What's new pussycat?

I Never Left

2011-12-14T21:36:00.003Z

It has been a while. I write in a year that saw the highest rate of unemployment since 1994 in the UK, the Arab rising, Kate and Wills marry, rnb dance become a new genre ( I blame those Pitbull and David Guetta collaborations) and yours truly working over Christmas. I am pleased to see the GMC has highlighted the concerns of trainees especially in relation to EWTD and service provision outweighing clinical experience and skills. I have decided I will write less about work because I risk my anonymity and most blogs are full doctors moaning about their jobs. Do not get me wrong I will still be honest.

I look forward to waching Mission Impossible: Ghost protocol and the following are on heavy rotation:

Kelly Clarkson-Stronger
Ed Sheeran-+
Drake- Take Care
Pistol Annie's- Hell On Heels
Lady Antebellum-We Owned The night

The Amazon exhibition at Somerset House was thought provoking. It was interesting to see black and white photos of the vast area compared to lush green shots which are the norm. I skipped the ice skating as it was crowded and I have been before but I would still recommend it. World photo exhibition at South bank centre is also worth a look. The Veil play at National Theatre is not.

Boxing day sales will be a targeted affair on the high street planned with military precision. I also plan to log on to the online shops after midnight to secure the best bargains. Ever wonder why there is nothing left? It is because sad people (I am soon to join this group) stay up to do this!

I am off to bed before my on call tomorrow.

FY2 Begins

2008-08-16T09:01:00.002Z

Welcome to FY2 (foundation year 2 training), the land of experimental e-portfolios, no study leave in some trusts whilst others take any exam known to man that may help at ST job interviews and getting bleeped because nurses are not allowed to get F1s out of bed at night. Take control of your own learning, arrange a taster week and write an a4 report on it (is anyone else thinking primary school or medical elective?). My first week consisted of the usual induction topics (fire safety, infection control, risk management lectures) with resus training (always useful). Sometimes I wonder why I do this job especially when a minority of patients are rude, aggressive or abuse the NHS. This is counterbalanced by the warm fuzzy feeling I get when I have made a diagnosis and initiated treatment which will benefit the patient (cliche alert). I still get a rush from the clinical experience and I hope to never loose that enthusiasm. However glancing at some of my more experienced colleagues, it may be inevitable. Doctors are less respected than before, medico legal is the buzz word and the internet makes self diagnosis a foregone conclusion. Despite all this, I honestly don't think I could do anything else. Enough talking shop.

Watch out for:

Jazmine Sullivan-they're calling her the new Alicia Keys (no comparison, vocally she wins hands down but I do love Alicia).
Little Jackie -eclectic genre defying artist.

10 things I have learnt:

1.I have a magazine addiction-glamour, elle, vogue, company etc
2.New Kids On The Block have a greatest hits album out in the States
3.Georgia is a State outside of the US
4.MMC (modernising medical careers) doesn't know what it is doing
5. Rock star kids have no common sense and are always named after fruit
6. You can be famous for no reason (Brooke Hogan, BB contestants, Jamie Winstone)
7. Sienna Miller is immensely talented (if anyone has any idea of which field other than dating 'separated men', please send answers in on a post card)
8. Everyone is scared of getting stabbed or gunned down especially by kids on public transport who play loud music (la la la, no no my ear drums aren't begging for respite)
9. London lite and London paper come out AFTER metro
10.Lily Allen gets more annoying as she gets older, release an album (pref somewhere else so we aren't subjected to singles on the radio), do something.

Hello It's Me Again

2008-06-13T09:58:00.006Z

After a 6 month hiatus, one could be forgiven for thinking I'd given up writing. My new year's eve was spent doing an arterial blood gas on a sick patient as fireworks and noise filled the surroundings. I cannot complain at least I wasn't working around Christmas. Surgical firms brought their own nuances, with more politics than the US elections. Despite the less intense pace I craved medicine where we could be trusted to diagnose respiratory tract infections without the help of the respiratory team.

London fashion weekend was dire and a night out at Dolce broke my record for door- cloakroom -home time ( 15 minutes if I remember correctly). Electric Showrooms (shoreditch) is sublime if you can get over the teen vogue cover wannabes. I recommend the raspberry beer. Adele played Shepherd's bush (amazing voice, I forgot how young she is till she started speaking), vanity fair portraits came to my favourite space and pyscho designs blew my mind (top floor holds nice surprise). Sex and city movie was fabulous of course. I spent most of my time eyeing up the clothes and accessories. Indiana Jones- don't bother if you haven't bothered already,in which case it's too late. I was embarrassed on behalf of the cast and crew.

80's attire including neon legwarmers and head bands, stag and hen parties, a deserted warehouse in Vauxhall. Yes you guessed it....................Roller disco. I am half way through Angels and Demons by Dan Brown, doing things backwards (I read Da Vinci Code first) and behind the times. Belle Du Jour's Intimate Adventures Of A London Call Girl is an eye opener to say the least but hardly Pulitzer material. Her relationship with her exes is the real story as opposed to the obvious call girl fodder. Pedro Almodovar's box set sits on my top shelf, 1/3 of a DVD watched so I question my film and literary choices. Has my job left me with a penchant to switch off my brain outside of work or was the 3 for something pounds deal online the clincher?

New music:

Cherish The Truth - Rnb trio likened to destiny's child. Good production
Lil Wayne Tha Carter III- 2/5 at best
Usher Here I Stand- I like 3 songs- appetite, love you gently and best thing feat Jay-Z
Danity Kane Welcome to The Doll House- Excellent production and polished vocals
Kate Voegele & Sara Bareilles Little Voice-Excellent
Sam Sparro Black and Gold-Electro soul at its best. check out Santogold if you want something more left field.

Hidden gems:
Lodge Tavern, W5- Arguably best pub Sunday roast in London.
Chopstix High Street Ken W8- Cheap and cheerful oriental food. Try the bubble iced tea.
Fever, East castle St W1-Quirky boutique behind oxford street selling contemporary and vintage designs
Absolute Vintage, Hanbury Street E1 & Beyond Retro Cheshire St E1
Check out urban path for other Londoner's tips

Sponge

2007-12-17T19:26:00.000Z

I am not saying I am trendy but I am a sponge. Every fashion ad campaign, new music, new haunts. I search and soak it all up. The music crisis has been alleviated after several days of negotiations.

Hot music:
Kat De Luna -9 Lives

Jonathan Clay - After All

Souljah Boy fest i15-Souljah Girl. Cheese galore but I like it.

Mario- Go. Oak production is sick on Why & Kryptonite. Also other host of producers including Polow the Don and Neptunes.

Mary J Blige-Growing Pains. There was a late night tube journey involved where the ballads near the end helped get some shut eye but the fast and mid tempo tracks are good.

Common - I Want You. Kerry Washington turns director and I am loving her, she is so stunning it's unreal.

A mish mash of The Dream, N Dubz, Young Nate (Mixed Messages) and Tamia are keeping me going.

Awana- is one restaurant that lives up to the hype. If this is London styley Malay food , I am so involved. The amount of food consumed actually splinted my diaphragm, making respiration a struggle.

Denzel gives another Oscar-worthy performance in the lengthy American Gangster and Lions For Lambs left me irritated by Tom Cruise's overacting despite the sublime Meryl Streep. The Golden Compass made me all fuzzy inside. Dakota Blue Richards is very good and the bear is won me over.

I Wanna Dance

2007-11-18T17:32:00.000Z

There is nothing like the adrenaline of real medicine. I am grateful that despite the multitude of mindless tasks that punctuate my working life, I can experience that buzz from time to time. I would love to talk frankly about my work but it isn't possible. Individuals differ in their work ethic and this job has added the desire to scream to my emotional repertoire.

Speed dating is an interesting experience, in some cases 3 minutes is not enough and you find the other person very interesting, in others the silence is grating as you pray for the break or someone, anyone else to rescue you. All in all, it's good fun.

I love the Keyshia Cole album Just Like You (Didn't I Tell You & Was It Worth It) and other music on repeat this week:
Bed J Holiday
Apologise Timbo
Like You'll Never See Me Again Alicia Keys- How hot does Common look in the video?

I find myself listening to my 90's music because most contemporary rnb has become repetitive. Same girl in the video, same video. Would love to see jazzy jeff live again, when he's in London and Snow patrol before I have grandchildren.

Fans of funky decor should check out Industry bar in Shoreditch, LVPO in Soho and Dion in Docklands.

After deciding against joining the mile long queue for the Terracotta Army at the British Museum, I returned to my 2nd home, the national portrait gallery for the photographic portrait exhibition. I hate to say it but I'm a fan of Starbucks sweets (ginger cake and yummy muffins galore). Gu also do great desserts. Convent garden is a great space, not taking itself too seriously.

Things I've Learnt

2007-10-20T18:14:00.000Z

She leaves behind a week of nights. +++ Sleep deprivation, a minority of uncooperative patients and staff, nutella, proper medicine and being afraid. The important thing is she survived. The body clock must shift, not helped by celebratory outings. The mp3 hard drive data saga continues courtesy of a repair shop. Things I learnt this month:

Flat shoes can hurt when you spend over 12 hours on your feet
Heratbreak Kid is slapstick with a silly ending
No matter how hard I try I will never find anything I like in Topshop
Protein shakes taste disgusting
Music is like a drug
Zara is a bad bad place
Thai restaurants rely on my business
Larry David is a genius
I loathe Kate Moss at Topshop and celebrity fragrances. Mariah Carey? Stop it please.
Guest lists are archaic and plastic people do exist
Don't say it, just keep it to yourself
Jazzy Jeff isn't coming to the U.K for a while

Creative Deceased

2007-10-05T23:00:00.000Z

In the past month I have eaten out lots (hello to the staff behind the counter at the fried chicken place). There has been refined cuisine too (dutch, chinese, italian -you get the jist). Danced to songs I have heard hundreds of times (fatman scoop should be banned in most places), drank coca cola, become obsessed with anything a certain colour and fed the dvd addiction.

Little Miss Sunshine -excellent
Mystic River -saw twist about 30 minutes in like Donnie Darko but Sean Penn is cool.
Dreamgirls- I am embarrassed to admit to it but the songs are SO catchy
Science Of Sleep -Gael Garcia stars. Haven't watched it yet.
Larry David's Curb Your Enthusiasm Series 5 -every season has been classic so far so I am hopeful.

My Creative Is Deceased. As October brings new releases, I am left with the majority of my music collection in a cd format only and recent photos. I know I should backed everything up. This is a transition period (being a music buff) and with nights looming ahead so I will be in touch.

Hiatus

2007-09-10T08:23:00.000Z

I return after a 2 month hiatus. My life can be described in the following way: sleep, eat, hospital, sleep, eat, hospital. I have survived three on calls, a bungled pay cheque, the wrath of relatives and registrar power struggles (the latter is still on going, we hope for a seize fire some time soon). There have been so many interesting moments especially the one where you really really want to cry and don't want to do this medicine thing anymore. Divulging any further details will threaten my anonymity. The weekend is when things really come to life. American crime season on Channel 5 anyone? The individual who said you don't get time to spend the money you earn was probably a scrooge.

To round up the last 2 months: Bourne Ultimatum- very good but not the best of the trilogy. The illusionist- quirky with the usual top notch performance from Edward Norton. I saw Shooter with Mark Walberg (last film of his I saw was the one with apes so you understand my scepticism) in a blurry eyed daze on the long haul flight. I re watched it on dvd bar the ending which I saw the first time and it is actually a decent film. Blood Diamond changed my negative view of the Di Caprio. Forest Whittaker and James McAvoy stole my heart in Last King of Scotland. As my creative takes it final dying breaths, the new generation of ipods including the ipod touch are released later this month. Creative also released a 16gb version of the zen. C-net Review. Amazon. Gone are the days of irritation with staff working in mobile phone and electrical retailers because I know more about their products than they do. I will not be sold a gadget because it is pink and cute!

On heavy rotation:
Mario- Kryptonite feat. Rich Boi
Trey Songz-Fly Together feat. Jim Jones
Kelly Rowland (Kelle with a southern twang as Yung Texus says) -Still in Love With My Ex
remix
Chris Brown-Kiss Kiss. For the record I love the production.
Nicole- Whatever You Like. Again sick beat.
Ne-Yo-Make Me Better. Timbo's beats are ridiculous.
New Talib Kweli-Ear Drum is alright but prefer earlier albums.

Look out for: new PCD (hopefully they will be more proactive on this record as opposed to doing covers), Mario's new LP, Keyshia Cole's Just Like You and As I Am from Alicia Keys.

After watching Nicole's pre show royale performance for the VMAs I give her my full respect. Not only is the choreography for the instrumental bit after Lil Wayne's ''verse'' (I could have done better and I can't rhyme) tight, she killed it.

17 July 07

2007-07-25T15:32:00.000Z

We visited the Che Guevara memorial and the wreck of Batista's train which was derailed by Che and his comrades using a bulldozer. This was key in overthrowing the Batista government in 1959. We stopped for drinks at the Yacht club hotel has stunning views over Santa Clara's shore line. Sitting overlooking the sea and the boats in 34 degrees and pure blue skies. A moment I will never forget. This is Cuba. The roads to Trinidad wind like a roller coaster, we all did the Mexican wave on the bus.

Photo Mountains and beaches made the journey picturesque. The Iberostar grand hotel in Trindad is unbelievable. There is free internet access, a pool room, amazing restaurant and bar, my bath can fit more than 3 people and my room has a walk in wardrobe and a patio area. I love the fluffy bath robes and 5 star food- even the orange juice lol.

18 July 07

Today we explore the UNESCO world heritage site of Trinidad on foot. Many tourists admire the colonial architecture and walk the cobbled streets. It has 11 museums, the most of any of the places we visited. The Plaza Mayor (main square), Iglesia Parroquial de la santisima Trnidad, museo romantico (converted mansion with china and period pieces), casa Templo de Santeria Yemaya (Afro-Cuban religious house), Iglesia de Santa Ana and Plaza Santa Ana are all on the itinerary. We also sampled the house cocktail at La Canchara, made from rum, honey, lemon and water. Playa Ancon's white sandy beach is 12 km south of Trinidad. Swimming in the Caribbean sea, enjoying the weather and admiring the views strengthened my desire to never leave. Poring rain on my return to the hotel reminded us of hurricane season. I made a last ditch visit to the arts and craft stalls before closing time for souvenirs. As I was to later discover, the prices here were much cheaper than Habana. Pieces of art which cannot fit into your suitcase require an export licence from the artist.

19 July 07

We depart for the pinar del Rio province, the main tobacco growing region in Cuba. We stop at Guama and take a boat to a replica Indian village on the shores of Treasure Lake. Next is the hotel located in the Sierra del Rosario nature reserve. We can see the mountains, hear the birds and be at one with nature.

20 July 07

After stopping to admire the stunning views of theVinales valley, we take a boat through the El Indio limestone caves. We visit a tobacco factory, drink tea at a farmer's house and have dinner at another local farmer's house. Castro and government officials have been known to eat here as the quality of food is very good.

21 July

We tour the bio reserves local community of Las Terrazas. There is a school, medical centre and post office. This community exemplifies Cuba's infrastructure. Health and education is free. The government pays for your funeral and 95% of the country has electricity. We swim in the San Juan river. The rocky floor is slippery but the water is refreshing. The children are so sweet, with their floats learning to swim for the first time.

Touts, beggars and expensive prices are the negatives however Cuba has exceeded the expectations of everyone of us. In terms of size, diversity ( architecture, cultural sites, beaches, mountains, greenery all sit on the same island) and beauty.

