My Christmas message – this is not a blog post so be ready to read on….

Initially, I was little bit skeptical about the Christmas, but not because it was the first time I would spend it away from my permanent address at my parents which I do not consider identical with the notion of home. Therefore the Christmas knocking at the door were barking up the wrong one at my place. At some moments, I was even thinking of shooting the Santa in the very moment he will be dancing Gagnam Style under the Christmas tree. If we had some, though. We have a cactus instead.

The song goes that ‘Christmas comes just once a year’, but does it necessarily have to be in October, right after we recover from the Halloween Hangover? We share our ill-advised cocktail with the toilette, remember the name of the fighter pilot we told the girl whose body curves are still palpable under the cover of our bed, clean the room with the help of the guy whom no one actually invited to the party. All this, together with the catchy delivery of George Michael from the radio, is the unofficial jingle bell for another Xmas season.

Luckily, the Christmas Eve is ordinary working day in the UK. Therefore I was glad to be on the schedule at my work, and in this way avoided part of the boredom. But at the end of the day, the Christmas Eve did not turn out bad. I got a phone call from my best friend from the secondary school and in the evening we and my mates from the house went to a pub. After few drinks we left the boring first local and started to look for something else. Everything was closed so we ended up in the pub on the corner that witnessed the foundation of Iron Maiden. There was a bar singer and she gave the best ever live version of Alanis Morissette’s “Ironic”. Pity she was not about 15 years younger (or me bit more drunk). So we listened to the music and went back home to finish the party there.

Back in Slovakia I would probably fall into the general stereotype. People feed themselves upon the fish and other stuff. I do not care much about the food. Thanks god there still are some traditional remote villages covered in snow where the Christmas folklore lives one. But in big cities in Slovakia hardly anyone remembers what is the original purpose of the particular foods. I like to eat the "opekance" on the picture above. Here in London I was thinking about buying some caked or sweet bakery. Discouraged by the loads of people in the supermarket, I concluded that the same effect can be achieved by a toast and marmalade.

Next, we would share the gifts. Nothing bad in that, but my excitement about gifts faded away few years ago, maybe reinforced by the hockey stick with opposite curvature – a mistake of the Santa. I do not understand the people in the greedy rush after goods in the stores, because everyone knows that the things will be available much cheaper in sales. But patience is a virtue. After gift giving, people chill out in front of the TV and surrender to consume. They would eat so many cakes and sweets that will result in stomach ache. The best friend of patience is the moderation.

Some would go to church, but going to the church at Christmas is far from being religious. Actually, the churches are full of the festive churchgoers that go there only to tick their ‘once a year’ and boast about the gifts. Anyway, the Christmas mass is nice, with all the trees decorated, the choir singing and snow. For me, the message of Christmas is ranked above all of the mentioned. I look forward the nice atmosphere, meeting friends some of them I see only once a year and maybe playing ice hockey on the frozen lake (I rather choose my stick myself since). The intention should grow organically; it can not be enforced by TV commercials. Once, I would like enjoy Christmas in a remote village in the mountains.

     After all, spending the Christmas Eve in Hard Rock pub listening to a singer in skin-tight legins, chatting up the guests with her covers of famous rock songs is not the best way. Neither are all the treats mentioned above, but they all contribute to the festive atmosphere I got used to. Pictures might wash out, but memories not. On the other hand, I opted out of the traditional stereotype of consume and experienced something I enjoy. Ironic that I had to go to one of the centres of mainstream in order to experience the original  rain on the Xmas day.

Outraged by the illiteracy of the literate

     

   According to a survey, many teachers in the UK have problems with basic literacy, needing proofreaders to correct their letters to the parents.

      I am outraged, disappointed and half of my heart grown on the notion of justice is crying, while the other one only winks and rather makes my hand to write these lines of criticism.

       Further on, a former headteacher and the chairman of the Chamber for Real English confirmed that it is very rare to find teachers who are not making mistakes in grammar and punctuation.

     They do not allow me to teach here, regardless that I have the master’s degree in teaching translated and verified by the relevant organization. They would demand the General Teacher’s Status as well as much more documents ‘in the package’. I dare, nor would they allow me to be one of the correctors who are payed 14.02 pounds an hour. Pursuing the economic perfection, did they realize that it is the rework that coughs up lot of money?

