NaBloPoMo Day 31 - Last One

First... Happy Halloween... second... it's the last blog of NaBloPoMo 2011 and boy am I proud of my achievement. 31 straight days of blogging... and I even managed an extra one in there to boot. Hopefully this will set me up for my next challenge: NanoWrimo.

Yes, indeedy. Don't be expecting much in the way of blogs in November (although I still intend to do a weekly X Factor blog, and probably a Young Apprentice blog) because I will be slaving away over a hot keyboard, pull in together 50,000 words from the ether to form a - hopefully - cohesive novel. I already have my idea all planned out so, along with the daly blog in October, I feel quite well prepared, which is an improvement on last year when, at this stage, I didn't even have a title, never mind a clear idea about what I was writing or where it was going. C'est la vie.

So, wish me luck for November's challenge and thank you for indulging my random ramblings in October. It was fun (and surprisingly easy) to blog every day and I look forward to doing it again next year. And in the meantime if you hav enjoyed my NaBloPoMo, please makes sure to pay periodic visits to my homepage, or you can follow me on twitter.

NaBloPoMo Day 30 - X Factor Live Shows Week 4

What a shocker! But that's the way of this show; sometimes contestants that have the potential to go all the way end up in the bottom two, and unfortunately, who stays and goes all depends on who they are up against in the showdown.

So let's start with the Girls category. It's a testament to the fact that Kelly is actively mentoring her acts, that her absence this week, showed in their performances. It's important to say that there really wasn't a bad performance this week, from any of the acts, but there are always weaker performances and Sophie was, for me, probably the weakest of the night. She didn't really do anything wrong, but it was a terrible song choice - many people have tried, and failed, to up date it but it doesn't seem to work without that old fashioned, Nancy Sinatra type of vocal. That mistake left Sophie exposed, and her song for survival wasn't very impressive either. Although I did love her man-chair. Where can I get one? Ahem... I also thought Janet was quite weak. I love the Miss Havisham vibe that the production team put into the staging and I appreciate what she tried to do with song. It was suitably atmospheric, particularly on the flattening of certain notes, but some songs shouldn't be messed with. I can't help but reflect, as well, that Janet needs to smile more. I understand how much pressure she's under and she's obviously had some personal distress as well, but performing is about putting on a show as much as it is about plugging into your emotions (and those of others) and she's such a talented and beautiful girl, it's a shame to see her constantly solemn. Finally, Misha B. The one act from the Girls category that I didn't expect to see in the bottom two. I always love her performances and this week was no different. I love how adventurous she is with the staging and costuming and I think she has an amazing voice. Having said that, I think this week was her worst performance so far. That isn't to say it was bad: it wasn't. I honestly think the only reason she made the bottom two was because of the little disruptive rap bit in the middle of her song. It was unnecessary and didn't really work for me. I can imagine others being really annoyed by it and in such a close competition, that's a dangerous thing to do.

Moving on, one of the acts that I did half-expect to see in the bottom two was The Risk. Opening the show is always difficult and always a disadvantage, because everyone else is compared to you. It is therefore vital to put in a performance that will blow everyone else out of the water. I didn't think The Risk's performance measured up to the task. Having said that, it's hard to put together a show-stopping performance in 24 hours, which is basically all they had left after Ashley's shock departure, and Ashford's return. Turning to Tulisa's other group, Rhythmix... I mean Little Mix, I really did enjoy their performance and I'm pleased that the name change didn't damage them this week. I thought their interpretation of Alien was excellent and the staging was stunning. As much as I have enjoyed their previous shows, it was nice to see something more grown-up from them this week.

So who was strongest this week? That's always a tough call and the competition is impossibly close this year, but I agree with Gary that the performance of the night was Craig Colton. It was a stunning version of Set Fire to the Rain and the energy he put in stamped his identity on a song that is already quite iconic. The staging, once again, was brilliant and made it a memorable performance. As far as the rest of the Boys category goes, I also loved Marcus. He's very natural on the stage - an art which eludes me and which I am very jealous of - and he had a great voice. I really enjoyed his interpretation of Superstitious and, if it had been my choice, that's what I would've liked to see opening the show. It actually got me grooving in my seat. Frankie was, once again, the weakest of the three boys. Having said that, I did enjoy his performance and it was a good song choice for him because it hides the weaknesses in his voice. He's not quite my cup of tea, though, and I would honestly have preferred to say goodbye to him than lose Sophie.

In the fourth and final category, the Overs, I much preferred Johnny's performance from last week, but the song choice this week really did show off his voice. I adore him and think he has great appeal. He'll get a career out of this, but he's not really X Factor and I fear that it is only a matter of time before he falls by the wayside. Until then, I'll continue to enjoy his performances and his infectious smile. Last of all, Kitty continues to trouble me. She is gradually winning me over with her performances and this week was no different. It was a great interpretation of Sweet Dreams that made it really contemporary. I think the less she tries to impress with her off-stage persona, and the harder she tries on the stage, the more successful she will be on the show. For the first time, I can see her lasting, but her position is still precarious.

So overall, I would personally have liked to see Frankie Cocozza go this week, if only for the fact that his general laddishness doesn't appeal to me and I think he's a terrible role model. (I sound so old!) I didn't surprise me that Sophie was in the bottom two, but I didn't think she deserved to go and Misha B shouldn't have been in the bottom two at all. I still think Misha B is a winner. I haven't really seen anyone surpass her yet, but Craig, Marcus, Janet and Kitty are all serious contenders.

NaBloPoMo Day 29 - Another day, another chance to sing

This will probably be a fairly quick one, mainly because I need to get out with the dog and I want to finish watching X-Factor but I really wanted to mention a cool (in more ways than one) thing that I did today.

Today, England played Wales in the Rugby League Four Nations competition at the Leigh Sports Village. I, along with a bunch of my fellow Sing Live members were fortunate and honoured to have the chance to sing the national anthems on the pitch before the start of the match.

It was an early start, to get up, dog walked, both of us fed and watered, showered (that's me, not the dog), dressed and out the door to get to Pennington Flash before 9.30am. Arrival at the car park set the pattern for the day: standing around in the cold. We had a very successful rehearsal in the stadium - although the groundsman gave strict orders to stay off the pitch - and considering that it was the first chance we had to try the two anthems with the band and with each other, I think that on its own was an achievement. After some car moving and lunch, we had a blessedly warm practice in the dressing room and then lined up to go out on the pitch for the performance. Unfortunately the lining up was outside and it hadn't warmed up much since the morning, and then even when we got out on the pitch we were waiting for around twenty minutes before the actual singing. By the time we'd finished, I had cramp in one foot and in my hand but it was a great experience and I would do it again a million times... in fact I am doing it again in November in Hull for Wales v Australia.

Sure, there were a few issues surrounding car parking and I had to move my car a total of three times, and there really was a lot of standing around in the cold, but that can hardly be helped. Overall, it was a generally well organised day and we were provided with a really nice lunch and the people who looked after us we great and made sure we had everything we needed.The Welsh National Anthem is a beautiful melody and I thoroughly enjoyed learning and singing it. Although I think I'm going to have to find a harmony for the next time we do it because it's ridiculously high. And despite what people say, I think God Save the Queen is a stirring anthem and it's a pleasure to sing. The soloist was a lovely young singer named Megan Armstrong, who (I'm told) is the brother of a young rugby star. She was fantastic and has a stunning and powerful soprano voice and she looked amazing in a black sparkly number for the performance. And all of this was possible with Sing Live.

I know I've beaten this drum before, but I really do think that Sing Live is the best opportunity for ordinary people like me, who can hit a note, but have a thoroughly ordinary voice, to sing in brilliant venues and at big events like this. As my husband said earlier, this is the second time I have been on TV in just over a year. Short of getting on one of the talent contests (not going to happen!) how else would I get that chance?

NaBloPoMo Day 28 - Group Therapy

It's all gone on in the X Factor house this week. At least for Tulisa's groups it has; it seems rather than going from strength to strength they are going from trauma to trauma.