22 July

The long queues for check in and the fact that it is raining in London all add to the cheery atmosphere. To anyone considering a trip, just do it! My impending entry into the F1 is the only reason I get on the plane back. After one last glance over the blue green waters I am comforted because in my heart I know that some day in I will be back.

15 July 07

2007-07-25T14:07:00.000Z

Thanks to the newsagent who made me wait 10 minutes for his oyster ticket machine to charge up. Were it not for him, I would have made the 6 am Gatwick express from Victoria, the entire reason I woke up at a ridiculous hour. The queues at the airport were horrendous at check in, security, upper crust (I waited 20 mins for the worst ham and mozzarella baguette I have ever tasted- tax free prices my ass!). Singapore airlines and Changi airport make Gatwick and Virgin Atlantic's customer service look like child's play. One holiday maker said she was embarrassed. Changi has lounges, free internet, fitness spa, free tour of the city, bamboo, cactus, orchid gardens, cinema and swimming pool to mention but a few. After sitting through the obligatory banter between the pilot and the cabin crew, something about being poor at their jobs and badly done highlights, I settled in for the long haul flight. A ridiculous incident sticks in my mind, I was in the window seat and we had finished eating breakfast but the cabin crew had not cleared the trays 30 mins later. I asked if one of the flight attendants could clear our trays as they stopped me from leaving my seat to use the loo. She informed me that she was unable to do this until after coffee was served. The people in the seat next to me had to hold their trays of food and stand in the aisle as I climbed over their seats. I was irritated because some bloke who had made a fuss about being given a window seat instead of an aisle seat got attended to by the flight manager and every effort was made to help him.

Blue green seas lap the shoreline beneath the cotton wool clouds. Palms sweaty, heart beating, an experience I will never forget awaits. Bienvenido a Cuba.

On arrival, as the passenger in front of me speaks fluent spanish, the security official speaks spanish to me, blank stares betray my bewilderment as year 9 spanish is a mere blip in the distant past. Conversational spanish is my limit. I find the tour rep and await the the other guests fro transfer to the hotel. 1 covertible Cuban currency for tourists (CUC) is approximately 24 national pesos (local currency). As we drive form the airport, I am struck by the humidity and heat 32 degrees Celsius with no breeze, palm trees and greenery.

Cuban Revolution fast facts:

Fidel Castro is a qualified lawyer and former orator
1953: he led a failed attempt by rebels to attack army barracks
The Caracas pact called on the US to stop aid to the Batista government
1961: USA declared trade embargo on Cuba
1993: US dollar was legalised in Cuba. Fidel's brother, Raul is head of the armed forces

The hotel Sevilla is set in downtown Habana and former guests include Al Capone and the mafia. The imposing lobby with spanish tiles, immaculate seating area, ground floor pool, 9th floor restaurant with stunning views had me speechless. My room was a welcome surprise with high ceilings, marble flooring, mahogany furniture, electronic, safe and petite dressing room. We toured the Hotel Parque Central, Capitolio Nacional, one of many Jose Marti statues, Museo Nacional de bellas artes and the Museo de la Revolucion which houses the glass encased yacht 'granma' which carried Castro from Mexico to Cuba in 1956. We saw part of the city wall and aeroplanes, military style trucks and the tank which Castro et al used in the battle of the bay of pigs in 1961. It is clear that Cuba loves Jose Marti as there tributes to him everywhere. He was a native of Habana and a fiercely pro spanish socialist who fled into exile numerous times. As an avid writer he published children's and political books. I return to the hotel at 11pm and retire to bed. It was a mean feat staying up till 4a.m GMT.

Breakfast is continental with beautiful pastries and the result is I overeat. We visit Ernest Hemingway's colonial house 45 minutes outside of Habana. 9 acres of land, a swimming pool and his boat are on the property. We are unable to enter the house as it is a museum which must be preserved but pictures are taken through the open windows and doors. On the way into Habana, we stop to admire the breathtaking Lighthouse and fort which line the Straits of Florida. As we strolled the less touristy districts in old Habana, the friendly locals spoke spanish to me ( a daily occurrence throughout the trip) or asked where I was from. Next we walked through Habana Vieja's Plaza de Armas which is a Spanish style beautiful square with shops. We ate at El Ajiibe, a restaurant in a district with large houses, and opulent embassy buildings. The restaurant's thatched roof and ceiling fans gave it an island feel. The chicken was a secret special recipe. The main dilemma at the end of the meals (usually rice, black beans, chicken, beef or pork) was the amount of tip to leave. Bottled water is a must for tourists!

Our tour guide, Jorge likes House and Grey's Anatomy so he can do no wrong in my book. I got in contact with my friend in Havana (thank you Orange roaming, I expect my huge bill in the post) and we end up at a Jazz bar. I will be exhausted tomorrow as we leave for Santa Clara at 830 am but you only live once!

My Loves

2007-07-13T07:41:00.000Z

T.I's T.I. vs T.P album has good production (southern rap vibe) but nil else. At best it is repetitive and at worst rubbish. I expected better especially as King wasn't that good either. Kelly Rowland's Miss Kelly is one of the best albums I have owned since The Evolution of Robin Thicke (which everyone is now jumping on over 6 months later). Stand out tracks include Still in Love With My Ex, Comeback, Every Thought Is You, Work it (Put It In) and Better Without You. This album is killing me, it's so good but can Kelly garner greater success without resorting to some female artists' tactics of wearing dental floss?

The Rodney Jerkins produced So Sick by Natasha, has a neptunes-esque beat with falsetto vocals. I fear she may be another of those one single r n b artists that litter the musical landscape.

Can they release Megan Rochelle's album already? Trey Day from Trey Songz is sounding like it might be hot judging by Wonder woman & Fly Together. Think rnb with rap bridges. Straight out of the wrapper is Chrisette Michele's I Am.

My creative is in a critical condition. There was a scare earlier in the week, it kept crashing and I had to update the firmware praying my data would be safe. After trawling through I discovered many members of the creative techie community which I am now part of, have the same problems. I had to survive 4 days without music. Never again! The Creative m vision 30GB is one of the best mp3 players on the market but firmware problems and its liability to crash after the warranty has expired have ended my loyalty. I don't want to get an i-pod but quality players offering 30 GB of space are few and far between. The Archos Gen5 is a beauty.

I finished This Book Will Save Your Life by A.M Homes and The Kite Runner by Khaled Hossein which is set in Afghanistan. A.M Homes' book is similar to Sofia Coppola's Lost In translation in that it is about nothing.It is well written and I kept waiting for the big climax which never existed despite the mini ones. I love the Kite runner because the style of writing is very affectionate and the characters have depth. The author does not shy from harrowing subjects. He tackles them with compassion and honesty.

I have a surprise.

Ciara Sizzles

2007-07-06T07:05:00.000Z

Ciara's Darkchild produced banger, Can't Leave Him Alone has been circulating for a while and thenew video is crazy!
1. She looks amazing
2. I pray she isn't actually topless
3. Are they? Aren't they?
4. 50 doesn't deserve her!
5. Most importantly, who designed the dress?

The Award for seeing the light goes to Kim Porter (Diddy's long suffering girlfriend) who has allegedly left him. We cannot blame society's problems on music but we are becoming increasingly materialistic and the media celeb culture is heavily responsible. It would be nice to see some sensible artists who don't conform to the usual stereotype be it drugs, guns et al.

DJ Jazzy Jeff

2007-06-29T15:55:00.000Z

BBE 10th anniversary set May 2007

Check out the new album, The Return of the Magnificent

R.I.P Liz Claiborne

2007-06-28T19:16:00.000Z

DesignerLiz Claiborne passed away.

She's In Fashion

2007-06-27T09:50:00.000Z

Roberto Cavalli new designer for H&M
PPQ clothing
Stylebubble
Marc Jacobs
Zac Posen
Derek Lam

Summer of Film

2007-06-24T19:33:00.000Z

Oceans 13 is a slick picture with Al Pacino as an added bonus. It doesn't beat Oceans 11 because the format was relatively fresh but is the funniest of the three films. Could the studio not get Don Cheadle a proper voice coach for the 'cockney accent'? Embarrassed is an understatement.

Zodiac is a lengthy piece and I was painfully aware that the only thing stopping me from leaving after the honorary 120 mins was Jake Gyllenhaal. It was a great piece of story telling but the director should have left more on the cutting room floor.

Dinner with friends. Tapas- for the millionth time! I love it. My favourite night at Elbow Rooms re branded so we ended up elsewhere. A fun night was had by all. I am loving the freedom.

Orthopaedics- We Love it

2007-06-08T10:22:00.000Z

It is refreshing that the peak of my orthopaedics knowledge is several days before surgical finals. A mixture of reading, falling asleep and repeating the oxford handbook of clinical specialties ortho section has eased the palpitations that would normally accompany orthopaedics. Somehow I don't see mecanno sets, drills or saws in my future.

The end is palpable and I cannot wait but I must get back to work so I can see Danny Ocean do his thing later.

The Trends

2007-05-31T17:44:00.000Z

I don't regret my previous rant because it was all true. However, like a celebrity who has found a new religion or left rehab I feel slightly refreshed.

Going Up:
Puffball dresses
Maroon 5
Eva Mendes
Rachel Bilson
Royal blue and purple
Bright Colours
Perspex heels
Slim Thug on a Hilary Duff remix? I just hope the money was worth it Slim!

Going Down:
Big brother- Fame hungry wannabes. It's so late 1990's.
Leggings- every1 and I mean every1 is wearing them. Oh no she didn't!
Lily Allen and public breakdowns(a la Britney)- I could write an essay on her lack of talent. I'm young and wear converse trainers how fashionable am I?
Young rich and stupid-It doesn't take a genius to figure it out you should not drive drunk or when you've been banned.
People famous for nothing- ex big bro housemates and tabloid one night stand tell tales. Listen up nursery children, if you want to be 'successful' then make sure you sleep with anyone vaguely D-list then you can get in the tabloids and live happily ever after.

Line in the Distance

2007-05-22T15:37:00.000Z

There is a reason why you don't know some people in your year because you have nothing in common. This is unlikely to change on August 1 when work (courtesy of the MTAS lottery)starts.

She would love to say she will miss medical school but she knows none of the readers are wearing nappies and they can read between the lines. She jests, she wishes someone had told her the brutal honest truth. Oh nobody told you about the vampire like transformation of medics once final year and job applications start? Maybe she exaggerates to entertain.

Seventy eight days since she last ventured out in a genuinely fun capacity, blurry eyed from watching countless lectures, mentally and physically exhausted she will drag her bottom over the damn finishing line. Why? She is not about to see years of training (which she would describe as top class if it were) go down the drain. She will be the happiest person when she finishes because she survived all the crap including the backstabbing and competitiveness.

Don't get her started on Rihanna. Can the radio stations stop the torture? It stopped being funny an album ago. I have a whole host of hot new albums in my sights when the exams are over: Amel Larrieux, Anthony hamilton, Ba Ra, Carl Thomas, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Maroon 5, Musiq and Ne-Yo.

Remake of JT's Sexy Back

2007-05-18T14:38:00.000Z

Weckenbach video

Hot Songs:

2007-05-05T10:01:00.000Z

Critics are hailing Sunshine as an indie classic. Despite being as a space/sci-fi movie sceptic I must admit the visual effects were tantalising. However I am not convinced it is a classic. The ending spoilt the whole film.
Hot Music:

Beyonce's Upgrade You has been rediscovered. The Swizz Beats/Cameron Wallace production is crazy.

Swizz beats also produced Eve's Tambourine off her album Here I Am.

Timbo produced Wreck by Bobby Valentino

Out of the Next Selection camp comes Uness Over

Young Steff Put That on Everything

Luvanmusiq-Musiq is HOT.Album sampler

I thought of an interesting rnb equation: Teedra Moses= Amerie-Rich Harrison

Paolo Nutini Brixton 24 April 07

2007-04-26T11:18:00.000Z

Ne-yo feat. Fabolous Make Me Better. Sick Timbo production again. You by Lloyd feat. Lil Wayne is also on heavy rotation at the moment. My friend and I enjoyed a bottle beer each feeling like prisoners who had been unchained from our revision desks for the day. Shock horror, the world does not revolve around medicine and the rest of the population is enjoying their lives.

Music Video:YOU (by Lloyd)

Music Video Code provided by VideoCodeZone.Com

Paolo made us wait two hours for him. Ghost who I am not familiar with entertained the crowd in the interim. The crowd was dominated by pre-pubescent youngsters some of whom had clearly never been out in public let alone to a concert. Screaming,sitting on the floor, being rude to people and pushing is not normal behaviour. Despite the distractions Paolo with his distinctive voice proved himself as a quality Brit act. The band were dispensable and I'd have preferred an acoustic set.

Why should trainees go overseas because the government chooses to spend more time and effort on an IT system than the future of it's medical trainees? Why were the personal details of F1 applicants available publicly on the MTAS website?

Let us set an exam of a high standards so that successful candidates from our school are seen as top notch. It makes sense but MTAS gives no preference to those who sit more rigorous finals. Why after six years of training are we feeling so unprepared for finals. External revision courses should be a choice but the huge attendance from our school would indicate the majority of us see them as a necessity. There should be more emphasis on hands on experience and clinical anatomy teaching as opposed to comm skills. In a couple of years I hope I will be one of the lucky few with a job and all this hoo ha will be a remote memory.

Time of No Life Again

2007-04-22T15:24:00.000Z

Curse of the Golden Flower was an aesthetically pleasing disappointment. After months of anticipation on my part I was embarrassed by the film. It was an oriental soap opera lasting 2 hours. I love Hero, Crouching Tiger et al but Zhang Yimou lost his directorial flair this time. The action scenes were sparse with the emphasis on melodrama and time needlessly wasted near the start of the film.Other reviews.

It's that time of year again. The bright warm days, packed libraries with poor air conditioning and the looming threat of exams. The consensus of most of the revision courses is you don't have to be a neurosurgeon to pass finals, just perform slick clinical examinations. Easy? How many hips have most final years examined? Anyway it will be worth the effort when we graduate and become F1 doctors/ward clerk-phlebotomists. I tried skinny cow's mint and chocolate ice cream. The chocolate bits were alright but the other parts which made up the majority of the 500ml tub reminded me of something. I thought I was hallucinating so enlisted my flatmates to taste. Toothpaste. I would encourage anyone who likes eating toothpaste to try it. In the ethos of fairness you can find out more about Skinny Cow ice cream.

So many birthdays in the run up to exams shame I can't go.

Nokia N95

2007-04-12T17:20:00.000Z

It's gadget time again. I am a huge fan of the Nokia N73 music edition however the new Nokia N95 is pure gadget heaven with a 5 megapixel camera, GPS and Wi-fi. T3 review Cnet Asia review

Primark World

2007-04-11T12:40:00.000Z

It is official Primark, the store that no one would freely admit to frequenting a few years ago has taken over marble arch. Every other person has a Primark ox street carrier bag. I passed the huge crowds of bargain hungry shoppers, only controlled by a heavy security presence on Thursday. It was a less dramatic affair early Saturday. The marble arch branch has more stock and small sizes something of a rarity at other branches. It is all hype which unfortunately I am also contributing to.

I am loving a few tracks on the Timbo album: Fantasy,Bombay and Apologise. Check out Trey Songz's new video Wonder Woman with Timbo (he is everywhere, even madonna is jumping on the band wagon) and Danja on production.

Hot & Fresh

2007-04-01T16:31:00.000Z

Die Hard Returns-Brucie is back. Watch trailer.

