable, I just need to convinced my mind. Bear with me, I am determined that I’ll achieve my goal. Later, maybe.

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Well that’s what I thought. Then I bought a tablet. It’s not massive, just a 10.9″ screen. But in the two weeks I have owned it, I have tried five different screen protectors. Please don’t misunderstand me, I love the “paper like” effect and the tablet itself, a Samsung S9, I adore. But as I type this, there are miniscule blemishes staring at me. I may cry.

Can anyone give me some advice?

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The first weekend, or ODP1 as it is known was tough. I won’t go in to detail for obvious reasons but the assessment is rigorous to say the least. ODP1 is held at area level (South West in my case) and took place in September 2023. From the moment you arrive, to the moment you’re given your result, you are continually being assessed, based on the the varied criteria. At the time, this was very stressful for me. directing staff are very good at ensuring the candidates welfare, but of course, it is important to all of us that we put our best selves on display and nobody likes to fail at that. Looking back, ODP1 was enjoyable. I perhaps would not think so had I not passed, but I can honestly say it was a great experience, from which I learned a lot.

So why do we put ourselves through these things. Why am I actually looking to do it again at national level for ODP2. Well for me, it is important that I continue to grow and develop myself. If I don’t, how can I mentor young people to do the same. I am sure my fellow candidates feel the same way. Wish me luck!

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If you haven’t yet read or listened to Berserker!, then I recommend you do. I won’t spoil it here. It is funny of course, and fascinating. But it is also thought-provoking and somewhat melancholy. Ade speaks candidly about is life and his relationships, including that with his former working partner, Rik Mayall.

Ade’s school life, his relationship with his father, his depression and the disparity between his public and private personas, left me with somewhat deflated. I can’t help feeling that the tagline of “The riotous, one-of-a-kind memoir from one of Britain’s most beloved comedians” was written by someone who had not actually ready the book. Even the author’s feelings about ‘The Young Ones’ and ‘Bottom’, have burst my bubble somewhat. Still, I still love him, and I love the book. Go buy it! Now I’m off to watch Vyvyan Bastard, Eddie Hitler et al for the billionth time.

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As I am currently in a relatively good place, mentally speaking; I am here to make a promise that I am back. I’m currently working on two new posts and a new video. The procrastination ends here. Now if you’ll excuse me, I am going to make a cup of tea.

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