     Calming down, I realize that apparently, most of the ‘literate’ teachers would also be immigrants who managed to get through the barrier of administration. And I have to recognize they might be real experts in their field. Actually, teaching in the UK is not read directly at the university, but people with degree in different spheres could apply for the General Teacher’s Status. Because of that the general reluctance towards the graduates from a system where 90% of the population could qualify for the three letters that entitle them to teach.

    Outraged by the “Pride and Prejudice”, I do not know whom to blame. And honestly, having seen the school yard full of rascals last week, I do not think I want to become part of it. Therefore I do it like the author who was also discriminated to the margin of the society despite the fact she proved much better than most of her judges. I will write. 

Few things about Slovakia

      Few months ago, I came across an article entitled “Is Slovakia Stuck in the 1950´s”? (http://www.52insk.com/2012/1950/)  It was written by a foreigner, most probably American citizen, who has been living in Slovakia for several years and has a good intelligence and understanding about the everyday life. His article was a collection of interesting, though anecdotal facts about Slovak customs and common practices that has become part and parcel of our daily routines. Each of them is covered in several paragraphs, containing a healthy dose of criticism, which Slovaks often were asking for. Yet in general, it seems that he likes Slovakia the way it is.

      In each paragraph, he attempts parallelism with American or western way of live, and often comes out with something that might be interesting for the concerned foreign reader, but rather commonplace for the majority of Slovak population.

    The text reads in a smooth cadence, the author did not attempt to impress the readers with incomprehensible terminology. In between the lines one can scribble out that in some aspects Americans could take after Slovaks, for example the preservation of traditions such as family lunch on Sunday, which, notwithstanding the consumerism, are perpetual. The author likes the easygoing, even flippant attitude of Slovaks manifested in their approach to booze, which, I feel might have a negative impact on the social and economical development. In general, in each nation he has discovered some values that the other should take home.

     In my commentary I do not want to criticize the author, but provide my opinion on some of the issues. From each point I have chosen one sentence. It does not necessarily convey the central point of the argument, but I found them interesting. 

here are link to the particular articles

http://erik209.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/suntanned-arms-on-pale-torso.html

http://erik209.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/2-family-lunch-in-slovakia.html

http://erik209.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/traffic-in-bratislava.html

http://erik209.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/easiest-solutions-are-often-most.html

http://erik209.blogspot.com/b/post-preview?token=8HLtFTsBAAA.9Rw8qAyhAtntWO0ngzcSLg.bNlmGWy8WpQzfIeRPxp0gQ&postId=7500004642257250226&type=POST

http://erik209.blogspot.com/b/post-preview?token=X5TuFTsBAAA.9Rw8qAyhAtntWO0ngzcSLg.qkfYGsktnOeP-LyCaFDQsA&postId=647533500658558398&type=POST

http://erik209.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/break-booze.html

http://erik209.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/8-slovak-mother-still-in-role-of_18.html

8 Slovak mother still in the role of the benefactor

Quote: “Despite so many women in Slovakia working, the idea remains that a mother who would not see to it that there was a warm meal for her family to eat, even if it means each member of the family heating it up themselves, is a mother who is not playing her part in watching out for her family.”
      We should cherish the few Slovak women that try to provide healthy diet for their children, preparing complete meal every day. Conversely, some American women consider heating up a hamburger cooking. Sadly enough, many Slovak’s are hankered by these fast foods, or ready to eat dishes, that are commonplace in America. Actually, most of the fast food is just original meals from other countries, spoiled by the commercial culture. And we would feed on it, even on Sunday dinner. But try to walk into an original Italian pizzeria and ask for “extra thick dough” or ketchup. In Sicily, you would be probably killed.
    Also Americans have some eating habits that are worth mention and conversely, many of them are being screwed up by Slovaks. For example, Slovaks would denote any act of putting a peace of meat on fire and wait until it is red, which means ready to eat, a barbecue. But the word barbecue comes from Texas, referring to a slow process of cooking the meat on charcoal at a medium temperature. It would allow the meat to be well cooked, but not burnt – which often happens at Slovak grill parties.

Few months ago, I came across an interesting article written by an American living in Slovakia. (http://www.52insk.com/2012/1950/)  I liked some of his observations and therefore decided to comment them. I do not want to offend the author, nor anyone else. Please, accept this just as poor fiction and one’s will to share his opinions. 

2 Family lunch in Slovakia

Quote: “In Slovakia a nicer meal is often eaten for Sunday lunch than what would be eaten during the rest of the week. The family might even all sit together at one time at the table.”