Polow Da Don has done it again for Kelly Rowland's sexy comeback, Like This. The beat is sick.
Rihanna feat Jay-Z Umbrella

Mims feat. Marques Houston This is Why I'm Hot Remix

Timbo album Shock Value is released tomorrow. Where I Are feat. Keri Hilson has a weak rap solo but ridiculous production.
Read reviews:Byron Crawford, sputnik music, bbc music, certified hip hop

Elliott Yamin (former American Idol contestant) does r'n'b.

Going back in time when the don Carlos Santana released Maria Maria with that hot spanish guitar.

Music Video:

Maria, Maria - Santana Videos

Get Yours: Music Video Codes / Video Codes / Flash Games / Zwinky

No Longer Jobless

2007-03-30T13:00:00.000Z

Today was poignant due to the release of the FY1 jobs . I still remember my first day of medical school when I knew no one. I quickly made friends two of which I consider my brothers. Several years later and two months from MBBS finals I have a job with a rotation in a specialty which interests me. Results day will honour all the obstacles we have overcome and hopefully bring tears of happiness from yours truly.

300 has unrivalled cinematography and pure testosterone fuelled action. I saw it after a long day of placement and revision tutorials but I enjoyed it. The acting was of a high standard with a realistic ending which avoided the usual Hollywood let down.

Brand Spanking New Musiq

2007-03-24T15:33:00.000Z

Akon has signed a new act Brick and Lace to his Kon Live label.

Other pre release albums:

Musiq Soulchild -Lovanmusiq out now
Megan Rochelle 26 March 07 & Bobby V -2 April 07 See past posts
Nathan- Masterpiece 26 March 07
Joe- Ain't Nothing Like Me 23 April 07
Ne-Yo- Because Of You 23 April 07
Amerie- Because I Love You 30 April 07
Keith Sweat- Some More 21 May 07
Kelly Rowland- Miss Kelly 9 July 07

PS 3

2007-03-23T12:54:00.000Z

I apologise to the staff in Dixons on Oxford Street. The scruffy person drooling outside the window and stroking the PS3 display was myself. After many delays Sony are trying to bring sexy back with the Play station 3. Full low down.

Photo

Hello Again

2007-03-22T12:35:00.000Z

I apologise for my mini exodus. The MMC protest march saw a good turn out with over 10,000 protesters. I saw a few doctors I recognised and many consultants turned up to show support for the junior doctors. I have never seen such solidarity amongst the medical profession. Some have asked why I went. Apathy regarding a system that leaves 8, 000 doctors jobless is unjustifiable. This is not about senior house officers (SHO)s but about the bureaucracy of the NHS and politics which may leave many future medical trainees in a dire situation. If we do not voice our objections and strive for change who will?

See Channel 4's TV coverage and read Patricia Hewitt's response. There will be a review but the government has refused to scrap the system. The brick wall is frustrating but I would march all over gain.

Channel Five are doing well with the new legal series Shark and House series 3 starts tonight.

Music I am enjoying at the moment:

Joe- If I was Your Man
Kanye West- Throw Some D's freestyle
Pretty Ricky- On Da Hotline Remix
N Dubz- Feva Las Vegas
Timbo- Give It Me
Tamia- Between Friends
Musiq Soulchild- Buddy
Tiffany Affair- Over It

Watch Video:

Over It (Tiffany Affair)

Video Code provided by MusicRemedy.Com

Tevin Campbell- Can We Talk for all the old school people.

New baby

2007-03-11T13:41:00.000Z

Last night's journey was impossible. The central line was suspended with no circle or east bound district line and a limited service on the northern line.London Underground-Aaaaaaghhhh!

Check out this baby, the new I-River Clix(2GB) mp3 player. C-net review. There will be 4 and 8 gb versions to follow.

Who Am I?

2007-03-09T16:21:00.001Z

I passed 1st year so I am uber cool and my behind is super glued to the library seats. I will make noise and disturb others who want to work seriously while brandishing my course guide as a badge of honour. Who am I? Someone in 2nd year.

When I was younger I did not have attitude or give lip. I had so much respect for the years above because they were more experienced and knowledgable than myself. I am shocked anyone other than desperate finalyears is in the library at the weekends. The younger students are more competitive and keen than we ever were. This is good because they may make better doctors. Hoewever feedback from some of 2nd and 3rd years I know reveals some people are work-obsessed and have no extracurricular activities. I fear burn out could be on the horizon for a few.

Why are the National Gallery charging £12 for the Renoir exhibition? It is ludicrous that Ernst & Young is sponsoring them and yet they still have exorbitant fees. I love the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery (NPG)hence my disappointment. Nothing like putting off tourists and locals. The most NPG charge is £6 or £8 for special exhibitions.

I am enjoying my little moments of freedom because I know in 5 months I won't have much free time. Wandering Trafalgar's square on a saturday, spotting new restaurants on the high street and catching up with friends. Two birthday things this weekend and I will keep you posted.

Check out the new Timbo, Nelly and Justin video causing a raucus with Scott Storch.

MMC Protest March

2007-03-07T18:02:00.000Z

March on March 17th organised by Remedy UK
More than 28000 doctors applying
Only 18000 run-through training posts
& 5000 temporary posts
More than 5000 unemployed
doctors

Royal College of Physicians, London 11 am

Blazing Trailer

2007-03-02T10:00:00.000Z

Latest London listings this weekend.

Japanese food again (I am convinced I have Asian ancestors) at Mika near Portobello. Nice food and it was our waitress's first day. She asked us the same thing a few times and spilt the drinks all over the table and my jacket. Even with ice cubes on the plate, I wasn't mad as she was sweet. Afterwards we went for drinks at Trailer Happiness. As you know I love the locals- you are all SO cool. The beer left a lot to be desired and I didn't fancy one of their gimmicky flaming bowl of cocktails . Overall a fun night.

Next- Shoreditch or Islington?

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Regression into My Teens

2007-02-25T13:05:00.000Z

jenny was a friend of mine/mr brightside/smile like u mean it/ somebody told me/all these things that ive done/on top/when we were young and read my mind. Picture the scene.Wembley arena ,12,000 people, big stage, eclectic lighting and the Killers on stage.

The crowd went crazy for mr brightside, somebody told me and all these things and the concert can only be described as awesome. My friends and the whole of the standing section or 'pit' as we renamed it regressed into teenage hood. I've never jumped up and down so much in my life and throughout wave after wave of nostalgia swept over us. Life is good, life is great. On the way home I listened to Hot Fuss and I pictured myself back in the arena soaking up the atmosphere.

The Good Shepherd opened on Friday and it is one of longest movies released so far this year. I realise De Niro wanted his debut to be remembered but his attempt at an epic leaves a lot to be desired. Why do actor-directors feel the need to make cameos? Surely if you want to be taken seriously you stay behind the camera. Angelina Jolie actually acted and as always Joe Pesci was a welcome face and Matt Damon gave a good performance. I left the cinema two hours and forty minutes later exhausted and with no idea of what the point was. There is no succinct plot and character development is painfully protracted. I urge you to see the film and make up your own minds.

Ocean's 13 Trailer

2007-02-22T12:41:00.000Z

Also Spring Fashion

The Fridge

2007-02-20T12:57:00.000Z

Click Here to get this from pYzam.com!

This week:

2007-02-15T19:56:00.000Z

I was scared many times because everyone knows everything and for finals you need to be vaguely one of those people.

My decision not to do a PhD as part of MBBS for fear of sitting next to my fresher kids in graduation seemed the right one.

I officially made chocolate a food group (Nutella is evil I tell you)

Wishy washy lectures tried my patience

I admired the posters for The Good Shepherd on tube platforms mainly because the New York Post reviewer gave a positive comment (the end is nigh, rescue your loved ones)

I want to extend a message to Timbo. As you are on everyone's tracks and rolling in it if you ever felt the need to wipe a certain medic blogger's student debt they would be extremely grateful. We can overlook the whole Swedish group court case thingy.

I fed my music addiction. Omarion's 21 seemingly based on the Entourage TV show has two hot tracks produced by Timbo (Icebox & Beg). Yes Omarion we care about how many girls want to sleep with you and how you got off with your best friend. Tamia Between Friends is HOT especially Rodney (Jerkins) produced Too Grown For That. Pretty Ricky have changed musical direction on Late Night Special. Nah I am just joking its like de ja vu and R Kelly in a group (girl I wanna do this and that on 15 tracks). Fantasia's Fantasia- amazing voice, variety of production and its a grower.

Rinsing Tony Sunshine She's like the Wind, Anonymous by Bobby V (he's not the greatest singer but I love the whole disturbing da peace thing), Fantasia When I See You, Mario Go, Rich Boy Throw Some D's and Brian McKnight Used to be My Girl.

In between lusting after Marie Claire's Spring fashion buys, I considered getting Miami Vice on DVD and found out Casino Royale is released on DVD in March.

Modernising Medical Careers (MMC)

2007-02-12T20:28:00.000Z

An FY1 will earn between 20, 000 and 31,000GBP and pay tax of between 10 and 22%. Most FY1 and FY2 posts are likely to unbanded and free accommodation provided by the NHS trust is possibly a thing of the past. There is no good news. I would strongly urge any students taking their A levels to carefully consider their career decision and the cons of studying medicine in London principally larger debt due to high accommodation and living costs. With the introduction of a nationalised medical training application system, London does not mean diddly squat in terms of CV.

Was it all worth it? I suppose one could describe it as a test of your love for the vocation. However, even the most avid trainee doctors are realistic recognising the need for reasonable working conditions. The media and the public's focus on GP pay leaves the issue of junior trainee pay in the blind spot. Why does the establishment introduce initiatives such as qualities outcome framework (QOF) points in the vain hope that GPs will not meet the targets and receive financial rewards for this then say GPs earn too much? Why did they increase the intake to medical schools when they cannot afford to pay the trainees or provide enough jobs for them?

Despite my bitterness, frustration and continuing disillusionment I must always remember there are others who are less fortunate. On elective for example, the house officers earn our monthly salary per annum. Doctors in war-torn countries and I could go on.

St. Valentine's day looms with the predicatble fan fare. Happy Valentine's Day in advance.
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Fergie Glamorous

2007-02-09T07:25:00.000Z

Hot off the conveyor belt that is pop music releases. Fergie Ferg's new single Glamorous feat. Luda.

Fergie - Glamorous (ft. Ludacris) Video Code

Get Fergie Music Video Codes

Rich Boy-Throw some D's. Polow The Don has outdone himself.

New Albums Coming Soon

2007-02-07T14:37:00.000Z

I Apologise-Ginuwine 12/02/07

Black Summers Night- Maxwell 19/02/07

21- Omarion 26/02/07
You Me and The Radio- Megan Rochelle 26/02/07. This album will be sick. I've heard four tracks (Let Go, The One You Need, Still and Betcha) which are very good.

Introducing Joss Stone- Joss Stone 12/03/07

Verteran-Marques Houston 13/03/07

Joe Thomas-Joe 26/03/07. Where You At and If I was Your Man are hot

so let's see what else he comes up with.

Music City Soul- Beverley Knight 26/03/07

Special Occasion- Bobby V 16/04/07

Untitled- Keith Sweat 16/04/07

Untitled- Kelly Rowland 09/07/07

Untitled- Craig David 17/09/07

Untitled- Jill Scott 22/01/08

For more of the hottest tracks check this out.

There are little things in life that make me satisfied. Stuffing my face with muffins and cookies is one of them and another is reading good books. I would recommend A Short History of Tractors in Ukranian by Marina Lewycka (Penguin Viking, 2005) to everyone. It was nominated for the Orange prize for Fiction in 2005. I am currently reading Blood Sweat and Tea by Tom Reynolds after finishing Gangs by Tony Thompson

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GLO Get A Clue

2007-02-02T10:53:00.000Z

GLO=Guest list only. I'm sure everyone has been to one of these places. It really ruins the experience of going out in London. Arsey bouncers, the annoying person with the clipboard. Why must they harass you even when you are on the guest list? OK I know it is a huge power trip earning over £10 an hour, standing outside rain or shine wielding a clip board and shouting 2 for £30 but get over it! Trendy house is an acquired taste and I am definitely not a fan.

Leisurely lunch with my friend then we saw Notes on a Scandal starring Judi Dench and Cate Blanchett. The film was faultless with well written characters, a fast pace and many twists. I loved it and felt warm and fuzzy afterwards.

My comrades returned from elective so the warm fuzzy existence continues. Mischief is back.

Ocean's 13 is in the pipeline. They need to make up for the abysmal second instalment. The impossible has happened, I am inclined to see a Halle Berry Movie The Perfect Stranger. She is stunning but was there a need to derobe in Monster's Ball or Swordfish? The Good Shepherd looks very good from the previews.

Jennifer Hudson is the breakthrough person of the year after losing out on American Idol she has won numerous accolades and awards for her role as Effie in Dream Girls- go see it. She seems level headed and a genuinely nice person. Her interview on David Letterman in the States confirmed this.

DJ Swerve is killng it as usual on the radio and I love Tony Sunshine feat. Lumidee (She's Like The Wind) and Mario's track at the moment.

I've got to mention Deepside. Fresh and hot production courtesy of Mysto and Pizzi of Next Selection. The album is not scheduled for release till May.

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Grilling

2007-01-25T18:31:00.000Z

Sunday lunch with old school friends. It was fun to catch up and get away from medicine.

What are the indications for coronary angiography? Silence, then a response. Round the table he went, grilling each candidate. Exam situation? Just another day on the wards with the head of department. It was painful to watch and yet strangely familiar. Throughout my training I have watched colleagues and been subject to grilling, roasting or rinsing. A senior proceeds to expose huge gaps in your knowledge, embarrass you in front of as many people as possible and generally push you to the limit. I have and will never cry because then they will have won. Welcome to medicine. It is good to get a kick up the bum from time to time but I question some of the techniques of past 'examiners'.

Others should never influence your career decision but several Consultants have suggested we consider other career options. Nothing like a morale boost less than six months before finals.

The Ludacris album is ridiculously good. Tracks I am not so fond of are Money maker, Girls Gone Wild, Slap and Do Your Time. Not bad for a 13-track LP. Check out DJ Swerve's playlist for this week. New arists for your auditory pleasure:
Natalie Williams- Anglo, Hungarian-Yugoslav jazz performer
Elisabeth Withers Star of theatre version of The Colour Purple

In attempt to break my -in-bed-at -9:30 cycle, some friends and I went to dinner at Japanese restaurant, Asakusa in north London. Pork teriyaki set meal, salmon and avocado rolls and salad thingy. I am not a huge fan of Japanese but this was very good. Unfortunately it wasn't good enough to convince me to eat aubergines. Quinn's bar afterwards and we oldies were on our way home.

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Spring Fresh

2007-01-21T08:20:00.000Z

Fashion no nos of the week: 1.Girl in skin tight yellow jeans. Honey, no. 2.Fluorescent pink tights worn over fishnets don't work with any outfit unless you are one of the Tatou girls. And to the man in the suit, Pharrell style hat and white high top trainers with green laces. What were you thinking? Bar in Shoreditch (my home from home). As usual I was in awe of the fashion choices of the Shoredites(street meets sloaney princess) but too many rip-off Marc Jacobs bags in every colour possible. If the girl in the tube station has one next to you it's safe to say it is common. The positives are you can wear whatever you like unlike some GLO (that's guest list only for those who don't know) places and the crowd is less pretentious.

I'm going through a mini- girly phase trying to walk in heels but I draw the line at anything pink.

How Girly Are You?

Girly site

Latest runway trends

Music on heavy rotation at the moment:

Ludacris -Release Therapy. I have reservations about the track 11- Do Your Time.

