# LLMs.txt - Sitemap for AI content discovery # Learn more:https://www.davids.day/ai-sitemap/ # David's Day > Bullet Journal meets Blog to Keep Track of my Days via Bullet Points. --- ## Journal - [34th Wedding Anniversary: How Ruth and I Met!](https://www.davids.day/journal/wedding-anniversary/): Thirty-four years ago today, a rather handsome young man got married—I also got married that day to Ruth. The clever... - [Another Year is Over: Remembering 2022](https://www.davids.day/journal/another-year-is-over/): Twenty-twenty-two is now a part of history. For me, it was a weird sort of year. I have started to... - [Windmill Campersite, Isle of Wight](https://www.davids.day/journal/windmill-campersite-carisbrooke-isle-of-wight/): Ruth and I spent 6 nights Glamping at the Windmill Campersite, Isle of Wight, from the 30th of August 2019 until the 5th of September. We simply loved it. - [Ruth's First Ride on a Hovercraft, Southsea to Ryde, Isle of Wight](https://www.davids.day/journal/ruths-first-ride-on-a-hovercraft-southsea-to-ryde/): Well, it’s happening! Ruth (the wife) and I are finally going on holiday together, alone for the first time since... ## Diary Entries - [Feeling Rough](https://www.davids.day/diary/feeling-rough/): A reflection on battling intense fatigue, grogginess, and fluctuating discomfort. Navigating a day where even simple tasks feel like monumental challenges. - [Wedding Anniversary: Conquering Heights and Fears at Spinnaker Tower](https://www.davids.day/diary/wedding-anniversary-conquering-heights-and-fears-at-spinnaker-tower/): TL;DR: The Gist of “Catching Up: Reflections on Months of Silence” Today marks Ruth’s and my 35th wedding anniversary, and... - [Catching Up: Reflections on Months of Silence](https://www.davids.day/diary/catching-up-reflections-on-months-of-silence/): Reflecting on months of missed updates, this entry explores the struggle to stay present, pick up the pieces, and continue writing despite setbacks. - [Baking Memories: A Sweet Farewell](https://www.davids.day/diary/baking-memories-a-sweet-farewell/): Reflecting on a baking day with the girls before their holiday, filled with memories, and the bittersweet anticipation of their temporary absence - [Rainy Day Fun at Sky Park Farm](https://www.davids.day/diary/rainy-day-fun-at-sky-park-farm/): A rainy day at Sky Park Farm turned into a magical adventure with deer, imaginative play, and pure joy for Evie and Maisie. A day full of unexpected moments. - [Colonoscopy: Camera to Comfort Food](https://www.davids.day/diary/colonoscopy-camera-to-comfort-food/): After a colonoscopy following a kidney stone scan, I finally enjoyed a mixed grill at Port Solent. A day that started with nerves ended in satisfaction. - [Kites, Cravings, and Colonoscopy Prep: Celebrating Kay's 70th](https://www.davids.day/diary/kites-cravings-and-colonoscopy-prep/): A quirky day at Southsea's Kite festival, balancing family celebrations with the challenges of colonoscopy prep. Self-control, cravings, and toilets. - [New Years Day 2024](https://www.davids.day/diary/new-years-day-2024/): It’s New Year’s Day, 2024 and Ruth and I are alone. We don’t have anything planned for the day other... - [Happy New Year: Seeing in 2024](https://www.davids.day/diary/happy-new-year-seeing-in-2024/): I woke with a headache this morning, the morning after the night before—the night before being New Year’s Eve. However,... - [Fish & Chips on South Parade Pier, Southsea](https://www.davids.day/diary/fish-chips-on-south-parade-pier/): I know I am on a Low-Carb Diet. However, I had consciously chosen to eat carbs today—who can resist fish and chips on South Parade Pier? - [A Trip to Portsmouth](https://www.davids.day/diary/a-trip-to-portsmouth/): Our day didn't quite work out as we expected. We took the girls on a train to Portsmouth—they kept asking to go on a train. We had our lunch in Victoria Park - [Today is Finally Here!](https://www.davids.day/diary/today-is-finally-here/): Today is finally here. The day I've been dreading. Evie's last weekday with us until half term. And my regular morning cuddles will soon be a thing of the past. - [A Big Day for Evie](https://www.davids.day/diary/a-big-day-for-evie/): Today is a BIG day for Evie; she starts school. And with that, my life will change forever. My morning cuddles will now be few and far between. - [A Day with Maisie](https://www.davids.day/diary/a-day-with-maisie/): Maisie is visiting Granny and me. However, Ruth must go to work for an hour, so Maisie will need to spend some time with Grandpa—that's me! - [Out for an Anniversary Lunch with Adam & Jenny](https://www.davids.day/diary/out-for-an-anniversary-lunch-with-adam-jenny/): Adam and Jenny took Ruth and me out for lunch today to help us celebrate our 34th wedding anniversary. The... - [34th Wedding Anniversary](https://www.davids.day/diary/34th-wedding-anniversary/): Today is my 34th Wedding Anniversary, and I have started a journal entry called “34th Wedding Anniversary: How Ruth and... - [We Went for a Picnic at the Heath in Petersfield](https://www.davids.day/diary/we-went-for-a-picnic-at-the-heath-in-petersfield/): We went for a picnic today at the Heath in Petersfield. I say we. Ruth, Bethany, Evie, Maisie and me. The Heath is 69 acres including a 22-acre pond. - [I Fell out of Bed!](https://www.davids.day/diary/i-fell-out-of-bed/): I fell out of bed last night, and it’s not the first time I have previously done this a few... - [Visiting my Cousin in Hospital](https://www.davids.day/diary/visiting-my-cousin-in-hospital/): Today I am visiting my cousin Margo. She is in hospital and is in a room alone and asleep, so... - [Went to Goodwood Airfield](https://www.davids.day/diary/went-to-goodwood-airfield/): We spent Sunday afternoon and Goodwood Airfield while my niece had a 45-minute flight. It was a trial lesson where... - [Evie and I went for a Walk](https://www.davids.day/diary/evie-and-i-went-for-a-walk/): Most Fridays, I walk with a group of people with diabetes. This Friday, I took Evie. Evie and I enjoyed... - [Ruth and I went to Waterlooville](https://www.davids.day/diary/ruth-and-i-went-to-waterlooville/): Ruth and I went to Waterlooville today to see Bethany and the girls as Maisie had her two-year-old check-up. Evie,... - [Toddler Takeover VIII: Bubble-Tastic](https://www.davids.day/diary/toddler-takeover-viii-bubble-tastic/): Ruth, Bethany, Evie, Maisie and I visited the Petersfield Museum today for their Toddler Takeover VIII: Bubble-Tastic. The event, designed... - [Low-carb Pizza and Bread](https://www.davids.day/diary/low-carb-pizza-and-bread/): Tomorrow, we are going out for the day with the family and having a picnic lunch. My lady wife, will... - [Opticians Appointment Today](https://www.davids.day/diary/opticians-appointment-today/): Today, I have an optician’s appointment. My vision has deteriorated, becoming more blurry. It could be my diabetic maculopathy or... - [Awake at 4:50 a.m. Couldn't Get Back to Sleep](https://www.davids.day/diary/awake-at-450-a-m-couldnt-get-back-to-sleep/): Most nights, I need to wee. This might be only once on good nights, though on a bad night... Normally... - [Lily Won't Settle](https://www.davids.day/diary/lily-wont-settle/): I am trying to create something. Every time I touch the keyboard, Lily is there. Trying to climb on me... - [Connecting Social Media](https://www.davids.day/diary/connecting-social-media/): I have finally got around to adding social media accounts to David’s Day. Or should that be creating social media... - [Almost 2 Weeks...](https://www.davids.day/diary/almost-2-weeks/): It is almost two weeks since I wrote in this diary. Time is one thing that has always baffled me.... - [The Girls are Here Today](https://www.davids.day/diary/the-girls-are-here-today/): Beth isn’t well today, so she is staying with us for the day while Nathan is at work. Evie is... - [Friday Walk Around Petersfield Heath](https://www.davids.day/diary/friday-walk-around-petersfield-heath/): I took a short walk around the pond in Petersfield—known as the heath—with a few others, all of us being... - [Evie and Maisie Came Today](https://www.davids.day/diary/evie-and-maisie-came-today/): After a bout of sickness and diarrhoea, Evie and Maisie came today but did not attend preschool. Therefore, I enjoyed... - [Speeding up David's Day](https://www.davids.day/diary/speeding-up-davids-day/): This morning I spent some time—about an hour—speeding up David’s Day. I hate slow websites, and those built with the... - [Maisie Watching Nick Cope Popcast](https://www.davids.day/diary/maisie-watching-nick-cope-popcast/): Maisie happily sat on the sofa watching Nick Cope’s Popcast. So I went to the kitchen to make her lunch.... - [Wanted a Lie-in, Lily Says No!](https://www.davids.day/diary/wanted-a-lie-in-lily-says-no/): Sunday morning. Lily decided we would not have a lie-in, so a non-physical fight occurred for a few hours until... - [Man City UEFA Champions League Winners 2023](https://www.davids.day/diary/man-city-uefa-champions-league-winners-2023/): Though I have dreamt of it, I never thought I would see Man City win the UEFA Champions League. Today,... - [Man City are in the UEFA Champions League Final](https://www.davids.day/diary/man-city-are-in-the-uefa-champions-league-final/): Today, Man City play in the final of the UEFA Champions League. Today could be a great day. However, it... - [Listening to Amy Winehouse's "Back to Black"](https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-amy-winehouses-back-to-black/): I have listened to a lot of music since I last updated here. However, I am listening to Amy Winehouse’s... - [I've had Three Months Off!](https://www.davids.day/diary/ive-had-three-month-off/): I have neglected this website for a few months because I restarted an old project of mine—Cruisez®. It was the... - [Evie Being Dropped Off!](https://www.davids.day/diary/evie-being-dropped-off/): Today, I am excited! I will take Evie to preschool for the first time without Bethany being here. Yes, I... - [Looking after Maisie Today](https://www.davids.day/diary/looking-after-maisie-today/): Maisie is happy watching TV—we are sat on the floor, with me holding her baby (a doll) and Po! I... - [Still fiddling with the website build](https://www.davids.day/diary/still-fiddling-with-the-website-build/): I am still fiddling with this website’s back end, and I have neglected to post items in my 2023 diary... - [Listening to Amy Winehouse "Back to Black"](https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-amy-winehouse-back-to-black/): After finishing Amy Winehouse’s Frank, and still cooking Sunday lunch. I turned to her second album, Back to Black—a must-have... - [Listening to Amy Winehouse "Frank" on Apple Music](https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-amy-winehouse-frank-on-apple-music/): After watching Raye on Graham Norton, I thought of Amy Winehouse. So, while cooking Sunday lunch—a three-fish roast, I listened... - [Evie is not very well today.](https://www.davids.day/diary/evie-is-not-very-well-today/): Evie hasn’t gone to pre school today because he’s not feeling very well. Currently she’s fast asleep on the sofa.... - [Jeff Beck Died](https://www.davids.day/diary/jeff-beck-died/): Over the last few days, I have been listening to a few Jeff Beck albums and playlists. Including his collaborations... - [Listening to Jeff Beck “Essentials” Play List on Apple Music](https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-jeff-beck-essentials-play-list-on-apple-music/): I am listening to a Jeff Beck playlist. This came after reading about the creation of Led Zeppelin. I discovered... - [Listening to Free "Essentials" Play List on Apple Music](https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-free-essentials-play-list-on-apple-music/): After finishing listening to Pink Floyd’s “Animals” remaster, I turned to a playlist featuring Free. The first track, “All Right... - [Listening to Pink Floyd's “Animals (2018 Remix)”](https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-pink-floyds-animals-2018-remix/): I often play music while cooking. Today, being a Sunday, I cooked a roast—Beef with Yorkshire puddings and listened to... - [Listening to Pink Floyd's "A Saucer Full of Secrets"](https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-pink-floyds-a-saucer-full-of-secrets/): I thought I would go back in time and listen to Pink Floyd’s “A Saucer Full of Secrets” from 1968.... - [Back to my day job](https://www.davids.day/diary/back-to-my-day-job/): Today, I have returned to my day job—looking after Maisie while my daughter works. - [The Girls are Coming, the Girls are Coming](https://www.davids.day/diary/the-girls-are-coming-the-girls-are-coming/): It’s Tuesday morning, we’re almost back to normal after the Christmas break, and the girls are coming. I still get... - [Can't Sleep](https://www.davids.day/diary/cant-sleep/): Another night where I woke early for a wee and can’t get back to sleep. This time it was 4:18am. - [Had a Poo, Normality Returns!](https://www.davids.day/diary/had-a-poo-normality-returns/): Nothing brings back a sense of normality than your first poo of the year. Well, I had mine this morning.... - [A Quiet Seeing in of the New Year](https://www.davids.day/diary/a-quiet-seeing-in-of-the-new-year/): My lady wife, Ruth and I had a quiet new years eve together—the T. V. was on, but I wasn’t... - [Another Year is Almost Over](https://www.davids.day/diary/another-year-is-almost-over/): Twenty-twenty-two is an hour away from becoming history. For me, it has been a weird sort of year, and I... - [Geoff and Kay Came Today](https://www.davids.day/diary/geoff-and-kay-came-today/): Had a lovely afternoon/evening with my brother Geoff and his wife, Kay. Bethany, Nathan and the girls were here, also.... - [Christmas Dinner at Adam & Jenny's](https://www.davids.day/diary/christmas-dinner-at-adam-jennys/): Arrived at Adam & Jenny’s for Christmas Dinner after Adam picked us up earlier. Jenny’s sister Rachel is here. Her... - [Lily Found Her Present](https://www.davids.day/diary/lily-found-her-present/): Lily found one of her presents at four this morning. Waking me up as she moved others out of the... - [The Girls are Coming Today](https://www.davids.day/diary/the-girls-are-coming-today/): Evie and Maisie are coming today. I Can’t wait! I know it has only been a few days since I... - [Very Chesty Today](https://www.davids.day/diary/very-chesty-today/): I woke up feeling very chesty this morning, more so than yesterday. I tested for Covid-19, which was negative, so... - [Adam's Birthday](https://www.davids.day/diary/adams-birthday/): Today is Adam’s birthday. We are not seeing him as we had a party a few days ago with his... ## Pages - [AI Sitemap (LLMs.txt)](https://www.davids.day/ai-sitemap/): What is LLMs. txt? LLMs. txt is a simple text-based sitemap for Large Language Models like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and... - [David Live](https://www.davids.day/live): About David Live David Live is for little updates, such as what is happening now. These might eventually turn into... - [David's 2023 Diary](https://www.davids.day/diary/2023-diary): About David’s 2023 Diary David’s 2023 Diary is developing as the year progresses. Some entries are merely to test functionality,... - [David's 2024 Diary](https://www.davids.day/diary/2024-diary): About David’s 2024 Diary This David’s 2024 Diary page has been set up early to test functionality before the turn... - [David's Diary](https://www.davids.day/diary): David’s Diary is made of snippets of my life. My Diary entries are colour coded & reflect my mood. Happy, Sad, Annoyed & Inspired. Others include Music & Food. - [My Health & Well-Being](https://www.davids.day/health): About My Health & Well-Being Although I have spent most of my life with health issues. None were important enough... - [My Low-Carb Diet](https://www.davids.day/health/low-carb-diet): Why a Low-Carb Diet? I need to lose weight. I’m overweight. However, I also have health issues—type 2 diabetes and... - [Cookie Policy (UK)](https://www.davids.day/cookie-policy-uk): - [Music](https://www.davids.day/music): About Music Music! Most of us like music—though we don’t all like the same stuff. My taste is eclectic; I... - [Listening