Sir Elton John & Will Young.

By this time tomorrow night, while seeing the New Year in, I will be soaking up the ambiance of the o2, before, during and after watching the live performances of Will Young and Elton John.

Daniel

by Elton John

www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ayolhaLMUI

Daniel

Daniel is travelling tonight on a plane

I can see the red tail lights heading for Spain

Oh and I can see Daniel waving goodbye

God it looks like Daniel, must be the clouds in my eyes

They say Spain is pretty though I've never been

Well Daniel says it's the best place that he's ever seen

Oh and he should know, he's been there enough

Lord I miss Daniel, oh I miss him so much

Daniel my brother you are older than me

Do you still feel the pain of the scars that won't heal

Your eyes have died but you see more than I

Daniel you're a star in the face of the sky

Daniel is travelling tonight on a plane

I can see the red tail lights heading for Spain

Oh and I can see Daniel waving goodbye

God it looks like Daniel, must be the clouds in my eyes

Oh God it looks like Daniel, must be the clouds in my eyes

Evergreen

by Will Young

www.youtube.com/watch?v=718qjdBVPL8

Evergreen

Eyes, like a sunrise

Like a rainfall Down my soul

And I wonder, I wonder why you look at me like that

What you´re thinking, What´s behind

Don´t tell me, but it feels like love

I´m gonna take this moment And make it last forever

I´m gonna give my heart away And pray we´ll stay together

´cause you´re the one good reason You´re the only girl that I need

´cause you´re more beautiful than I have ever seen (oh yeh)

I´m gonna take this night And make it Evergreen

Touch, like an angel Like velvet to my skin

And I wonder, Wonder why you wanna stay the night

What you´re dreaming What´s behind

Don´t tell me, but it feels like love

(chorus to end)

Evergreen

www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUIElKA3nwA

Eric Clapton.

Today I received written confirmation regarding my place on the Hearing Voices Group Facilitation Training. The course begins on Monday 12th January 2009, from 10.30 - 4.30pm, and runs over four consecutive Mondays. I have booked annual leave to attend this course. I am looking forward to it.

I feel extremely fortunate, to have been able to obtain a seat, at the Royal Albert Hall ,on the Thursday 28th May 2009, to see Eric Clapton's www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eric_Clapton live performance.

Layla by Eric Clapton www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2sfelvHAlU

What'll you do when you get lonely And nobody's waiting by your side?

You've been running and hiding much too long.

You know it's just your foolish pride.

Layla, you've got me on my knees.

Layla, I'm begging, darling please.

Layla, darling won't you ease my worried mind.

I tried to give you consolation When your old man had let you down.

Like a fool, I fell in love with you, Turned my whole world upside down.

Chorus

Let's make the best of the situation Before I finally go insane.

Please don't say we'll never find a way And tell me all my love's in vain.

Chorus

Chorus

Layla

www.youtube.com/watch?v=OF0EMnruqzY

The Very Thought Of You.

The Very Thought of You

www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qFpvlBYQy0

by

Nancy Wilson

www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nancy_Wilson_(singer)

The Nutcracker.

28.

I know what I said the day before yesterday, however today was the actual first day of my active participation in the 'Get Moving' campaign. I swam for thirty minutes, during which I managed twenty eight lengths. I have decided to place the number of lengths at the top of the posts, on the day that I have done them.

Within the next hour I will be at 'The Ritzy' cinema in Brixton, where I will be watching the live- screening of 'The Nutcracker'. 'Time Out' www.timeout.com/london has described 'The Nutcracker' as:

"The Royal Ballet's first ever live screening in cinemas. Get popcorn with your pirouettes as 'The Nutcracker' is beamed to ten cinemas across the city (including the Empire Leicester Square, Cineworld Fulham Road and various Curzon, Everyman and Picturehouse cinemas). Former New York City Ballet dancer Alexandra Ansanelli takes the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, with Valeri Hristov as the Prince. Not quite the same as the theatre experience (and for the same price you could sit in the gallery at the Opera House with all the atmosphere thrown in) but a front row seat is significantly cheaper".