If you doin' 25 to life stay up homie

I got your money on ice(so) stay up homie

If you locked in a box keep makin' it through

do your time do your time don't let your time do you

All my peoples in the pit stay up homie

And until you hit the bricks stay up homie

If you locked in a box keep makin'it through

do your time do your time

don't let your time do you

If you are doing 25 to life, keep your head up

Bobby Valentino- Let's Go

Tyrese- Alter Ego

T.I- King

Naughty By Nature- OPP; Hip Hop Hooray

Monica & Treach- Ain't Nobody

Sunshine Anderson(see Photo) is releasing a new LP next week. Scissor sisters meets James Morrison in the form of Mika(photo).

The Re invention of Eddie Murphy?

2007-01-20T15:04:00.000Z

Check this out.

All Talk And No Action

2007-01-20T07:58:00.000Z

As the week came to an end I sought joy in the medium of film. Babel is the new release from acclaimed director Alejandro González Iñárritu (Amores Perrros, 21 grams). It stars Gael García Bernal (great actor) in chain of events that will link an American tourist couple (Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett), two Moroccan boys who accidentally shoot one of them, their nanny (Adriana Barraza) illegally crossing into Mexico with their American children and a Japanese teen rebel (Rinko Kikuchi) whose father is sought by the police in Tokyo. The strongest story was that of the Japanese teenager (Rinko Kikuchi) who was believable and defied the media's reserved stereotype of the Japanese. She dealt with the issues of maternal suicide and discrimination against minorities very well. The cinematography was average doing nothing to detract from the bleak atmosphere with the music offsetting the the scenes. The Japanese teen's father gave a riffle to a Moroccan who sold it on and it was used in the shooting of Blanchett's American tourist. The reaction from the rest on the tour bus and the American embassy highlighted the false assumption that most Arabs are terrorists.The Mexican nanny deported partly because of her nephew's attempts to elude border patrols again brings up the issue of illegal immigrants in the States and the stereotypes of Mexicans.

However Brad Pitt (whose acting is menial at best) plays an irate, desperate husband. It's not that I did not believe him (who would?), I just did not care. Blanchett known for impeccable performances was wasted in this film. Lying on the floor in a village hut for most of the movie, a role better delegated to an extra.The crux of it is the stories were feebly linked and the purpose of the thread featuring the Moroccan boy's escapes me. Whether it was intended to highlight the plight of the non- tourist areas of Morocco, police brutality in the face of international pressure or the naive arrogance of two young brothers remained unclear. Rare for a Inarritu film I was falling asleep as the film drew to it's ending after a lengthy two hours and twenty two minutes.

Mick LaSalle movie critic for the San Francisco Chronicle writes:
In the end, a film of profound ambition is unmasked as one without real purpose, a misguided attempt to make a serious, important statement despite having nothing, really, to say. In "21 Grams," director Alejandro González Iñárritu and screenwriter Guillermo Arriaga went back and forth in time, following multiple characters because that was the best way to enrich and explore the story. In "Babel," the same filmmakers take a similarly experimental approach because, well, maybe because it worked in "21 Grams." I must agree with LaSalle and suggest people watch Iñárritu's earlier efforts Amores Perros and 21 grams. As I said in comparison to Crash , he uses the interlinking story lines effectively and leaves the viewer to make their own assumptions rather than signposting intent from the out set. The third instalment has poor character development but his past movies have never been about that. Unlike Babel the link between the stories was strong enough for us to care about the characters despite not knowing every detail of their lives. Iñárritu raised issues, questioned ours and society's thinking and ultimately left us to make up our own minds. As a friend said 'there is no ending' but in contrast to Ford Coppola's Lost in Translation we are able to make our own if we desire.
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Hip Hop is Dead

2007-01-17T10:01:00.000Z

If India Arie were as aesthetically appreciated as Alicia Keys, Amerie or Ciara. Would she achieve greater commercial success? It's a no-brainer. Today I was thinking of the stories associated with the rise to fame of rap artists. Kanye West spitting rhymes through a wired jaw on Through he Wire, The Game getting shot and proclaiming he is Death Row's finest and 50 cent's antics. Are these public relation exploits to sell more records or honest accounts of their lives or both? I have never been influenced by these stories when making record buying decisions. Kanye is a very good producer but can't rhyme.

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Those who attending any of his London dates can testify to this. I love Mary J. and in my eyes she can do whatever she wants (be an MC- Brook, act whatever). Busta's Touch it Remix and on Enough Cryin.I must commend Beyonce on the single from the Dream girls OST, Listen and it's a shame she was not honoured at the Golden Globes.

Golden Globe Awards:

BEST FILM-drama: Babel

BEST FILM -musical or comedy: Dreamgirls

BEST DIRECTOR: Martin Scorsese (The Departed)

BEST ACTRESS IN A MOVIE DRAMA: Helen Mirren, (The Queen)

BEST ACTOR IN A MOVIE DRAMA: Forest Whitaker (The Last King of Scotland)

BEST ACTRESS -musical or comedy: Meryl Streep, (The Devil Wears Prada)

BEST ACTOR -musical or comedy: Sacha Baron Cohen, (Borat)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: Eddie Murphy (Dreamgirls)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: Jennifer Hudson (Dreamgirls)

BEST TV SERIES-drama: Grey's Anatomy

BEST TV SERIES -musical or comedy: Ugly Betty

A quick aside. Rachel Bilson has great fashion sense.

I promised I would never become one of those adults who harp on about the old days but really why are some school children incapable of using ear phones on public transport?. I love grime and garage as much as the next person. I think I'm an adult at 14, scream at Beyonce concerts and think Chris/whoever is tick but I can still respect others right to peace and quiet.

The second episode of Ugly Betty did not compare to the first. I hope it improves and I'm going into literary mode courtesy of amazon in between watching the entire series of House on DVD. Hugh Laurie is pure class as Gregory House. This week saw many a buffet lunch. Chinese and Spanish tapas were the delicacies of choice. One would think I was a woman of leisure but the clinic and theatre sessions somewhat distort this view. I am looking forward to a weekend of film Babel +/- Smokin' Aces (one-sided reviews putting me off), socialising with old school friends and if all else fails eating lots.

Piggy back

2007-01-13T15:10:00.000Z

Bar with friend and I was in a good mood. The only possible explanation for accepting a piggy back ride past the age of 10. It was fun.

Like Neo in the matrix I am suspended in a state of disbelief. My year, notorious for their above average alcohol tolerance and relaxed nature compared to our juniors, are actually revising for finals. No longer are people lying on direct questioning and working behind closed doors. I should be pleased but I will do what suits my routine and I want to enjoy these last few months of relative freedom before the 'experience' that is the foundation programme ensues.

This week a senior academic described the FY programme as the biggest mistake in medical training in recent years. I couldn't agree more. The variety of experiences during medical training was highlighted this week. There are some days when you wonder why you even bother getting out of bed and others which remind you of what you like about the vocation.

Did I mention my not so secret love?

Sweaty (Ugly) Betty

2007-01-07T14:01:00.000Z

New year, not so good start. This week has been interesting in terms of surgical operations and full of bad news on a personal level.

Friday night saw the launch of Salma Hayek produced Ugly Betty series starring America Ferrera. I keep calling it sweaty Betty because of the retail outlet. I haven't laughed out loud in so long and I plan to catch as many future episodes as I can. Surely it can only get better. On Saturday I had drinks with a friends at a bar in south London. Very plush but a bit sparse on people making a change from the sardine tinned Saturday venues. The line of the week goes to my friend who likened the price of dom perignon to half a laptop.

New Film releases: 12 Jan
Ghosts
Pursuit Of Happyness
Smokin' Aces starring Ben Affleck, Andy Garcia, Alicia Keyes and Ray Liotta which looks great.
The Last King Of Scotland starring Forest Whitaker, Gillian Anderson and James McAvoy.

19 Jan
Babel Cate Blanchett, Brad Pitt and Gael García Bernal star in Alejandro González Iñárritu's harrowing drama set in three locations.
Black Book
Infamous with an all-star cast including Daniel Craig and Sigourney Weaver.
Play Spanish tale of two lonely strangers.
Rocky Balboa
Running With Scissors
The Return Sarah Michelle Gellar may want to think about branching from the Buffy/ Horror pool of movie roles.

26 Jan
Blood Diamond
Bobby Huge ensemble cast star in Emilio Estevez's movie.
The Fountain Darren Aronofsky's sci-fi thriller starring Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz. Enough said.
Venus
Also worth a mention is The Good Shepherd Robert De Niro directed insight into the CIA released on 23 February

If you think I am critical check out rotten tomatoes.

New albums:
Jay-Z Kingdom Come
Ludacris Release Therapy
Mos Def New Magic
Norah Jones Not Too Late
Pretty Ricky Late Night Special
Tyrese Alter Ego. This double album introduces his alter ego, rapper Black Ty. I was sceptical but his rapping voice is nothing like his singing one. Open mind.
Check out J Status and their single which is a cover of Alison Hinds' Roll It.

New Start? New World? Don't Think So.

2007-01-05T13:06:00.000Z

Happy New Year.

My new year was spent eating ice cream, watching DVDs and reading magazines- very exciting. After hours of deliberation over which house party or overpriced celebration to attend I thought sod it, I cannot be bothered. It was nice waking up without embarrassing flashbacks or a hangover.

Why do people need more than one mobile phone? Some people have three. I can understand if you are a businessperson but otherwise it seems a bit excessive. Friends say this number is variable but number 2 never changes so save both.

I saw De Ja Vu with Denzel- I always play an FBI agent wearing sunglasses in blockbuster movies- Washington. It was action packed with a convoluted plot but the cheesy ending let it down in my humble opinion. I was surprised they cast an unknown actress as the female lead.

My experience of The Holiday was an exercise in the persistent rolling of my eye balls. An overacting Cameron Diaz with a cocky Jude Law playing the character Hugh Grant got paid for a while back and Kate Winslet pretending the other two can act. Jack Black is rubbish in anything. After King Kong's laughable performance he should know better than taking on a serious role.

Primark open a new superstore in Marble Arch in Spring 2007 and it looks huge. A message on the film board in Odeon, west London reading 'Rose Will You Marry Me' made me smile. What a romantic. Let's hope she says yes, I would.

I'm not going to bother with new year's resolutions because they always get broken but I want to manage my finances better. I got thinking. Why do we as human being hate each other? If people of the same country or origin cannot get on what hope is there for world peace.

This week doctors prescribed oestrogen therapy and performed a hysterectomy and breast bud removal at the request of parents of a disabled child in the States. The treatment was published in this journal and after consultation with Seattle Children's Hospital's ethical Committee and an expert in disability law they decided on the treatment. The news of the 'Ashley treatment' was controversial with her parents defending their decision. I can understand it must be difficult to care for a severely disabled child. I wonder if it is appropriate that the public can see their daughter's pictures yet they choose to remain anonymous. One could argue she has the same right to privacy and dignity. I welcome any thoughts or comments.

Noughties via the 90's

2006-12-23T19:48:00.000Z

I recently discovered Robin Thicke supported John Legend on the U.K leg of his tour. Gutted is my reaction after checking press details for the gig and deciding against purchasing tickets. I could have seen what Thicke is like live. After being encouraged by the incredibly catchy first single release Little Too Late which topped the AOL music charts (the embodiment of cutting edge music amongst young America) I gave Jojo's The High Road a listen. There is some good production and she has a good voice but most of the songs are samey. I decided to journey into the early 90's :

Mary J. Blige- Real Love and Reminisce.

Brandy- I wanna Be Down

Dru Hill -In my Bed Remix featuring Jermaine Dupri and Da BRat is sick.

Horace Brown- Things We Do For Love, One for the Money

Mase feat. Total- Tell Me What You Want

Boyz II Men

Jade- Don't Walk Away

Soul For Real- Candy Rain

All -4-One- I Swear

I got goosebumps because the beautiful thing about music is it can define periods in our lives. For me it was getting into r'n'b and hip hop music. I remember my rap phase where I could recite the lyrics to the DMX albums and got the LOX album just to hear Jada Kiss rhyme. My taste has matured and expanded with age but I look back with amusement and embarrassment in some cases (3T?). A lot of modern r'n'b and hip hop is driven by sex, bling and empty arrogance. Neo-soul was supposed to be the saviour with Jaguar Wright, Jill Scott, Bilal et al doing much to write some wrongs. It seems the mainstream buying public like the superficial. I am visually blunted by most r'n'b videos- the club, the girls in the club, in the car, in the strip club, the pool etc.

After fighting my way through the hoards of shoppers I finished my Christmas shopping. Attention turns to new year's eve because last minute plans tend to be rubbish. Unless one of the boys (Hugh, Clive or any other hotties) invite me to be their plus one at some uber cool party I am fearful of the possibilities. Overpriced nights with drunk semi -comatose revellers bonded by the need to not spend new year alone.

I found myself reading my dad's December issue of Time magazine. The cover has a mirror reflecting the fact that the individual is the person of the year because we are responsible for the explosion in web 2.0-based web sites. The sites allow users to upload items on websites, a right previously exclusive to the web master. The growth of my space, youtube, friendster, hi5 and facebook are examples of the popularity of such sites. In the search for entertainment have we become consumers with nano attention spans, going to increasing lengths to amuse ourselves? Where will it stop? My Bum -hot or not? (R) trademark of jadefox05.blogspot.com and subsidiary companies.

A friend's dilemma reminded me that as women we want a guy in the middle who is not adverse to the possibility of meeting the parents at some point down the line (preferably before you elope) but not too eager. First date and there is talk of meeting the family=running as fast as your heels will take you. A sensible period of time is needed to establish you are a couple and get to know each other. Is this too much to ask?

I attended a friend's boyfriend's friend's girlfriend's house party. Past experience of people being incredibly nice to you despite your obvious gate crashing gave me confidence to do this. The desserts were amazing and the only thing that stopped my greed was the thought of being physically sick. A good time was had. Relatively early to bed and definitely not early to rise.

Photos: Robin Thicke , Jojo

Lifehouse

2006-12-21T20:46:00.000Z

A friend put me onto this. Check this out

The Halls Are Decked With Holly. Whatever.

2006-12-17T14:05:00.000Z

The course was very useful in improving my practical techniques (catheterisation, central/peripheral line insertion, airway management etc). It was intensive with many lectures and few breaks. A&E was really busy this week and I can honestly say I have gained more from this attachment than some of the previous placements put together. The only downside is that sometimes we don't get to witness the outcome for many patients. I tend to ask the doctors a couple of days later.

As I walked home in the gale force winds that punctuated the weather this week, I was transported to Malaysia's hot beaches in the East for a brief second. The pangs in my heart... Another course at the end of this week which was extremely well organised and invaluable for finals and postgraduate medical training. I legged it at the end to attend Christmas dinner. The music was jazzy, food delicious and company delightful but I was so tired from the past couple of weeks, I didn't stay too late. The next morning I attempted to cobble together the numerous piles of items I had set aside during the week and packed to go home.

My friend and I were discussing the Christmas holidays. Yes it is nice to have a break but families start to grate on you after a prolonged period of contact with no public transport or escape plan. I actually am not bothered about presents, wish I could remove the stresses of Christmas shopping and sleep for a considerable period. It was my friend's birthday night. We had a themed party with gifts, games and forfeits. The lateral thinkers out there may understand but I don't want to give too much away. We went clubbing afterwards and had one of the best nights ever. What is it about arrogant guys? We hate to love them. I know women have a reputation for being catty but really if you are going to wear dental floss out in public expect a few stares from either sex. I am all for people dressing how they like but I'd rather be relatively clothed. Have I missed the uprise in the trend to go out in winter without jackets?