To](https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to): What I am Listening to I have decided to keep a list of what I am listening to. This is... - [David's Day](https://www.davids.day/): David's Day is where a bullet journal meets a blog to keep track of my days via bullet points. My journal, tasks, notes, thoughts, ancestry, music and diary. - [David's Day's Sitemap](https://www.davids.day/sitemap/): These parts of David’s Day are indexable by Google and other search engines. Some pages have no value to you,... - [David's Tasks](https://www.davids.day/tasks): David’s Day was built to help me complete the various tasks I have to do. However, it has grown into much more—though my tasks are still important. - [Remembering Important Dates](https://www.davids.day/remembering): If you are like me, sometimes you will suddenly remember that last week was your late father’s birthday. No, this... - [Ancestry: A Brief Guide to My Family](https://www.davids.day/ancestry): About The Ancestry Section Family is important to me, as is trying to remember important dates from the past. I... - [David's Thoughts](https://www.davids.day/thoughts): Thinking is something I do a lot. Writing those thoughts down is something I only do a little. Hopefully, I will rectify that by using David’s Thoughts. - [David's Journal](https://www.davids.day/journal): In line with David’s Day’s concept, David's Journal posts uses bullet points to give detail to the posts—Journal entries offer more detail than Diary Entries. - [David's Notes](https://www.davids.day/notes): About My Notes Notes are snippets of information that add content to other pages; as such, they have been set... - [Monthly Logs](https://www.davids.day/logs): About the Monthly Logs This page displays a list of monthly logs. These logs overview what happened in any particular... - [About David's Day](https://www.davids.day/about): What is David’s Day? David’s Day is my way of keeping up to date with the essential things in my... - [Privacy Policy](https://www.davids.day/privacy-policy): Who we are My website address is: http://davids. day. What personal data I collect and why I collect it David’s... ## Posts - [August 2024](https://www.davids.day/logs/august-2024): Journal Entries for August 2024 Notes for August 2024 Thoughts for August 2024 Things to Remember in August 2024 Events... - [July 2024](https://www.davids.day/logs/july-2024): Journal Entries for July 2024 Notes for July 2024 Thoughts for July 2024 Things to Remember in July 2024 Events... - [June 2024](https://www.davids.day/logs/june-2024): Journal Entries for June 2024 Notes for June 2024 Thoughts for June 2024 Things to Remember in June 2024 Events... - [May 2024](https://www.davids.day/logs/may-2024): Journal Entries for May 2024 Notes for May 2024 Thoughts for May 2024 Things to Remember in May 2024 Events... - [April 2024](https://www.davids.day/logs/april-2024): Journal Entries for April 2024 Notes for April 2024 Thoughts for April 2024 Things to Remember in April 2024 Events... - [March 2024](https://www.davids.day/logs/march-2024): Journal Entries for March 2024 Notes for March 2024 Thoughts for March 2024 Things to Remember in March 2024 Events... - [February 2024](https://www.davids.day/logs/february-2024): Journal Entries for February 2024 Notes for February 2024 Thoughts for February 2024 Things to Remember in February 2024 Events... - [January 2024](https://www.davids.day/logs/january-2024): Journal Entries for January 2024 Notes for January 2024 Thoughts for January 2024 Things to Remember in January 2024 Events... - [December 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/december-2023): Journal Entries for December 2023 Notes for December 2023 Thoughts for December 2023 Things to Remember in December 2023 Events... - [November 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/november-2023): Journal Entries for November 2023 Notes for November 2023 Thoughts for November 2023 Things to Remember in November 2023 Events... - [October 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/october-2023): Journal Entries for October 2023 Notes for October 2023 Thoughts for October 2023 Things to Remember in October 2023 Events... - [September 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/september-2023): Journal Entries for September 2023 Notes for September 2023 Thoughts for September 2023 Things to Remember in September 2023 Events... - [August 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/august-2023): Journal Entries for August 2023 Notes for August 2023 Thoughts for August 2023 Things to Remember in August 2023 Events... - [July 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/july-2023): Journal Entries for July 2023 Notes for July 2023 Thoughts for July 2023 Things to Remember in July 2023 Events... - [June 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/june-2023): Journal Entries for June 2023 Notes for June 2023 Thoughts for June 2023 Things to Remember in June 2023 Events... - [May 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/may-2023): Journal Entries for May 2023 Notes for May 2023 Thoughts for May 2023 Things to Remember in May 2023 Events... - [April 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/april-2023): Journal Entries for April 2023 Notes for April 2023 Thoughts for April 2023 Things to Remember in April 2023 Events... - [March 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/march-2023): Journal Entries for March 2023 Notes for March 2023 Thoughts for March 2023 Things to Remember in March 2023 Events... - [February 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/february-2023): Things to Remember in February 2023 Journal Entries for February 2023 Notes for February 2023 Thoughts for February 2023 Events... - [January 2023](https://www.davids.day/logs/january-2023): Things to Remember in January 2023 Journal Entries for January 2023 Notes for January 2023 Thoughts for January 2023 Events... - [December 2022](https://www.davids.day/logs/december-2022): Things to Remember in December 2022 Journal Entries for December 2022 Notes for December 2022 Thoughts for December 2022 Events... - [Old Stuff from a Previous Version](https://www.davids.day/logs/old-stuff-from-a-previous-version): Journal Entries from 2019 The Journal is not a diary; it is more of a traditional blog section. These two... ## Tasks - [Building Cruisez®](https://www.davids.day/tasks/building-cruisez/): Cruisez started in 2015 and abruptly stopped. However, I did register the trademark. After using creative ways to build the... - [Looking at Ways to Earn Money](https://www.davids.day/tasks/looking-at-ways-to-earn-money/): I am now in my 60s and can expect to retire—health permitting—in a few years. Looking back at my work... - [David's Day: To-Do List](https://www.davids.day/tasks/davids-day-to-do-list/): Building this website is complex. Adding the various sections and building the code to make it all work. For instance,... - [Buy Wedding Insurance](https://www.davids.day/tasks/buy-wedding-insurance/): My daughter is getting married on the 28th of March 2020. Now I don’t envisage any issues arriving; however, my... - [Phone DFS Re Issues with our Sofa](https://www.davids.day/tasks/phone-dfs-re-issues-with-our-sofa/): A couple of years ago, we bought a sofa from DFS; however, it has a couple of issues that need... - [Buy Clear Tidy Storage Boxes](https://www.davids.day/tasks/buy-clear-tidy-storage-boxes/): Carrying on from the task of Sorting out the Storage Unit with Mike, actually, that should be as part of... - [Sort out Storage Unit with Mike](https://www.davids.day/tasks/sort-out-storage-unit-with-mike/): Another job on my “to do” list, supplied by my lady wife, is to contact Mike, a local farmer from... - [Take Lily to the vets for her yearly injection](https://www.davids.day/tasks/take-lily-to-the-vets-for-her-yearly-injection/): One of the items on a “to do” list, supplied by my lady wife, is to take Lily (our cat)... ## Notes - [I Need to Write More in my Diary!](https://www.davids.day/notes/i-need-to-write-more-in-my-diary/): It’s been two months. Two months since I last visited this website, two months since I posted anything. Yet earlier... - [I have updated the "David's Day: To Do List" task.](https://www.davids.day/notes/i-have-updated-the-davids-day-to-do-list-task/): The additions include adding a new section to the home page to be used as a Whiteboard. This could be... - [Change How Tasks Appear on the Home Page](https://www.davids.day/notes/change-how-the-tasks-appear-on-the-home-page/): In my original design for Bulleted—now David’s Day—I would have the list of open tasks in a prominent position on... - [Working on the Look and Feel of David's Day](https://www.davids.day/notes/working-on-the-look-and-feel-of-davids-day/): For the last couple of days, I have been working on the look and feel of this site. Bearing in... ## Thoughts - [Rebranding of Twitter to X](https://www.davids.day/thought/rebranding-of-twitter-to-x/): The rebranding of Twitter reminds me of the door markings—typically a black cross—to tell the world that the plague had... - [Microblogging Should Be Easy!](https://www.davids.day/thought/microblogging-should-be-easy/): Although microblogging should be easy—after all, you are only using a few words—it can be difficult. Perhaps the smallness of... - [Robert Jenrick Kills Mickey Mouse](https://www.davids.day/thought/robert-jenrick-kills-mickey-mouse/): Imagine being a child, taken thousands of miles from home, and arriving in a foreign land. You may not have... - [Thinking about My Thoughts](https://www.davids.day/thought/thinking-about-my-thoughts/): This thought about “Thinking about My Thoughts” is less philosophical than I would like—I know, that sounds gobbledegook. But I... - [Life has Ups and Downs](https://www.davids.day/thought/life-has-ups-and-downs/): During any moment of any day, our emotions ebb and flow. Sometimes we are up, and sometimes we are down.... ## Ancestry - [Victor Herbert Walston Stainer (1905-1982)](https://www.davids.day/ancestry/victor-herbert-walston-stainer-1905-1982/): was my . : Life Facts : Biography : Family ## Remember - [31st January 1931: Birth of My Auntie Grace](https://www.davids.day/remember/31st-january-1931-birth-of-my-auntie-grace/): My aunt, Grace Margaret Rose Thompson (nee ... ), was born on this day in 1931. Grace was my mother’s... - [8th April: Birth of My Grandaughter, Evie Cook](https://www.davids.day/remember/8th-april-birth-of-my-grandaughter-evie-cook/): My eldest granddaughter Evie was born on this day. Life has not been the same since, but in a good... - [6th April: Birth of My Daughter, Bethany Edbrooke-Stainer](https://www.davids.day/remember/6th-april-birth-of-my-daughter-bethany-edbrooke-stainer/): My secondborn and only daughter, Bethany, was born on this day, and I cut her umbilical cord. - [20th February 1962: My Birthday](https://www.davids.day/remember/20th-february-1962-my-birthday/): I was born on this day in 1962, but I don’t remember it! It was the day that John Glenn... - [11th February 1956: The Day My Parents Married](https://www.davids.day/remember/11th-february-1956-the-day-my-parents-married/): My parents, Frank John Frederick Stainer and Mary Teresa Bridgeman married on this day in 1956. - [5th February 1931: Birth of my Father-in-Law, Peter Edbrooke](https://www.davids.day/remember/5th-february-1930-4th-january-2000-death-of-my-father-in-law-peter-edbrooke/): My father-in-law, Peter Douglas Eric Edbrooke, was born on this day in 1931. - [31st January: Allyson's Birthday](https://www.davids.day/remember/31st-january-allysons-birthday/): Allyson, my lady wife’s business partner of more than twenty years, celebrates her birthday today. Her age... let’s say getting... - [26th January: Sean's Birthday](https://www.davids.day/remember/26th-january-seans-birthday/): My not-quite brother-in-law, Sean is celebrating his birthday today—not-quite, because Sean has been engaged to my sister-in-law Lucy for twenty-plus... - [4th January 2000: Death of my Father-in-Law, Peter Edbrooke](https://www.davids.day/remember/4th-january-2000-death-of-my-father-in-law-peter-edbrooke/): My father-in-law, Peter Douglas Eric Edbrooke, died aged 69 on the 4th of January, 2000. - [22 December: Birth of My Son, Adam Edbrooke-Stainer](https://www.davids.day/remember/22-december-1992-birth-of-my-son-adam-edbrooke-stainer/): My firstborn and only son, Adam, was born on this day, and I cut his umbilical cord. - [4th September 2018: Death of My Auntie Doreen](https://www.davids.day/remember/4th-september-2018-death-of-my-auntie-doreen/): My aunt, Doreen Louise Mary Ford (nee Stainer), died on this day in 2018. Doreen was my father’s sister. - [3rd September 2007: Death of My Father, Frank Stainer](https://www.davids.day/remember/3rd-september-2007-death-of-my-father-frank-john-frederick-stainer/): My father, Frank John Frederick Stainer, died on this day in 2007. - [2nd September 1988: The Day I Married Ruth](https://www.davids.day/remember/2nd-september-1988-the-day-i-married-ruth/): I married my current wife, OK, my one and only wife, on the 2nd of September 1989 at The Church... - [1st September 1905: Birth of My Grandfather, Victor Stainer](https://www.davids.day/remember/1st-september-1905-birth-of-my-grandfather-victor-stainer/): My grandfather, on my father’s side, Victor Herbert Walston Stainer, was born on this day in 1905. ## Music ## Listening to - [Amy Winehouse "Back to Black"](https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/amy-winehouse-back-to-black): After finishing Amy Winehouse’s Frank, I turned to her second album, Back to Black—a must-have album. While Frank was fairly... - [Amy Winehouse "Frank"](https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/amy-winehouse-frank): While cooking Sunday lunch—a three-fish roast, I listened to Amy Winehouse’s Frank. Frank was the first of Amy Winehouse’s two... - [Jeff Beck "Essentials" Playlist on Apple Music](https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/jeff-beck-essentials-on-apple-music): After reading about the creation of Led Zeppelin, I read that Beck’s Bolero was performed by Beck, Jimmy Page and... - [Free "Essentials" Playlist on Apple Music](https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/free-essentials-play-list-on-apple-music): After finishing listening to Pink Floyd’s “Animals” 2018 remix, I turned to a playlist featuring Free. The first track, “All... - [Pink Floyd "Animals (2018 Remix)"](https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/pink-floyd-animals-2018-remix): I often play music while cooking. Today, being a Sunday, I cooked a roast—Beef with Yorkshire puddings. I listened to... - [Pink Floyd "A Saucer Full of Secrets"](https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/pink-floyd-a-saucer-full-of-secrets): I thought I would go back in time and listen to Pink Floyd’s “A Saucer Full of Secrets” from 1968.... --- # # Detailed Content ## Journal ### 34th Wedding Anniversary: How Ruth and I Met! - Published: 2023-09-02 - Modified: 2024-08-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/journal/wedding-anniversary/ - Collections: Ruth Thirty-four years ago today, a rather handsome young man got married—I also got married that day to Ruth. The clever ones of you will now realise that it is Ruth's and my thirty-fourth wedding anniversary. And yes, Ruth knows she would have received less time for murder. However, we are still together. Our marriage produced two children and two grandchildren. It's small compared to most, but it's not the size that counts. Adam, our son, is married to Jenny, while our daughter Bethany married Nathan. Bethany has two wonderful daughters, Evie and Maisie. Children Adam Bethany Grandchildren Evie Maisie Our first meeting was by chance. Ruth lived in Petersfield, I in Southsea. Ruth was on a hen night—not hers—and I was working on the door of the pub in Southsea they visited. Ruth's group moved on to a nightclub. The same nightclub I also worked at—though I was off that evening because the pub had a party upstairs and they needed more numbers. The nightclub was Flamingo Road, or SPEC's to any older reader. At the nightclub, I sat with her group, organising