     I have to remind you that Slovakia is predominantly Christian country, and keeping the family together (however taken over from the Jewish predecessors) is still entrenched in the subconscious of the society. Although the old-school church goers are slowly dying out, or are being institutionalised in the retirement homes; it is not bad to join our beloved ones for a couple of hours, enjoy our meal and discuss the things we can’t get down to during the busy week. As the five star chef Gordon Ramsay says in one of his book I recently came across in newly-opened bookshop, the gathering at joint meal can actually take place on any day. Just make sure that you spend some with your family and no one leaves earlier than everyone eats up his game.

Few months ago, I came across an interesting article written by an American living in Slovakia. (http://www.52insk.com/2012/1950/)  I liked some of his observations and therefore decided to comment them. I do not want to offend the author, nor anyone else. Please, accept this just as poor fiction and one’s will to share his opinions. 

Swimming to work in the city of London

     Yesterday, I had a chance to visit the centre of world’s business in London’s Canary Wharf. It is full of high buildings, busy businessman, expensive shops and restaurants. But whole complex is interwoven by many canals, which in past used to be one of the busiest docks in the world. Now, they offer niche to reveal and get some fresh air during the lunch breaks. But occasionally, you could see a swimmer crawling through the water. After a while he would climb up the ladder, change his neoprene into a suit and disappear in the darkness of the commercial buildings. An image to be seen only in James Bond movies, but for him it was nothing more than getting out of the bus or tube. For fitness specialists an interesting way how to fit exercise into a busy business day.

      Watching the Olympic triathlon in Hyde Park, someone realized that the same could be done in Thames. Swimming is an effective physical activity – a thing many people simply can’t incorporate into their lifestyles. Most of the day is spent at work and the rest is occupied by travelling. And then it hit the nail. Swimming to work is a short-cut. The idea was further developed by the people from the Y/N studios. Part of the Regent’s canal between Little Venice to Limehouse basin was turned into the LidoLine, a wet commuter network. Before, the canal was used as a freight route for local industry. Now, it gives the Londoners another eco-friendly travel alternative, except of the Boris Bikes. Moreover, it is also beneficial for their health.

    ASA study learned that that it can extend the life expectancy. It is a form of physical exercise that engages all the muscles, but it does not overexpose your joints, because the water supports your body. Also, it was proved with improving the vital capacity of lungs and improves blood circulation, which, however, is valid for any cardiovascular activity. But swimming is unique in boosting the immunity, because of the winterization. Mainly during the cold months, leading up to the ice-hockey season.

     In order to keep the water clean the city authorities will use a filtration system already pioneered in New York’s Hudson River. Actually, these days many New Yorkers are forced to swim even against their will. Basins will be placed into the river. They will provide for cleanliness and also distract he boats. You can get changed into the suit in changing areas with lockers, located at the stations along the river. Also sunbathing decks will be available in summer. In winter the whole route will be changed into an ice-rink. Once I read that the employees at google play in-line hockey. I am curious whether someone will come up with an idea to play ice-hockey. Maybe some business associates from Canada.

     For many swimming to work might sound as a completely crazy idea. Mainly in a city like London. But it is the peculiarity of big cities that offer possibilities that would be considered unusual elsewhere. Moreover this one is environmental friendly and health conscious. At the end of the day, or predecessors were forced to learn to swim in order to overcome natural obstacles while hunting – which was their job. I would like to follow their footsteps. I will definitely try the canal in summer. In winter I would prefer hockey, but I have not seen a stick in any sport shop yet. 

Dumfries - another day in Scotland

Today, October 20, 2012, I have been to Dumfries - a city in the south-west Scotland. On Monday I am taking farewell from the Lake District so I had the last chance to benefit from the proximity of my favourite country (after Slovakia). I got out from the ScotRail train at the station. The ticket was even cheaper than the price I found on the internet the day before. We had a 50 minute delay, but I did not hurry.

 The station won the best station price in two consecutive years, 1986 & 1987.

      This is a specialized Whisky shop. It offers wide variety of alcoholic beverages at reasonable price. The prime is whisky; of course you would hardly discover the most famous brands, because the shelves are topped with minor local manufacturers. Like with all spirits, quality is the matter personal preference, not the brand. As if in Slovakia someone bottled the home distilled slivovica from the very vast village valley where bača still does not have the internet connection and put it on sale.