When no one in the crowd is dancing it is possible they don't like the music. In contrast to most venues, where you want to actually get on the decks because the DJ is bordering incompetent. The DJing and music selection was faultless and the crowd were up for it.

The best line this week at 04:30 a.m. Are you cold? I can help you keep warm.

I got home at 5 a.m and woke up feeling great. Do I have to go in? Hell No! Roll on the holidays. I am contemplating a last minute trip to Hogmanay in Edinburgh.

Polka Dots

2006-12-10T11:20:00.000Z

Fireworks out of my window on saturday night (see photos).

For the hundredth time in my training, we attended a meeting which was of zero relevance to us. Cue attempts to stay awake and act interested.

Blondie, the sister boutique of Absolute Vintage in Shoreditch opened recently. Some of the items are garish and the most sought after pieces were sold out. Suprise Surprise. Live Search from Microsoft has arrived- whopee doo. Do they really believe they can compete with google?

This friday was fun. Polka bar in soho made a nice change from the usual west end bars. Dinner then on to a club where I realised in the words of my friend I'm too old for this. Charty r n b, posey people, thank goodness for my friends. It's interesting how clubbing attire has evolved. In the 90's it was all dresses and no jeans. The millenium brought denim chic and now we are onto 80's- leggings and bold prints. I got home at 3 a.m and woke up feeling o.k.

I considered seeing Nelly Furtado when she plays the Apollo next February then I thought of the crowd- teenie boppers galore. Em maybe not.Will I fiish watching the Matrix on DVD? Others have ridiculed Keanu's acting skills and I can see their point. Reaves spends most of the film staring intently at his co-stars in a confused manner. I'm going on a course tomorrow which I am looking forward to.

Moody

2006-12-06T18:43:00.000Z

Can someone prescribe a mood stabiliser for my blog?

The budget for December is spiralling out of control mainly thanks to transport costs. Train journeys to and from GP placement, surprise day trips to random hospitals and general tube fares. You get the picture. I will be spending most of my time with my doctor colleagues in the future. As I sat amidst the F2 doctors, some who thought they were so 'hot', I actually got incredibly irritated. What is the big deal? You were a final year or F1 two years ago so get over it. I resisted the urge to roll my eyes as the final years spent considerable conversation time listing their entire foundation school rankings. Rumours of hospital closures don't help.

A chance meeting with an A-level student on some sixth form access to medicine course thingy brought a cynical smile to my lips. ''I'm definitely going to put this university down as first choice''. Naive, young lady. I would advise going somewhere else, preferably with more of a social life than the I'm a Celebrity Z-listers put together. I suppose it doesn't matter because after 3rd year theoretically your holidays and social life disappear.

What is it with grave yards being used as parks? Don't let your children and pets play on any bit of grass, there are dead people under there. I wandered Oxford Street and the Christmas feeling isn't quite there yet maybe it's better at night.

I had a play with my friend's HP photo smart printer (Photo) and it's official I want one. The ink cartridges can be pricey in store but it's all about online shopping. A couple of years back people didn't even know about kelkoo or play.It has taken so long for the entire population to jump on the bandwagon. Also if anyone has a Chanel quilted lambskin bag lying around, feel free to post it to me. A girl can dream..... I had the i-pod conversation with someone this week. Why do you have to justify having any other mp3 player? I'm sorry, superior features versus an mp3 player that looks girly with minuscule storage capacity? Tough one and don't even mention i-tunes.

Check out this song by NDubz. It is sick.

Asian Beer

2006-12-02T12:24:00.000Z

Drinks with friends in the evening mid-week. I've never had honey dew cider and it was an experience but I'll stick to Asahi next time.

My time on ITU was o.k with the potential for learning procedures virtually non existent. They were reluctant to let the SHOs do anything invasive let alone myself. The wealth of managers on every ward never ceases to amaze. Medicine continues to evolve and this along with the lack of substantial anatomy teaching on the course leaves me looking to the past. Going out tonight because the MTAS ball and chain has disappeared. I pity the poor person who has to read hundreds of applicants waffle their way to a job. I apologie for the pessimistic slant but may I refer one to the article on SHOs who had to move back home to their parents and claim benefits.
Grey's Anatomy season 3 looks as exciting as ever and I can't wait for the release of Yimou Zhang's Curse of the Golden Flower.

More new music:

Brian McKnight 10
Bianca Ryan Bianca Ryan. The pundits describe her as Christina Aguilera meets Celine Dion. The 12-year-old winner of Simon Cowell's talent search in the States has a great voice.
Omarion 21. Although Omarion hasn't offered any thing new in the male pop r'n'b market Icebox produced by Timbo is sick.
Nuttin But Stringz Struggle from the Subway to the Charts. These Juliard trained New York natives fuse classical, hop hop and jazz.
Brazilian Girls Talk to La Bomb. Eclectic quartet release their second album.

Aaaaaaaaaaaaagggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhh

2006-11-28T15:45:00.000Z

Today was one of those days where you hate studying medicine in London because of the cost and unpredictable transport services. Train delays meant I was late for a day placement. In terms of learning, the day was useful but there was some confusion as to the whereabouts of my coat at home time. Security obliged in opening the area but it wasn't there. Eventually I bumped into someone who was supposed to give it to me but hadn't a chance. After missing the bus to the town centre, I waited in the dark and cold for another bus. Luckily the bus driver was related to Schumacher and I ran like a crazy lady so I made it to the train station in good time. Or so I thought. The timetable was wrong and the train left 10 minutes ago. I wanted to scream but waited 30 minutes for another train. Finally it arrived, we went three stops and stopped. 'Ladies and gentlemen, there has been a signal failure because of the damp weather '. I gritted my teeth, cursed under my breath and resisted the temptation to go into meltdown. What followed was a nightmare journey where the Chiltern railways (yes you) train went at snail's pace or stopped completely before reaching London. Three hours later I walked into the flat, tired and hungry. I will never use that rail company again and will claim for compensation.

My day on the cardiac ward was incredibly good. Friendly staff and patients were the order of the day. I respect the patients so much as they must be tired of everyone listening to their heart and they agreed to let me listen anyway. Bureacracy is endemic in the NHS with clinical staff entangled in it's web. The SHO shook his head in disbelief when I mentioned the lack of training posts. I can't wait till the MTAS form is sent off so I can forget about it for 3 months.

Damien Rice's new LP 9. The difference between this record and the last is what exactly?

Buffet Bond

2006-11-26T14:52:00.000Z

Zoolander is hilarious. Expect nothing less with Owen Wilson, Vince Vaughan and Stiller in a movie. I saw Casino Royale on Friday and without a doubt Daniel Craig has silenced his critics. The Eva Green character's accent was at times English and in other parts Polish. But this is such a minor point and doesn't detract from the pure blockbuster action. Bond is back and manlier than ever (Pierce Brosnan was too slick for my liking).

It was a friend's fancy dress party on Saturday. There was alcohol and pulling galore but not on my part as that would actually mean having 'fun'. The general practice placement finished without incident and I have a more positive view of the specialty. After sitting through communication skills goodness, we were allowed our weekend. Many colleagues are jetting off on elective and I must resist the temptation to climb into their luggage. Here's one for the medic manual, never pick an intense special study module in the run-up to Christmas.

Large buffet meal at Spanish Tapas place. When you eat that much there is nothing left but to nap. A chance meeting with an FY1 friend did nothing to boost the mood. It seems problems with seniors and inflated egos are the order of things. Any way, newish music this week:

Gwen Stefani- The Sweet Escape - Will it be eclectic or Madonna homage?
Lucy Silvas- The Same Side

The Game- Doctor's Advocate. I need to have a listen but I am still getting through the mix tape which has like a billion tracks.

Snow Patrol- Eyes On Me. I won't even pretend to be some indie expert but I love this album.
Amy Winehouse- Back to Black. Jazzy-soul from North London's finest. I like Rehab but nothing matches her debut record.
The Killers- Sam's Town. Less mainstream than Hot Fuss but o.k.

Robin Thicke supports Pharrell Williams at Brixton next month. Fingers crossed he does a small solo set in London.

Bottle Neck

2006-11-16T18:24:00.000Z

This week has been rewarding. I made some good pick ups diagnosis-wise and I feel more Dr-like doing supervised consultations. It is a nice feeling despite a rumour that the specialist training (ST) application system is more of a shamble than foundation years (FY)1/2. In essence there is a bottle neck post FY1/2. It is touching that the many years of training are worth it.

I'm in London this weekend seeing some old friends.....

In the country

2006-11-11T21:35:00.000Z

Last weekend saw a few drinks in central London with friends and fireworks in west London on Guy Fawkes night. I went on a spin ball ride where like a mouse in a wheel you plastered to the side of a metal contraption rotating at high speed. I was very very scared but it was fun. It got a bit rowdy later on. Beer, balconies and plants is all I will say. You can fill in the rest.

Our GP introduction day saw a GP facilitator with more scathing wit than myself and Jimmy Carr put together. He made the painfully drawn out session somewhat bearable.

I've become a country bumpkin courtesy of my general practice placement. The staff and patients are all very sweet but we have lots of touchy feely assessments to do in between beloved medical training applications service (MTAS). If one more person asks me why I'm not in London at the weekend.....

The Robin Thicke album is on heavy rotation. I cannot recommend it enough. Note to a certain 'hip hop mogul' producer who insists on releasing solo albums. The public are not stupid. Will Smith can rhyme better and if you want to be a credible solo artist it helps not to collaborate with female singers who will upstage you in your own video.

Look out for :
Amy Winehouse Back to Black
Boyz II Men The Remedy
Ciara The Evolution
Damien Rice 9
Mary J Blige Reflections- The Journey
The Game Dr's Advocate
The Killers Sam's Town

The old Marketing Ploy

2006-10-21T16:02:00.000Z

I was unable to finish my huge vanilla milkshake after consuming the Jamaican burger at Gourmet burger. Every time! The Last Kiss was o.k. Zach Braff, Jacinta Barrett and Rachel Bilson were watchable and I loved the soundtrack but perhaps I have seen to many romantic comedies recently leaving me cynical. The last one being Trust The Man starring David Duchovny' and Julian Moore. The old marketing ploy: use well known screenplay writer in movie trailer advert works wonders.

Is it me or are there some strange people in this beautiful metropolis we call London? Exhibit 1. Men who solicit via text. I know the naughties brought technological revolutions but it's not sexy and definitely not clever. I am not Einstein but....Exhibit 2. What do you do? I am a medical student. So what are you going to work as? A landscaper for a NHS trust perhaps. OK maybe I am the weird person and everyone else is laughing at me because I know that most people studying nursing will become nurses etc.

My firm is very relaxed and by that I mean we have coffee together, braid each other's hair and eat lots of chocolate. In between saving lives of course. The key statements section of the MTAS form is a classic, so named to avoid confusion with the A levels personal statement. I could have come up with a more diverse range of questions such as how many people have you hugged this week and how does this illustrate your qualities as a Dr?

New albums:

John Legend-It's no secret that I am a fan of him but I have read mixed reviews for the new album. As a result I haven't bought a ticket for his London show in December. Is this going to be a 'Kanye' situation where the follow up trails in comparison to the debut?

The Game Doctor's Advocate. Again mixed reviews but if I had to choose between he and another rapper he used to hang out with, Game wins hands down. Actually a judy puppet probably has more skills than his former buddy.

Phlebotomist/Ward clerk Wanted

2006-10-20T14:06:00.000Z

The atmosphere is depressing. Some of my colleagues are considering applying for jobs in the City post-registration. I thought about it for more than a few seconds. My first week shadowing a surgical house officer did nothing to dissuade this. Writing notes on ward rounds, filling in pathology/ scan requests, writing up drug charts, taking bloods/putting in cannulae and carrying round a bleep. The joys of clinical medicine. On a positive note every doctor had to go through the initiation and there are interesting theatre sessions and clinics interspersed with the daily activities. I am drifting away from my year due to the staggered elective system and dispersal of clinical attachment locations. Some would say this is a good thing. I also hardly get to see my friends from back home or out of London, which is not winning me any fans. I must make an effort.....

Music keeping me going:

The Evolution of Robin Thicke Robin Thicke
Ghetto Story Alicia Keys feat Akon
My friend gave me a masterclass on Paolo Nutini and I love the album These Streets.
The Last Kiss OST- Chocolate by Snow Patrol is on repeat.

Marie Antoinette is out. I am not a huge fan of Sofia Coopola. Lost in Translation had no plot (sitting in this category with Magnolia and 2046) despite the edgy Tokyo backdrop. .

In case you haven't seen this.

2006-10-13T10:01:00.001Z

Batting An Eyelid

2006-10-12T18:26:00.000Z

I have been naughty in not writing for a while. The deadline for academic applications has passed without the blink of an eye lid. A&E has been interesting with a more intense work ethic than elective. I am getting back in the swing of things in terms of clinical skills. When not in the hospital, there was frolicking at clubs in the west end and Islington at the weekends. Music that keeps me going:

Justin's Future Sex Love Sounds- a sceptical woman is eating her words. Chop me up is crazy. Timbo kills it again!

LeToya- LeToya. Apparently she, Beyonce and Kelly have made up. I have only one image, the ending of magnolia when the heavems open and frogs descend from the sky. The album is not different from any of the rnb 'divas' but there is very little out at the moment and the production is o.k.

Fergie's Dutchess is alright despite her imitating Gwen Stefani, Salt and Pepa and Pink. I eagerly await John Legend's new album and am hopefully going to see him in December.

Is there any artist that Will I am isn't producing for? What was the point of Fergie going solo? He's also all over Sergio Mendes' Timeless. I foresee a solo Will I am project int he near future.

Movies seen- Devil Wears Prada. Anne Hathaway is stunning and I drooled over the clothes for 2 hours. The Children of Men was a pure Clive Owen fest and I thoroughly enjoyed it despite the rubbish ending. Moi? Biased? Never!

Looking forward to the weekend.

The Big Dip

2006-09-22T15:36:00.000Z

Malaysia had lovely people, cheap food and great beaches/landscape. Now I am back in London, the realities of final year which were pushed aside during the elective are apparent. The academic job posts are out, three weeks before the deadline (how generous of them). I stared at the form in disbelief. In essence if you don't have a distinction, 1st in your Bsc (if you possess one), publication, and have ever retaken any exam during the MBBS don't apply. The powers that be must be trying to encourage more undergrads to pursue the academic route to replace the exodus to the States and retirees. They probably don't want to compromise the high standards. I am sure I speak for myself and other colleagues when I say we would be lucky to satisfy even some of the criteria for an academic post. There lies the dilemma, submit a rushed rubbish application just in case you can get your 150th choice or don't bother and apply for the non academic posts by December 2006. Answers on a postcard please....

Day 3

2006-09-14T12:58:00.000Z

Another early start to explore Little India. First stop Sri Veeramakaliamman temple then the largest mosque in Sgp, Sultan Mosque. Pagoda street in Chinatown with it's colourful buildings, lively atmosphere and street stalls. I passed by the Chinatown heritage centre and the gopuram (tower) of Sri Mariamman temple with its decorated flowers and deities. I took the MRT up to Kranji war memorial. I was dying of thirst and after getting a drink from the vending machine, I realised I had to sit outside the station in order to consume it! The memorial houses the graves of allied troops who died during WWII and almost 25,000 men and women's' names are inscribed on the walls. Raffles Hotel and museum, synonymous with luxury, was the final stop.

Pros: so safe, cheap clothes and electronics. Cons: Possibly too much shopping, rules ( no eating or drinking on MRT, fines for not using pedestrian crossings, smoking, dropping litter, chewing gum...)