complimentary bubbly. Towards the night's end, I obtained her phone number; the rest is history. Our First Meeting Where We Lived Ruth lived in Petersfield I lived in Southsea How We Met Ruth was on a hen night I was working at the Cambridge—a busy pub in those days Ruth's party visited We met again at the nightclub I also worked at We chatted I got her... --- ### Another Year is Over: Remembering 2022 - Published: 2023-01-01 - Modified: 2024-08-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/journal/another-year-is-over/ - Months: January - Years: 2023 Twenty-twenty-two is now a part of history. For me, it was a weird sort of year. I have started to list my highlights and a few low ones below. Perhaps I should have started writing this journal entry a few days ago, as I can't think of anything to add at the moment, and no, it is not because of drinking in the new year. I will add to this over the next few weeks. Highlights: My family are all still here. My granddaughters are growing up fast and with beautiful characters. I turned 60. I went to the Etihad for the first time to watch Manchester City. Went to Fishers Farm Park for the girl's birthday. A great day out! Evie and Maisie had a joint birthday party. Went to see the Christmas Lights at Marwell Zoo. The girls loved it! Went to Fishers Farm Park to see Santa with the girls. Another great day out! Other Bits: I finally started David's Day! My Health: Or lowlights! I got COVID twice. I had a cataract operation on my right eye. I found out I have a cataract in my left eye. I found out I have diabetic maculopathy in both eyes. I had three ECGs, a three-day ECG, an Echocardiogram and a Coronary Angiogram I discovered I have Diffuse Coronary Artery Disease. --- ### Windmill Campersite, Isle of Wight > Ruth and I spent 6 nights Glamping at the Windmill Campersite, Isle of Wight, from the 30th of August 2019 until the 5th of September. We simply loved it. - Published: 2019-09-05 - Modified: 2024-08-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/journal/windmill-campersite-carisbrooke-isle-of-wight/ - Collections: Isle of Wight - Months: September - Years: 2019 Ruth and I spent 6 nights glamping at the Windmill Campersite, Isle of Wight, from the 30th of August 2019 until the 5th of September. We simply loved it. We booked the holiday at Windmill Campsite because we wanted something different—and wanted to try a glamping experience. We certainly seem to have got it! As my wife and I walked up the short gravel path to the entrance of Windmill Campersite, our emotions were a mixture of anticipations. There was a little apprehension. Had we done the right thing? Would it be a fantastic find? And there was excitement; after all, this was our first holiday by ourselves since our honeymoon 30 years ago. Windmill Campsite is a small, friendly campsite on the Isle of Wight, a short, half-mile, 10-minute walk from Carisbrooke Castle, Newport. Newport, the capital of the Isle of Wight, is under two miles away. Therefore it is well placed to visit all the Isle of Wight's attractions by car or bus. The closest bus stop is a 10-minute walk from the site—we don't drive had had no problem visiting two or three attractions each day via bus. We were met at the entrance by Stewart, the owner. He was a polite, mild-mannered gentleman whose demeanour didn't entirely hide his pride in his creation. In a relaxed, unhurried fashion, Stewart introduced us to the campsite, showing off the fantastic social area dominated by a wood fire oven and a large BBQ. Then took us to Ellie, our... --- ### Ruth's First Ride on a Hovercraft, Southsea to Ryde, Isle of Wight - Published: 2019-08-30 - Modified: 2024-08-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/journal/ruths-first-ride-on-a-hovercraft-southsea-to-ryde/ - Collections: Isle of Wight, Ruth - Months: August - Years: 2019 Well, it's happening! Ruth (the wife) and I are finally going on holiday together, alone for the first time since our honeymoon. That was 30 years ago. We plan lots of firsts on this 6 night Isle of Wight holiday of ours. The first of these firsts, mmhh, too many firsts there. Whoops and now another one! The first of these firsts (ahh) is Ruth's first ride on a Hovercraft. The hovercraft operates between Southsea and Ryde on the Isle of Wight. So why use the Southsea to Ryde, Isle of Wight Hovercraft? Ruth has never been on a hovercraft We can get a lift to the hoverport, so no need to worry about catching a train. It is the fastest way across the Solent, the Solent sits between the Isle of Wight and the mainland. Ryde's hoverport is next to the bus station, neither of us drives, so buses all the way! How did Ruth get on? She loved it and would do it again. Maybe in another 30 years mind! --- ## Diary Entries ### Feeling Rough > A reflection on battling intense fatigue, grogginess, and fluctuating discomfort. Navigating a day where even simple tasks feel like monumental challenges. - Published: 2024-09-06 - Modified: 2024-09-06 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/feeling-rough/ - Categories: Sad - Collections: Feelings, Health TL;DR: The Gist of "Feeling Rough" Headache and grogginess making it hard to think straight Exhaustion persists despite resting Muscles feel heavy, simple tasks feel like a workout Temperature keeps fluctuating between too hot and too cold (more... ) --- ### Wedding Anniversary: Conquering Heights and Fears at Spinnaker Tower - Published: 2024-09-02 - Modified: 2024-09-03 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/wedding-anniversary-conquering-heights-and-fears-at-spinnaker-tower/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Portsmouth, Ruth TL;DR: The Gist of "Catching Up: Reflections on Months of Silence" Today marks Ruth's and my 35th wedding anniversary, and we decided to celebrate by visiting the Spinnaker Tower at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth. Heights aren't my thing, so suggesting the tower surprised Ruth and me, given my usual fear of climbing stairs. The tower offers stunning views, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a challenging Sky Walk—a glass floor 100 meters above the ground. Despite my fear, I attempted the Sky Walk—I didn't really. But I did managed to circle the platform while clinging to Ruth and any support I could find! Although I didn't conquer the Sky Walk, I faced my fears for Ruth and ended up enjoying the experience more than I expected—believe that if you want! The day turned into a memorable adventure that Ruth and I will cherish, and I hope there are many more to come. Happy Anniversary, Ruth! (more... ) --- ### Catching Up: Reflections on Months of Silence > Reflecting on months of missed updates, this entry explores the struggle to stay present, pick up the pieces, and continue writing despite setbacks. - Published: 2024-08-17 - Modified: 2024-08-31 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/catching-up-reflections-on-months-of-silence/ - Categories: Misc TL;DR: The Gist of "Catching Up: Reflections on Months of Silence" Yet again, it has been many months since my last diary entry. I intended to keep up with daily updates but have failed. I am now piecing together what I should have written earlier. Therefore, any post preceding this one, yet after the 1st of January 2024, has been written retrospectively. (more... ) --- ### Baking Memories: A Sweet Farewell > Reflecting on a baking day with the girls before their holiday, filled with memories, and the bittersweet anticipation of their temporary absence - Published: 2024-08-15 - Modified: 2024-08-25 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/baking-memories-a-sweet-farewell/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Evie, Maisie, Ruth TL;DR: The Gist of "Baking Memories: A Sweet Farewell" The girls are leaving for an eleven-day holiday tomorrow; how will I cope? They decided to make a birthday cake for their dad, with Ruth helping them through the process. Evie carefully cracked the eggs, and both girls took turns mixing the batter and buttercream. Watching Evie’s growing independence made me realise how quickly they grew up. The cake will be finished once they arrive on holiday, and the components will be kept separate to avoid any travel mishaps. Evie and Maisie licked the mixing bowls clean, leaving little need for washing up! (more... ) --- ### Rainy Day Fun at Sky Park Farm > A rainy day at Sky Park Farm turned into a magical adventure with deer, imaginative play, and pure joy for Evie and Maisie. A day full of unexpected moments. - Published: 2024-08-06 - Modified: 2024-08-25 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/rainy-day-fun-at-sky-park-farm/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Evie, Maisie, Ruth, The Girls TL;DR: The Gist of "Rainy Day Fun at Sky Park Farm" Ruth and I took Evie and Maisie to Sky Park Farm, a deer farm near Petersfield. The girls love bus rides, even if it is just a short distance. It was rainy for most of the day, and most deer were sat away from the edges, leaving only one deer to feed. Maisie found a bent stick on the path, turned it into an imaginary fishing rod, and "fished" in a puddle. The weather eventually improved, and the deer became more active. Evie to feed a friendly buck, making her day unforgettable. Despite the rain, the girls had a great time, and the day was filled with memorable moments like Maisie's fishing and Evie's joy in feeding the deer. (more... ) --- ### Colonoscopy: Camera to Comfort Food > After a colonoscopy following a kidney stone scan, I finally enjoyed a mixed grill at Port Solent. A day that started with nerves ended in satisfaction. - Published: 2024-07-28 - Modified: 2024-09-03 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/colonoscopy-camera-to-comfort-food/ - Categories: Food TL;DR: The Gist of "From Hospital Gowns to Hearty Meals" I had a colonoscopy this morning at the Queen Alexandra Hospital in Cosham as a result of something showing after a CT scan for kidney stones. Thankfully, the procedure went smoothly, and nothing alarming was found, which was a relief. Post-op, I was hungry after fasting for 24 hours, including a food-free day at the Southsea Kite Festival, Geoff suggested lunch at Port Solent, where I had a mixed grill to compensate for the lost time. I am now waiting to see what the doctors think. (more... ) --- ### Kites, Cravings, and Colonoscopy Prep: Celebrating Kay's 70th > A quirky day at Southsea's Kite festival, balancing family celebrations with the challenges of colonoscopy prep. Self-control, cravings, and toilets. - Published: 2024-07-27 - Modified: 2024-08-26 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/kites-cravings-and-colonoscopy-prep/ - Categories: Food Today was a strange one, to say the least. We headed out for a meal to celebrate Kay’s—my brother’s wife—70th birthday, but it wasn’t a feast for me. With a colonoscopy looming tomorrow morning, I was on strict orders to avoid all food. Instead, my day was spiced up with three doses of Picolax, a laxative that ensured I was always close to a toilet. Fun, right? We went to Southsea, where a Kite festival was in full swing. The sky was filled with kites of all shapes and sizes, some as large as a single-decker bus. The rest of the family enjoyed fish and chips, a classic seaside treat, while I watched them dig in. The smell alone was torture! Little Evie, bless her, asked me to cool down her sausage because it was too hot—she didn’t want fish. So, there I was, blowing on it like the most responsible adult while resisting the urge to sneak a bite. But, of course, I couldn’t. Evie’s sausage request gave me something to do while the others ate, even though my stomach grew in protest. Overall, the day was a strange mix of celebration and self-control. Watching everyone enjoy their meal while I sipped on water and a couple of Bovrils was a test of willpower, but I was prepared for it. But at least the kites were a distraction, their bright colours and crazy shapes dancing in the wind. Here’s hoping tomorrow’s procedure goes smoothly and I can get back... --- ### New Years Day 2024 - Published: 2024-01-01 - Modified: 2024-07-29 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/new-years-day-2024/ - Categories: Misc It's New Year's Day, 2024 and Ruth and I are alone. We don't have anything planned for the day other than to eat, not drink, but definitely watch TV at some point. New Year's Day has become nothing more than a Sunday on a different day of the week! That said, it does hold the expectation of probable change—though this rarely happens, and any New Year's resolutions are often broken on the first day of the year. This diary entry differs from others—well, it is the start of a new year, and I am trying something new. Having moved the live section to David's Live, I realise the concept of live posting still has uses—adding content to my diary entries. I will still use David Live as a standalone website. Maybe as a social media poster. 12:35 Monday, 1st of January, 2024: Time to cook the remainder of our New Year’s Day lunch. The pork has been slow-cooking for a few hours. With this, we are having sprouts, carrots and roast spuds. I am also doing parsnips for Ruth, as they have too many carbs for me. Not as much as spuds, but... 15:43 Monday, 1st January, 2024: Lunch is now over, and I have finished washing up. However, I was naughty today, enjoying three roast potatoes with lunch. Admittedly, they were previously frozen, so the carb hit won’t be as bad as it could have been, but it is still naughty. --- ### Happy New Year: Seeing in 2024 - Published: 2024-01-01 - Modified: 2024-01-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/happy-new-year-seeing-in-2024/ - Categories: Misc - Collections: Ruth, Sleep I woke with a headache this morning, the morning after the night before—the night before being New Year's Eve. However, I only had a couple of drinks—two Jarrold's Sloe Gins with coke. My thinking is that the headache was brought on by a poor night's sleep, which was caused by the alcohol. Drinking so close to bedtime is not ideal, but Ruth & I had to toast in the new year. Had to? Perhaps not! After a day of grafting, I have almost got this site ready in time for this new year. I could have finished it; however, Ruth and I watched TV during the evening. We saw a film—Death on the Nile (Disney Plus), and the last three episodes of All the Light We Cannot See on Netflix. The last half an hour of 2023 was spent watching Rick (with a silent P) Astlee. Well, Ruth watched it. And I shouldn't be so rude; the silent "p" bit is how I always introduce Ricks. Anyhow, it is now 2024! Happy New Year Everyone! --- ### Fish & Chips on South Parade Pier, Southsea > I know I am on a Low-Carb Diet. However, I had consciously chosen to eat carbs today—who can resist fish and chips on South Parade Pier? - Published: 2023-09-08 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/fish-chips-on-south-parade-pier/ - Categories: Food, Happy - Collections: Adam, Bethany, Evie, Food, Geoff, Jenny, Maisie, People, Southsea The final part of our trip to Portsmouth was a family meal at the Deep Blue restaurant on South Parade Pier in Southsea. Geoff and Kay turned up first, with Bailey Rae—a Teardrop Chiwawa. We were at the top end of the pier, and Evie and Maisie excitedly rushed over to Geoff and Kay. However, I think Bailey was a big part of their excitement. Geoff bought us a drink—I had a cider—and we sat on the pier at the Deep Blue restaurant and waited for the others to arrive. Adam, Jenny and her parents were next to come, followed ten minutes later by Bethany and Nathan—mummy and daddy to the girls. After a bit of chit-chat, we ordered food. I know I am on a low-carb diet. However, I had consciously chosen to eat carbs today—who can resist fish and chips by the sea—or on South Parade Pier. Ruth had scampi and chips, I had fish and chips, and the girls, Evie, had battered sausage while Maisie enjoyed her chicken nuggets, both with chips. After the meal, the British Navys' Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier left Portsmouth harbour. South Parade Pier offered an excellent, though distant, view of the event. Soon after, it was time to go. Ruth and I missed