Before I go, I will indulge myself with the following.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJQjHeaWDlM

Addicted to Love

by

Tina Turner

www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OhdD5n405I

Some Like it Hot

with

Marilyn Monroe

www.imdb.com/title/tt0264761/trailers

Kissing Jessica Stein

CV - curriculum vitae.

Thin Ice

www.spike.com/video/thin-ice-trailer/2674140

directed by

Fiona Cunningham-Reid

www.cmn.hs.h.kyoto-u.ac.jp/NO1/IVIEW/FIONA.HTM

YVONNE STEWART - WILLIAMS
London

United Kingdom.


PROFILE
An extremely hardworking and committed individual, with excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to work unsupervised and build effective working relationships with colleagues. Has a friendly disposition and works well under pressure.

SKILLS
Communication and listening skills (verbal & written)
Experience of working with drug users
Worked with women in Prison doing HIV/AIDS prevention training
Flexible thinker and ability to adapt skills
Computer literate and a good team member

CAREER
Apr 07 – Present THAMES REACH Westminster
Mental Health Support Worker-Full-Time – Support People with Severe and enduring Mental Health Problems to remain housed and supported within independent accommodation in Westminster.

2005 – Present Lambeth LGBT forum SW2
Volunteer Member – Attend meetings to address issues affecting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people who live, work and play within the borough of Lambeth

Nov 06 - Mar 07 Central & Cecil Housing Association SE1
Care Assistant-Part-Time – Escorting Senior Citizens from home to Day Centre, Entertaining & Supporting clients in different activities, providing meals & refreshments, Key-working, Risk Assessing

Aug 06 – Mar 07 Mental Health Media N7
Volunteer Research Assistant – Researching and updating mental health anti-stigma, anti-discrimination information on database and website

Jan 05 – Sep 05 PACE N7
Lesbian Mental Health Advocacy Volunteer – Provided Mental health advocacy for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people, writing letters, attending meetings, supporting the client.

Sept 97 – Apr 99 WRVS (Women’s Royal Voluntary Service) Maudsley Hospital SE5
Shop Volunteer Stock taker – Serving in the hospital shop and stock taking weekly

Feb 95 – Mar 97 - LANDMARK Tulse Hill SW2
Volunteer Driver – Driving, accompanying people with HIV/AIDS to various appointments.

Jan 95 – Mar 97 - Y.M.C.A (Young Men’s Christian Association) Lambeth SW9
Residential Programme Volunteer – Provided activities for Refugees, Homeless people.

Jan 95 – Jan 05 The Maudsley Hospital SE5
Service User Volunteer – Communicate a Voluntary Service User Group for Mental Health Clients. Provided Mental Health Advocacy, Sat on Police Liaison Committee. Was a Ward Representative. Introduced the weekly free Lesbian and Gay’ Pink Paper’ into the Maudsley. Worked with ‘Talkback’ a Complaints Departments project that encouraged suggestions for improvements from the clients.

Apr 1992 Oct 1992 ABANTU Benefit Dances Central London
Promoter – I personally financed ABANTU, which was two benefit Arts dances, for all lesbians & gay men of African descent and their friends. The aim of the project was HIV/AIDS awareness and related problems. The benefit’s aim was to create activities, events and health seminars for black lesbians and gay men.

Aug 1991 – Dec 1992 Gap House (Girls Alone Project) NW1
Lesbian Rehousing Manager – Supported 16-21yrs old young women by Letter writing, interviewing, key working, maintaining the lesbian quota of the house, liaising with other agencies i.e. General Practitioners and Educational Authorities, working in a collective, implementing the equal opportunities policy, finding accommodation for the female clients, resettling the clients.

Sept 1988 – Aug 1991 C.C.T (Camden Community Transport)
Minibus Driver - .Driving Minibuses for various Camden based Community groups
including Camden Black Sisters, Provided minibus driving training for women.

Sept 1988 – Aug 1991 C.L.A.S.H (Central London Action on Street Health) Project W1
Outreach Worker – Did outreach with Female sex industry workers and needle using drug users in Soho, Kings X and Stamford Hill. Provided HIV/AIDS preventative training in Holloway women’s prison twice a week. Maintained a Friday weekly drop-in, Liaised with other agencies, did pre HIV/AIDS test counselling.