Earlier this week, Stephen Fry tweeted a link to an open to Simon Cowell and his multi-million pound show from the organisers of a charity. The charity in question was called Rhythmix and works with young people in the South East of England. Their aim is to develop the kids' personal and social skills while encouraging creativity. They have reportedly worked with 40,000 young people in the twelve years since they were formed. When the X Factor four-piece girl group formed, they chose their name without knowing about the charity. When the Syco - Simon Cowell's production company - tried to trademark the name, the charity took action so they could continue to use their existing name. When the girls found out about it, they decided to change their name and this evening announced that, from this weekend, they will be known under the new name 'Little Mix'.

However, that's not the end of the changes. This evening, on twitter, The X Factor announced that four-piece boyband, The Risk, have lost one of their members. Ashley Baptiste, aged 22, said on twitter "I love The Risk to the core. I just know that I am not at the right place to commit fully." Rumour has it that Ashley still wants a solo career and was concerned about committing to the band, only to leave. Ashley has also struggled with illness during the live shows and last week appeared despite suffering from Laryngitis and Glandular Fever in the run up to the show. Rather than continue as a trio, the boys have petitioned X Factor hopeful, Ashford Campbell, who sang in the first and second live shows with rival group, Nu Vibe, to take Ashley's place.

It seems the Girls category is not short of their own problems this week as category mentor, Kelly Rowland has fallen ill during a trip to Los Angeles earlier in the week. A statement read "Kelly is devastated she won't be here for this weekend's show. She is extremely ill with a viral throat infection and her doctors aren't permitting her to fly." However, rumours abound that Kelly is considering quitting the show following accusations from Tulisa in last week's live show that one of Kelly's star acts, Misha B, had been bullying some of the other contestants.

Regardless of whether there is any truth to the rumours, the question is, how will this week's X Factor roller-coaster affect Little Mix, The Risk and three girls, Misha B, Janet Devlin and Sophie Habibis? Such upsets, if playing on the contestants' minds, could affect their performances, and The Risk in particular, face the challenge of bringing a new member up to speed in very short shrift. No wonder Gary is feeling confident for this week. And of course, the earlier controversy over fourth judge, Louis Walsh, is now forgotten. How convenient.

NaBloPoMo Day 27 - Sing Live

I had two options for tonight's blog post. The only thing that prevented me from writing about Manchester City Council's proposals to close facilities at Heaton Park was the fact that I did a political post last night and I am trying hard to keep my blog more lighthearted during NaBloPoMo. Instead, I want to tell you all about one of my passions...

I joined Sing Live in 2009 to perform a concert of Big Band music. It actually seems like it's been much longer than two and a half years because I feel like it has been a long (although incredibly fun) journey between then and now. After that first concert I was privileged to join the company for the 10th Anniversary concert at the Royal Albert Hall, followed by Movie Musicals in February last year, the Beatles Story in June the same year, and then Magical Musicals in June this year. Last summer I also performed with Sing Live on the channel 5 TV show, Don't Stop Believing. Looking back, it's no wonder that it feels like more than a couple of years!

In case you haven't come across Sing Live before now, it is a company aimed at sharing the joy of singing with everyone. The founding principle is 'ordinary people doing extraordinary things in exciting places' and when I think, not just about the venues that I've performed in, but also the ones I haven't been able to join for (Disney World in Florida, Venice, Cruises and even The Vatican) that guiding idea is certainly coming true. Almost everyone I know within Sing Live is an amateur. We are literally ordinary people - very few are exceptionally talented, including me - but we get to sing in amazing places. And it isn't as if we're bad - we are skilled, disciplined and Sing Live concerts are always of the highest possible standard. There are no auditions to join, which means that whether you sing in public or just in the shower, you can participate, and the group environment is a great place to sing while feeling supported and safe.

When I think about my journey with Sing Live, that's exactly what I needed, especially at the beginning. I used to sing when I was in school, but hadn't done any singing (other than along with the car stereo) for well over 10 years. I have no illusions about my ability but I really felt, despite getting a lot out of singing, that I couldn't sing. I felt very out of practice and very unsure of myself. Over the course of the past couple of years, I have got back into the groove and grown in confidence. I've even tried out for solos, and recently started personal singing tuition to help me improve further. And all of that is down to the friendly, nurturing environment that Sing Live provides.

Our next concert starts rehearsing in early November and we will continue through until early February, when we perform at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester. If you are a frustrated (or not so frustrated) singer, come along to one of our preview nights next Wednesday or Thursday. If you don't want to sing, why not come to our concert. Even if you don't live in the Manchester area, Sing Live operates across the UK and also in Florida. More details available from the Sing Live website.

NaBloPoMo Day 26 - When does unfair become fair?

On a day when British Prime Minister, David Cameron, should have is attention firmly squared upon the Eurozone crisis, a leaked report by Conservative donor, Adrian Beecroft, suggests that the government should repeal legislation that protects workers against unfair dismissal. The report, commissioned by David Cameron, suggests that employment law is holding back economic growth and that in order to encourage business, the laws should be scrapped. In the report, Beecroft says:

"Many regulations conceived in an era of full employment are designed to make employment more attractive to potential employees, That was addressing yesterday's problem. In today's era of a lack of jobs those regulations simply exacerbate the national problem of high unemployment." (Huffingtonpost.co.uk)

I fail to see how keeping someone in a job (whether they are lazy or otherwise) contributes to a problem of high unemployment.

Unemployment law in the UK is very detailed and sometimes complex, but if it is, that is because it has been honed to achieve the best balance between the employer and the employee. Having said that, the dismissal process is relatively straightforward, particularly for unproductive workers. How difficult is it to understand and implement a policy that is as simple as verbal warning, writing warning, final writing warning, out?

In my experience, all too often, unproductive workers are the result of the mismanagement of the employer. I have witnessed first hand an employee that literally sat with his feet up on the desk and got away with it over and over because the manager failed to follow the correct procedure for dismissal. Why did this happen? It wasn't because the law was ineffective, it was because the manager didn't want to deal with the problem and, when threatened by the employee (with an employment tribunal), didn't understand the process and the law enough to be confident to proceed.

While the employee must take responsibility for their own actions (or inaction),  the employer must take responsibility for addressing those problems. Individuals must be given a fair opportunity to reverse the negative behavior and improve their performance. Existing laws ensure that all employees receive due process when being dismissed and that they have a right of appeal. Even with laws as they are now, anyone can be sacked for any reason; it's just a matter of cost!

I have also witnessed first hand someone being summarily dismissed because the manager wanted to replace them with a friend, so it's not as if unfair dismissal doesn't still happen, even with the laws in place.


If there was ever any doubt that the Tories have changed for the better, this report removes it in one fell swoop. They are the party of the rich and the party of business and they have once again demonstrated how, despite a young, fresh image, and a selection of moderate policies, the party is the same old wolf wearing the same old sheep-skin rug and hoping no-one will notice. But we have noticed.

I understand the motivation and I even understand the principles on which Conservative policies are founded - small government, less tax etc. But the problem with small government (ie. repealing laws and removing government and civil justice responsibility) is that it is always the guy at the bottom of the ladder that suffers. After all, shit falls downwards.

Beecroft goes on to say in the report that:


"The downside of the proposal is that some people would be dismissed simply because their employer did not like them," and adds "While this is sad I believe it is a price worth paying for all the benefits that would result from change." (Huffingtonpost.co.uk)


The unjust sacking of even one hard-working individual is a price that I am simply unwilling to pay. Mainly because that person could, one-day, be me. We need more job security in a recession, not less and I'm pretty sure if Beecroft or David Cameron had normal jobs, this idea would never have been thought of, never mind actually making it to consideration. .

NaBloPoMo Day 25 - Young Apprentice

I'm a little behind with my blogs now - yesterday was X Factor, which should have been Saturday or Sunday, and today I'm going to write about something that was on TV yesterday - Young Apprentice.