    Here is the Shakespeare street with the Odeon cinema - little bit of culture for the people. Locals are called Doonhamers. It originates in 19th century when many men from Dumfries worked at the constructions if Glasgow. Actually, they built the Glasgow. When asked whereabouts they are from they would say: 'down home' - 'doonhame'. Scottish English is quite rough, with 'R' pronounced everywhere, even in words which originally do not contain the consonant.

Above is the High Street with the typical building that is to be seen on many postcards from Dumfries. But wait, the most picturesque image comes later.

The Grey Friars Kirk. Kirk is the Scottish word for church, one of the many things that differentiate them from the English. They refused the reformation enforced by Henry VIII and also did not accept the prayer's book of King James I. 

The painting above shows Robert Bruce killing one of his rivals, John Comyn, in the church. Bruce wanted to be a king which was not surprising at that time, because almost everyone born with a silver spoon in his mouth claimed the rights to the throne. Historians say that Comyn was a traitor but anyone at that time could be labelled as such, including Bruce. Nevertheless, with the help of William Wallace he put together and army and in the Early 14th century really became the king Robert I.  

I do not know how I managed to make this picture with my mobile phone camera. It is the city panorama from the west bank of the Nith River.  

On the other side of the bridge is a museum of Robert Burns. Purposely I used "a", because there must be more of them in Scotland. Burns is their national poet, the "son of Scotland", who spent the last years of his life in the old mill in Dumfries. His father was a farmer and therefore he knew how to run the business. Apart from that he wrote poetry on almost every topic. 

I was hungry so I went to eat haggis. While waiting I asked the chef what is the haggis made of. I knew that it is basically sheep's stomach stuffed with lungs, heart and liver; and oats and onion. But recently the manufacturers started to replace the stomach with artificial casings, apparently from hygienic reasons. Such a forfeit of the tradition. It was my second time I ate it, but still it resembles and tastes like the Slovak 'jaternica' - pig intestine stuffed with minced meat, entrails, blood, rice and spices. 

Except from haggis, the "dinner" was selling burgers and chips, and also the deep fried Mars bar. It is one of the Scottish modern day specials. Accidentally, once a mars bar fell into a pan with chips and since then it is served as a dessert with ice cream. I dare that no one has ever counted the calories in the whole thing, because it would be no one from four digits. Instead, I washed the haggis down with Irn-Bru. Scottish non-alcoholic drink, reportedly their second national drink after whisky. It is of slightly orange colour and tastes of tutti frutti. 

I could not leave out the Globe Inn, the favourite pub of Robert Burns. Probably he used to sit there, drink beer, discuss the Gaelic games and get the latest news from the other guys. He could not chase after the chicks, because women were not allowed to public houses at that time. Without football and girls it must have been like a gay bar. Anyway,  I tried the "Caledonia best" ale and it was quite nice beer. I looked into a local newspaper and learned that one of the BBC Scotland reporters had met Slash. Nice to come across the former Guns & Roses members in the favourite pub of another great artists. 

Maybe the beer was too strong, but  here he came in . Rabbie Burns. He was giving me some advice on how to write poetry and girls and stuff like that. I told him that since then football has really caught up, women are allowed to pubs and we have internet. He reckoned that he how could he spend so much time in the pub without all these things. 

Such was my second visit to Scotland. Nice country. I should visit it more often.

Very negative effects of the very low fat yogurt

    American lawyers who few years ago made the tobacco industry pay for the damage they caused to the many smokers, have recently set upon the food industry.[1] They want to tackle the unhealthy foods and related epidemic of obesity that affects the health of (not only) the Americans. One of the main topics is the misinterpretation of some products, promoting them as “healthy” and “natural”.    

     The people have the right to know what does their food really consists of. Most criticized were the hidden sugars and this is the topic I want to touch.

     One of the things that sound very funny is the very low fat yogurt. This exaggerated labeling should encourage people to choose them rather than the full version which is dammed. But when something is low fat, it does not mean it is healthy. On the contrary, devil is often in the detail. Certainly a yogurt that contains over 10% of fat would not be a good option as it would opt out from the RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) balance. But certain fat is necessary for several reasons. He are the four arguments against the low fat food in general.

1 Too much preservatives

     First of all, the fat helps to keep some of the ingredients together. Real yogurt should stay in the pot even if you turn it upside down and rise above your head. Try with the low fat and you have to wash your hair.