Aug 1986 – Aug 1991 Fifty-Nine Greek St Women’s Hostel W1
Lesbian Hostel Worker – Letter writing, worked in a collective, maintained DSS, Medical, liaised with other professionals ie Probation and Social Services, worked with ex-prisoners, Mental health users drug users and alcoholics in a 24hr high care hostel for homeless women.

May 1984 – Aug 1986 PRA Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association N1
Hostel Worker – Rehabilitating long term psychiatric client into their own self contained accommodation, demonstrated life skills and support in the community.

Feb 1984 – Aug 1986 MENCAP Society East Finchley
Residential Support Worker – I shared living accommodation with two young adults with learning disabilities and supported them to remain living in independently within the community

TRAINING AND EDUCATION
St Matthew’s Infant School...Luton
Pear Tree Junior School...Derby
Sept 1973 - July 1975...Markeaton Girls School...Derby
Sept 1975 - July 1978...Parkfields Comprehensive School...Derby
Sept 1978 - July 1979...Luton Sixth Form College...Luton
Nov 1979 - Nov 1980 .Royal Hospital & Home For Incurables, Putney. Nursing Aide
Nov 1981 - May 1984 Barnet General Hospital Herts. EN(G) General Nurse

HOBBIES AND INTEREST
Meeting people, reading, music, swimming, travelling, Art, Photography and films

I also enjoyed working on

the feature film 'Thin Ice' directed by Fiona Cunningham-Reid

and P.J. Harvey's "C'mon Billy" promo

This CV is not extensive.

P. J. Harvey

www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PJ_Harvey

"C'mon Billy"

www.youtube.com/watch?v=APmmsF2s5jI

William Shakespeare.

William Shakespeare www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Shakespeare is one of my mother's favourite writers, and because of this, in the past, I have purchased a few BBC Radio collection c.ds, of Shakespeare's works as gifts for her. My mother - unlike myself - read much of Shakespeare's works, during her childhood, as well as at her school. However, in adulthood, I have watched 'Hamlet' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamlet performed a few years ago, at the Old Vic Theatre, and then 'Richard III http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_III_(play)at the Southwark Playhouse. After being exposed to 'Macbeth' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macbeth and the film 'Shakespeare in Love' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakespeare_in_Love

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugtbah8kzAI

www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJM8S1h2GiY during January 2006, at Kensington and Chelsea college, I went to see 'Macbeth' performed at the Southwark Playhouse in the following month. My son's Rudolf Steiner school does teach it's children Shakespeare, and I have watched a performance of 'The Taming of the Shrew'www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taming_of_the_Shrew at my son's school acted by the children. In July of this year, my dear friend Birgit, my son and myself watched the Open Air performance of 'Twelfth Night' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twelfth_Night in Regent's Park, prior to which, I had to seen Patrick Stewart's www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Stewart performance of 'Macbeth' in the West End.

Today I watched Sir Ian McKellen www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ian_McKellen acting in 'Othello', which was broadcasted, on the Freeview, More4 channel. Unfortunately, I arrived home too late, last night, to see 'King Lear' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/King_Lear

www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_GXJ3zvr18 in addition to this morning's unrelated films 'The Importance of Being Earnest www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Importance_of_Being_Earnest written by Oscar Wilde www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oscar_Wilde and 'South Pacific' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Pacific_(musical)

www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYEdezKgbrk

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ws0sEpU3yDU

I look forward to tonight's, Richard III

www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7-i1MVjnYM

Boxing Day.

It has been a tradition of mine, for some years, to experience rewarding Christmas Days. Yesterday was no exception, and included a telephone conversation with my little sweetie (my son). During the phone call with my son, he asked me to watch 'Dr Who' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doctor_Who - of which he (much like I was as a child) is a fan - whilst informing me that 'Dr Who' was doing a Christmas special www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq2rSWXAzwM and www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBUTt9BQtmk I unfortunately was unable to watch the 'Dr Who' 2008 special. I look forward to its d.v.d release.