Last year was the first time the BBC had tried the teen version of one of their most popular reality TV shows, The Apprentice. Then it was called 'Junior Apprentice', but the premise this year remains the same; take collection of precocious 16 and 17 year olds and put them through their paces on a range of tasks designed to test their teamwork, management and business skills. Each week, one of the hopefuls is 'fired' and sent packing. Up for grabs to the last one standing is a fund that will be invested in the winner's education and business.

Watching these kids, two things fascinate me. First, most of them have an entrepreneurial spirit and as a result have already started  their own business despite being barely out of school. Most adults three times their age haven't achieved that. There's some definite educational high achievers too, with one lad this year achieving the joint highest result in his year in GCSE Economics in Northern Ireland. All of them have impressive CVs but the thing that really amuses me is that they are all clones of their adult counterparts.

Is it that the kids are particularly mature and that is reflected in their antics, or is it that the adults have never grown up and are still behaving like teenagers. In both shows there is bickering in abundance, plenty of tantrums and the biggest egos imaginable.

The first episode was excellent, with it being all too obvious which candidates were out of their depth. I'm already looking forward to the next one.

NaBloPoMo Day 24 - X Factor Live Shows Week 3

What a week on X Factor. It is rare indeed that I don't watch the Saturday night show and have an act (or sometimes several) that I either think will go, or wish would go, particularly this early on. I felt that everyone put in a good performance and as a result, the show was a pleasure to watch. Here's a few thoughts on the four categories and this week's result.

The Boys category took the lead into the show this week with a tremendous opening from hairdresser, Marcus Collins. His vocal could have been stronger but I felt his performance was well rounded and, as always, his fantastic personality shone through. Frankie Cocozza was much better this week - wooing the ladies and getting rat-arsed obviously works for him. (Hrrrmmmm!) Frankie has the weakest voice of all the contestants (including many of those that have already gone) but his strength is his stage presence and 'cheeky lad' character. As long as he and Gary continue to play up to that he will be alright. Craig disappeared into the background a little this week and I felt he was somewhat at risk. He has a great voice and a lovely personality (he comes across as being very personable on Twitter - @CraigColtonUK) and when he has the right song he can really emote, but I can't help but feel that Rock Week isn't his gig.

The Girls category put in another solid performance this week. Janet brought a slightly insipid version of Sweet Child of Mine, but I can't fault her vocal. She was lacking a little bit of sparkle, but in the grand scheme of things she was still a joy to watch. Sophie is emerging as a potential dark horse now. She is starting to show a bit more of her gutsy personality, which is a pleasure to see. Her verson of Living on a Prayer was probably the best version of it, bar the original; I've heard it sung a lot of different ways, and I've head it murdered a lot of different ways, but Sophie's version was excellent. Of course (and this is the only sad thing) is that both Janet and Sophie, no matter how talented, pale in comparison to Misha B. The girl is a great character, a great performer, has a great look and a great brand. She's hard working, dedicated and has a genuine feel for 'the biz'. It's a sign of her threat to the other categories and contestants when Tulisa and Louis feel the need to character assassinate her, live on stage. More on that in a moment.

I felt that the weakest category overall this week was the Groups, although this was due in part to Tulisa not understanding the challenge (Has she never watched this show before????) and, certainly for The Risk, a weakened team through illness. I have enjoyed both groups in previous weeks but I thought that this week was Rhythmix's weakest performance vocally, but their song was rubbish and the vocal arrangement was a train wreck. Tulisa had better up her game next week if she doesn't want to lose her girls. The Risk were the beet of the two groups and the arrangement for Crazy was actually really quite inventive, although it lends itself to a four-part better than the Push It Mash-up that the girls had.

Finally, the Over 25s were super this week. Like Kelly, I think of Johnny as my guilty pleasure. I loved his performance this week (although it got a bit slap-dash at the end) and the styling this week was brilliant. The thing that really entertains me though is the banter with Gary. Long may it continue! Sami, I fear, was let down by her mentor. Why is it that Louis can't see past the cruise-ship/lounge singer styling and song choice. Sami has a belting voice and deserved a better shot than Louis was able to give her. I am disappointed that she suffered as a result. As for Kitty, my personal opinion of her hasn't changed. But like her or loathe her, she can sing and she can perform. I hate to say it, but I felt this week was her strongest performance to date and it put her right up there with the best acts on the night. I predict, however, that the public will not warm to her and she will fnd herself in the bottom two again. If she comes up against a more commercial and popular act, she will be out.

So, overall, an entertaining showcase of genuine talent. I found it hard to pick the loser this week and I was sad that it was Sami, particularly since I feel that she was not given the best chance of success because of her mentor. On that note, Louis is in hot water at the moment because of his accusation of bullying against Misha B, and rightly so. It was a terrible thing to say, especially for the sake of gaining an advantage over your competition. The press (and the public) are beying for blood and I tend to agree; Louis is past his sell-by date (it's nothing to do with his age, it's to do with his ability to mentor and judge the competition) and I would like to see him replaced. Rumours circulate that Simon Cowell could be returning, but I feel that would be a mistake. I would like to see a younger artist take Louis's place however my feeling is that it's not going to happen. We'll wait and see.

NaBloPoMo Day 23 - Occupy X

Normally I would do some sort of X Factor blog (since I didn't do it last night) but today there is a bigger and much more inspiring story.

Today Libya celebrated its liberation from Gaddafi's dictatorship. It is a nation that has suffered under a brutal tyranny designed to entrench the leadership, and a people that for too long have been denied freedom. But today Libya is a nation that looks forward to the future and the hope of democracy. While the people remember their dead and the wounded recover, they are hopeful for better things; for simple things like the freedom to choose their leaders and freedom from the threat of death for descension. I celebrate the liberation of Libya and I celebrate the sacrifice that her people made to rebel against the rule of a corrupt man and his family.

How sad and how shameful that the Occupy protests that are taking place in London and cities in America should compare themselves with Libya and the Arab Spring.

I defend the right to protest and I applaud organisers of the OccupyLSX protest for how peaceful it has been. In recent years too many peaceful demonstrations have turned violent so it is a relief to see a well organised protest that is not aggressive in any way. However, I do take issue with this protest on a number of counts, the biggest of which is the association with the struggle of other nations where liberty and freedom are just words in a dictionary. If they think their campaign has any similarities with that of the Arab Spring, they need a wake-up call. Perhaps they should go a volunteer in Libya to get a taste of what revolution is really like.

These protests are Anti-Capitalist, Anti-Establishment, and Nihilistic. They offer no solution, no programme or suggestion for reform and many of the interviews that I have seen have revealed protestors views and reasons for joining in to be naive at best. It saddens me that these people can't see how fortunate they are. Here's a crazy idea, guys, why don't you get involved in politics - become a Local Councillor or an MP - and try to change society for the better? Or is that too much like hard work?

NaBloPoMo Day 22 - The Black Lion

So, NaBloPoMo day 21... that's three weeks... only another week and a bit and it'll be Nanowrimo and I'll really have my work cut out for me!

Before I get into tonight's blog proper, a quick mention for my colleague and friend, Liz Kirk, who is 26 today. Happy Birthday, Road Safety Princess.

Another landmark event that happened today was me reading my local paper. It doesn't happen often; mostly when I have time (rare) and hubby hasn't already eaten it (even more rare). There was one story in particular that caught my attention. It was a little story written by my favourite journalist, Pamela Welsh, and it was about a local pub.

The Black Lion on Chapel Street in Salford closed last year. The ailing venue was bought by a local film company, FutureArtists, and re-opened at the end of September. The new owners invested £4,000 to revamp the pub and have not only breathed new life into a local watering hole, they have als created a venue fo local performers, artists and musicians. Work from local artists will be exhibited in the bar while upstairs will be transformed into a cinema, which will open next month, to show the films of FutureArtists and other local film-makers.

This is fantastic news. What an innovative idea to benefit the community and independent businesses, performers and artists. Well done to FutureArtists and to the pub landlord, Barry Phillips. I hope that this is a successful venture. Hubby and I will certainly be supporting it and I hope that others will do the same.

You can see what's on at the FutureArtists website.