Day 2

2006-09-10T03:44:00.000Z

My impromptu tour guide and I left early for the Botanical Gardens. It houses over 600,000 botanical specimens and the National Orchid Garden was beatiful. As it was saturday there were lots of tourists and locals jogging. We drove to Sentosa Island off the south coast, an artificial beach complete with ongoing construction work. I rode on the travellator at Underwater world, a moving walkway through the tanks and touched fish in the touch pool. I felt the urge to return to age 5 and unfortunately there was little time to see the Dolphin lagoon after having coffee overlooking the island. We took a sky ride to the resort and walked Palawan beach with both tourist and local families. Sgp is very family friendly, tourists less-child were few and far between. After a short ride back into town, I finally walked the famous Orchard road. It can only be described as shopping heaven. Women in Sgp are well dressed in individual sometimes quirky items. I stopped many times to stare at peoples' shoes or handbags, like a fashion vagabond. There is less trend following compared to the U.K. Designer brands line every shopping complex and believe me there are lots of them. Eating and shopping are big here. WARNING: If you like cheap clothes, bags, accesories or elecronics, do not visit Sgp. I missed the shuttle bus to the night safari in my hunt for bargains. After boarding a later bus to the zoo, I was taken on a 3.2 km tram ride from the Himalayan foothills to equitorial Africa (sales talk?). Hyenas, leopards, deer and liond wandered the night. The night safari has won so many tourism awards and it is very unique. The creatures of the nights show meant a 20 minute q and squashing 600 spectators into an open auditorium to watch a 30 minute show featuring owls and racoons. The announcer's persistent crowd-banter was pedantic and perhaps an condescending attempt to appeal to the children in the audience. In summary the tram ride was miles better than the night show where people were filing out before he show had ended. After boarding the last coach back to he city centre, I was exhausted.

Day 1 Singapore

2006-09-04T06:36:00.000Z

My exodus from Colombo was a 45 minute ride in a dilapidated van known as the Airport express (yes you) whose suspension had gone to car heaven a while back. I complained and threatened to ring the boss of the company so they only charged me half the price. Check-in at the airport was so slow. I arrived at Changi airport at 4a.m local time (8pm GMT) after a short comfortable flight complete with on demand entertainment and in flight meal. A porter at the airport drew directions on my fold out tourist map. He also wrote his number down in case I needed 'any help'. 1.....2.....3.....Aaaawwwwwwwwww, sweet. I got the MRT (mass rail transit system) from the airport to Burgis, the stop near Little India. I figured I could get a cab to my hostel. The MRT's atmosphere in rush hour is akin to London, expressionless workers dreading the work day ahead. Some travelers have described Sgp as sterile and soulless. The MRT and the city is spotless. I can see my reflection in windows and pure marble platforms and I like the air conditioned, reliable trains.

On arrival at the accommodation I realise it is very close to Little India station. Duh! My room is 180 cm by 180cm and I am not exaggerating but at least I have a fan. What more can you ask for for 20 Singapore dollars (SD) a night? Well a lounge, internet area and free buffet breakfast. The initial shock drove a knee jerk run for the exit with my bags in tow. After some hyperventilating, I reasoned I could spend the money I save on enjoying the sites and attractions. The rooms are clean and the showers hot. One advantage of the box closet room is I spend my days out so I just come back to sleep.

I slept then ventured into a camera shop in Sim Lim Square, searching for an adapter. So I'm sitting in some camera shop, getting directions to the best sites drawn on my map and some old man says I should consider working as a Dr in Sgp. The kind owner offered to charge my run down canon battery for me after I bought a 2 SD adapter. It was supposed to be for half an hour but after chatting gadgets, top tourist sites and about the expense of London vs Sgp he offered me a soft drink. People are so nice. I pass St Andrew's Cathedral, City Hall, the old Art House and Sir Stamford Raffles' Landing Site. Next the Colonial district past Clarke Quay, Merlion, the Fullerton Hotel and the river. My mini museum tour starts 20 mins before 7pm so the curator lets me in free . My first stop, the Asian Civilisations Museum where 3 levels take you through South Asian inventions, religion, the colonial era and medieval India. Second stop Sgp Art Museum where most exhibits were closed for renovation. I take an evening boat tour of Singapore and stop at Merlion Park to take photos. Singapore is so safe but I get a cab back to my 'hotel' as it's at the end of a long road. It costs the equivalent of 2 GBP.

Maha Nuwara

2006-08-28T14:02:00.000Z

I saw Superman Returns at Majestic city’s theatre in Colombo. It was mediocre bar the special effects. Kevin Spacey is usually a joy to watch but I could see him cringing as he delivered his dialogue. The curtains came down to signal the 15 minute interlude. I felt like I was at the theatre. The movie finished late and the shopping centre closed at 11pm.

Today I felt sad. A seriously ill child came in and there were no ITU beds. Paediatric intensive care facilities in the U.K are more robust compared to SL. I realise just how valuable the NHS is and the high standard of facilities compared to the ‘developing’ world.

We left at 5:30a.m for the capital of the hill country, Maha Nuwara (Kandy). There were 4 stops on the way, one for breakfast. Yummy fish buns, chicken in breadcrumbs and cheese toast washed down with orange juice. The last 3 stops were at the Gadaladeniya, Lankatilake and Embekka Devale Temples. We wandered the ancient temples with moonstone entrances, carved wooden pillars and rock face inscriptions. The workmanship and detail was astounding especially at Embekka Devale. The carvings are said to be one of the finest in the region. It is mandatory to remove your shoes before entering any temple and although Lankatilake forbids taking pictures, the other temples allow photos. Monks opened the shrines so we could view the Buddhas.

Lunch was a seafood affair at the Hilltop Hotel, known for its scenery. We drove north of Kandy Lake to Sri Dalada Maligawa (the Temple of the Tooth). The temple was created in 1807 and houses the most sacred Buddhist relic in SL, the tooth of the Buddha. On our way back, we browsed the museum showcasing gifts offered from various nations to honour the Temple and the tooth. Another museum pays homage to Maligawa Tusker, the elephant that carried the casket containing the tooth during the Parahera (parade or procession). Rain halted our visit to Peradeniya Botanical Gardens so we drove back to Colombo, stopping to admire the view over Kandy town.

I spent the weekend buying souvenirs, visiting the few sites I haven’t seen in Colombo and tonight we party! Surely it can only get better…..

The King’s Throne

2006-08-21T08:29:00.000Z

My experience of paeds thus far has been good. There is teaching everyday in tutorials and ward rounds. I have seen a lot of interesting cases including juvenile idiopathic arthritis, a bone marrow biopsy/aspirate, possible Guillain Barre syndrome, Diamond Blackman syndrome, osteogensis imperfecta and microcephaly.

On Friday night I went to a club called Tabou with a group of seven others. The music was a nice mix of r n b hip hop, 80’s and dance. Some for the group got very drunk and decided to show off their moves on the DJ’s stage- I was in stitches. Going out here is very cheap because ladies get in free everywhere.

We left for Sigiriya at 6 a.m, stopping at Pinnewala elephant orphanage on the way. At 9.15 they fed the elephants with milk and we saw a 7 day old baby elephant. Working elephants and those with 3 legs wandered the government run orphanage. The elephants showed off their balancing tricks for the eager audience of tourists. The sun was out and the park scenery was breathtaking.

Our next stop was Sigiriya, the rock fortress built in 477 when King Anuduradhapura was overthrown and walled alive by his son Kasyapa. The queen’s son swore revenge and built a fortress but unfortunately he was deserted by his troops and took his own life or so the story goes. The ancient fortress is 200m above sea level with hydrautic technology, gardening and art. We climbed the rock in the hot midday sun, passing the Royal Gardens, Cobra hood cave, Sigiriya Damsels, Mirror wall with graffiti and the half way point, Lion’s paws. An hour later we reached the 1.6 hectare summit with a view like nothing I have ever experienced. It was so relaxing looking over the town with clear skies and a cool breeze. I will never forget it.

After a nice buffet lunch at the Sigiriya Café, we drove to Dambulla, the home of the cave temples. This rock was a comparatively easier climb with monkeys on the way up. The reward at the top is the temple entrance where you enter barefoot. There are 5 caves with 150 Buddha images. Touts and food sellers line the path down from the temple offering their goods.

Our last stop on the whistle stop tour of the Ancient cities was Kandalama 5 star Hotel which is built on a rock overlooking beautiful landscape. It is 1 km wide with three pools and a spa. We made it back at 11pm after a 4 hour drive. I am proud to say I went in for 8:15 this morning.

Welcome to Surgery

2006-08-15T07:29:00.000Z

Today we started surgery and jumped form the frying pan into the fire. We had heard rumours about the head of surgery rinsing medical students so when we met a calm man with glasses we thought it was all hype. He was the registrar. The Prof. welcomed us and said I would only get a sniff of medicine in a week. We are part of a group of about 20 final year students. He picked apart every statement emitted from our naive inexperienced mouths in an effort to make us learn. Then there were the surgical gems he insisted we write in our notebooks. I do not know my surgical signs. I had to stop myself from giggling because this is all I've ever known especially of surgical teaching and everyone was frightened of him. His bark is worse than his bite. Anaesthetic teaching on nutrition and feeding in surgical patients. We return after lunch for teaching on DVTs.

Renal? What's that?

2006-08-15T07:15:00.000Z

Thursday 10 August
Today we saw classic infective endocarditis with mitral valve prolapse on examination, stroke, IgA nephropathy/ AV fistula bruit, cellulitis, and I heard my second pericardial rub ever. We attended some lectures for the medical students on metabolic bone disease. To be frank, it was all repetition so we buggered off. The interesting long case this Friday centred on a possible pulmonary renal syndrome (Wagener’s or polyarteritis nodosa). We have had 4 sessions of renal teaching with an awesome consultant bringing my renal knowledge from non-existent to vague recollection.

This weekend’s trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla has been postponed to next week. Today one of the neurologists sidelined us on her ward round after we waited 45 minutes for it to commence. We went back to our old stomping ground, the general medical ward where we saw a linguinal lobe pneumonia and Haemophilia A. I am feeling a bit weird today. I miss home cooked food and I just want to get on to the rest of Asia. Another confirmed bomb explosion in front of a shopping centre close to us this afternoon.

Explosion

2006-08-10T06:29:00.000Z

Tuesday 8 August
Today we saw mitral valve prolapse, suspected TB, pneumonia following a stroke, weight loss/ dysphagia 2º to oesophageal stricture, alcoholic liver disease, exophthalmos/goitre, suspected Ehlers Danlos and hepatosplenomeagly. I also saw P pulmonale on ECG for the first time.

In the afternoon we saw thick black smoke rising from buildings in the next postcode. Someone in the flat suggested it was an explosion and this was later confirmed by the news reports. The Sri Lankans we were with seemed undisturbed by this and life carried on as normal.

Wednesday 9 August

Poya is a public holiday which celebrates the day of the full moon so we had today off. Wetraveled on the most crowded bus ever to get to Fort station in Colombo at 6 am and caught the 6.45 am train to Galle in the south. The ticket cost 58 rupees one way and the three hour journey was eventful. There were many traders offering everything from food and drink to colouring books, interspersed with the songs of beggars asking for donations. It was an experience I will never forget.

The port of Galle (gawl) is the setting for the 36 hectare fort built by the Dutch in 1663. Our travel guide warned us about the con artists. Low and behold after we left the train station we were harassed by at least 3 different male touts offering maps or being a nuisance. We made a hasty exit towards the fort. On our tour of the fort, we passed the old gate with the letters VOC ( Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie), Flag Rock and many buildings with Dutch architecture e.g. the museum, library and Dutch Reformed Church. The light house is beautifully set on top of a hill overlooking the sea. We waded on the beach in clear blue green waters and visited my host's grand uncle who was very sweet. Our air conditioned bus ride Hikkaduwa on the west coast, cost us 40 rupees (vs 20 rupees for no air con). The driver made pedantic requests for us to move to the front of the bus or he would throw us off. We obliged scowling and muttering under our breaths. Lunch was a more pleasant affair at the Coral Gardens Hotel, overlooking the beach and where the reef runs from the shore. Afterwards we went on a glass bottom boat ride where we saw coral, fish and turtles. We discovered that the boats and bleaching in 1998 have ruined the coral and I felt awful for going on the boat ride.

The train journey from Hikkaduwa was picturesque. I kept snapping away with my camera. We were in second class which made for a more peaceful and cooler journey despite the repeated stares from some tourists.

Hill Billy

2006-08-08T06:10:00.000Z

Friday 4 August 2006

This week we have seen:
Lots of fevers
Miliary TB
Suspected typhoid
Dengue fever
Malaria
Possible non Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Beta Thalassaemia/ 2º Fe overload
Sudden onset cough and dyspnoea in a 15 year old
Chronic cough/clubbing
Pleural effusion/suspected lung ca
Pleural effusion/encysted lesion
Printzmetal’s angina
Post MI angina
Hepatomegaly/epigastric mass
Obstructive jaundice
Chronic diarrhoea
Idiopathic chronic renal failure
Glomerulonephritis
Chronic headache
Wrist drop
Paracetamol overdose
The grand round centered on an interesting case with a large list of differentials to exclude. Tonight was our elective night out. A group of 10 of us met at the 5 star Taj Samudra Hotel near Galle Face and had drinks in the hotel bar. I had a Lion beer which came in huge bottle equivalent to two pints and a local drink suggested by a Sri Lankan, which tasted like cough mixture. The guests were all middle aged tourists or locals with cash to burn. ABBA resurfaced again and the house band played Elvis and 80’s classics. We moved on to the basement club called Onyx which is equivalent to a trendy London club playing r’n’b and hip hop. I was actually convinced I was in London and it took a while to adjust. It was a blast and I left at 2:30a.m because we planned to set off for Nuwara Eliya (Hill Country) at 5:30 a.m.

Although I slept through my 5a.m alarm our ride did not show up till 6:45 a.m so I wasn’t pleased. It was a 5 hour journey from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya on steep winding roads. We had several near accidents and one collision with a black Toyota which thankfully left no obvious damage to our vehicle. We stopped at scenic spots on the way to take pictures. The scenery is full of luscious greenery, tea plantations and waterfalls steeped into the hills. We stopped for breakfast at Kitugala Rest House with views over the river, Kelaniya Ganga where Bridge on the river Kwai was filmed in 1957. We also stopped at the entrance to a Buddhist temple where I obliged in removing my shoes to take photos. Nuwara Eliya (City of Light) with its colder climate has many British country houses with large gardens befitting its nick name ‘Little England’. We passed the golf club with its luscious greens, the 5 star Grand Hotel and the race course where wealthy locals take their children for pony rides. Our hotel, the Windsor in the centre of the town overlooked the luscious hills. After a wander round the town we had dinner at the Grand Hotel. The meal can only be described as the best in SL so far. Starter: Melon and bacon (I was skeptical but it works), salmon, feta cheese and squid salad. Main: Spicy fish and Cajun prawns in white butter sauce with mashed potatoes. I had no space for dessert despite drooling over the dessert cart. It got very cold at night and I was shivering in the car despite wearing a summer jacket.

Our day began with pastries at the Milano Restaurant in the centre of town after which we visited Victoria Park Botanical Gardens. I was disappointed because my hosts were more into dining and wandering the town than visiting the tea plantations and Horton Plains as discussed. The 5 hour journey back could account for the bias or the complacency of having visited these sites on childhood holidays. Lunch at the Hatton Rest House left a lot to be desired. I have to return to Nuwara Eliya to visit these famous sites. As we drove back to Colombo, I felt I hadn’t seen as much as I wanted- lovely scenery and food but not enough site seeing. This has been a learning experience thankfully early on in my stay in SL. I will sight see in Kandy, Galle and the rest of the south before I leave.