I have made a pledge to get fit, and challenge mental health discrimination at the same time, with the 'Time to Chance' campaign, 'Get Moving' www.time-to-change.org.uk/what-were-doing/get-moving

I am going to swim, for a minimum of thirty minutes, at least five times within each seven days. I will start my swimming pledge today, at my local Brixton Recreation Centre www.gll.org/centre/brixton-recreation-centre.asp

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, one & all.

I have just unwrapped the Christmas present that I my gorgeous son has given to me, this year, to find a beautiful box of Tesco www.tesco.com/ Belgian Chocolate Assortment. They are a selection of milk, plain and white Belgian chocolates with assorted centres, suitable for vegetarians. The Christmas present which I have received from my son's foster parents is a wonderful 'Coconut Body Butter', Body Shop www.thebodyshop.co.uk/

product. In addition to these Christmas presents, is my Elton John, New Year's Eve Party at The o2 www.theo2.co.uk/ A party which I have been led to believe, that will also feature Will Young. This Christmas present is one which I have personally chosen for myself, unbeknown to my dear friend Birgit, who gave me carte blanche authority to choose.

With the thought in mind that the close of year 2008 is just seven days away, I have been musing on what I would consider to be the most outstanding thing for me during this eventful year? - Excluding my son, mother, friends, my support team, my clients and colleagues... After careful consideration, I have concluded that, this year, I was most profoundly moved by volunteering, as someone born with the STEWART surname, to proform the service of an Usher for the LGCM - Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement www.lgcm.org.uk at St. Botolph's Church in Aldgate www.stbotolphs.org.uk

Whilst I do not really see myself as the Virginia Woolf 'Orlando' www.video.aol.com/video-detail/orlando-by-sally-potter/836251221 character, even as portray in the film www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlando_(film) 'Orlando' www.youtube.com/watch?v=jFMmMh288pE

and www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFu5TYQvQRE by Sally Potter. I do however see my role in taking an active part as an Usher, in the LGCM - Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement, Carol Service at St. Botolph's Church in Aldgate, on Sunday 14th December 2008 as a 'Out' Gay Woman, as a significent departure from any other member of my protestant Stewart relatives, past or present. Although I may not discover if my action on this occasion, as a named Stewart, may or may not update the - in some quarters - widely held, and unhelpful homophobic interpretation of the King James Version of the Bible by James VI of Scotland, I of England. I say this, as I have already mentioned in previous posts this year, that King James I, who had himself been involved in meaningful same-sex relationships, may not have been able in his time, to come 'Out' as a Bisexual or Gay man.

A Life Beyond My Wildest Dreams.

Today the Mental Health Foundation www.mentalhealth.org.uk confirmed, that I will be joining their volunteering scheme, one morning a week, from Thursday 8th January 2009.

In addition to this fantastic news, today one of my Westminster colleagues drew my attention to the fact that, the free Time To Change www.time-to-change.org.uk Campaign toolkit, was available and downloadable online. She also mentioned that she had read the Campaign toolkit quotes and had discovered my page 12 quote amongst them.

Then just as I was beginning to believe, that this is just about 'as good as it gets' - which incidently is the title of a brilliant film starring Jack Nickleson which I purchased for my mother www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/As_Good_As_It_Gets

www.youtube.com/watch?v=YvbLEEnxpUQ

- anyway, as I was saying, just as I was beginning to believe that life couldn't get any better, our Westminster team received it's copies of the December 2008, Thames Reach www.thamesreach.org.uk 'Noticeboard' newsletter for service users and staff - which is also available online. On reading 'Noticeboard', I was genuinely surprised to find myself and my Westminster team featured under the heading 'In brief' and sub-headings 'Outward bound' & 'A big issue', on page 4.

As Good As It Gets.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbpbf_V8tAc

Banquet For My Soul.

Yesterday went swimmingly.