walking the girls off the pier, which was sad, considering trips out like this would now be few and far between. It would have finished off the day. Geoff and Kay brought us back to Petersfield as we would... --- ### A Trip to Portsmouth > Our day didn't quite work out as we expected. We took the girls on a train to Portsmouth—they kept asking to go on a train. We had our lunch in Victoria Park - Published: 2023-09-08 - Modified: 2023-09-10 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/a-trip-to-portsmouth/ - Categories: Misc - Collections: Evie, Maisie, People, Ruth, The Girls Our day didn't quite work out as we expected. We took the girls on a train to Portsmouth—they kept asking to go on a train. And we had our lunch in Victoria Park—as planned. However, Maisie got a blister on her instep. Watching this little girl struggle as she tried to walk to the adventure play area in the park was heart-wrenching. However, she did it and enjoyed the few elements she was old enough to use. However, it was clear that we needed to sort out her foot. Ruth tried to put a plaster on Maisie's foot—she screamed. Evie, bless her, kissed the sore area. Maisie was still not happy. So, rather than go onto the next phase of our trip—vising Gunwharf Quays—it was off to the shops to hunt down some footwear. With the two girls suited and booted—an hour or so later—OK, new socks and shoes, and yes, Evie wanted new shoes like Maisie. We headed to the bus stop. Alas, with time now against us, we decided to forgo the trip to Gunwharf Quays and head to Southsea as we were due to meet up with the family for a meal. Two buses failed to turn up, so we caught a different bus with a longer route. Evie informed us that we were on the number one bus, not the number 3. Anyhow, we arrived in Southsea before the others! --- ### Today is Finally Here! > Today is finally here. The day I've been dreading. Evie's last weekday with us until half term. And my regular morning cuddles will soon be a thing of the past. - Published: 2023-09-08 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/today-is-finally-here/ - Categories: Sad - Collections: Evie, Maisie, Portsmouth, The Girls Today is finally here. The day I've been dreading. Evie's last weekday with us until half term. And my regular morning cuddles watching Cbeebies will be a thing of the past. The last few years have flown by. There are many memories and great moments—like her first crawl to knock over a stack of toy cups. I gave up work to look after Evie when Mum went back to work after maternity leave. So, I have seen her grow into a wonderful, happy, caring little girl and a pleasure to be with. My saving grace is Maisie will still be here a couple of days a week, though much of her time will be spent at preschool. We are taking the girls to Portsmouth today by train—they keep asking to go on a train. They have also asked to take a bus, so we will do that today. --- ### A Big Day for Evie > Today is a BIG day for Evie; she starts school. And with that, my life will change forever. My morning cuddles will now be few and far between. - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/a-big-day-for-evie/ - Categories: Sad - Collections: Evie Today is a BIG day for Evie; she starts school. And with that, my life will change forever. My morning cuddles will now be few and far between. For almost four years, I have been the luckiest grandpa. This wonderful little girl using me as a glorified pillow and being a friend. From changing nappies, feeding her, watching her go to preschool and looking after her during the times that mummy had to work. It's been a pleasure. School is part of growing up. And as Evie moves into this next phase of life, I must adapt—though it will be hard. Thankfully, both the girls will be here tomorrow and Friday, as Evie only has one day at school this week—today. But next week... --- ### A Day with Maisie > Maisie is visiting Granny and me. However, Ruth must go to work for an hour, so Maisie will need to spend some time with Grandpa—that's me! - Published: 2023-09-04 - Modified: 2023-09-04 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/a-day-with-maisie/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Bethany, Evie, Maisie, Ruth Evie is having a meeting at her new school—she starts on Wednesday, her only full day this week. Next week, mind, it is full-on! With Bethany needing to give Evie her full attention, Maisie is visiting Granny and me. Granny being Ruth. However, Ruth needs to go to work for an hour this morning to prepare for the new term at the preschool, which starts tomorrow. So, Maisie will need to spend some time with Grandpa—that's me! As the weather is nice, I might take her to the park. --- ### Out for an Anniversary Lunch with Adam & Jenny - Published: 2023-09-02 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/out-for-an-anniversary-lunch-with-adam-jenny/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Adam, Food, Havant, Jenny, People, Ruth Adam and Jenny took Ruth and me out for lunch today to help us celebrate our 34th wedding anniversary. The Cafe was 19Fourteas—a clever play on the 1940s and the word Teas—based in Havant. The food was good, and the setting was impressive. I would go again if shopping in Havant. I had a jacket potato with chilli—there was no low-carb option. Ruth also had a jacket potato but with cheese. We both had tea, though mine was Earl Grey. Nice time. --- ### 34th Wedding Anniversary - Published: 2023-09-02 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/34th-wedding-anniversary/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Ruth Today is my 34th Wedding Anniversary, and I have started a journal entry called "34th Wedding Anniversary: How Ruth and I Met! " This is active but needs work. Thirty-four years is a long time, more than half my lifetime, and I'm a sexagenarian. However, with two children and two grandchildren, it has been worth it. I mention how we met, which is covered in the Journal entry. But it was by chance. --- ### We Went for a Picnic at the Heath in Petersfield > We went for a picnic today at the Heath in Petersfield. I say we. Ruth, Bethany, Evie, Maisie and me. The Heath is 69 acres including a 22-acre pond. - Published: 2023-08-30 - Modified: 2023-08-30 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/we-went-for-a-picnic-at-the-heath-in-petersfield/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Bethany, Evie, Maisie, Petersfield, Petersfield Heath, Ruth, The Girls We went for a picnic today at the Heath in Petersfield. I say we. Ruth, Bethany, Evie, Maisie and me. For those who don't know the Heath, it is 69 acres of lowland heath incorporating a 22-acre pond. And home to 21 Bronze Age Barrows. After the picnic, the girls played in the small playground, and then we, minus Ruth, rode a Pedalo around the pond. Who needs a gym when you can peddle one of these for 45 minutes? --- ### I Fell out of Bed! - Published: 2023-08-26 - Modified: 2023-08-26 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/i-fell-out-of-bed/ - Categories: Sad - Collections: Sleep I fell out of bed last night, and it's not the first time I have previously done this a few months ago. However, unlike last time, when all I received was a pea-sized mark on my left knee. This time, I have a cut on my right hand and an inch-long bruise. Along with another pea-sized mark, but this time on my right knee. --- ### Visiting my Cousin in Hospital - Published: 2023-08-22 - Modified: 2023-08-31 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/visiting-my-cousin-in-hospital/ - Categories: Sad - Collections: Margo Today I am visiting my cousin Margo. She is in hospital and is in a room alone and asleep, so I will not wake her. She must be dreaming because she shakes every so often. I will stay until she wakes, even if a few hours. I won't write what is wrong with her for her privacy, but she is not well. It is times like this that make you realise that you are getting older, and this sort of visit may become the norm with family members. --- ### Went to Goodwood Airfield - Published: 2023-08-06 - Modified: 2023-08-07 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/went-to-goodwood-airfield/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Adam, Bethany, Evie, Goodwood, Maisie, Ruth We spent Sunday afternoon and Goodwood Airfield while my niece had a 45-minute flight. It was a trial lesson where she could take control of the plane during the flight. Evie had lots of fun with Uncle Sean and Fergus, my Adam's in-laws' dog. Maisie cuddled Granny (Ruth) and Mummy (Bethany) for long periods. Though, she did spend a little time with a couple of others. --- ### Evie and I went for a Walk - Published: 2023-08-04 - Modified: 2023-08-07 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/evie-and-i-went-for-a-walk/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Evie, Petersfield Heath Most Fridays, I walk with a group of people with diabetes. This Friday, I took Evie. Evie and I enjoyed our lonesome walk, the others disappearing into the distance. However, we saw lots of ducks and a family of swans—two adults and four signets. The walk was around Petersfield's Heath—a very large artificial pond in the town. After, Evie went on some playground rides before we set off home. However, we diverted to visit some elderly friends, Clive and Linda. --- ### Ruth and I went to Waterlooville - Published: 2023-08-02 - Modified: 2023-08-07 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/ruth-and-i-went-to-waterlooville/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Bethany, Evie, Low Carb Diet, Maisie, Ruth, The Girls, Waterlooville Ruth and I went to Waterlooville today to see Bethany and the girls as Maisie had her two-year-old check-up. Evie, Ruth and I went to the shops to look for jeans for me as my old ones are now too loose due to my recent weight loss. Beth took Maisie. Evie proudly showed us around her house and pointed out everything I would need in the toilet. "This is the toilet". "This is where you wash your hands", pointing to the soap and tap. "This the the towel... " And onto her and Maisie's bedroom. On the way home, Ruth and I were naughty. We had Fish and Chips from the chippy—my low-carb diet was temporarily on hold for one evening. --- ### Toddler Takeover VIII: Bubble-Tastic - Published: 2023-07-31 - Modified: 2023-08-07 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/toddler-takeover-viii-bubble-tastic/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Bethany, Evie, Maisie, Petersfield, Ruth, The Girls Ruth, Bethany, Evie, Maisie and I visited the Petersfield Museum today for their Toddler Takeover VIII: Bubble-Tastic. The event, designed for children five and under, was a mixture of creativity and play. The girls drew a picture in the craft room and played with balls in an old cell—the museum is in the now-defunct Petersfield police station. There was storytime and lots of fun with bubbles. Evie and Maisie enjoyed the bubbles. --- ### Low-carb Pizza and Bread - Published: 2023-07-22 - Modified: 2023-07-23 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/low-carb-pizza-and-bread/ - Categories: Food Tomorrow, we are going out for the day with the family and having a picnic lunch. My lady wife, will make the sandwiches while my daughter does the pizzas. Being on a low-carb diet, I decided to plan ahead, making a low-carb almond bread and a low-carb pizza. It's my first attempt at this type of pizza. The base is made with cauliflower, mozzarella, parmesan, oregano, and ground garlic. Oh, and an egg. TIt looks scrummy. --- ### Opticians Appointment Today - Published: 2023-07-19 - Modified: 2023-07-19 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/opticians-appointment-today/ - Categories: Misc - Collections: Eye Sight, Health Today, I have an optician's appointment. My vision has deteriorated, becoming more blurry. It could be my diabetic maculopathy or retinopathy causing the issue. Just over a week ago, I had my by-annual eye screening check, consisting of scanning and photographing the back of my eyes. I could have another one today for £10. It would be nice to see what is happening within the back of my eye—but is it worth £10? With the eye screening, I get no access to the images. I'll have to ponder it over breakfast. --- ### Awake at 4:50 a.m. Couldn't Get Back to Sleep - Published: 2023-07-17 - Modified: 2023-07-17 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/awake-at-450-a-m-couldnt-get-back-to-sleep/ - Categories: Annoyed - Collections: Life, Sleep Most nights, I need to wee. This might be only once on good nights, though on a bad night... Normally I can get back to sleep without issues—unless my wee is around 5 a. m. I always struggle to drift off if I wake up at this time. Last night was one of those nights; I woke for a wee at 4:50 a. m. Upon returning to bed, I tossed and turned before succumbing to the inevitable and got up. I will have to have a snooze this afternoon to catch up. I lie! I have a snooze most afternoons—it's an age thing! --- ### Lily Won't Settle - Published: 2023-07-16 - Modified: 2023-07-16 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/lily-wont-settle/ - Categories: Annoyed - Collections: Lily I am trying to create something. Every time I touch the keyboard, Lily is there. Trying to climb on me for a cuddle. She succeeds and gets settled. One minute later, she's off me, walks around the computer and back into my arms. Working with one hand is hard; it's harder still when both hands are tied up. --- ### Connecting Social Media - Published: 2023-07-09 - Modified: 2023-07-09 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/connecting-social-media/ - Categories: Happy I have finally got around to adding social media accounts to David's Day. Or should that be creating social media accounts and adding them to David's Day! --- ### Almost 2 Weeks... - Published: 2023-07-09 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/almost-2-weeks/ - Categories: Misc It is almost two weeks since I wrote in this diary. Time is one thing that has always baffled me. How can one day become one week, a month and then a year? Especially when you plan to do something or call someone or something else. I'll not leave it two weeks before my next insertion. --- ### The Girls are Here Today - Published: 2023-06-23 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/the-girls-are-here-today/ - Categories: Sad - Collections: Bethany, Evie, Maisie Beth isn't well today, so she is staying with us for the day while Nathan is at work. Evie is still having stomach cramps. At least Maisie appears to be OK. --- ### Friday Walk Around Petersfield Heath - Published: 2023-06-23 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/friday-walk-around-petersfield-heath/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Health, Petersfield, Petersfield Heath I took a short walk around the pond in Petersfield—known as the heath—with a few others, all of us being either diabetic, prediabetic or in remission. This has become a regular Friday jaunt; it is the third week I have done it. --- ### Evie and Maisie Came Today - Published: 2023-06-22 - Modified: 2023-06-22 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/evie-and-maisie-came-today/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Evie, Maisie After a bout of sickness and diarrhoea, Evie and Maisie came today but did not attend preschool. Therefore, I enjoyed their company until 1pm when Beth turned up for lunch, and Ruth finished work. They stayed until 7:45pm. Poor Evie had stomach cramps in the afternoon; it's awful when you can do nothing to help a child in pain. --- ### Speeding up David's Day - Published: 2023-06-19 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/speeding-up-davids-day/ - Categories: Inspired - Collections: Web Design This morning I spent some time—about an hour—speeding up David's Day. I hate slow websites, and those built with the Genesis framework are often slow. OK, perhaps medium speeds can be obtained. With 100 being the maximum, according to Lighthouse, David's Day now has a performance score in the 90's—it started in the low 70's. If I swapped this to a Freelancer Framework theme, it would be 