No More Kandy

2006-08-03T08:08:00.000Z

On the ward round we saw a patient with classic cor pulmonale and the most prominent ronchi in all the lung zones. A consultant in renal medicine met us on the ward round and offered to teach us. We saw interstitial nephritis and idiopathic chronic renal failure. The one thing I love about this elective is the spontaneity of the teaching. The consultants come and find us but not a small proportion of consultants are not as open. There was an interesting lecture on metabolic syndrome by a Prof.from New Jersey as part of the National Endocrine Society of SL meeting. The air conditioning did not prevent me from feeling sleepy so I doodled. I couldn't remember the last teletubby Dipsy but my friend helped. There is talk of an elective night out. Due to the threat from the Tamil Tigers, many locals have advised against going to the parahera in Kandy. So we are going to region with picturesque tea plantations and scenery instead.

Mount Lavinia

2006-07-31T07:21:00.000Z

Sunday 30 July

We drove up to Mount Lavinia in a van. The resort is about a 30 minute drive from Colombo. The marbled waterfront Mount Lavinia Hotel is the former residence of the British Governor. The views are spectacular (see photos). A mixture of tourists and natives wandered the beach or browsed the boutiques and souvenir shops. We watched the sunset on the beach, wandered the hotel terrace with its pool and had dinner at a place called Seafood Cove on the beach. We could pick our own ingredients and style of cooking. It was so beautiful eating in the moonlight with the stars above us. I had crab chilli and the portions were large so dessert wasn’t even an option. For a party of 10, the bill was under 30 GBP. You cannot get any cheaper than that for the quality of food.

Mount Lavinia is my favourite place of the trip so far. The views are breathtaking and I would recommend it to anyone visiting South East Asia or SL. My sleep cycle has been varied this trip. Last night and during the weekend I got very little sleep compared to the weekdays where the 11 year old nick named me sleeping beauty because of my hypersomnia. She asked if I needed permission from my ‘mommy’ to go out. I sneakily replied yes. The naivety of youth…..

Wax

2006-07-29T15:59:00.000Z

Friday 29 July 06

The morning humidity is intense especially on the bus journeys to the hospital. We had a grand round with refreshments (baked snacks) afterwards similar to the U.K tradition. We saw massive splenomegaly which I will never forget, liver disease in pregnancy, hepatitis C, Norwegian scabies and Corrigan’s sign (aortic regurgitation). I got to take a history in
English for the first time today and this made a change from my staccato Singhalese phrases. Many patients in the hospital have murmurs, even the relatively uncommon (vs. U.K) ones-diastolic murmurs such as aortic regurgitation and mitral stenosis. We got tips form the other students on sites to visit in Colombo and where to purchase cheaper souvenirs.

After dinner the door bell rang. A beautician was here to wax and thread every strand of unwanted body hair into non existence. I am a wax and thread virgin so I took the plunge with my eyebrows. For those who don’t know, you can hardly even see them and as the lady told me, I don’t have bushy brows. The result was neater sculpted brows at the cost of my pain fibres. Unlike my predecessors, I resisted the urge to scream and clenched my fist instead.

In the evening, I went to a house party in Colombo. Sri Lankans can drink and party. The surrounding gardens were beautiful at night and the patio area was a make shift dance floor with DJ. ABBA and pussy cat dolls were a recurring theme as well as old school classics. If you are spotted with an empty glass people insist on refilling it or offer you tequila. I had to hold my resolve. Afterwards we went to a club called ‘R&B’, ironic because the live band had left and dance music was the only genre on offer. The crowd were older and the men persistent- I ended up sharing a pepsi with someone just to get away. I rolled into bed in the early hours.

Saturday 30 July 06
Today was spent recovering from last night’s festivities and eating a lot.

Galle

2006-07-28T06:21:00.000Z

Thursday 27 July
I have yet to upload the many pics I have taken and I apologise but most of the computers we have access to do not have drivers for my digi cam and we don't have administrator privileges to install the software.

Today consisted of the usual tuk tuk ride to the hospital, ward round and endocrine clinic. Cases today were aortic pulmonary window, tonic clonic seizures, hiccups, diabetic gastroparesis, dysphagia, shingles, bronchiectasis and polycythaemia with splenomegaly. During the lunch break, we went on an expedition to Borella, determined to find a guest house which could be closer to the hospital. In summary, it was a long hot journey with the usual fanfare of shouts and stares and the place was not as close to the hospital. On the way back, we met a nice SL lady who gave us a lift back to the hospital in her air conditioned vehicle. Thank you lady!In endo clinic we saw frilarial infection, short stature, Grave's disease, thyrotoxicosis, polycystic ovaries, microadenoma and metabolic syndrome. I saw acanthosis nigricans for the first time which was interesting. The consultant was friendly and keen to teach. We braved the bus home. It's far from a London bus. I can only describe it as an american school bus in white, with very few seats and two doors at the front and rear of the bus. You pay the conductor when you get on and we refused to be ripped off. It was jerky and quick ride home.

In the evening we wandered Galle Road, a busy road with shops and restaurants. The prices are so cheap. A cheeseburger is 60 rupees, roughly 30p and a mcdonalds meal is 260 rupees which is just over 1GBP.I got a chocolate sundae from McD's on the way home and I won't even describe the Pizza hut's prices! I have been looking for a gold or silver ring so we were wined and dined in an upmarket jewellery shop by suave sales people. I decided to sleep on it and come back if necessary and we left by the security exit at the back of the store. I felt like a movie star for about 10 seconds. The walk back jolted me back to reality.

Tuesday 25 July

2006-07-27T08:20:00.000Z

Our first day at the hospital and we arrived by tuk tuk (3 wheeler vehicle) in an experience I can only describe as being on a bumper car, in traffic with no traffic rules. The first time was scary but it was fun on the journey back.

We met the registrar and the head of clinical medicine at the medical faculty. The final year students are on holiday, so the teaching is very informal and will be based on our requests. We visited the male ward and met the registrar. The staff are so friendly and the patients compliant. Some of the elective students speak Singhalese so they ask for consent. We are learning a few basic medical requests in Singhalese. The working hours are very relaxed and there are a multitude of clinical signs. In the two days on the ward, I have heard mitral and aortic regurgitation murmurs, seen atrial septal defect in an adult, pulmonary hypertension, angina, atrial fibrillation, dilated cardiomyopathy and polycythaemia. Patients with snake bites, bronchiectasis, hepatitis A, alcoholic cirrhosis, renal calculi, diarrhoea, cellulitis, hepatic encephalopathy, hypokalaemia and pelvic mass have presented.

There are many elective students from the U.K and North America. Our rotations differ but we generally stick together. The latter part of the day is spent exploring Colombo, eating, sleeping or relaxing with friends. We went to Borella, probably one of the busiest sections of Colombo. We are semi-celebrities in Colombo. People wave, stare or smile at us as we go past and ask where we are from.

Our accommodation is comfortable and I cannot get used to being waited on by a maid. No cooking or making the bed. I insist on washing my own dishes, it is crazy otherwise.

This weekend we plan to go to clubbing in Colombo and then to Mount Lavinia near the seaside.

Elective

2006-07-24T08:23:00.000Z

Thursday 20/Friday 21 July 06

I left my family at Heathrow Airport and after a flight of 10 hrs and 45 minutes, I arrived in Colombo. The stewards on Sri Lankan airways are hardly leaders in customer services. I had to repeat my request for water to about 5 different stewards and another noisy passenger was put in a seat next to us with no warning. Sri Lankans are so friendly; the lady next to me on the plane promptly introduced herself. The food was nice (oriental lamb curry, prawn noodle salad and strawberry cheesecake for dinner). Breakfast was bacon and eggs. I got hardly any sleep because the seats were so uncomfortable. We landed at 13.33 (08:33 GMT) and I breezed through customs and baggage control. Luckily for me my contact in Colombo had a driver pick me up fromt eh airport. I was ready for any touts who tried to rip me off. I ain’t Sri Lankan but I ain’t no damn tourist either! There is a heavy military presence at the airport due to the ethnic conflicts. The humidity is the first thing to hit you as soon as you step outside. There is no breeze. Thank goodness for the air conditioning in the mini van. My SL initiation was to drink thambili (an orange coconut drink) at one of the stalls on the way to central Colombo. The giant billboards at the roadside, advertise everything form mobile phone companies to cosmetics. Palm trees line the streets, interspersed with metal shacks selling tourist goods and food. The tuk tuk 3 wheelers weave through the bustling traffic. The main aim on the road is to protect yourself and two near misses confirmed this. The infrastructure becomes more modern as we approach Colombo. We drive past Colombo’s medical school, steeped in over 100 years of history, the National Hospital, Carey College and the Eye Hospital with its red and yellow brick Islamic architecture. As we waited in traffic, I watched the medical students leaving the medical school, smartly dressed all in single sex groups. I felt the urge to jump out and introduce myself but I knew there is plenty of time. My accommodation is in Colombo 03. The flat has breathtaking views over the city. My room is clean and most importantly has a fan. The centerpiece of the flat is a balcony overlooking the city. My host is a local family who speak perfect English (like a fair proportion of Colombans). After sleeping off my jetlag, I was treated to chicken curry for dinner. We watched dvds after dinner and as I retire to bed I have one last look over the balcony and I know I am going to like this place.

Saturday 22 July 06
We went on a drive around Colombo. The British Colonial architecture is amazing exemplified by the National Museum and old parliament building with their imposing pillars. The seafront with the high waves and hordes of people kite flying and playing in the sand. There is talk of visiting Kandy for the Perahera celebrations running from August 1-8 in the month of Esala and ending on the full moon.

I visited a shop selling SL- made souvenirs, furniture and art. On the streets, taxi and tuk tuk drivers try to get my attention. As an obvious tourist I signal business and cash.

Tonight we had a traditional SL dinner at a place called the green cabin. Hoppers (like pancakes), rotti, cattle fish and chicken were some of the delicacies.

2006-07-14T14:21:00.000Z

Lyfe Jennings Music Video Codes

Now Playing: Lyfe Jennings - S.E.X.

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Beyoncé Music Video Codes

Now Playing: Beyoncé - Deja Vu

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Interesting Site

2006-07-13T18:14:00.000Z

Check this out.

In the Frame

2006-07-12T14:48:00.000Z

On heavy rotation at the moment:

Joe feat. Papoose Where You At?

Cheri Dennis I Love You

Jeannie Ortega Crowded and So Done

Megan Rochell Betcha & The One You Need

Nelly Furtado feat Lil Wayne Maneater Remix

Method Man feat Lauryn Hill Things They Say

Lupe Fiasco Kick Push & Daydream feat. Jill Scott

Sergio Mendes Timeless - esp. Samba Da Bencoa & Loose ends feat Pharaohe Monch and JTimberlake

Speaking of JT, you can listen to his new track and other hot pre releases at http://mixmatters.com/hot/2006/Justin_Timberlake_Sexyback.html

Zidane's sending off spoilt the world cup final. I can only describe it as a moment of temporary insanity. Federer steam rolled Nadal (bar the 3rd set), much to my delight. Serves him right after he threw Agassi aside like a piece of trash.

I passed my exams and got my act sorted so my Canon ixus 750 arrived today. I love it and I've only had it a few hours. I went to dinner with a school friend and ordered yummy Carribean snapper with savoury rice. Afterwards I met some friends at Plastic People. It's the hottest venue I have ever been to with no functioning ventilation and a dark dancefloor (you could hardly see anything). The music can only be described as eclectic but it got better 5 minutes before the night ended. Shoreditch crowd of men with ironed on skinny jeans, women wearing vintage boiler suits (why?), lots of converse, polka dot and vintage shoes.

I've been watching Larry David's Curb Your Enthusiasm Season 2 and it is hilarious possibly better than Season 1. The show is in its 5th season on HBO in the USA.

Sweet Scent Of Summer

2006-07-04T15:20:00.000Z

Hello world, jadefox is back! I approach the end of an arduous academic year riddled with many exams with relief. The last few exams did not go as well as I had hoped (messy' is the street term) but at least it is over. The end of exams saw my entire year completely lashed. I watched from the sidelines in amusement. My friend took me to friendly gathering which was fun but the past 3 weeks caught up with me. I need to sleep for a month. This weekend I moved out of the flat leaving behind months of untidiness and some fond friendships. These next few months herald the start of a life changing experiences and I cannot wait.

It took me over a year to purchase my mp3 player. All the major brand had some akiles heel and I was not prepared to compromise. Another gadget assignment beckons: find a digital camera for the fussiest person in the world.

England v Portugal was watched in a quiet pub with friends. They did well to hang on despite being a man down thanks to Rooney. The tension was unbearable during extra time and penalties. France played out of their skin against Brazil and the magician (Zidane) taught us a trick or two. What was the Brazilian coach thinking? Ronaldinho worked so well on the left wing feeding balls to the other Brazilian strikers against Ghana and the decision was made to move to right wing position. He couldn't make the passes the whole match. The loss was not solely because of this but it did not help. I missed Andrew Murray's annihilation of Roddick (evil laugh) but I did watch Federer's warm up matches/masterclass sessions against his poor opponents.

So much time and so much fun to be had (wink)....

Check out the new 3LW video. These girls are all grown up and with JD's production things should get better.

3LW Music Video Codes

Now Playing: 3LW - Feelin' You

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Midst Of Nothing

2006-06-21T16:31:00.000Z

The Nelly Furtado album Loose is very good. I've got it on replay. I am just counting the days till the torture ends. Many of my friends in the year above passed finals and I was ecstatic for them and extremely jealous. They deserve it and I will be there next year. I am also looking forward to my elective, paying for the flights killed me. If anyone has any cans of food lying round the house or clean clothes send them in. Along with any good music. I apologise for the lack of gossip or general interest in this entry and I promise to do better when I get my life back.

Why do We Do it?

2006-06-04T12:50:00.000Z

This is a question I get asked quite often. Sitting in the library revising for my 5th year final exams with the sun blazing outside. I am asking myself the same question. Why do we spend years taking endless exams and learning the skills? What is it all for? The old cliche of healing people and making them better is wearing a bit thin.

I am in the process of organising the return leg of my elective with a mini tour of Asia. Exams finish soon and I'm moving ouf of the flat. The academic year draws to a close and I am moving on to the final phase of my training. I look back to the earlier years and can comfort myself in the fact that I did have fun at medical school. Enough sad talk.

I want to see United 93 not least because Andrew Marr recommended it (political pundit for BBC). New music- Ne-Yo In My Own Words, Christina Milian So Amazin', Rihanna A Girl Like Me. Rihanna has matured on her latest effort and shows more musical diversity. Christian Milian seems to thinks good album involves recruiting Cool and Dre and making no effort lyrically. The new signing to Bad Boy Records, Nelson has a good voice. The hype is all about Nelly Furtado. There's a story that the tracks were so hot, the studio speakers caught on fire with Timbo. promiscuous girl will grow on me.

Broken Glass

2006-05-28T13:12:00.000Z

In case you are wondering, the title refers to a Talib Kweli track from the album The Beautiful Struggle. I managed to miss the gig because I discovered there was no northern line at leicester square station. Monday saw my friend's birthday dinner in North London. It was fun but I was tired from a long day so I did not stay too long.

Da Vinci Code was exactly as the times review described it. You knew the story which removed any element of surprise. Audrey Tatou gave a solid performance and Tom Hanks improved as the film went on. I love Sir Ian McKellen but I think they should have cast someone else. He is very good at playing good or evil not both in the same character. The film makers also changed a few details from the book and I was not impressed. They did not develop the romance between Neveu and Langdon and suddenly Sophie Neveu has random 'chosen' people looking after her because she is supposedly a descendant of Mary Magdalene. What about the part of the book where Sophie's grandmother gives Prof. Langdon a clue as to the whereabouts of the holy grail? Hollywood what did you do?!