NaBloPoMo Day 21 - Corrie

I admit it. I watch a lot of television. In fact, I would wager that I watch too much television. But it has been said (by Liz at work) "Do you watch any TV?" mainly because I don't watch soaps. It's a fact that the TV that I choose to watch, althoughly hugely popular, has more of a niche appeal that the stuff that most of my colleagues are in to.

However, tonight, while sharing a take out with my 'sistah from another mistah', I watched Coronation Street and actually really enjoyed it.

I don't really know why I never bothered with Corrie. Eastenders is too depressing, Hollyoaks is too young and pretty, Emerdale is too... well let's put it this way, I have concerns for the wellbeing of the sheep. But Corrie is friendly, it's neighbourly (being set in Salford, where I live) and it's familiar. My Nanna used to watch it religiously and the theme tune is something I grew up with that still creates a little warm feeling when I hear it. So many great actors and actresses have come through the show, including the wonderful Betty Driver, who passed away last weekend.

Of course, the acting is a little ropey in places and the dialogue is somewhat tedius at times, but it has emotion and, more importantly, a sense of humour.

It was pleasant entertainment and, while I don't think I am going to start watching it regularly, like my Nanna used to, I was impressed by how comfortable it was to watch and surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I may have to start paying a little bit more attention.

NaBloPoMo Day 20 - Top Tens

It's one of those things that we all do - say that such and such is in our top ten favourite whatevers - but I for one have never actually articulated any top ten list at all. We were talking about it at work this morning, so I thought (as I need to throw together a super-fast blog tonight because I have bee otherwise engaged) that I would have a bash at articulating my top ten favourite movies.

These are in no particular order, mainly because I could't possibly put them in any actual order. They are the films that I can watch over and over until my eyes bleed and still come back looking for more

1 - "NASA, you have a problem..." My first selection is Armageddon. I could be in this film, I've watched it that many times. I love the emotional roller coaster (the script takes you very quickly from high to low and back to high again, which makes it a lot of fun to watch) and I love the characters. It's filled with great action and special effects but it has a heart. Plus it's cheesy as hell (all those American flags in the backgrounds) and has some of the most memorable dialogue ever: "This is one order you shouldn't follow and you f**king know it!".

2 - I love cars and this next movie does a lot of the same things for me as Armageddon. It's Gone in Sixty Seconds (the remake). This is also a film with compelling charaters, plenty of heart and some really memorable dialogue. Plus it has some beautiful cars in it.

3 - "Give me a ping, Vasili. One ping only." Who would not include The Hunt for Red October? It's a riveting film that still keeps me glued to my seat despite having seen it hundreds of times. None of the other Jack Ryan films have ever come close to getting into my Top Ten but this one's been here since forever.

4 - My nod to Jane Austen in my Top Ten is Sense and Sensibility (with Kate Winslet and Emma Thompson). Sense and Sensibility is my favourite Jane Austen story, although I have enjoyed most of the ones I've read. I went to see this at the cinema and I was impressed as much by the acting and the script as by the camera work, which is just pure artistry.

5 - Dirty Dancing. There's isn't a woman alive in the UK (of my sort of age at least) that wouldn't include this in her Top Ten. For girls my age, it's the original love story and it has a brilliant soundtrack. This film still has the ability to make me cry like a little girl at the end when Baby does the lift.

6 - I was going to include a chick-flick here (because there are so many that I love) but eventually had to surrender to the call of Walt Disney. My all time favourite Disney movie is Beauty and the Beast. It was the one that really introduced me to Disney movies, because I hadn't been that bothered about them before that. I have some special memories that I associate with this too, so into the Top Ten it goes.

7 - It's time to incude some of the movies I love from my childhood. I was divided between including Home Alone, Tron and WarGames. I have eventually had to go for Home Alone because it's the quintessential Christmas movie for me and it just isn't Christmas without it. (Incidentally, I have never seen any of the sequels to Home Alone. And I never will!)

8 - Star Trek (the new one with Chris Pine and Zach Quinto). What a stunning interpretation of a classic sci-fi series. Despite having new acors, new effects, new writers an people working behind the scneses that hadn't previously been involved with the original series, the movie captured the essence of the series and the characters and it did so with a feather-light touch.

9 - I really wanted to include a past Star Trek movie to balance the inclusion of the contemporary one, but I just don't have the space for it because I have to include American Beauty. I have loved this film from the first time I saw it and I can still watch it now and be as enchanted by it as I was then. I don't think it will ever drop off my Top Ten because it is still as fresh and compelling for me now as it was twelve years ago.

10 - Finally, a truly modern classic, Inception. I don't know how it must feel to create something this good on your first time out. How the hell do you top something like this? Christopher Nolan created something so awesome and unique, he could retire now and still be proud of his accomplishments.

What are you favourite flicks and why? Do they touch you, inspire you, or do that remind you of something or someone special?

NaBloPoMo Day 19 - To eBook or not to eBook

Day 19 already. Nearly three weeks. Very exciting. However, for the first time since the beginning of NaBloPoMo, I found myself at a bit of a loss on what to write about, so I sought inspiration on the NaBloPoMo website in the list of prompts. I had to go back to July or August but it was the first one that captured my imagination.

Paper books or eBooks?

There is no doubt that the Sony Reader, the Kindle, the iPad and the various other tablet and e-reader devices are clever pieces of kit - I have written every one of this months blog posts on my iPad and use it for all my notes, outlines and writing. But there's something about a book.

In the same way that physically writing is different from typing, reading on a screen is a different experience to reading an actual book. There's something about holding a book, feeling it's weight and size, the smell of the pages and that sound as you turn a page; it's all part of the experience of reading. A book is warm and friendly and there's nothing quite like a dog-eared copy that has been read over and over, where you can see in every crease and worn edge, how much the reader has appreciated it. An e-reader is cold, mechanical and emotionless and can never tell it's own story the way a physical book can. A book is a doorway to another world, an e-reader is a tool to be used.

You might think this is odd coming from someone who is a self-confessed iFan, but writing is a different process for me than reading and therefore the way that I choose to engage with that process is different. Reading is all about enjoyment for me. When I read I like to become absorbed. I don't analyse, I don't examine and I don't question, I simply let the prose lead me and I obediently follow. When I'm writing, it's work. It's work I enjoy, but it's work. My mind is busy, looking for opportunities to explore, sewing seeds and weaving threads together. When I write, I'm in the driver's seat. It's a more analytical process and a more active one. As a writer, there are occasions when I want to be free of my digital chains, and that's when I put pen to paper in a leather journal I keep for the purpose. In it you will find ideas, random thoughts, snippets of songs, poetry and prose that catch my attention, and general ramblings.

For me, both reading and writing are quite romantic and artsy, but where reading is an entirely romantic experience, writing has a second facet which I think of as 'productive writing'. There's a place for e-readers; it's easier to take a loaded iPad on a two week holiday rather than a stack of 7 novels, and I acknowledge that some people will not romanticise reading as I do, but there will always be books in my house, and I will always prefer to read a printed novel over a digital copy.

NaBloPoMo Day 18 - The Secret Circle

I'm not usually a soap opera or teenage drama fan. I give things like Hollyoaks a wide berth and generally avoid anything in which the key characters are likely to be students at a school. But every now and again something comes along that is worth dipping a toe in the water.

The Secret Circle follows the misadventures of a group of six teenagers. However, in true dramatic fashion, these are no ordinary, angsty, acne riddled teenagers; these six kids are witches.

Following the death of her mother, gorgeous supermodel teenager number 1 (henceforth referred to as 'Cassie') is orphaned and moves in with her grandmother. At her new school, in the small town of Chance Harbour, she encounters a clutch of bad-eggs who, it turns out aren't all bad, but are witches and revel that she also has the power to make stuff explode, set fires and make it rain (or not), both in the traditional direction and also the opposite one. The kids are struggling to expand and control their abilities while Cassie struggles to come to terms with what she has learned about herself and her family. Meanwhile, some adult witches, that have had their power stripped away by the previous generation following a horrific accident, are scheming to get their powers back, and it involves Cassie and the Circle.