       Without fat this function is compensated by emulsifiers and additives, most of which were proved with more detrimental effect than fat itself. Large quantities can inhibit the absorption of certain nutrients or develop allergies.

        What is most shocking, many of the preservatives are actually petrochemical products which might be the precursors of cancer and nerve problems in humans.[2] Would you drink a glass of petroleum? [3]

2 Lack of vitamins and fatty acids

     The fat content of yogurt depends on the type of milk used. Doing the maths everyone can figure out that in this particular case we used low fat milk. However, some vitamins are soluble only in fat, thence their presence will be that of hardly any.

      Moreover, in low fat versions we also miss on the unsaturated fatty acids that are necessary for general well being. Completely removing fat from our diet can result in hair loss and bad condition of the nails and skin. Fatty acids help in moisturizing the skin and also help to do away with inflammation.[4]

     

3 Artificial sweeteners

      Merely subjective, yet one of the most product selling issues is the taste. Fat makes the food taste better appealing to our taste buds. In low fat yogurt the taste must be supplied by artificial sweeteners which often taste artificial. Many people however prefer them to sugar because they do not contain any calories.

        However calorie content is not he only thing that matters. Some artificial sweeteners might trigger negative insulin response, similar to the easy carbs. A Japanese animal study reported in the April 2009 issue of "PloS One" found that artificial sweeteners sucralose, saccharin and acesulfame-K stimulated sweet taste receptors that induced an insulin response.[5] It leads to unnecessary insulin secretion which makes us hungry and prone to consume another carbs. In individuals that developed sensitivity to insulin all the excess calories will be stored in the fat cells.    Simply said, although the artificial sweeteners contain zero calories, some of them can alter the level of body hormones and thereby yet promote fat storage. Moreover, they can later food preference towards the sweeter instead of the healthy.[6] 

4 Empty calories

     Fat makes us feel sat, because it contains twice as much calories as sugars and proteins. Still hungry after the low fat option, many people would not resist the incentive to finish themselves of by another helping. Instead of eating 150 calories in a full fat yogurt, they have eaten 400 empty calories of 3 low fat bros.

      Although the fat is reduced, the yogurt would often contain more simple carbs to compensate for the taste. Many dietitians claim that simple carbs are even more dangerous, because they broke down quickly to be stored as a fat and also irritate the insulin levels which might lead to further fat storage, feelings of anxiety and tiredness.

 

     I do not say that all low fat yogurts are bad. Some of them really offer the healthier alternative. I just want to point out that we should be more careful and avoid the tricks the American lawyers want to do away with through reinforcement and tougher control of the food acts.

---

[1] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-19953716

[2] http://www.naturalnews.com/022870_artificial_colors_food.html

[3] http://www.ranken-energy.com/Products%20from%20Petroleum.htm

[4] http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/fats/how-essential-fatty-acids-keep-skin-healthy.html#b

[5] http://www.livestrong.com/article/477679-insulin-weight-gain-and-artificial-sweeteners/

[6] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2951976/

Too many people to rule

      According to the leader of SaS political party Richard Sulík, his party together with KDH, SDKU-DS and Most-Híd can offer a good alternative against Smer-SD and eventually form a new government after the Slovak parliament election in 2016. Talking on the TA3 talk-show on Sunday, October 14, he went on to say that the right wing of the Slovak political spectrum can challenge Robert Fico in 4 years.

     They look forward to the cooperation in terms of the next year’s elections to Regional Governments (VUC) and also put credit to the common presidential candidate. According to Sulík, his party-mate Andrej Kiska should be the “savior” who will defeat Róbert Fico.

     Further on, Mr Sulík acknowledged that there always will be disputes however the parties agree on cooperation. For example, the dispute over the registered partnership with KDH will pertain, which on the other hand does not exclude compromising on other things. Leaders of the other parties SDKÚ-DS, KDH and Most-Híd - Pavol Frešo, Ján Figeľ and Béla Bugár were also present on the show and supported the words of Mr Sulík. Mr Frešo added that the right wing must work as a team. Béla Bugár expressed his wish that the platform KDH, SDKU-DS and Most-Hid would work.

     Nice thoughts, but let’s wait how will the situation develop. The leaders herald cooperation and understanding, but themselves conceded that on some issues they will never found a common ground in as many years. How could they for the saying that absolute democracy can’t be achieved is applicable two-fold in politics. Even countries with two dominant parties encounter ideological shortcomings. One day the two members will come to a point that will be the bone of contention. The more people or groups participate in the democracy, the sooner it will happen. In Slovakia, I think, it is just around the corner.