The long awaited X3- The Last Stand opened on Thursday. The SFX were amazing and I loved the hidden extra scene after the credits (you dumbasses who left early missed out) . However I found the direction limp and it was too short! I remember looking at my watch 90 minutes in thinking there was more to come but it ended soon after. I expected more battle scenes and character development. They made a mistake losing the previous director in my opinion.

I helped with the medical exams. My bum was sore from lying down for so long and by the 5th candidate you can recite your lines in your sleep. I kept shouting the answers/instructions in my head, willing them to say/do it. I felt sorry for some of them because of the nerves. Other candidates blew us away with their performance. I thought I want to be you (when you qualify).

I wandered a food market on Saturday with some friends. It was fun and I managed to stop myself eating all the tasty samples. From previous experience it makes you feel greedy and like a pig. I had yummy chocolate brownies, a semi-organic lamb burger with black pepper, mustard and a veggie chutney filling, hot apple and cinamon, cider (a sip) and organic ice cream (mint choc chip & almond/hazelnut).

Finalement

2006-05-18T12:30:00.000Z

I got confirmation for my elective! Now I just have to make travel plans and pay for insurance. If anyone has £1000 lying around feel free to transfer it to my account. This week has been o.k. Mainly Dermatology and rheumatology clinics and finals teaching (a year is never too early). I saw a hemi-arthroplasty which was interesting. I can see why orthopaedics is known as the boys' specialty, all that drilling and hammering through bone. It is not all elective and exam preparation. It is my flatmate's birthday dinner on Friday evening and another friend's onMonday. This appears to be birthday month.

Photo from http://artoftravelworldwide.com/picture_gallery/Phulay%20Beach%20Krabi_Aprime%20Resort/Beach%2002.JPG

Hot New Music

2006-05-14T18:28:00.000Z

Hit 40 U.K? Please!

Jeannie Ortega Music Video Codes

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Jeannie Ortega - Crowded. 18 year old from N.Y produced by Stargate.

Nelly Furtado- No Hay Igual

Check out Ryan Leslie's protege, Cassie

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Madness

2006-05-09T10:36:00.000Z

I am still trying to obtain written confirmation for my elective. In between path revision I must make efforts to advertise my room for rent over the summer period. There is quite a bit to do in the next couple with weeks in relation to the elective.

I am addicted to Grey's Anatomy. Drama, romance and comedy. What more could you ask for? I watched the first season and I cannot wait for the second. Went to a bar near Piccadilly. The decor was very modern and it had a nice atmosphere. Saturday saw a friend's birthday. I didn't stay very long as I am trying to tighten the purse strings. Saw MI-3 on Sunday. Lots of blockbuster action with Tom Cruise running in slow motion for over half the movie. The story line was non existent and the ending, unrealistic and saccharine ridden. Apparently if Tom is playing the main character in a film, there is no need to develop the other characters. They should they be grateful they got the part. Maggie Q probably uttered 10 lines in the entire movie and the rest of the supporting cast was similar. However, it was nice to use virtually zero brain power for 2 hours. Go see it!

Image from http://www.filmedge.net/mi3/images/MI3_TeaserPoster.jpg

Summer Movies

2006-05-04T13:10:00.000Z

Da Vinci Code

X-3

MI 3

Other releases

Horizontal

2006-05-03T11:32:00.000Z

I am trying to get confirmation for my elective. My hosts are so relaxed they're horizontal and I have the medical school on my back. Fingers crossed. Bank holiday weekend saw a tapas lunch/dinner, Captain Correlli's Mandolin, 2046 (more quirky than Magnolia and Lost in Translation combined) and The Hours (fell asleep within first 10 minutes-Nicole kidman had just uttered her first piece of dialogue). I have become a big fan of Christian Bale ( American Psycho, Batman Begins & The Machinist). Let's not forget Swordfish which completed the DVD marathon. Hugh Jackman. Fit. Travolta is a genius. Halle Berry had a penchant for skin revealing scenes in most of her early roles e.g Monster- was it really necessary?. No especially in Swordfish.

Dermatology clinics Tuesday. The bulk of dermatology? Mology?

The Slog

2006-04-22T11:44:00.000Z

I have turned down invites to go out and stayed in tucked up in bed on several occasions. What is happening? Could this be medic-burn out- syndrome. A disorder chracterised in both sexes with a peak incidence in the 3rd to final years of medical education. The symptoms include :

Physical fatigue from long ward rounds, theatre and clinics
Lack of motivation
Not giving a toss about the present or the future
Fear of the foundation programme and ending up jobless
Mental fatigue from overcompetitive colleagues and keenos
Obsessing over money and debt

If any of you have experienced these or similar symptoms, please leave a post sharing your experiences.

Management involves winning the lottery and lying on a hot beach for several months. Second line treatment is increasing extra curricular activities and exercise. Counselling or individual psychotherapy is indicated in severe or refractory cases.

The honey moon is over. 10 weeks till exams. Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! I love orthopaedics and rheumatology. It is such an interesting specialty which is comparable to drilling into my teeth for fun on a daily basis. Closed and open fractures.........zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. Dermatology is interesting because it encompasses traditional clinical medicine and can enable diagnosis of systemic disorders. Also there is no dermatology on-call which is a bonus for future employees. I can imagine it getting a bit repetitive seeing some conditions a million times but that is true of most specialties.

Most wanted (1st two in my dreams):

Miu Miu sunglasses
Chanel Sunglasses
Nelly Furtado album when it is released (June 26 in USA). It sounds hot especially No Hay Igual not promiscuous which is typical Timbaland- talk over every track I produce.
Rihanna - A Girl like me. I love the S.O.S video- she looks great.
Pink- I'm not Dead
Grey's Anatomy DVD series 1

The state of music at the moment is shocking. Corinne Bailey Rae is about the only decent thing out at the moment. Yet I haven't bought the album. I will I just want the hype to die down a bit.

For spring trends check out the Telegraph's fashion website.

Easter

2006-04-19T14:22:00.000Z

Exam went o.k. Went window browsing. I love it when the new spring trends enter the shops. Everything seems so fresh, fashion-wise. Home for the Easter Weekend. There was lots of sleeping, watching abysmal television and eating my body weight in food. I have to start doing some work and stop faffing around.

Memories & Dread

2006-04-08T12:15:00.000Z

This week has been long and tiring, despite mainly wasting time I should have spent revising. It is the final practical clinical exam and the events of the year are taking it's toll. Or I am just lazy. My flatmates are not helping. Above is pictorial evidence of this. Their friends call the flat in the small hours of the morning and apparently using a hoover when normal people are asleep or not tidying up after yourself is normal behaviour.

Last Weekend I saw Inside Man in the cinema. I can't imagine why. Maybe it provided an incentive in the form of Clive. We are good friends you know, in my dreams. It was similar to Derailed with a twisting plot. Denzel was good and I finally figured out Chiwetel Ejiofor was the other cop after reading his interview in Marie Claire.

I braved the library during Easter. What was I thinking? My university doesn't do Easter. You've got more of a chance finding a seat at a Backstreetboy's concert during school holidays than you do finding a seat during Easter revision period. It brought back memories of revision for exams before all my friends graduated. Sniff sniff.. It's weird seeing a set of different people going through the same process my friends did. I realise after another year I am still in this institution doing pretty much the same thing. But the end is near, 16 months is not that long especially with a 3 month elective period.

I have just seen the group list for next year's rotations. It is full of hard core freaks who work 24-7 and don't sleep. A mix of the militant keenos and dossers. I am so lucky.

2006 ' Spring's trends look remarkable similar to last year's. Thank goodness boho is gone but oh no what will Sienna wear now? Lot's of white influenced by Chloe and Stella McCartney's collections. Polka dots, yellow, prints, high collars and stacked heels. Spring is here.

Not So Quiet One

2006-03-27T11:51:00.000Z

Last weekend was a quiet one, involving eating, watching TV and just relaxing. This week on the other hand was far from it. Another gig on Wednesday at 333. The first act were really good. I wish I could play bass guitar! The second act were a Franz Ferdinand rip-off complete with matching black attire. The main vocalist should keep his day job , until they find a replacement. The final act were also very good and by the end of the evening I was starving. I left to get some food on the way to the tube station. Tip for everyone, never buy food when you are starving as it affects your judgement. It was a food outlet selling Chinese, kebabs and burgers. I had the Chinese buffet, cue jealous stares from hungry revellers on the tube home . Enough said. Friday was friend of a friend's birthday. We ended up at NYT. I don't know why they make such a fuss about proof of i.d when they let 15-17 year olds in anyway. We were easily older than about a quarter of the people in there. It looked like a casting call for extras in a Chris Brown video. The lyrics, ' girl put some clothes on' come to mind. Apparently bras can be worn in public. On Saturday I saw Omid Djalil's stand up show. He is so politically incorrect but some of it was hilarious. In the evening I went to Umbaba with a friend. It's the new China White apparently. Annoying people with clipboards who rule the world on Saturdays, overly aggressive bouncers and half naked wanna be models. The music was very good despite the odd deterioration into trancey house. I actually had a good time maybe because our friends were dancing on the tables. I have never seen a group (excluding myself) consume that much alcohol.

With psychiatry exams looming there will be no more fun for a while.

Quiet Ones

2006-03-17T19:49:00.000Z

I went to a friend's gig in North London on Tuesday night. It was good fun and I was good and came home early. On Wednesday I went to the dance show at one of the London Universities. The performances were of a high standard but some of the pieces would have been tightly choreographed with less people. Thursday involved another gig in east London with acoustic performances from three acts. One of the girls was so good, she reminded me of KT Tunstall/Sheryl Crow. It made me want to pick up a guitar and pour my soul out. Only problem is I can't play the guitar or sing very well. Hmmm..maybe I could get on the X-Factor tour. I stupidly agreed to go to some club in central London afterwards. I met some interesting people who were multi lingual and insisted on speaking fluent French to me. Perhaps it was my fault, one of them introduced himself in French, asked how I was and I replied politely in French. After that I just had a blank stare during the conversation that followed as my GCSE French left me failing. Have I missed a couple of centuries, can you ask people to be your other half when you just met them? Answers on a post card to the usual address. In general a fun night but I got home in the early hours of the morning.

Next week is the last week of fun and games as my exams are coming up. I am going to see Omid Djalili's show and there's another gig in east London. I must comment on a change of heart. I had never really been to many gigs, preferring concerts in small venues. However they are a cheap night out. You can catch up with friends, relax and have a few drinks. This weekend will be a quiet one.

Weekend Madness

2006-03-14T17:20:00.000Z

This is a true story. I spent five hours straight in breast clinic and got shat on by the registrar. I left clinic to check my emails only to discover paeds results had not been released despite the promises from the medical office. Then we had a late Friday afternoon tutorial to set the weekend underway. In the evening, I went to a friend’s birthday drinks at a bar in south London. The crowd was good and it was so much fun. We went on to a club in Tottenham Court Road, where the music left a lot to be desired. I tried to dance to break-beat, I did. I managed in my idiocy to lose my phone somewhere between the bar and the club. In the end we gave up the game and went home.

I felt so lost without my phone and my numbers, photos etc. I cancelled my SIM and rolled in at 5:30a.m. Most of Saturday was spent trying to get a replacement phone. They had some deal where I could have got money added to my bill for trading in my old phone-the irony of it. Seven hours from lost handset to replacement phone this afternoon. Orange has unrivalled customer service. On the way home, the shopkeeper tried to sell me out of date bread. This weekend has been interesting in terms of luck.
It’s the medical school party tonight and so I’m going to get some sleep before.

I was quite late because the tubes were messed up and I may have made a detour at Burger King. Oh it was classy, dressed up and carrying my brown Burger King paper bag. It was nice seeing everyone dressed up and the venue had character. Everyone was completely wasted on alcohol, people had difficulty standing. I was sober as I had three drinks the whole night. Cab home, bed. Sunday was a right off, slept, drank fluids, slept. Tried to do some work and slept.

Monday, clinic and careers fair in the evening. I love goodie bags. It’s part of the medic genetic make-up, a penchant for freebies.

I recently watched Christina Milian’s new video, ‘Say I’ feat. Young Jeezy. Is it me or does it remind anyone of Mary J. Bilge’s bridge in the ‘Real Love’ video. What happened to continuity? It’s been over a year since her last single off the album, ‘It’s about time’. Is this new song from a new album or from the old one? Who cares? I’m just rambling now. Most wanted albums are Corinne Bailey Rae, Ne-Yo and The GAME mixtape. Bar the GAME, I have been forced by the dilapidated state of r n b/hip hop to veer towards ‘chart n b’. Ok there is the Biggie duets album (anything produced by Puffy recently leaves me sceptical). He must spit a bar on every track he produces; maybe he’s confused and thinks he’s Jermaine Dupri. Why is Jay-Z releasing a collaborative album with Biggie? Commercialism has overtaken artistic integrity. Surely Biggie’s advisors must have some idea of who he would want to work with and how many albums a year he would release if he were still alive. The same goes for 2Pac. I think they should just release mixtapes with unreleased material and stop this.

I passed paediatrics finals. Huge sigh.

Someone Call Age Concern

2006-03-05T17:06:00.000Z

Someone call Age Concern. There is an old lady masquerading as a young, hip, student. Yours truly spent most of Friday sleeping off her cold. I went to a swanky bar/club in south Kensington with some friends. It was fun and I spent most of the night watching the crowd in bemusement. Regulars at the Harley Street Plastic Surgeons, 'models' waiting for their big breaks and city guys who are attracted to them. The owner used the takings from drinks to send his children through university I'm sure. Trendy cocktails, 'commercial house' and pop were the order of the night. It was fun despite the 45 year old men who obviously left their wives at home.

Saturday involved a trip to tescos during food rush hour. What was I thinking? There were trolley jams, millions of shoppers fighting in the frozen food aisle. I met some other friends in a bar in west London for a friend's birthday. Alcohol is bad but I was good. It was a fun night despite the smokey setting, with lots of of flirting. On the way home someone tried to pimp me (kiss on the cheek for the shop manager in exchange for pastries). Some people are so cheeky. I woke up this next morning in my friend's room, with semi blurred vision and contacts stuck to my eyeball, having slept in my clothes and full make up. I committed a fashion sin and I can see the dermatologists shaking their heads in disapproval. Then I crawled home to get some food and more sleep. Umm yeah I was supposed to do some work this weekend. That plan went out of the window. Oh well you only live once. I don't think I will be eligible for a pension just yet.

Elective Drama

2006-02-22T14:58:00.000Z

I write this as my eyes sting from staring at the PC for too long. I am amidst elective grant applications and I realise begging for money is an artform. My plans have shifted, I'm applying to south east Asia as opposed to the USA because of their late deadlines relative to the start of my elective period and excessive paper work. Also a consultant I spoke to who has trained and worked in the USA gave some eye- opening advice.

My flatmate's upper resp tract infection which I have managed to avoid, has finally caught up with me. My stomach hurts from too many tunes, don't worry I didn't exceed the stated dose.
I am flying solo on the wards this week, my clinical buddy is off for a week.

The birthday fiesta was lovely. Nandos on Thursday and dinner at a tapas place in canary Wharf on Saturday night. The seafood paella was amazing as were the millions of tapas we consumed, again my breathing was restricted.

Our next door neighbour decided to have an impromptu party at 330 in the morning so I got very little sleep on Sunday. Some people are so inconsiderate.