I didn't watch the series right away but I'd seen the ads and it look interesting so I recorded it and watched the first three episodes virtually back to back. The Secret Circle is everything a drama aimed at teenagers and young adults should be - there's the angst, the struggle to find oneself, the effort to be independent, the self discovery, and of course, deserving of as much ridicule as one can possibly muster, everyone is skinny and attractive and the teenagers all look about 20 years old. However, all of the typical themes and plot points are very carefully and cleverly woven in with the magical elements to make the situation seem both extraordinary and entirely normal at the same time and, in that respect, it reminds me very much of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

The characters are interesting and satisfyingly flawed, which makes them accessible to the audience. They are thrown together and made to rely on each other despite not really liking each other, which has introduced plenty of conflict; even by episode three, there are already two love triangles established, which is impressive considering the relatively small cast. The back story is intriguing, mainly because it is only really hinted at beyond establishing the key facts, but this aone gives plenty of scope for development and exploration. There is certainly plenty of potential. My hope is that the writing is able to find the right groove for such complex cocktail. Of the first three episodes, the second was probably the weakest, as Cassie spent two thirds of it running out rooms and away from people. So far the writing hasn't quite managed to find that groove, but it isn't far off.

Admittedly, this will not be a show that will have wide appeal (and that may cost it in the long run), but if you enjoyed Buffy the Vampire Slayer, this will probably be right up your street.

NaBloPoMo Day 17 - Dan Wheldon

Yesterday evening, Dan Wheldon, along with 33 other drivers, were preparing for the Las Vegas Indycar 300 - the season finale. In the very early hours of this morning I heard the news that a crash involving almost half those drivers had resulted in the death of Wheldon.

The accident began when the cars of Wade Cunningham and JR Hildebrand made contact with each other in the middle of the pack. The initial crash left a field of debris and pall of smoke that obscured the view of passing drivers. As they tried to negotiate the initial accident site, other cars made contact, exacerbating the problem. Dan Wheldon, traveling at an estimated 200 mph, hit the car of Paul Tracy and went airborne. Wheldon's car hit the catch fence at the edge of the track and the roll hood, designed to protect the driver, was sheared off. Despite being airlifted to hospital, the sad news that he had passed away came a couple of hours later.

I have seen the footage of the accident replayed on the news today and the accident can only be described as chaos. As a long-standing fan of Formula 1, however, something stood out for me and that was how, in the blink of an eye, such a relatively minor incident snowballed into something horrific. Compare this with some of Formula 1's most serious accidents of the past few years - the accident involving Sergio Perez at the Monaco Grand Prix this year, springs immediately to mind - and what strikes you is how much safer Formula 1 is.

In the 61 year history of Formula 1 there have been only 47 driver fatalities, with 15 of those in the first decade, only two fatalities in the last twenty years and a total of 6 fatalities behind the wheel in the latter half of the sport. The last driver fatality in Formula 1 was the great Ayrton Senna at the San Marino Grand Prix in 1994. Roland Ratzenberger also died that weekend during qualifying; it was only his third F1 race. In response to those deaths, Formula 1 worked to ensure that similar accidents would not result in fatalities in the future.

The Indycar Racing League has only been in formal existence since the mid-nineties, with a six year hiatus in between, yet there have been four fatalities with three of them since the sport restarted ten years ago. Crashes in Indycar are more frequent and more violent, and, while no-one wants to witness the death of a driver, there is a school of thought that suggests it is the spectacular crashes that blood-thirsty audiences come to see. There may be some truth to this, but that shouldn't make it acceptable.

Of course, the comparison between F1 and Indycar is somewhat spurious. Indycar is a sport in its relative infancy, enjoying only a few years of active racing to develop technology and improve safety. But it is a sport that, like F1 before it, must learn from its past. Already the critics of the sport are calling for a ban for being 'too dangerous'. I will never be a supporter of a ban on Indycar, or any other motorsport, however, the sport has a duty to make itself safer.

Improving driver safety doesn't necessarily mean eliminating accidents (although reducing speeds and making cars more stable at high speed would probably be a part of it). When you look at this particular accident there are two things that would have made it both less serious and more survivable. The initial contact caused both debris and smoke - a deadly combination to vehicles traveling at speed. Had there been less debris, perhaps there would have been fewer cars involved and had there been less (or no) smoke, perhaps Paul Tracy would not have had to slow or if he had, perhaps Wheldon might have seen him slowing and avoided the impact. F1 cars are now designed to sustain damage to certain areas while cocooning and protecting the driver. Similar developments to Indycar could have prevented much of the debris and also limited fire and therefore smoke, and I am convinced that the roll hood of an F1 car would never be damaged like that of Wheldon's car, and this alone might have been enough to save his life.

While researching this blog post, I came across a quote that really puts the attitude of Indycar into the spotlight. Prior to the start of the race, Dan Wheldon signed a multi-year deal to replace Danica Patrick driving for Andretti Autosport, as she makes the move to Nascar. Following the accident, Michael Andretti said, "But it's part of our sport. He knew the risks; we all know the risks when we get in the car. It probably touches me a little more because of everything that was going on. It's a terrible thing, but unfortunately in our sport we've had a lot of days like these. They suck, but that's the way it is."

It's absolutely right that the drivers know and accept the risks of motorsport when they get in the car - the same is true for all branches of motorsport - but that doesn't make fatalities any less tragic or any more acceptable and it worries me that American motorsport seems to accept fatal accidents as an inevitability.

Dan Wheldon died aged just 33. In a motorsport career spanning ten years, he celebrated 16 victories and a further 27 podium finishes. He won the Indycar championship in 2005 driving for Andretti Autosport, and achieved two highly coveted Indianapolis 500 wins, including the 2011 race. Before today, few Brits will have known his name, but he was born in Emberton in Buckinghamshire. He lived in Britain for over twenty years, before moving to the States in 1999 to pursue a professional motorsport career. It was only a matter of finance that saw him cross the Atlantic; in slightly different circumstances, he could have been competing alongside Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton. He is survived by his wife, Susie, and two sons, Sebastian and Oliver. My thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends today and it is my hope that his death will eventually be the catalyst that improves the safety of his sport. But for now, lets celebrate a bright career and a life spent doing what he loved. Whether you agree with my thoughts or not, one thing is certain: Dan Wheldon would not wish this accident to be the used to call for a ban.

NaBloPoMo Day 16 - Open Mic Night

Tonight I had the privilege to watch and here some of Greater Manchester's (and some from further afield) best performers.

I was there supporting my friend, Kirsty, who is a superb performer with a belting voice (you can see another of her competition-winning performances here). Tonight she gave a flawless rendition of "On My Own" from Les Miserables, which is one of my favourite songs. She looked fabulous too, in a stunning electric blue dress.

Most of the performers tonight were very impressive but two (apart from Kirsty, of course) stood out from the rest. Eli Cripps, a young woman with a lovely tone in her voice, gave a great performance that struck a fine balance between attitude and cocky. It was lively and fun and very enjoyable. The other notable performance of the night was from a group of three young lads; Hip Hop Disciples. They were by far the best performers of that particular genre and really deserve some recognition.

Sadly, Kirsty didn't quite make the cut tonight, but it is certainly not a negative reflection on her talent or skill as a performer. Well done to her on a great performance and to those who were successful.

This is my first encounter with the Open Mic UK competition and it is worthy of support, offering help and exposure to performers across the UK. For more information, visit the website: www.openmicuk.co.uk

NaBloPoMo Day 15 - X Factor Live Shows Week 2

It was a great show tonight and I had that rare pleasure of watching live - ordinarily I record it and watch it back the next day to spare hubby the 'pain' of having to sit through it but there was nothing else on so I won... DEFAULT DEFAULT DEFAULT!

I think tonight's show demonstrated just how strong the field is this year. In past years there has always been a mish-mash of talent when it comes to the first couple of live shows, mostly, I think, due to the pressure. This year, however, there is plenty of talent on display and it is actually very refreshing.