     History witnessed many moments when a country was saved by a white knight that took the advantage of the quarreling nobles. Charles Robert from Anjou is a textbook example relative to Slovakia. He formed an alliance with Czechs and Poland and this is nowadays pointed out by many young Slovak politicians. Aware of the fact that we can not compete with the western economies, they rather focus on the commercial relations with the neighbours. Another parallel is the “Old Pretender” from the region of Trenčín (in Charle’s case Matúš Čák) has withdrawn from the political life.  But it will be far away from the happily ever after promised on the TV debate. 

The ‘underpaid’ youth decide on the Scottish future

     In the outlook to the 2014 independence referendum, the Scottish National Party decided to decrease the voting age to 16 years. Most probably, they were driven by the fact that the youth would maximize their chances. Fittingly for the First minister of Scotland, Alex Salmond did not hesitate to get involved in a rational dispute with the Westminster to push the issue through the parliament. Finally, on Tuesday, October 9, both sides settled on decreasing the voting age to 16, and addition of second referendum question (Scotland remaining in the UK but Edinburgh devolved with further competences) – a concession on part of the SNP.           

         Although the young Scottish are considered mature enough to decide on the future of their country, the are still considered inferior in terms of employment competitiveness. By the UK’s national minimum wage laws, the minimum hourly wage for people above 21 years is £6.19, for those aged 19 – 20 it is £4.98 and for under 18s £3.68. Apprentices aged under 19 take home only £2.65 an hour.[1] Most of the 16 and 17 years old belong to the £3.68 category which means they earn almost twice less than their older colleagues. I think it is contrary to the intention of the SNP to give them the voting rights reserved for the ‘full-citizens’.

      Looking back at the history, voting rights were granted to all men that disposed of certain property or retainable value.[2] For an ordinary man it could have been accumulated only through labour. In other words, the voting rights were devolved form man’s participation in labour, thence the labour was the precursor.  But now, the government acted contrary by granting the voting right to someone who is not considered mature enough to deserve the full wage. On what reason should he be competent to decide on the general status quo if he is formally restricted from gaining the competence?

    Polling shows support of the independence lies between 32 – 38% which is a decrease since the SNP took the power in 2007.[3] People, mainly the older generation, are getting second though that at the time of crisis Scotland would find it more difficult to integrate into the European community as an independent nation. However, the surveys also learned that the independence retains popularity amongst the young people. Maybe, they are not mature enough to be aware of the commitment. I think that the SNP picked up on this in their pursuit to make the dream of William Wallace true. However, I am curious whether they will also amend the labour code.  

[1] http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/TheNationalMinimumWage/DG_10027201

[2] http://www.southhams.gov.uk/index/council_index/ksp_council_elections/sp-elections-elections/elections-newpage-2.htm

[3] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-19622617

How I made a sandwich.

Today, I prepared myself a lunch sandwich. Here is the whole procedure.

First, take some toast bread, I prefer dark.

 Toast it!

Put on some bacon, preferably with not too much fat on the margin.

Add some chicken breasts!

Mushrooms are a must, place a few over the meat!

Add some lettuce and tomatoes!

On top of that a slice of cheese!

Dress up with a little ketchup!

Sandwich is ready, eat!

“Where there's a will there's a way”.

          Recently, I watched the Paralympics’ 100m semifinals. In the track closest to the camera run a guy who had no legs from the knees down and also his arms were amputated at the elbows. I think he ended next to the last and did not make it to the final. However, it does not matter. It made me to think about that if a man with literally no legs and hands can run 100 meters in 11 second, what the hell are we all making excuses?

      Overall interest in physical activities is falling; it is a well known fact. As a former P.E. teacher I have palpable evidence in form of the stagnating performance standards of pupils. The phenomenon can be also observed in the increasing level of obesity and related health problems. As always, there are several factors to take in, but it does not prevent me from being apprehensive.

      Sport and physical activity can have positive effects on human organism. It depends on the character of the particular activity which can increase the vital capacity of the lungs and effectiveness of the circulatory system as such, strengthen the muscles, reinforce the bones’ density, helps to maintain optimal body-weight. Also, regular exercise was proved with positive effects on blood pressure, blood cholesterol levels and production of hormones. Maybe the ideas are too distilled to their simplest form, but all of that helps us to live better and conduct our duties more efficiently. Or at leas it should…..