100. But do I really want to spend another few weeks modifying everything? --- ### Maisie Watching Nick Cope Popcast - Published: 2023-06-13 - Modified: 2023-06-13 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/maisie-watching-nick-cope-popcast/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Maisie Maisie happily sat on the sofa watching Nick Cope's Popcast. So I went to the kitchen to make her lunch. Moments later, I heard. "Oh no! Grandpa, Grandpa. " I rushed in. Maisie looks at me and says. "Nick Cope lost his bobble hat. " Nick cope Popcast Season Two, Episode One: "I've Lost My Bobble Hat. " --- ### Wanted a Lie-in, Lily Says No! - Published: 2023-06-11 - Modified: 2023-06-22 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/wanted-a-lie-in-lily-says-no/ - Categories: Annoyed - Collections: Lily Sunday morning. Lily decided we would not have a lie-in, so a non-physical fight occurred for a few hours until I gave in and let her out. By non-physical, I mean she kept going up to Ruth's face, meowing and kneading her for attention, then on to me. --- ### Man City UEFA Champions League Winners 2023 - Published: 2023-06-10 - Modified: 2023-06-10 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/man-city-uefa-champions-league-winners-2023/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Man City Though I have dreamt of it, I never thought I would see Man City win the UEFA Champions League. Today, the 10th of June 2023, they have only gone and done it. Beating Inter Milan 1-0 in the final. Come on, Citeh! --- ### Man City are in the UEFA Champions League Final - Published: 2023-06-10 - Modified: 2023-06-10 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/man-city-are-in-the-uefa-champions-league-final/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Man City, Sport Today, Man City play in the final of the UEFA Champions League. Today could be a great day. However, it could just as easily become an awful day. I will post the result later. Unless... --- ### Listening to Amy Winehouse's "Back to Black" - Published: 2023-06-08 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-amy-winehouses-back-to-black/ - Categories: Music - Collections: Listening to I have listened to a lot of music since I last updated here. However, I am listening to Amy Winehouse's "Back to Black" again. I said "again", as this was the last album I referenced in my "Listening To" section in January. Yet it is the first time I have listened to it since January. --- ### I've had Three Months Off! - Published: 2023-06-07 - Modified: 2023-08-30 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/ive-had-three-month-off/ - Categories: Inspired - Collections: Web Design I have neglected this website for a few months because I restarted an old project of mine—Cruisez®. It was the building of this site that inspired me to tackle Cruisez. It has taken that long to get the functionality working, though this is still unfinished. That said, I feel I can get back to working on David's Day alongside Cruisez. --- ### Evie Being Dropped Off! - Published: 2023-02-06 - Modified: 2023-02-09 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/evie-being-dropped-off/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Bethany, Evie, Maisie Today, I am excited! I will take Evie to preschool for the first time without Bethany being here. Yes, I have taken her to preschool alone before. However, I usually have Maisie in tow. Today Maisie is staying home with mum, and Evie is being dropped off here. --- ### Looking after Maisie Today - Published: 2023-01-26 - Modified: 2023-01-26 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/looking-after-maisie-today/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Maisie Maisie is happy watching TV—we are sat on the floor, with me holding her baby (a doll) and Po! I think it is time to get her toys out, or we will be here all day! She loves Cocomelon, but after watching it for the umpteenth time, I crave Peppa Pig! --- ### Still fiddling with the website build - Published: 2023-01-25 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/still-fiddling-with-the-website-build/ - Categories: Misc I am still fiddling with this website's back end, and I have neglected to post items in my 2023 diary and listening to sections. I must start using David's Day as I intended. --- ### Listening to Amy Winehouse "Back to Black" - Published: 2023-01-15 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-amy-winehouse-back-to-black/ - Categories: Music - Collections: Listening to After finishing Amy Winehouse’s Frank, and still cooking Sunday lunch. I turned to her second album, Back to Black—a must-have album. --- ### Listening to Amy Winehouse "Frank" on Apple Music - Published: 2023-01-15 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-amy-winehouse-frank-on-apple-music/ - Categories: Music - Collections: Listening to After watching Raye on Graham Norton, I thought of Amy Winehouse. So, while cooking Sunday lunch—a three-fish roast, I listened to "Frank" by Amy Winehouse on Apple Music. --- ### Evie is not very well today. - Published: 2023-01-12 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/evie-is-not-very-well-today/ - Categories: Sad - Collections: Evie Evie hasn't gone to pre school today because he's not feeling very well. Currently she's fast asleep on the sofa. Maisie has tried to wake her a couple of times, so I have put Cocomelon on. Maisy is now laying on the floor watching the telly. --- ### Jeff Beck Died - Published: 2023-01-11 - Modified: 2023-06-10 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/jeff-beck-died/ - Categories: Music - Collections: Listening to Over the last few days, I have been listening to a few Jeff Beck albums and playlists. Including his collaborations with Jonny Depp. I love their version of John Lennon's Isolation. Today, Jeff Beck, one of the greatest guitarists, has sadly died. --- ### Listening to Jeff Beck “Essentials” Play List on Apple Music - Published: 2023-01-10 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-jeff-beck-essentials-play-list-on-apple-music/ - Categories: Music - Collections: Listening to I am listening to a Jeff Beck playlist. This came after reading about the creation of Led Zeppelin. I discovered that Beck's Bolero was performed by Beck, with Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones of Zeppelin and Keith Moon of the Who. This was pre-Zeppelin. I thought, give it a go! --- ### Listening to Free "Essentials" Play List on Apple Music - Published: 2023-01-08 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-free-essentials-play-list-on-apple-music/ - Categories: Music - Collections: Listening to After finishing listening to Pink Floyd’s “Animals” remaster, I turned to a playlist featuring Free. The first track, “All Right Now”, is a classic. --- ### Listening to Pink Floyd's “Animals (2018 Remix)” - Published: 2023-01-08 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-pink-floyds-animals-2018-remix/ - Categories: Music - Collections: Listening to I often play music while cooking. Today, being a Sunday, I cooked a roast—Beef with Yorkshire puddings and listened to the 2018 remix of Pink Floyd's “Animals. ” It is different to the original but in a good way. --- ### Listening to Pink Floyd's "A Saucer Full of Secrets" - Published: 2023-01-07 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/listening-to-pink-floyds-a-saucer-full-of-secrets/ - Categories: Music - Collections: Listening to I thought I would go back in time and listen to Pink Floyd's "A Saucer Full of Secrets" from 1968. I have "Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun" on a playlist and thought I would listen to the album it came from. --- ### Back to my day job - Published: 2023-01-05 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/back-to-my-day-job/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Bethany, Maisie Today, I have returned to my day job—looking after Maisie while my daughter works. --- ### The Girls are Coming, the Girls are Coming - Published: 2023-01-03 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/the-girls-are-coming-the-girls-are-coming/ - Categories: Happy It's Tuesday morning, we're almost back to normal after the Christmas break, and the girls are coming. I still get excited when the girls visit. Drinks made. Waiting by the kitchen window. --- ### Can't Sleep - Published: 2023-01-02 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/cant-sleep/ - Categories: Sad Another night where I woke early for a wee and can't get back to sleep. This time it was 4:18am. --- ### Had a Poo, Normality Returns! - Published: 2023-01-01 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/had-a-poo-normality-returns/ - Categories: Happy Nothing brings back a sense of normality than your first poo of the year. Well, I had mine this morning. My first farts and use of a swear word or two came last night as I struggled to get my trousers off before bed in the early hours. --- ### A Quiet Seeing in of the New Year - Published: 2023-01-01 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/a-quiet-seeing-in-of-the-new-year/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Ruth My lady wife, Ruth and I had a quiet new years eve together—the T. V. was on, but I wasn't really watching it. As we lent in to kiss in the new year, the light behind us went out. It automatically switches off at midnight—and I had forgotten to turn the switch back to normal. Anyhow, it is now here. Happy New Year to everyone. --- ### Another Year is Almost Over - Published: 2022-12-31 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/another-year-is-almost-over/ - Categories: Inspired Twenty-twenty-two is an hour away from becoming history. For me, it has been a weird sort of year, and I have started a journal entry to add my 2022 highlights. This will become live at or just after midnight. Hopefully, this time next year, I'll have more to add to a little post like this --- ### Geoff and Kay Came Today - Published: 2022-12-30 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/geoff-and-kay-came-today/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Geoff, Ruth, The Girls Had a lovely afternoon/evening with my brother Geoff and his wife, Kay. Bethany, Nathan and the girls were here, also. My lady wife (Ruth) and I cooked a roast. Chicken, Gammon, roast potatoes, swede, a red cabbage creation of Ruth's, carrots, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower with broccoli in a cheese sauce. Christmas pudding for afters. --- ### Christmas Dinner at Adam & Jenny's - Published: 2022-12-25 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/christmas-dinner-at-adam-jennys/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Evie, Maisie, Ruth Arrived at Adam & Jenny's for Christmas Dinner after Adam picked us up earlier. Jenny's sister Rachel is here. Her parents, Tom & Katie are on the way. As are Beth, Nathan and the girls (Evie & Maisie). --- ### Lily Found Her Present - Published: 2022-12-25 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/lily-found-her-present/ - Categories: Happy Lily found one of her presents at four this morning. Waking me up as she moved others out of the way. And started to open it. It was the only present she attacked. --- ### The Girls are Coming Today - Published: 2022-12-24 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/the-girls-are-coming-today/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Evie, Maisie, The Girls Evie and Maisie are coming today. I Can't wait! I know it has only been a few days since I saw them, and I see them often. But having them come for the day makes me so happy. --- ### Very Chesty Today - Published: 2022-12-24 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/very-chesty-today/ - Categories: Sad - Collections: Health I woke up feeling very chesty this morning, more so than yesterday. I tested for Covid-19, which was negative, so it is probably a communal garden chest infection. Hopefully, I will feel better tomorrow—Christmas Day. --- ### Adam's Birthday - Published: 2022-12-22 - Modified: 2024-08-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/adams-birthday/ - Categories: Happy - Collections: Adam Today is Adam's birthday. We are not seeing him as we had a party a few days ago with his aunts, uncles and niece on his mother's side. It was also a chance to see his new house. --- ## Pages ### AI Sitemap (LLMs.txt) - Published: 2025-04-03 - Modified: 2025-04-03 - URL: https://www.davids.day/ai-sitemap/ What is LLMs. txt? LLMs. txt is a simple text-based sitemap for Large Language Models like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and others. It helps AI systems understand and index your public content more effectively. This is the beginning of a new kind of visibility on the web — one that works not just for search engines, but for AI-powered agents and assistants. You can view your AI sitemap at: https://www. davids. day/llms. txt Why it's important Helps your content get discovered by AI tools Works alongside traditional SEO plugins Updates automatically as your content grows --- ### David Live - Published: 2024-07-29 - Modified: 2024-08-12 - URL: https://www.davids.day/live About David Live David Live is for little updates, such as what is happening now. These might eventually turn into diary or journal entries. However, they are just Twitter-like snippets, also known as "Asides". The David Live asides might also be found on other pages around this site, using my own form of categorisation called collections. This section is still a concept, but one that will be used full-time in the near future. David's Live Entries Me Live Now, what can I write about...   --- ### David's 2023 Diary - Published: 2024-07-21 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/2023-diary About David's 2023 Diary David's 2023 Diary is developing as the year progresses. Some entries are merely to test functionality, though most are things I have done. Halfway through 2023, I changed how the Diary entries worked within David's Day. Until August, the diary entries were set to "noindex" for Google and other search engines. Instead, like the Notes, they were snippets of information used on other pages. This means individual entries should not find their way into their search results pages. Though sometimes, Google might have included them anyway. However, the 2023 Diary entries are now linked to and indexable, so some might wind their way into the SERPs (search engine results pages). Anyhow, enjoy or not! Notes: The page has been set up in readiness for 2023. The diary entries for 2022 are shown on my December 2022 month page, as no dedicated page for 2022 diary entries will be created. The 2024 Diary is now active! Latest 2023 Diary Entries All 2023 Diary Entries In date order! --- ### David's 2024 Diary - Published: 2024-01-01 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary/2024-diary About David's 2024 Diary This David's 2024 Diary page has been set up early to test functionality before the turn of yet another new year. If nothing materialises on this page after the 1st of January 2024, you'll know I didn't make it. By 2024, I hope to have found my voice. By that, I mean my way of writing and keeping a diary. Therefore, these entries may have a different feel to those posted in my 2023 Diary. We'll see! Latest 2024 Diary Entries All 2024 Diary Entries In date order! --- ### David's Diary > David’s Diary is made of snippets of my life. My Diary entries are colour coded & reflect my mood. Happy, Sad, Annoyed & Inspired. Others include Music & Food. - Published: 2023-08-30 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/diary About David's Diary David's Diary is made of snippets of my life. My 2023 Diary is a test—helping me find my voice—and by 2024, I hope to have my "way" sorted. But what is a diary? What is a Diary? Diaries are like a treasure chest filled with stories from the past, allowing us to read the memoirs and thoughts of people who lived hundreds of years ago! All diaries start as a blank canvas, with the author having to find their way of using it—finding their voice. It could be a mixture of notes or a detailed account of their day. Latest Diary