The Groups opened the show this week with one of the weakest performances of the night from boy-band, Nu Vibe. Louis nick-named them No Vibe, which, despite their decidedly average performance, is a bit unfair. They were much improved on the previous week and it was easy to see why they had got through. However, it was just an average performance when taken in context and opening the show is always the worst slot, so I fear they will be in the bottom two, and will probably be going home tomorrow night. Of the other two groups, The Risk put in another solid performance, although the start of their number was a little dodgy. I wasn't sure whether it was the vocal or that the sound balance was off. But even so, it was a good performance. Rhythmix were the stand-out act in the group category for me. These four girls look great, sound great and do something a little bit different from the usual girl-band type of stuff. They feel fresh and new without being weird. They're comfortable on stage and so that makes them easy to watch. For the first time ever, I have voted in the first show and I voted for these girls. I'd like to think that's a sign that they are something special.

I think the Girls category was probably the strongest overall tonight. Misha B is a genuine pop-star. She has the look, the personality and above all the voice to be something really special but she is humble with it. It's like she knows she's good, but that she relies on the goodwill of others to carry her, and she's OK with that. Janet Devlin put in another lovely performance tonight too. She has a beautiful voice that is unique, which makes her ideal as a recording artist. She was a little downbeat in her performance, and her personality didn't come through, but I think that's to be expected due to the bereavement. What a little trooper. Finally, Sophie Habibis is the big question mark for me. When I hear her sing, I think she could be the dark horse and sneak up on this contest. Normally, this would be the kind of contestant that lingers in the background for a few weeks and then suddenly shines and goes on to be very successful. However, I wonder how much time she has. The competition is tough this year.

The Boys category also had some highs and lows for me. Lets talk about Frankie Cocozza. I completely understand why he's there, and I do agree that he deserves it because he knows how to put on a good show. But the song choice this week left him completely exposed. He was uncomfortable (probably due to the late change) and although it was a song that suited his vocal, it's also one that is impossible for him to hide in. The weaknesses in his voice were all too obvious and I wonder if he will survive. Both Marcus and Craig put in great performances tonight. They are strong contenders and I hope they both stay for a few more weeks at least.

Finally, the Over 25s category. This is still a category that is suffering rather than benefiting from Louis's guidance. Sami was first up with her stunning diva voice, but the song was hopeless. The problem with a song as iconic as 'I Will Always Love You' is that it is impossible to make it sound anything other than a cover of Whitney and it's so rooted in pop-culture that it shows it's age. Of course, Sami nailed it and made it appear effortless, so that should see her through but I hope that Louis starts listening to some contemporary music to find her something better for next week. Johnny is my guilty pleasure in this contest. Far from being the light entertainment like Jedward were, he has talent and he puts on a show. He didn't get great comments and I know he has his haters, but I love him to bits. Now... Kitty... her performance tonight was flawless. She took another old and iconic song but did make it a bit different and I thought her stage presentation was brilliant. Having said that, I find her so utterly fake that I can't believe her or her performance. I find her cocky and arrogant, and I actually wouldn't mind that (because the world is full of cocky an arrogant people and she has incredible talent, so would perhaps, be justified in her cockiness and arrogance) but she tries to hide it. She stands on the stage trembling and meekly thanking the judges for their comments, but it's a lie. You can see it in her eyes.

So, my prediction for the bottom two is Nu Vibe for sure and maybe Kitty, just because the public aren't warming to her. It should probably be Nu Vibe and Frankie Cocozza, but I can't see that happening. Marcus could be at risk, because I'm not are how strong his following is. I would be genuinely surprised if it was anyone else in the bottom two. I think Nu Vibe are going home tomorrow night. I still think Misha B could win this year. In the meantime, I will be looking forward to more from the girls and from Rhythmix in particular.

NaBloPoMo Day 14 - I Spy

This evening, still feeling pretty terrible, I indulged in Sky 1's Comedy Friday. They aired a new TV show titled 'Spy'.

The show tells the story of Tim (Darren Boyd - The Green Wing) who is a bit of a bungling idiot. He's been working at the same dead-end job for seven years until he suddenly decides to quit, in order to win the respect of his son. He goes to a recruitment day for a civil service data processing job and is accidentally recruited as a spy working for MI5.

It's not a bad little sit-com. It certainly has some potential. The character of Tim is fairly charming and his situation has plenty of potential laughs. The MI5 recruiter als has a lot of promise. Played by the wonderful Robert Lindsay, who is evey bit a proper actor having fun in the role. However, Tim's son Marcus is truly terrible. It seems that the writers may have been aiming for the precocious child intelligence that has made BBCs 'Outnumbered' such a success. I'm not sure whether it's the writing, or whether actor Jude Wright has just failed to achieve the innocence of his Outnumbered contemporaries, but the character is, for me at least, a complete failure, so much so that I am unsure whether to stick with it for the remaining five episodes.

NaBloPoMo Day 13 - Is There a Doctor in the House?

I have a few TV series that are true favourites. I love good drama and compelling characters. I like my dialogue clever and fast-paced, so my all time favourite show is The West Wing. My second favourite show is House.

Years ago, when I was writing fan-fiction in college, hubby - who wasn't hubby then - dreamed up a character that was instantly a favourite. He was a dysfunctional doctor with an alcohol problem and a terrible bedside manner but skilled and talented in his work. When House hit our screens it was like seeing that character brought to life in front of my eyes.

As time has passed, the series has achieved some highs and some lows. Last season plodded a bit, but the show has never shied away from tackling difficult and complex subjects including suicide, mental illness, drug abuse, medical ethics and the fine (and sometimes not so fine) line between right and wrong.

It has a great cast, great scripts and great stories. I highly recommend it (start with the early episodes/seasons) and you'll probably be addicted before long.

NaBloPoMo Day 12 - Alexi Murdoch

His music is generally unappreciated but it is his album, Time Without Consequence, is the last thing I listen to at night and the first music I listen to in the morning. It's a relaxed, laid back style of music, but for all its gentleness, is no less complex than any other great music.

Time Without Comsequence is a delicate mix of guitar, piano/keyboard, and drum work with meaningful lyrics and a simple vocal that is complimentary to the music. It has modern folk vibe, a little like Newton Faulkner in some respects, although more heartfelt with less sass.

My favourite track on the album is Breathe, which curiously enough, just started playing as I typed this. It's charming and lyrical with a catchy chorus that I find utterly irresistible.

I first came across the album through Prison Break - I forget which season - when the track 'Home' was used in a suicide scene. It's a strange combination, but one that genuinely works to give the scene the impact that it deserved. Tracks from the album were also used on the soundtrack to the movie 'Away We Go' starring Maya Rudolph (Bridesmaids) and directed by Sam Mendes (American Beauty, Revolutionary Road) and while I don't much care for the movie because I find it a little aimless in terms of the plot, Alexi Murdoch's music is the perfect partner to the movie's best scenes.

Alexi Murdoch was born in London and raised in Scotland. He now lives in New York and has a small house on the west coast of Scotland. The irony is, despite the fact that he is a UK born artist that still bases himself here at least some of the time, when I bought the CD album for my Dad, I had to import it from the US. He is, however, available on iTunes, so why not check him out.

NaBloPoMo Day 11 - Queasy

There are few things worse than feeling queasy. Knowing that you are going to be physically sick but feeling it anyway. Trying to get on and do things when you feel like that, lying on the sofa feeling sorry for yourself while thinking of all the things you need to do. Ugh!

The problem is that you are not quite ill enough to stop you doing anything, but you feel too sick to do much. The result is that you only do what you absolutely have to and feel guilty about everything else.

At least I have movies to take my mind off it.

Scott Pilgrim tonight, followed by Gone in 60 Seconds. I've only seen Scott Pilgrim once before but it's a fast favourite with me. I love its character and style. It's a comic book brought to life that doesn't fall back on the usual comic book style. It's an individual and, I suspect, one of those things that is lightning in a bottle; I'm certain that others will try to copy or recreate it without success.