     Many people claim that they would join in some sport activity, but

        1, they have no time because of work load and other duties.

        2, they have some medical condition and the doctor advised them not to exercise.

        3, they are too tired after the work and other stuff.

Those are the three major reasons that support our excuses. I will deal with them in detail in the next article.

     According to many, the Paralympic Games are good evidence of what is the mankind capable of, and that our limits are far beyond our perception. Our modern lifestyle does not force us to try the limits of our reserves. Therefore it is only our motivation that can persuade us about the merits of physical exercise. Disabled sportsmen support the saying “Where there's a will there's a way”. Even if I always give my best in the gym or the swimming pool – sometimes I approach the point when the intensity of sport activity starts to be detrimental – after having seen the Paralympic run I questioned myself whether I should try little harder.  

The maritime city of football and the Beatles

    I wanted to visit Liverpool since long ago. I am a football fan and I like rock music. Local FC is one of my favourite teams and everyone is familiar with the story of the Beatles, one of the most influential bands (not only) in the early era of rock music. Moreover, Liverpool used to be a significant port and trading centre. Taking the opportunity of a day off, me and a friend of mine took a train with return ticket to the Liverpool Lime Street Station.

We had some time to the departure so we bough some newspapers. Apart from that, I found an almost full pack of cigarettes. I was happy, because as a very occasional smoker, I will have tobacco supply for months. Cigarettes and alcohol are quite expensive here in Britain, due to the excess duty. Money collected in taxes in invested into anti-smoking campaigns and similar initiatives. 

Anfield

     From Lime Street we headed right to the Queen Square bus stop. All day ticket costs 3.80 and you can travel as much as you want. We are both football fans so there was no doubt what would be our first stop – Anfield Road. We spent there approximately 2 hours; therefore I covered it in a separate article here. http://erik209.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/youll-never-walk-alone.html

The Bombed Church   
       From the stadium we took a bus back to the station. Originally we wanted to change for another service towards the cathedral. But after we realized that it was within walking distance, we decided to walk. Once again I have mistaken the cathedral with some ordinary church that we came across while walking. For that reason I took a photo. Only during my third visit in Liverpool I realized that the church had no roof. It was bombed during the Second World War and now it serves as a meeting place for the youth.

    The Cathedral

      The cathedral is really big, I think t is the second biggest in England. Although it was built in the late 20^th century, it has the atmosphere and façade of a Gothic church. It was built in neo-gothic style, as I learned from the minister with whom I had a little talk about the faith. 

Chinatown
Not far from the cathedral is the China town with the typical arcade, like the one in the Forbidden City.

Albert Dock

     Graduatelly, we straddled down to the Mersey River and reached one of the city’s quarters, Albert Dock. Originally it was a docking system for the ships. In the colonial period Liverpool boasted the reputation of one of the world’s largest ports. In 19^th century, 40% of all trade passed through Liverpool, as well as majority of the slave trade.

    The Beatles

     The Museum of Beatles – ‘Beatles Story” is also located in Albert Dock. Beatles started playing in Liverpool in the beginning of 60's but later they recorded in Abbey Road studio in London. (I have been there as well) Their songs were played in the museum and the fan shop, which was absolutely not surprising. What else would they play, Justin Bieber?

   The Liverpool Eye

     Opposite to the Beatles Story is some kind of Liverpool Eye and the Echo Arena, which hosts important cultural and sporting events. Lady Gaga, Muse, Oasis, Coldplay and Elton John have all played there, but oddly none of the former Beatles. Together with Ringo they are the two surviving members of the band.

     The Royal Liver building

     From the dock we headed for the centre. For a while we stopped at the Royal Liver Building. On the top are two “liver birds”. This medieval cock has become the symbol of Liverpool, even part of the FC logo. Two birds are on a patrol over the city. According to a story, the cock is checking the local pubs, whereas the hen is oriented towards the sea, waiting for young sailors.

Liverpool offers much more to visit. For example another football team – Everton, another cathedral – Metropolitan, and another musician – Elvis Costello. We focused only on the most important things. And some shopping, of course. Maybe, with all of the people moving out in the aftermath of the industrial decline,  it is the city of yesterday, but anyway in Liverpool, you'll never walk alone. I will definitely come back, if not move in, because I can imagine my life in this city.