Entry   How David's Diary Works. I have struggled to find my voice—how I want David's Diary to work. I have also struggled with motivation—making it hard to create diary entries. This struggle has led me to miss important moments or write about my feelings—especially those that might upset others. Then, there are the diary entries that should be elsewhere. Writing a diary is hard, even when only writing mere snippets. Sometimes, more than a mere snippet is required. What started as a diary entry might become a more in-depth article and be posted in my journal. Should this happen, I will link to the Journal entry via a diary entry. All my diary entries are colour-coded. Yellow for happy, grey for sad, etc. Some aren't really about me, such as... --- ### My Health & Well-Being - Published: 2023-06-24 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/health About My Health & Well-Being Although I have spent most of my life with health issues. None were important enough for me to worry about them. However, I have two wonderful granddaughters, and I am getting older. The first of these has fixated my mind on my health and well-being. I want to see the girls get married. My Latest Health Update Some of my Health Issues Please note any possible outcomes listed below will not necessarily happen. However, it is worth reminding myself to help me stay on track. Diffuse Coronary Artery Disease Coronary artery disease is fairly common, with most sufferers unaware they have it. A heart attack is often the signal that leads to a diagnosis. Diffuse coronary heart disease is a more serious complication. It is where the clogging up of the arteries is more widespread. And with that, the chances of having a heart-related episode are greatly increased. Worst-case scenario: Heart Attack, Deat... Possible future treatment: Bypass surgery or the fitting of stents. What can I do? Keep on my medication and make changes to my lifestyle. What am I doing? I have started a low-carb diet to help with my CAD and type 2 diabetes. First-Degree Heart Block As with my CAD above, I have had a first-degree heart block for at least 25 years. My PR interval has remained steady for a few years after... --- ### My Low-Carb Diet - Published: 2023-06-20 - Modified: 2023-06-25 - URL: https://www.davids.day/health/low-carb-diet Why a Low-Carb Diet? I need to lose weight. I'm overweight. However, I also have health issues—type 2 diabetes and diffuse coronary artery disease being two of my many issues. Partaking in a low-carb diet will do two things. Help me lose weight and be beneficial to my health. My Latest Low-Carb Entry Regarding my diabetes, I have had it for 10 years; however, I have been prediabetic for two of the last three years. If I can control my carb intake, my Hb1ac level may drop, and I might get into remission. Hb1ac measures the average glucose levels in your blood over three months. My aim is to get below 42; currently, it is 46. The range for pre-diabetes is an HbA1c reading of 42-47 mmol. Diabetes is when your HbA1c level is 48 mmol or higher. What many don't understand is the hidden effects diabetes has on your body. I was diagnosed after having a vitreous haemorrhage in my right eye. This led to me having to have an operation to remove the gel-like substance—the vitreous humour—from my eye so I could see again. The cause is diabetic retinopathy, where abnormal blood vessels grow on the retina. These blood vessels break easily and leak blood into the eye. I won't list my other issues as I doubt you have all day. So I... --- ### Cookie Policy (UK) - Published: 2023-06-18 - Modified: 2023-06-18 - URL: https://www.davids.day/cookie-policy-uk --- ### Music - Published: 2023-01-11 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/music About Music Music! Most of us like music—though we don't all like the same stuff. My taste is eclectic; I like most types to some extent, and my least liked music styles are probably folk and country music. This section is still in concept mode, so don't expect much.   My Musical Journey I tried not to like certain pop styles in my late teens and early twenties, thinking they were not "cool". I am not alone in thinking I shouldn't like this or that for whatever reason. For several years music wasn't part of my life. I might see it on the tele, but I didn't listen to the radio or buy any albums. So I missed big chunks of getting into certain bands. The nineties come to mind, yes, I liked Oasis, but I neglected Blur, Pulp and the rest of the Britpop scene and what came after. I had bypassed so much. I recently listened to... Find out what else I am listening to here... It was as if I had jumped from glam rock, went through progressive rock and then a blank before waking up a couple of years ago with a craving for past pleasures. With the rise of music streaming websites, I am again a regular listener and willing to try new things. Though more often than not, these new things are actually old things. The not "cool" stuff and... --- ### Listening To - Published: 2023-01-11 - Modified: 2024-07-29 - URL: https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to What I am Listening to I have decided to keep a list of what I am listening to. This is not necessarily everything. Just the items I have remembered to enter here. As you will see, the music I listen to is eclectic. Sometimes it's rock, sometimes punk—not forgetting pop punk. The Rock can be anywhere from glam rock, progressive rock, hard rock or most other kinds of rock. And I like some britpop. When I was younger, I listened to a lot of Pink Floyd, nowadays if I am not sure what I want to listen to, its Coldplay. Anyhow, this section is still a concept! --- ### David's Day > David's Day is where a bullet journal meets a blog to keep track of my days via bullet points. My journal, tasks, notes, thoughts, ancestry, music and diary. - Published: 2023-01-06 - Modified: 2024-08-25 - URL: https://www.davids.day/ Bullet Journal meets Blog to Keep Track of my Days via Bullet Points. This website looks simple on the outside but is complicated inside. And I have designed it to be run via my mobile. It uses up to a dozen custom post types, twice as many custom taxonomies and some custom fields, all pulled together via code. Hopefully, it will fulfil its role, a place for me to display my life. Though I fear I have left it too late to do this properly. Things to Remember I either need or want to remember these important things that happened on this day. Things to Remember Today Things to Remember This Week Tasks David's Day was created to manage tasks. Though now it covers all aspects of things. This section shows the latest "open" tasks—rather than those I must do now. Again, this section does not get updated too often. Open Tasks Music Music! Most of us like music—though we don’t all like the same stuff. My taste is eclectic; therefore, expect some vastly different music styles being listed. Please note that I rarely add to this section and listen to far more than I might add here. I recently listened to... Notes Notes are snippets of information—therefore, they are often very short. This is my latest the note. Thoughts... --- ### David's Day's Sitemap - Published: 2023-01-04 - Modified: 2023-01-06 - URL: https://www.davids.day/sitemap/ These parts of David's Day are indexable by Google and other search engines. Some pages have no value to you, the reader, but have been left here for SEO purposes. However, I should add that this website has not been optimised to rank highly in the search engine results pages. However, I might want it to rank one day. --- ### David's Tasks > David’s Day was built to help me complete the various tasks I have to do. However, it has grown into much more—though my tasks are still important. - Published: 2022-12-28 - Modified: 2024-07-31 - URL: https://www.davids.day/tasks About My Tasks David's Day was built mainly to help me complete the various tasks I have to do. However, it has grown into much more than that now—though task reminders are still important. This page has been split into three sections. Open tasks, completed tasks and discarded tasks. A brief description for each is shown in the boxes below. Though I think the titles for each box are self-explanatory. David's Tasks Openended Tasks Think of this as my "To-Do" list. These tasks include tasks that are both new or have been rescheduled. Rescheduled Tasks Think of this as my "To-Do" list. These tasks include tasks that are both new or have been rescheduled. Completed Tasks: Yeah! I've done something! Completed a task. These are listed in reverse order of posting and not in order of completion. And are here for reference. Discarded Tasks: These tasks have been discarded as incomplete or irrelevant. This can happen with time-sensitive stuff, but in my case, it is more likely I forgot to do it. Hence the building of this site. [display-posts post_type='tasks' taxonomy='status' tax_term='discarded' order="ASC" wrapper="div" wrapper_ no_posts_message="There are no open tasks! Either... --- ### Remembering Important Dates - Published: 2019-09-20 - Modified: 2024-07-29 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remembering If you are like me, sometimes you will suddenly remember that last week was your late father's birthday. No, this isn't limited to my father, often, it happens with my mother, or I forget the anniversary of my wife's mother's death. I could go on. It happens with many things I feel I should remember; no, the people don't need to be dead. This section is all about remembering important dates. It lists some of the life events I feel I should be remembering. However, it is not complete and will probably never be. Jump to January Jump to February Jump to March Jump to April Jump to May Jump to June Jump to July Jump to August Jump to September Jump to October Jump to November Jump to December Jump to Notes    Remembering January    Remembering February    Remembering March    Remembering April    Remembering May [display-posts post_type='remember' taxonomy="month" tax_term="may" orderby="title" order="ASC"... --- ### Ancestry: A Brief Guide to My Family - Published: 2019-09-14 - Modified: 2024-07-30 - URL: https://www.davids.day/ancestry About The Ancestry Section Family is important to me, as is trying to remember important dates from the past. I hope to grow a database of family members and significant dates within this ancestry section. This will allow for notable dates to show automatically on relevant pages. Such as a birthday of a relative in the "Today in Focus" section of the home page. Adding family members will be random, and I won't show relevant dates for those living for whom I do not have permission. David's Family The Family Please note that not all dates listed have been thoroughly checked; these will be updated as and when I confirm them.   Ancestry Notes --- ### David's Thoughts > Thinking is something I do a lot. Writing those thoughts down is something I only do a little. Hopefully, I will rectify that by using David’s Thoughts. - Published: 2019-07-11 - Modified: 2023-11-10 - URL: https://www.davids.day/thoughts About My Thoughts What do you think about? Some of us have thoughts about everything and anything. Sometimes these are pleasant thoughts, occasionally bad. Thinking is something I do a lot. Writing those thoughts down is something I only do a little. Hopefully, I will rectify that by using David's Day as my place to share these thoughts. David's Thoughts My Thoughts  Thought Notes --- ### David's Journal > In line with David’s Day’s concept, David's Journal posts uses bullet points to give detail to the posts—Journal entries offer more detail than Diary Entries. - Published: 2019-05-25 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/journal About My Journal The Journal section is more like a regular blog and different from how the rest of the site works. It is different to the diary in many ways. The journal covers subjects in detail. At the same time, the diary is a snippet of information about what I am doing or have done. In line with David's Day's concept, the journal posts will use bullet points to give detail to the posts—hopefully. Time will tell if it works. David's Journal Entries My Journal   Journal Notes --- ### David's Notes - Published: 2019-05-25 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/notes About My Notes Notes are snippets of information that add content to other pages; as such, they have been set to "noindex" for search engines. That said, I have created this page to display all of my notes in one place. This page is indexable via Google. Therefore, each note may eventually end up with Google but will promote this page, not the individual note. My notes work in the same way as my diary entries. David's Notes [display-posts post_type='notes' include_title="true"... --- ### Monthly Logs - Published: 2019-05-25 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs About the Monthly Logs This page displays a list of monthly logs. These logs overview what happened in any particular month. They include a list of tasks that need to be done, journal entries, thoughts, notes, and important dates. This Month in focus The Last Year in focus Other Months in focus --- ### About David's Day - Published: 2019-03-17 - Modified: 2024-07-26 - URL: https://www.davids.day/about What is David's Day? David's Day is my way of keeping up to date with the essential things in my life by utilising Bullet Points to help keep track. Initially, I used an old site called Bulleted to replace all my previous blog attempts. These include websites such as I'm Doing, Jottings, David's XYZ and, last but not least, Totally Bollocks. However, I switched all of these onto David's XYZ. Disbanded Bulleted and replaced it with David's Day. Some of the below will be updated shortly as it was written for another website. While creating past websites, I often used bullet points. Having looked and found that the domain Bulleted (dot UK) was available, I bought it. With my new website installed, I had to decide how I wanted to use it and what for. Is it a blog about my life; or another test website? Or could it be something else? So I started to look at how bullet points were used elsewhere. Anyhow, it's a long story, and all you need to know is we are now here on David's Day. I like the work of the web designer Rafal Tomal and have often used his colour schemes in the past. I noticed that he recently changed his website links from green to yellow. Yellow and black were once the colours of an old business of mine, so I decided I would copy him... I hope he doesn't mind. A few days later, while browsing a Waterstones shop... --- ### Privacy Policy - Published: 2019-03-17 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/privacy-policy Who we are My website address is: http://davids. day. What personal data I collect and why I collect it David's Day Does Not Collect Your Data & Does Not Allow For Comments. I Have Left The Following In Place In Case This Policy Changes. The Only Data Looked At Is The Visitor Numbers Shown In The Website Dashboard. This Does Not Show Your I. P. Address, Nor Gives Me ANY Details About You. Comments When visitors leave comments on the website, we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymised string created from your e-mail address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. The Gravatar service Privacy Policy is available here: https://automattic. com/privacy/. After approval of your comment, your profile picture is visible to the public in the context of your comment. Media If you upload images to the website, you should avoid uploading images with embedded location data (EXIF GPS) included. Visitors to the website can download and extract any location data from images on the website. Contact forms Cookies If you leave a comment on our site you may opt in to saving your name, e-mail address and website in cookies. These are for your convenience so that you do not have to fill in your details again when you leave another comment. These cookies will last for one year. If you have... --- ## Posts ### August 2024 - Published: 2024-08-01 - Modified: 2024-08-17 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/august-2024 - Categories: Misc