As for Gone in 60 Seconds, I have seen it so many times that I could be in it. I'm a big fan of Jerry Bruckheimer, whose Producer credits also include dozens of great movies like Top Gun, Con Air and Armageddon. Like those other flicks, Gone in 60 Seconds is fast-paced, action-packed fun with a good story and superb performances. It's hard to believe that it's already an eleven year old movie. May it still be such a good watch in another couple of decades.

So, as the film is just getting to the good bit, I will doze off and leave you with these two movie recommendations. If you haven't checked them out already, do!

NaBloPoMo Day 10 - X Factor Live Show Week 1

If there is any doubt, I love X Factor. It's one of the few talent show / reality show type of programme that I watch, yet I have stuck with it since the second year. Religiously.

I really enjoyed the shows this weekend. Despite initial concerns, I love the new judges; they each have a refreshing air of honesty about them and it's nice to see evidence in the VTs of them actually mentoring their acts. However, I wish they'd binned Louis Walsh as well. The only thing he adds to the show is his hackneyed catchphrase book ("You belong on that stage"... "You could win the X Factor"... "You look like a popstar") and a catalogue of dated music; sometimes he even manages to make his acts dated when doing current stuff. I really don't know how he does it.

The field is also strong this year with several potential winners. It is, of course, always hard to tell how things will play out with so much depending on what happens in the press and whether there are any shocks in the public vote, but even at this stage, I think we're looking at a winner in the girls category. All four performers were excellent on Saturday night and I'm sure it was a tough decision for Kelly. Despite a stunning vocal, I expected her to send home Sophie Habibis - as the least distinctive of the four Girls, I fearthat she will fall foul of the public vote sooner rather than later - but I can't say that I'm disappointed that she stayed. It was a shame to reject Amelia Lily, who opened the show with a strong performance, but at 16 and with her talent, she should have plenty of opportunities ahead of her. In the Girls category, Misha B was the stand-out performance for me. And it's rare for me to enjoy a cover of an iconic song like Rolling in the Deep.

I was unsurprised at the result in the Boys and the Over 25s category. In the Boys category, while James Michael had more potential, he bottled it on the night and put in a weak performance. It was a bad call to start with a Beatles song on opening night and when compared with good performances from Frankie Cocozza (even though that breathy thing was really irritating), Marcus Collins and a stand-out effort from Craig Coltan, it was inevitable that James would be the one to fall.

The Over 25s category is the weakest this year (and indeed, it's the weakest Overs category I've seen for several years). Sami Brooks has a great vocal but I can't see her competing for long. Kitty Brucknell is a great entertainer but the public don't like her. She will inevitably be in the bottom two for week after week and constantly get saved before the judges finally let her go. Until then she will be the contestant that everyone loves to hate. Johnny Robinson is adorable and I'm so glad he's made the cut. His performance on Saturday was very average but he's such a character and a pleasure to see. Although I genuinely liked Jonjo Kerr, I felt that his performance was boring and lacked sparkle. He wasn't ready for the live shows and it was right that he should go.

My big disappointment in the result came from the Groups category. I rath enjoyed The Risk and Rhythmix. Although I don't find them all that distinctive in the wider market place they have talent and are appealing acts. The other two groups stood out in the category for me: Nu Vibe for all the wrong reasons and 2 Shoes for all the right reasons. I thought Nu Vibe were terrible and by far the weakest performance of the whole night, while I love the fun and cheeky character of the 2 Shoes girls. I enjoyed the performance, even if the song sounded a little odd without the other 3 parts that it was originally written for, so I was very disappointed that they were the ones that went home and not Nu Vibe. I can only assume that the pregnancy was an issue for the show and hope that the girls will be back next year

So overall, a great start to this year's live shows. My early (and I emphasise that this is EARLY) prediction is a winner from the Girls. At this stage, my Monopoly money is on Misha B with Frankie Cocozza the runner up. But it could all change and I can't wait for next week.

TV Review: Terra Nova "Genesis Part 1 & 2"

With the Steven Spielberg name attached along with some fairly serious acting talent, dinosaurs, time travel and rumours of a budget numbering in the millions per episode, Terra Nova seems like it might be the next big thing. It promised so much, yet series opener "Genesis" delivered so little.

The episode opens with a CGI ariel sweep across a smog-filled dystopian cityscape as the audience is introduced to the swiss-family Shannon: dad, Jim (Life on Mars actor, Jason O'Mara), mum, Elisabeth (Shelley Conn), and their three children, Josh, Maddy and Zoe. However, the happy family is quickly torn apart in an altercation with the authorities; Zoe, the youngest Shannon sibling, is 'illegal' according to a limit on the number of children per family. Two years later, Jim is in prison and the family faces permanent separation as Elisabeth has been recruited to join Terra Nova - a colony living 85 billion years in the past. Not only must she leave her husband but also her illegal youngest child. Some mild action ensues and ultimately the family is reunited in the past.

The idyllic Terra Nova colony is run by Commander Nathaniel Taylor (Stephen Lang - Conan the Barbarian (2011), Avatar) who welcomes the newcomers with a stirring speech. The family starts to settle into their new life consisting of light, space and wholesome hard work. But paradise is not as perfect as it seems, with dangers and mysteries lurking in the jungle.

Like a new-born Bambi struggling to find his feet, Terra Nova stumbles clumsily to establish the characters and the rules of the fictional world they inhabit. The imprisonment of Jim and the resulting jail-break is tagged on simply to make the family's transit to the past more dramatic, yet an exploration of how the family might feel conflicted about going back in time is almost completely ignored, with only a fleeting goodbye between the eldest son, Josh, and his girlfriend to hint that it is anything other than an easy decision. As a result, "Genesis Part 1" falls flat and seems like an uncessary afterthought that represents opportunities missed in the rush to get to 'the dinosaur bit'.

"Genesis Part 2" is somewhat more successful, hinting at possible future plot developments and introducing 'The Sixers', a band of rebels who were once part of the Terra Nova colony, that have struck out on their own. There is a suggestion too, that Commander Taylor knows more than he is revealing and that there is a wider mystery to be solved. "Part 2" also introduces some potentially intriguing characters, including the leader of The Sixers, Mira (Christine Adams - The Whole Truth, TRON: Legacy), and Skye, a young independant loner who lost her family to illness after coming to Terra Nova. To its detriment, however, the second episode continues some of the awkward storytelling of the first, as the audience is subjected to a chain of trite scenes, including the 'stroppy teen' scene and the 'feeding the Brachiosaur' scene. These meaningless, off-the-shelf storytelling modules occupy screentime that would have been better spent giving explanations for some of the characters' actions: even by the end of the second episode, it's unclear why a Jim and Elisabeth Shannon, a respected police officer and successful doctor, would break the law and have their third child. My only hope is that this, and other unanswered questions, might be explored in later episodes.

There are also a few wider problems that go beyond plot and characterisation. Unfortunately, Jurassic Park is so ingrained into pop-culture that it dominates the sub-genre. As a result, it's difficult to watch Terra Nova without expecting Jeff Goldblum to coming running out of the tree line with a flare in his hand. In addition, while Stephen Lang is an accomplished actor, in the same way that the ghost of Jurassic Park is ever-present, so the spectre of his character in Avatar hangs over Lang's performance. The character is, in many respects, very different - Taylor is less brutal and more developed than Avatar's Colonel Quaritch - but it is hard not to see the latter in Terra Nova. Similarly unsettling is the casting of Jason O'Mara as Jim Shannon. His face is now so closely associated with the failed US version of Life on Mars, that it's Sam Tyler on the screen instead of Jim Shannon. Only time will tell if Terra Nova is able to step beyond the shadow of it's bigger Jurassic brother, and if Lang and O'Mara are able to shake off their past performances to make their roles distinctive.

In one final disappointment, while the creatures of Terra Nova are brought to life using superb computer imagery this quality of CGI is strangely lacking in other areas; one particular scene used some of the worst green-screen effects of recent years and at times the experience was like watching a computer game rather than a big-budget TV show. Indeed, some of the CGI has more in common with Stargate SG:1 episodes from the late nineties, than with the bang-up-to-date effects used for the dinosaurs.