You’ll never walk alone

     Recently, I and my friend set up on a trip to Liverpool. Both of us football fans, the first target was clear. Anfield Road. We spent there approximately two hours, therefore I devoted an entire article to the ‘the Reds’ experience. Rest of Liverpool with the Beatles, Cathedral, docks and the Liver building patrolled by the Liver birds will be covered in a separate article.

     Right in front of the stadium we received an open-arm welcome by Bill Shankly, one of the best managers in team’s history. After initial photo shots we purchased the tour tickets and headed for the fan shop. Prices were comparatively high, but the offer was really high-grade. You can get even sweets with player’s names engraved into the jelly, stickers with the name of particular person (I could not find Erik) and the team logo, and similar accessories. Of course vide variety of jerseys – home, away, retro – is a must. Also Liverpool FC various casual wear that you can’t find anywhere else. 
 

     It was almost twelve so we decided to go out and wait for the tour guide at the Bill Shankley’s statue assemble point. After a while, our group was approached by two of them. One bald, wearing a red dress-coat, the other one in a black jacket with engraved FC Liverpool logo. Both disposed of great enthusiasm and Liverpool accent which is sometimes difficult to pick up. Initially, we were ushered to some kind of hall of fame. The walls were decorated by the pictures of famous players. We learned few interesting facts, for example that the best shooter in Liverpool’s history Ian Rush scored total of 346 goals.

 

     After the brief history lesson we went on to the press center. It is here that the manager has to face the media after every single match. The room was rather small, but it could take in over 50 journalists. Originally it used to be the boot room and Bill Shankly would explain the pre-match tactics here. Since it was changed into the press center, Liverpool has not conquered the Premier Ship title. Some claim it is a curse.

     From the press center we walked over to the dressing rooms. Player’s t-shirts were hanging on the walls. Discovering Martin Skrtel’s 37, we boasted to the guide that he is our country mate. The bald men knew him in person; he has met most of the current squad.

     In general, the dressing rooms were modest, but nice.  Unlike Valencia, where Rafa Benitez would not allow too much comfort for it interferes with player’s pre-match concentration, in Liverpool the home dressing room was better maintained. Away team do not even have air conditioning. Interesting enough, because for a certain period Benitez managed also the FC.

 

     A corridor runs from the dressing roams directly to the pitch. There are small cavities in the walls, where player undergo one-on-one interviews. Above the tunnel to the pitch is an inscription “This is Anfield”. It was arranged by Shankley himself; the red colour should frighten the opponents. Home players follow a ritual that they touch it before every match. Peter Crouch could even kiss it, smaller players like Michael Owen or Luis Garcia had to be lift up to reach it – the guide had a joke.

     The tribune and the pitch appeared to be smaller than they really are. I would not believe that stadium can host 45, 525 onlookers. It was strictly forbidden to enter the pitch and the authorities really mean it. (In Valencia I managed to walk on the lawn barefoot). Even the home team does not train here. Only the opponent in European cups is allowed one training session a day prior to the encounter. Usually, they are accommodated in nearby Radisson hotel. Oddly enough, you must be from an away team to train on the home ground.

      Although Liverpool is a famous team, the stadium was full of family atmosphere. The tribunes are close to the pitch, unlike those at some top teams where man could hardly spot the players. Guide mentioned a moment form the past with record 26, 000 people cramped at one of the tribunes, cheering up their team.  At that time there were no seats and reservation tickets. You had to queue, sometimes even two hours, and then share the close quarters with others. To get some refreshment during the match was out of question. Who was hungry, should have had breakfast. Who needed a toiled, should have used imagination - the guide concluded.

     Bearing to this, he mentioned the Hillsborough tragedy from 1989 when 96 Liverpool fans died pressed by the crowd. Thence the reinforced security measures and long procedures with tickets. Newspapers were full of the disaster and according to the latest investigation; it was not fault of the drunken fans. Moreover, police and security forces could have saved about half of the victims if they acted more appropriately. However, everyone would jump the gun to blame the English rowdies who have long “criminal record” of clashes and disturbance all around the Europe.

     Finally, we visited the museum. It was full of team’s history, famous players, the authenticity reinforced by original jerseys, trophies and video projections. It was the end of our tour. Maybe they are bearing under the financial problems, but the many fans and achievements guarantee that FC Liverpool would never walk alone. We are absolutely positive on this after having watched the highlights from the 2005 UEFA Champions League final, when Liverpool raised from the death against AC Milan.