Journal Entries for August 2024 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2024-08-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### July 2024 - Published: 2024-07-01 - Modified: 2024-08-17 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/july-2024 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for July 2024 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2024-07-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### June 2024 - Published: 2024-06-01 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/june-2024 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for June 2024 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2024-06-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### May 2024 - Published: 2024-05-01 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/may-2024 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for May 2024 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2024-05-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### April 2024 - Published: 2024-04-01 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/april-2024 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for April 2024 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2024-04-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### March 2024 - Published: 2024-03-01 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/march-2024 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for March 2024 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2024-03-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### February 2024 - Published: 2024-02-01 - Modified: 2024-01-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/february-2024 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for February 2024 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2024-02-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### January 2024 - Published: 2024-01-01 - Modified: 2024-01-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/january-2024 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for January 2024 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2024-01-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### December 2023 - Published: 2023-12-01 - Modified: 2024-01-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/december-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for December 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-12-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### November 2023 - Published: 2023-11-01 - Modified: 2024-01-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/november-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for November 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-11-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### October 2023 - Published: 2023-10-01 - Modified: 2024-01-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/october-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for October 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-10-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### September 2023 - Published: 2023-09-01 - Modified: 2024-01-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/september-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for September 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-09-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### August 2023 - Published: 2023-08-01 - Modified: 2023-09-04 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/august-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for August 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-08-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### July 2023 - Published: 2023-07-01 - Modified: 2023-08-23 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/july-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for July 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-07-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### June 2023 - Published: 2023-06-01 - Modified: 2023-08-23 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/june-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for June 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-06-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### May 2023 - Published: 2023-05-01 - Modified: 2023-06-05 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/may-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for May 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-05-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### April 2023 - Published: 2023-04-01 - Modified: 2023-08-23 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/april-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for April 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-04-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### March 2023 - Published: 2023-03-01 - Modified: 2023-08-23 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/march-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries for March 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-03-15' include_title="false" include_date="true"... --- ### February 2023 - Published: 2023-02-01 - Modified: 2023-08-23 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/february-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Things to Remember in February 2023 [display-posts post_type='remember'... --- ### January 2023 - Published: 2023-01-01 - Modified: 2023-09-04 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/january-2023 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Things to Remember in January 2023 Journal Entries for January 2023 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2023-01-14' include_title="false" include_date="true" date_format="j... --- ### December 2022 - Published: 2022-12-01 - Modified: 2023-09-04 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/december-2022 - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Things to Remember in December 2022 Journal Entries for December 2022 [display-posts post_type='journal' date='2022-12-14' include_title="false" include_date="true" date_format="j F Y"... --- ### Old Stuff from a Previous Version - Published: 2022-11-30 - Modified: 2023-01-15 - URL: https://www.davids.day/logs/old-stuff-from-a-previous-version - Categories: Misc - Tags: Monthly Logs Journal Entries from 2019 The Journal is not a diary; it is more of a traditional blog section. These two posts survived the cut, as they are things I want to remember. Notes The notes are often snippets of information that are either reminders or hints. Though I have removed all the previous notes, I have left this section in place to keep the look and feel of the site. Thoughts I have left one thought from 2019 in place because I need to test something in the future. I have many thoughts and few will make it onto the site. Mainly because of time. Things to Remember The old version of this website sat for three years on the 4th of September 2019. The first anniversary of the death of my auntie Doreen. Every time I visited the site, it was a sad but important reminder. I have added the first four days of September into this section to fill it with something. Events Although I only ever created drafts, a couple of events that were going to be listed on the old website were the baptism of my first granddaughter and my daughter's wedding. These will not be forgotten as I intend to create remembering posts for them... . --- ## Tasks ### Building Cruisez® - Published: 2023-06-07 - Modified: 2023-06-08 - URL: https://www.davids.day/tasks/building-cruisez/ - Status: Open - Collections: Web Design Cruisez started in 2015 and abruptly stopped. However, I did register the trademark. After using creative ways to build the pages on this website—that is how the content shows on relevant pages—I decided to restart Cruisez. This page will allow me to list my tasks to make Cruisez work. Looking at the world of cruising, it is vast. Hundreds of ships cruise to thousands of ports. Creating a worldwide website is beyond one person. Hence I decided to cut back and focus on cruises from the UK. This one decision has saved me two years or more work. And as I have to add all the cruises manually, I would be forever adding cruises. I only need to add circa 500 annually by focusing on the UK. The Functionality To-Do List The Design To-Do List The Content To-Do List The Completed Functionality To-Do List The Completed Design To-Do List The Completed Content To-Do List --- ### Looking at Ways to Earn Money - Published: 2023-06-07 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/tasks/looking-at-ways-to-earn-money/ - Status: Open - Collections: Money - Scheduled Dates: June 2023 - Migration Dates: April 2024, August 2023, December 2023, February 2024, January 2024, July 2023, July 2024, June 2024, March 2024, May 2024, November 2023, October 2023, September 2023 I am now in my 60s and can expect to retire—health permitting—in a few years. Looking back at my work history, I might not qualify for a full pension. I know this is my fault for doing too much unpaid work. However, a poor retirement may not be on the cards if I can create something or things that can generate a small amount of income. This page is where I will put a few ideas down; with a bit of work, some of these might generate an income. Possible Money Making Websites Build a cruise-related website. Build a holiday-related website. Build a Smartphone Photography website. Cruisez®, a Cruise-Related Website I have thought about building Cruisez for years—establishing a trademark in 2015. However, it is only now that I am considering pushing this forward. Money can be made by selling advertising space. Holidayz, or similar, a Holiday-Related Website Using a similar format to Cruisez, money could be made by selling advertising space. This might be too big a project to consider along with the others. Smartphone Photography Website Almost everyone has a smartphone, and most will take photos. I take a lot. A smartphone photography website could be used to discuss the latest smartphone cameras. Look at the techniques used and display my photos. Money could be made through advertising. --- ### David's Day: To-Do List - Published: 2023-01-22 - Modified: 2024-08-25 - URL: https://www.davids.day/tasks/davids-day-to-do-list/ - Status: Open - Collections: Web Design - Scheduled Dates: January 2023 - Migration Dates: April 2024, August 2023, December 2023, February 2024, January 2024, July 2023, July 2024, June 2023, June 2024, March 2024, May 2024, November 2023, October 2023, February 2023, March 2023, April 2023, May 2023 Building this website is complex. Adding the various sections and building the code to make it all work. For instance, the home page section "Things to Remember Today" has to have a piece of code for each day of the year. This takes time. I have recently added the music and listening sections, but I want to add more. Hence, creating this "To Do" task list that will never get finished. However, it will help me focus on what to do next. The "Web Design To Do List" (In no particular order) Create a section to display some memories. Create a "work" section. Not sure if this would work—no pun intended. Need to think about this a little longer Add a new section to the home page to be used as a Whiteboard. This could be achieved using a new custom post type with custom taxonomies. These can be pulled through via shortcodes. The "Content To Do List" (In no particular order) Start to create a post finding one song for each year of my life. Add some items to the remembering section. These snippets show on the front page on relevant dates. The Completed "Web Design To Do List" (Backdated a little! ) Remove the daily and yearly logs Change the workings of the monthly logs Create a single log entry for the previous incarnation of David's Day (Bulleted) Add a notes section, making each note "noindex" in Google's eyes and creating the code so that the notes will sit... --- ### Buy Wedding Insurance - Published: 2019-08-29 - Modified: 2023-01-22 - URL: https://www.davids.day/tasks/buy-wedding-insurance/ - Status: Completed - Collections: Ruth - Scheduled Dates: September 2019 My daughter is getting married on the 28th of March 2020. Now I don't envisage any issues arriving; however, my wife insists we take out Wedding Insurance. I guess there are many reasons why we should do this, including us having spent over £4,500 already. Buying Wedding Insurance Because of Monies Spent We have paid a large deposit on the venue My daughter has paid the deposit for the food (need to pay her back) We have paid for the bridal suite already We have paid a deposit for the dress Buying Wedding Insurance In Case of Circumstances Beyond Our Control What if the venue goes bust (unlikely the amount they charge)? What if the caterer goes bust? What if the wedding dress shop goes bust? What if the photographer pulls out? What if the entertainment pulls out? What if one of the main protagonists is seriously ill (hope not as likely to be me)? What, god forbid, if my daughter and her partner split up? I am sure there are many other reasons why we should Buy Wedding Insurance. --- ### Phone DFS Re Issues with our Sofa - Published: 2019-08-29 - Modified: 2019-08-29 - URL: https://www.davids.day/tasks/phone-dfs-re-issues-with-our-sofa/ - Status: Discarded - Collections: Ruth - Scheduled Dates: September 2019 A couple of years ago, we bought a sofa from DFS; however, it has a couple of issues that need sorting out. I am so glad we paid the extra to have some protection applied and to ensure it. So what are the issues with our DFS Sofa? The seat I sit on has dipped, this shouldn't happen. Although we had a stain protector applied, it has a stain. Frustratingly, although bought in Waterlooville, some 13 miles from us, we need to contact the Farnborough branch some 30 plus miles away! I'm sure there is something else, anyhow, that said I was pleased with the service we have received to date. Let's hope that when we come to sort out these issues, my thoughts about the company don't change. --- ### Buy Clear Tidy Storage Boxes - Published: 2019-08-28 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/tasks/buy-clear-tidy-storage-boxes/ - Status: Completed - Collections: Ruth - Scheduled Dates: September 2019 Carrying on from the task of Sorting out the Storage Unit with Mike, actually, that should be as part of the overall mission of clearing out three storage units. I need to buy some clear, tidy storage boxes. Why do I need clear, tidy storage boxes? On clearing out the first two of our three storage units, I needed a new place to store the contents we are keeping. The content we are keeping is now at our daughter's house in cardboard boxes. Cardboard boxes are not ideal, even though this content has been in them for many a year. So the solution is to buy clear, tidy storage boxes to rehouse the contents of the cardboard boxes. On transferring the items from one type of box to the other, I can go through the things and discard anything we no longer need. Once a box is full, it can be transferred to our attic, and because the boxes are see-through, I will know what is in them, without having to open them willy-nilly. --- ### Sort out Storage Unit with Mike - Published: 2019-08-28 - Modified: 2019-08-28 - URL: https://www.davids.day/tasks/sort-out-storage-unit-with-mike/ - Status: Completed - Collections: Ruth - Scheduled Dates: September 2019 Another job on my "to do" list, supplied by my lady wife, is to contact Mike, a local farmer from Sheet, near Petersfield to empty a storage unit with have. Initially, we had three units however, two of them have now been cleared out. What needs to be done? Contact Mike to arrange a day. Call the storage company to arrange access to the unit. Arrange to have a table from the unit to be delivered here. Cancel the unit with the storage company. Why are we doing it? Each storage unit costs a touch over £12 a week. We had three units for four years, costing a fortune. Most of what we had stored is useless and we have replaced it with new things. --- ### Take Lily to the vets for her yearly injection - Published: 2019-08-01 - Modified: 