So all in all, a rather disappointing first outing for Terra Nova. However, none of its problems are insurmountible and it shows signs that it can improve. The concern is that if Bambi doesn't find his feet quick enough, he will face the axe. TV execs are reknowned for their lack of patience, which is particularly worrying if rumours about the amount of money being plowed into Terra Nova's production are accurate.

Terra Nova is currently being aired in the UK on Sky1 and Sky1HD on Mondays at 8pm

NaBloPoMo Day 9 - Singing

Regular readers may have picked up on the fact that not much actually happens in my life. It's mostly the same sort of thing every day, which leads me to comment on the weather or the news. But today I actually have something to blog about. Today I had my first singing lesson.

I have mentioned before that I've been performing with Sing Live for a couple of years now. This does cost a fair bit but I love it and can't imagine ever wanting to give it up. I have met so many lovely people through Sing Live; every one is very friendly and supportive and I always look forward to rehearsals as much as the actual performances, which are always thrilling. There are plenty of choirs and singing groups out there but Sing Live is the only way (for an ordinary person anyway) to get to sing in some of the best venues. I have performed at the Royal Albert Hall and others have sung all over the world, from Disneyland in Florida, to The Vatican.

However, as much as I love singing with the choir I think I've developed as far as I can in the group environment. I have loads of confidence when I'm singing with others, but when you're solo there's nowhere to hide and I'm my own worst critic. I'm a complete sod for always pushing and striving to be better; some people might say that's a good thing but it can be a failing... perfectionist might be a good word to describe me. So, when my birthday rolled around, I decided to ask for money towards some private lessons.

It's taken me the best part of 3 months to find someone that I got a good enough vibe from to actually take the leap and go for an initial session and I was not disappointed. I'm not going to go into too much detail because my iPad battery is dying, but the tutor, Jamie, reassured me and made me feel comfortable and relaxed, even though singing on my own usually terrifies me. We did some warm-ups then some vocal exercises and finished with some Adele (one of my favourite artists).

As well as doing the private lessons, Jamie also works with a couple of other performing arts coaches to form the Rhapsody Academy, which offers singing, dancing and acting classes for kids and teenagers. They are based at Rivington Park School near Horwich, Bolton and offer a range of courses. You can get more info here.

Despite my crippling nerves, I love singing and performing. It's is a great confidence builder (especially choral singing - safety in numbers and all that) and it's good for you too. Not only can singing (done properly) be quite physical, it can help you expand your lung capacity and boosts seratonin levels, which combats depression. In other words, it's good for your health and it makes you happy. I am a firm believer in the ethos that everyone can sing, it's just a case of some people finding it easier than others to pitch a note. So if you like to sing in the shower or you sing along with the radio in the car, maybe it's time to try something like Sing Live. Or if your kids are into the music, maybe give something like Rhapsody a try. There really isn't much to lose but so much to gain and so far, I haven't regretted getting involved.

NaBloPoMo Day 8 - Rain Rain Go Away

Having a dog is great. When I was growing up my Mum always said no when I asked to have a dog. She was quite right when she said that she'd end up looking after him or her because what child has the attention span to want to get up early and go to bed late so that the dog can be walked three times a day? When we did eventually get a dog she was like my best friend and then when I had to leave home and leave her behind (and of course when she eventually passed away) I missed her terribly. It took years before hubby and I felt that we could justify having a dog ourselves. Both working full time, we have always been conscious that a dog would be shut in alone for most of the day, but then Steve started working shifts so the dog is rarely home alone.

When we got Dexter I felt like a hole in my life had been filled. I was always meant to have a dog (I guess that's the very definition of a dog person) so having him around has genuinely been fullfilling. There are days though when I could wish for things to be a little bit different.

I would never regret getting our boy and I wouldn't want to give him up, but getting up early every morning can sometimes be a bit of a drag. It's also an inconvenience when you're ill and still have to take the dog out for walks, even though you feel like collapsing when you walk from the bedroom to the bathroom and back again. And you really notice the weather when you have a dog.

It has rained non-stop today, varying from light drizzle to rain to heavy downpour. So far today I have got wet once and soaked twice and this weatheris set to continue for several more days. Even Dexter doesn't like the rain. But unfortunately for me, he likes his walks more so off out we must go, weather be damned. So for now I will suck it up and quietly chant (while getting wet AGAIN) "rain rain go away, come again some other day".

NaBloPoMo Day 7 - Open University

Day 7 already and still going strong. I am very proud of myself. :-)

Today I'd like to dedicate my blog to some wonderful and helpful people that I encountered. You see, last night I received one of the regular email newsletters from the Open University. I have been studying with them since 2002 (yep... Almost a decade) and working towards a degree in Literature. I have only one course left to do.

The email that I received last night had a section about next year's course fees, which increase from £700 for a 60 point course, to £2,500. Why the price hike? It's all due to changes to the way that universities are funded. When the changes come in next September, the Open University stands to lose £90m in funding from the government. In place of the funding, they have had to increase their fees. However, unlike the current fee and loans system, from next September, part-time students will be eligible for a student loan to cover the course fees.

Of course, even the lower fee is quite an item, so money being tight I chose to postpone my final course until next year... Until I got that email I mentioned. Panic! You see, I started a degree in 1997, which I had to abandon for personal reasons so I was unsure whether I would be eligible for a loan to cover the fees for next year. At the same time, registration for my final course for this year's intake had closed, so I was facing a fee I believed I couldn't possibly pay next year on the one hand, and a course I couldn't get on to for this year on the other. Talk about being between a rock and a hard place.

The good news is that it was all stress for nothing. Raj at Student Finance for England assures me that I am eligible for the loan for next year. So hooray! However is also spoke with Lynn and Elaine at the OU, both of whom were very helpful indeed. As it happens, had I needed to, they would have placed me on the intake for this year. All three folks offered me reassurance and excellent customer service, for which I am very grateful.

So after all that, am I against the tuition fee changes? No. I believe in a free education system but that's not possible at the momeny. However, the changes will make higher education much more accessible to those from lower income backgrounds and it is fairer because those who graduate and end up earning more will pay back more while those who earn less will pay less. At the end of the day, whether you come from privilege or from a council estate is irrelevant; where you end up is what will matter. It's not a perfect system but it's an improvement.

NaBloPoMo Day 6 - Sent From My iPhone

There were a number of different topics that I considered writing about today, but all that fell by the way when I saw the news.

Steve Jobs died today.

Sometimes a technology comes along that really does change lives. Medical advances like MRI machines and pacemakers literally save lives, while other advances change the way we think or the way we use something. Apple and the technologies the company has developed in recent years have done just that.

In the same way that Sky+ changed the way I use TV, the iPhone changed the way I use my phone. I remember the days when I used to schedule study time around what I wanted to watch on TV and these days I very rarely watch anything at the point of broadcast, and I remember the days when my mobile phone was for making and receiving calls. These days all my TV viewing gets recorded to the Sky+ and I'm more likely to use my phone to check Twitter or my email than to make a call. My iPhone keeps me informed and keeps me connected to friends and family across the UK and all around the world. My iPhone is my camera, my music player and the whole internet in my pocket. It's communication, it's entertainment and it's knowledge in the palm of your hand and the technology that has come after it (namely the iPad) is just as impressive - this blog post is written on an iPad.

These are amazing tools that set make accessing the Internet and media easier and they are tools that set us free from the office. And they as beautiful as they are versatile.

Some people will play down Apple's contribution and Steve Jobs' role in it but make no mistake, while these great products are the result of great software and great design that is developed by many many skilled and talented people, but Jobs brought that talent together and inspired the company that facilitated that development. You may not be a fan of Apple and you may not use any Apple products but look around, look at the technology you do use: would your MP3 player exist without the iPod, would your Android phone exist without the iPhone, would tablets have had the resurgence they have experienced without the iPad? For the past decade, Apple has been leading the way and every one else has been playing catch up.

So I feel perfectly justified in saying the Steve Jobs was a genius and a visionary and that his death is a loss to the world of technology. This is a sad day for those of us that appreciate Apple products and so, in tribute, I say this:

Sent from my iPhone.