I spent a productive hour or so, with Wendy. She dutifully supplied me with my 'Stella'. On arrival at my abode, I was thrilled to discover in my post a postcard from my wonderful son. After having forty winks, I attended the Royal Albert Hall's 'Carols by Candlelight', which I can only describe as being, a feast for my senses!

Hallelujah www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3bFMwHc2SY

On Call.

I am 'On-Call' tonight, and I have just been woken by one of our Westminster team, clients' phone calls. Though I know that I will also be on 'office-duty' later this morning at 9am until 1pm, I am, as always, looking forward to the rest of the today.

This afternoon, I have an appointment, to collect 'Stella', my anti-psychotic medication from Wendy, my Care-co-ordinator at my local, CMHT (Community Mental Health Team) office. Two weeks ago, at my request, she came to my office. Today, it is my turn to go to her office.

This evening, I be attending the 'Carols by Candlelight' at the Royal Albert Hall http://www.royalalberthall.com/ Mozart Festival Orchestra (in full period costume) and Mozart Festival Chorus. Includes Handel's 'Zadok the Priest'; Bach's 'Air on the G String; Christmas sequence from 'Messiah'; 'Corelli's Christmas Concerto' Plus, carols for all.

Bring it on!

BIG BOOK.

This morning, after moments of silence, from the book 'Quaker Faith & Practice' I re-read:

SILENT WAITING

2.12 In silence which is active, the Inner Light begins to glow - a tiny spark. For the Flame to be kindled and to grow, subtle argument and the clamour of our emotions must be stilled. It is by an attention full of love that we enable the Inner Light to blaze and illuminate our dwelling and to make of our whole being a source from which this Light may shine out.

Words must be purified in a redemptive silence if they are to bear the message of peace. The right to speak is a call to the duty of listening. Speech has no meaning unless there are attentive minds and silent hearts. Silence is the welcoming acceptance of the other. The word born of silence must be received in silence.

Pierre Lacout, 1969

From the fantastic, Winter 2008, 'OneinFour' www.oneinfourmag.org , Lifestyle, health, mental wellbeing magazine, which contains the feature, 'And the award goes to... Mark Brown soaks up the atmosphere at this year's Mental Health Media Awards' and includes images of the event, plus the cover story 'Cracking up', Alistair Campbell wants to set some things straight, he tells Mark Brown', and news that 'The government could do better - OFFICIAL'

I am now on my way to the SGI-UK, SLNC to do morning gongyo.

Happy, Joyous & Free.

This lunchtime, after at a Meeting for Worship at my local Quaker Meeting, we sang Christmas carols.

I then went to my local SGI-UK, SLNC (South London National Centre) to chant.

Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit.

Another beautiful time spent with my adorable son. We enjoyed 'The Little Prince' at Hampstead Theatre, along with a McDonald's Chicken Nuggets Happy Meal. Unfortunately by the time I safely returned my son to his home, it was too late for him to attend his church Christmas party.

Whilst 'oranges are not the only fruit' are words collectively now associated with Jeanette Winterson's www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeanette_Winterson
book www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oranges_are_not_the_only_fruit
and film (part 1) www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdpe-rkYVgQ (Part 2) www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDaoYnrm1Cs I am delighted to have received - in addition to a Christmas present for me, from my son - a scented orange that he had designed especially for me. Along with my personal Xmas gifts, one complete with trademark aircraft artwork, from my son, was also a Christmas gift for me from his foster parents. This year my son has included a Xmas gift, for my mother.

Today is the first time that I have witnessed my son writing his name joined - up, and not printed. The wonders of a lifetime of Rudolf Steiner education.

I am chuffed to have received some more artwork produced today by my son.

Today's following video is a recording of the first time that I have seen my son reading music whilst playing his recorder.

LOVE.

This morning I wrapped my son's Christmas presents. When I see him tomorrow I will give them to him, in addition to a Christmas present that one of my first cousins has asked me to give to him.