2019-08-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/tasks/take-lily-to-the-vets-for-her-yearly-injection/ - Status: Completed - Collections: Ruth One of the items on a "to do" list, supplied by my lady wife, is to take Lily (our cat) to the vets for her yearly injections. Why does Lily need to go to the vets? Lily needs her annual flu vaccination Lily also needs her next 3 months supply of flea/tick treatment Lily needs a worming tablet Lily needs to be weighed Lily is worth every penny we spend on her --- ## Notes ### I Need to Write More in my Diary! - Published: 2023-11-10 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/notes/i-need-to-write-more-in-my-diary/ - Sections: Diary Note It's been two months. Two months since I last visited this website, two months since I posted anything. Yet earlier in the year—I am sure I mentioned this, though I can't find where I had written it—I mentioned writing more often and learning my diary writing style*. *I have now found where I had written it; it wasn't quite what I remembered. What I actually said was: David's Diary is made of snippets of my life. My 2023 Diary is a test—helping me find my voice—and by 2024, I hope to have my "way" sorted. But what is a diary? And it can be found on my Diary page! However, I cannot find the piece that mentions writing more often. So, I must address this. There are many reasons for neglecting David's Day. But the main reason is working on a new cruise website of mine called Cruisez. I've been so focused on that project that I have forgotten this blog—perhaps neglected is the right word choice. So, I am now making a conscious decision: I will TRY and do regular entries. When time permits, I will also try to create some diary entries retrospectively. --- ### I have updated the "David's Day: To Do List" task. - Published: 2023-08-27 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/notes/i-have-updated-the-davids-day-to-do-list-task/ - Sections: Task Note The additions include adding a new section to the home page to be used as a Whiteboard. This could be achieved using a new custom post type with custom taxonomies. These can be pulled through via shortcodes. And change the diary entries from noindex to index—we are talking SEO here—and link to the individual diary entries. Previously, these formed part of a page and not stand-alone posts. David’s Day: To-Do List --- ### Change How Tasks Appear on the Home Page - Published: 2023-06-11 - Modified: 2023-07-16 - URL: https://www.davids.day/notes/change-how-the-tasks-appear-on-the-home-page/ - Collections: Web Design - Sections: Task Note In my original design for Bulleted—now David's Day—I would have the list of open tasks in a prominent position on the home page. For some reason, I don't have this. Instead, tasks are listed towards the bottom of the page. So, I need to find a way of reorganising the home page to make this work. --- ### Working on the Look and Feel of David's Day - Published: 2022-12-27 - Modified: 2023-06-07 - URL: https://www.davids.day/notes/working-on-the-look-and-feel-of-davids-day/ - Collections: Web Design - Sections: Website Note For the last couple of days, I have been working on the look and feel of this site. Bearing in mind, it is predominately a text-based thing. With that, there isn't a great deal to do styling-wise. However, I should create a web design task to keep track of the changes. --- ## Thoughts ### Rebranding of Twitter to X - Published: 2023-07-24 - Modified: 2023-07-24 - URL: https://www.davids.day/thought/rebranding-of-twitter-to-x/ The rebranding of Twitter reminds me of the door markings—typically a black cross—to tell the world that the plague had arrived, similar to Musk's takeover of Twitter. As from today, Twitter ia branded as X, while keeping the Twitter URL. --- ### Microblogging Should Be Easy! - Published: 2023-07-15 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/thought/microblogging-should-be-easy/ - Collections: Microblogging Although microblogging should be easy—after all, you are only using a few words—it can be difficult. Perhaps the smallness of microblogging creates an "it's unimportant" attitude in the brain? Who knows? In a way, my diary is a microblog. Update: My diary is no longer a microblog; however, David Live is! --- ### Robert Jenrick Kills Mickey Mouse - Published: 2023-07-09 - Modified: 2023-07-09 - URL: https://www.davids.day/thought/robert-jenrick-kills-mickey-mouse/ - Collections: Politics Imagine being a child, taken thousands of miles from home, and arriving in a foreign land. You may not have wanted to travel to this new land; it may have been forced upon you by your parents. But now you have arrived via an arduous journey across choppy seas in a small boat not fit for purpose. You are sat in a room with rows of seats where other children sit waiting to talk to someone. You see the walls; some cartoon characters are painted on them—you recognise Mickey Mouse. You may feel less stressed as you try to fathom what is happening. But only a little. When a child arrives in the UK, they are taken to a reception centre in Dover. Until last week, this centre had cartoon murals on its walls. Allegedly, Robert Jenrick (Conservative) the Minister of State for Immigration, ordered the child asylum unit murals to be painted over. He is quoted as saying they were "too welcoming. " Too welcoming! ! ! Children have a welfare interview on their arrival in the UK, which includes questions designed to identify potential indicators of trafficking or safeguarding issues. OK, that sounds fine. Trafficking etc. needs to be stopped. But there are many reasons families leave their countries to find a better place to live—I should say, a potentially better place. Is one reason for seeking a new life because of those wonderfully welcoming murals? "It must be a great place to live because Mickey Mouse looks happy there. " No! ... --- ### Thinking about My Thoughts - Published: 2023-01-30 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/thought/thinking-about-my-thoughts/ This thought about "Thinking about My Thoughts" is less philosophical than I would like—I know, that sounds gobbledegook. But I feel the need to write it down. Here goes. As part of the introduction to the "My Thoughts" page, I wrote: "Thinking is something I do a lot. Writing those thoughts down is something I only do a little. " I often wonder why I am not more productive with writing down these thoughts. And this came to mind. I have multiple thoughts when I can't write them down. I cannot recall these thoughts when I can write them down. Therefore, I need to address this. I need to take notes whenever possible. So, what is holding me back? I don't like writing notes in front of people—perhaps a fear of criticism. Apart from my phone, I don't carry the tools to write down my thoughts. What can I do to overcome any fears? Ignore others and just do it! Explain what I am doing and why If I feel friction as to why I am doing it, ask for a little understanding. What can I do to overcome the lack of tools? Carry a notepad and pen with me everywhere. Keep a spare pad and pen in my coat pocket. Keep a spare pad and pen in my computer bag. Keep a spare pad and pen in the rucksack I use on trips out with the family. Is this post finished? And will the above help me become more productive? ... --- ### Life has Ups and Downs - Published: 2019-08-29 - Modified: 2019-08-29 - URL: https://www.davids.day/thought/life-has-ups-and-downs/ - Collections: Life During any moment of any day, our emotions ebb and flow. Sometimes we are up, and sometimes we are down. I have simplified it for you: Life has ups (not the delivery firm) Life has downs (not the type found in pillows) Life has inbetweeners (not the TV show) Right now, I am between the bottom two! --- ## Ancestry ### Victor Herbert Walston Stainer (1905-1982) - Published: 2019-09-14 - Modified: 2023-02-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/ancestry/victor-herbert-walston-stainer-1905-1982/ was my . : Life Facts _ct_datepicker_5d7b5aabe5b1b, _ct_text_5d7caa7d51e86, _ct_text_5d7caa4517a99, _ct_text_5d7ca9f376488,_ct_text_5d7b5b61de2d4, : Biography : Family _ct_selectbox_5d7caec2830d7,_ct_multiselectbox_5d7cb26ac6e6a,_ct_textarea_5d7cb40bc4744,_ct_textarea_5d7cb7929c93a --- ## Remember ### 31st January 1931: Birth of My Auntie Grace - Published: 2023-02-01 - Modified: 2023-06-25 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/31st-january-1931-birth-of-my-auntie-grace/ - Day of the Month: 31 - Months: January My aunt, Grace Margaret Rose Thompson (nee ... ), was born on this day in 1931. Grace was my mother's sister. --- ### 8th April: Birth of My Grandaughter, Evie Cook - Published: 2023-01-31 - Modified: 2023-01-31 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/8th-april-birth-of-my-grandaughter-evie-cook/ - Day of the Month: 8 - Months: April My eldest granddaughter Evie was born on this day. Life has not been the same since, but in a good great way! --- ### 6th April: Birth of My Daughter, Bethany Edbrooke-Stainer - Published: 2023-01-31 - Modified: 2023-01-31 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/6th-april-birth-of-my-daughter-bethany-edbrooke-stainer/ - Day of the Month: 6 - Months: April My secondborn and only daughter, Bethany, was born on this day, and I cut her umbilical cord. --- ### 20th February 1962: My Birthday - Published: 2023-01-31 - Modified: 2023-01-31 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/20th-february-1962-my-birthday/ - Day of the Month: 20 - Months: February I was born on this day in 1962, but I don't remember it! It was the day that John Glenn went into space. --- ### 11th February 1956: The Day My Parents Married - Published: 2023-01-31 - Modified: 2023-01-31 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/11th-february-1956-the-day-my-parents-married/ - Day of the Month: 11 - Months: February My parents, Frank John Frederick Stainer and Mary Teresa Bridgeman married on this day in 1956. --- ### 5th February 1931: Birth of my Father-in-Law, Peter Edbrooke - Published: 2023-01-31 - Modified: 2023-02-05 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/5th-february-1930-4th-january-2000-death-of-my-father-in-law-peter-edbrooke/ - Day of the Month: 5 - Months: February My father-in-law, Peter Douglas Eric Edbrooke, was born on this day in 1931. --- ### 31st January: Allyson's Birthday - Published: 2023-01-31 - Modified: 2023-02-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/31st-january-allysons-birthday/ - Day of the Month: 31 - Months: January Allyson, my lady wife's business partner of more than twenty years, celebrates her birthday today. Her age... let's say getting on. --- ### 26th January: Sean's Birthday - Published: 2023-01-31 - Modified: 2023-01-31 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/26th-january-seans-birthday/ - Day of the Month: 26 - Months: January My not-quite brother-in-law, Sean is celebrating his birthday today—not-quite, because Sean has been engaged to my sister-in-law Lucy for twenty-plus years. --- ### 4th January 2000: Death of my Father-in-Law, Peter Edbrooke - Published: 2023-01-03 - Modified: 2023-01-31 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/4th-january-2000-death-of-my-father-in-law-peter-edbrooke/ - Day of the Month: 4 - Months: January My father-in-law, Peter Douglas Eric Edbrooke, died aged 69 on the 4th of January, 2000. --- ### 22 December: Birth of My Son, Adam Edbrooke-Stainer - Published: 2022-12-22 - Modified: 2023-01-31 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/22-december-1992-birth-of-my-son-adam-edbrooke-stainer/ - Day of the Month: 22 - Months: December My firstborn and only son, Adam, was born on this day, and I cut his umbilical cord. --- ### 4th September 2018: Death of My Auntie Doreen - Published: 2019-09-04 - Modified: 2023-02-01 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/4th-september-2018-death-of-my-auntie-doreen/ - Day of the Month: 4 - Months: September My aunt, Doreen Louise Mary Ford (nee Stainer), died on this day in 2018. Doreen was my father's sister. --- ### 3rd September 2007: Death of My Father, Frank Stainer - Published: 2019-09-03 - Modified: 2023-01-04 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/3rd-september-2007-death-of-my-father-frank-john-frederick-stainer/ - Day of the Month: 3 - Months: September My father, Frank John Frederick Stainer, died on this day in 2007. --- ### 2nd September 1988: The Day I Married Ruth - Published: 2019-09-02 - Modified: 2023-01-04 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/2nd-september-1988-the-day-i-married-ruth/ - Day of the Month: 2 - Months: September I married my current wife, OK, my one and only wife, on the 2nd of September 1989 at The Church of Saint Mary Magdalen, Sheet, Petersfield. --- ### 1st September 1905: Birth of My Grandfather, Victor Stainer - Published: 2019-09-01 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/remember/1st-september-1905-birth-of-my-grandfather-victor-stainer/ - Day of the Month: 1 - Months: September My grandfather, on my father's side, Victor Herbert Walston Stainer, was born on this day in 1905. --- ## Music ## Listening to ### Amy Winehouse "Back to Black" - Published: 2023-01-15 - Modified: 2024-08-11 - URL: https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/amy-winehouse-back-to-black After finishing Amy Winehouse's Frank, I turned to her second album, Back to Black—a must-have album. While Frank was fairly successful, Back to Black was phenomenal. It reached number one across Europe and number two in America and produced five relatively successful singles, with "Rehab" reaching number seven in the UK charts. The album sold circa 16 million copies worldwide. About the Album Artist: Album: Year: Tracks: How I listened to to it Music Sauce: via a Listening on: DAC: Rated: What I am/was doing: Other ways of listening to to it 8th June 2023 Music Sauce: Owned Flac Files via a Sony NW-A105 Digital Audio Player Listening on: a Bose SoundLink® Mini Bluetooth® speaker II DAC: None What I am/was doing: Working on the backend of this website. --- ### Amy Winehouse "Frank" - Published: 2023-01-15 - Modified: 2023-01-26 - URL: https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/amy-winehouse-frank While cooking Sunday lunch—a three-fish roast, I listened to Amy Winehouse's Frank. Frank was the first of Amy Winehouse's two studio albums. The album peaked at number 3 on the UK charts and produced four singles. None of these reached the top 50. About the Album Artist: Album: Year: Tracks: How I listened to to it Music Sauce: via a Listening on: DAC: Rated: What I am/was doing: --- ### Jeff Beck "Essentials" Playlist on Apple Music - Published: 2023-01-10 - Modified: 2023-07-16 - URL: https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/jeff-beck-essentials-on-apple-music After reading about the creation of Led Zeppelin, I read that Beck's Bolero was performed by Beck, Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones of Zeppelin and Keith Moon of the Who. This was pre-Zeppelin. I thought, give it a go! (more... ) --- ### Free "Essentials" Playlist on Apple Music - Published: 2023-01-08 - Modified: 2023-07-16 - URL: https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/free-essentials-play-list-on-apple-music After finishing listening to Pink Floyd's "Animals" 2018 remix, I turned to a playlist featuring Free. The first track, "All Right Now", is a classic. (more... ) --- ### Pink Floyd "Animals (2018 Remix)" - Published: 2023-01-08 - Modified: 2023-01-26 - URL: https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/pink-floyd-animals-2018-remix I often play music while cooking. Today, being a Sunday, I cooked a roast—Beef with Yorkshire puddings. I listened to the 2018 remix of "Animals. " It is different to the original but in a good way. (more... ) --- ### Pink Floyd "A Saucer Full of Secrets" - Published: 2023-01-07 - Modified: 2023-01-26 - URL: https://www.davids.day/music/listening-to/pink-floyd-a-saucer-full-of-secrets I thought I would go back in time and listen to Pink Floyd's "A Saucer Full of Secrets" from 1968. I have "Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun" on a playlist and thought I would listen to the album it came from. (more... ) ---