Yesterday evening at Lambeth Town Hall, was the Christmas Drinks and a Mince Pie event, for elected, and applicants standing for, Conservative Councillors. I was invited but I did not attend. I feel that I may be in the midst of PMS www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvWYIh50IEw

Mary J Blige PMS Lyrics:

I wanna talk to the ladies tonight About a situation I'm pretty sure Y'all will be able to relate to

Trust me Today I'm not feelin pretty See I'm feeling quite ugly

Havin' one of those days When I can't make up my mind So don't even look at me

See I don't wanna hear your problems Cause I'm having some of my own

I know it's not your fault That I'm feelin' down I just wanna be left alone

Down and out in depression I think the worst of everything

My lower back is aching And my clothes don't fit (oh sh**t)Now ain't that a bitch

Got an attitude and I aint talkin' to you Only if the shoe fits

I don't care what you think about me I don't need you crawling 'round me

No don't need your sympathy, no I don't need it, no no

PMS

Goin' through something tonight Somethin' that they all need to understand

Where I'm coming from tonight

See I'm PMS-ing

Told you, you would be able to relate tonight My lower back is aching

PMS

And I don't know what I'm gonna do next I'm full of stress I want y'all to hear what I'm sayin

PMS, PMS, PMS

Understand what I'm sayin' tonight Understand where I'm comin from Feelin' really bitchy yeah

And I don't feel like be a nice to nobody Don't feel like smilin' no Don't feel like smilin' no no

See I already know that I'm f***ed up

PMS

I know I'm f***ed up And I don't need you to remind me

See cause PMS is takin' over right now if you understand, understand where I'm comin from

Sing along

PMS

This is the worst part of everything The worst part of being a woman is

PMS

Give me a break, give me a break Cause I don't wanna have to set it on yaI set it on ya

Get away, get away, get away, get away Get Away

cause I'm pms-ing

Love :Patience, Love, Kind, Love, Sweet, Love, Kind, Love Patience, Love, Kind, Love, Sweet, Love, Kind, Love.

Love A word that comes and goes, but few people really know what it really means to love somebody.

Love though the tears may fade away I so glad your love can stay cause I love you, and you show me Jesus what it really means to love. Love lyrics by Kirk Franklin.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDlXyqo7Lb0

My Love, My Life, My All

by Kirk Franklin.

From The Horse's Mouth.

At this moment in time, words cannot convey the breadth and depth of my feelings.

I have been asked by

Councillor John Whelan

Leader of the Conservative Group, Member for Thurlow Park Ward

of my local Conservative Party,

if I would consider standing for a Conservative Councillor Candidate?

I most certainly would.

I am breathless with the responsibility, honour and priviledge to be of public service.

Christmas has arrived early.

www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_No._9_(Beethoven)

.

This morning, Beethoven Symphony No. 9 : Part 1 www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2AEaQJuKD

was especially uplifting, following my totally enjoyable experience at the Ritzy Cinema, in Brixton last night.

London Symphony Orchestra

MILK.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=WW0lQrWn5VI

MILK

I am eagerly looking forward to the film screening of 'MILK' starring Sean Penn www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sean_Penn about the life and work of Harvey Milk www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvey_Milk

Hopefully it will be released on d.v.d just like the film 'KINSEY' about Alfred Kinsey's www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfred_Kinsey life and work www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinsey_Reports

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppZwSABxeYE

KINSEY

Hansel und Gretel.

Tomorrow evening I will seated in the Ritzy Cinema www.picturehouses.co.uk/site/cinemas/ritzy/local.htm in Brixton watching the opera 'Hansel und Gretel' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hänsel_und_Gretel_(opera) by Engelbert Humperdinck www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engelbert_Humperdinck live from the Royal Opera House www.roh.org.uk/ I may even treat myself futher by watching 'Hansel und Gretel' again on BBC2 www.bbc.co.uk/bbctwo/ at 19.30hrs on Christmas Day.

When my son was younger, I used to regularly read to him stories from books such as strories from The Brothers Grimm www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grimm_Brothers and Hans Christian Andersen www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hans_Christian_Andersen I loved regularly reading to my son, and my son really enjoyed listening to the different stories. I miss reading to my son.

Lesbian & Gay Christian Movement (LGCM).

This evening, at 6pm, I attended the Lesbian and Gay Christians and friends Carol Service at St. Botolph's Church www.stbotolphs.org.uk Aldgate. Rev Sharon Ferguson, Chief Executive of LGCM - Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement www.lgcm.org.uk conducted this extremely well attended and dignified service. Attending this Carol Service was very special for me, as I was also able to participate in the service, by serving as an usher, for the first time in my life.

This hymn sung to 'Greensleeves' www.youtube.com/watch?v=gkeLM2pNuXA would have delighted my son. He loves Greensleeves.

LGCM's Annual Conference & AGM

will take place on

Saturday 25th April 2009,

at the Drill Hall, Chenies Street, London, WC1E 7EX

This hymn was beautifully sung to the music of 'Morning Has Broken' www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TWd3skb-Rw by Cat Stevens www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cat_Stevens

Faith, Homophobia and Human Rights Conference

will take place on

Saturday 16th May 2009, at

The Institute of Education

20 Bedford Way, London, WC1H OAL

Christian Homophobia Hotline:

020 7613 1095

Queer alternative youth radio:

creating informative programmes

and presenting new music for

today's LGBT community

www.fyiradio.net

Are You Being Served?

Today, after attending my local Quaker www.quaker.org.uk meeting for worship, I nipped over to Balham to purchase 'The Sacred Chef' autumn & winter fare, the second in the series from Devotion www.devotion.co.uk

I then popped into Woolworths to purchase a few - ship, aeroplane and Chelsea FC - items for my son. Whilst in the Woolworths I also purchased for myself a few d.v.d's, namely 'Carry On Nurse'. on reading the credits, I noticed Kenneth Williams www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenneth_Williams whom I had met many years ago, on Oxford Street, one morning, whilst I was on my way to work. I am fortunate to have been given 'The Outrageous Bestseller The Kenneth Williams Diaries' edited by Russell Davies, as a gift by a friend. Today I also purchased a 'Dad's Army d.v.d. I can still remember Clive Dunn signing his song 'Grandad' www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEwlnByCJoM on the 'Top of the Pops'. I could resist purchasing 'Are you being served? www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Are_You_Being_Served%3F I have such fond memories of John Inman www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Inman Finally I purchased 'Hancock' www.youtube.com/watch?v=_sV6Dy8S9o8 which starring Will Smith www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Will_Smith In my mind, Woolworths is uniquely amazing.

QLGF.

QLGF

www.qlgf.org.uk

Quaker Lesbian & Gay Fellowship

I spent all of this morning and most of this afternoon, dosing on and off and, listening to the sound of the falling raindrops beyond my bedroom window. I truly enjoyed gaining some much needed rest.

This evening I attended a QLGF meeting in Westminster, which supplied me with much positive food for thought.

I am delighted to have spoken to my adorable son this evening, who informed me that he had been to see the film 'Madagascar' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madagascar_(film) earlier today with a school friend and that friend's parents and had enjoyed the film. My son was interested in what we are going to do together next week. I reminded him that we will be watching a performance of 'The Little Prince' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Little_Prince at Hampstead Theatre www.hampsteadtheatre.com This evening I was able to spend more time speaking with my son on the phone - last time he was in the middle of watching the film 'Star Wars' www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Yavin episode IV (A New Hope), so we spoke only for a very short time. Last Saturday, my son had asked me to tell him things about when he was a baby, so this evening I spent time doing exactly that, much to my son's - and my - enjoyment.

I am overjoyed to have received my ticket to Elton John's www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elton_John

New Year's Eve party with special guests at the O2 www.theo2.co.uk What an excellent way to see the old year out and the new year in!

www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtZB4jluIO4

Don't let the sun go down on me

by Sir Elton John

and George Michael www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Michael

Be Thankful.

Be Thankful.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=euCCX4osKgs

by Omar www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omar_Lye-Fook

feat Angie Stone.

Yesterday morning, Wendy and I conducted my appointment at my office in Westminster. As requested -by me - Wendy gave me my two week supply of 'Stella' anti-psychotic medication. I showed Wendy around my office and introduced her to my line-managers, and some of my colleagues. In my view this meeting with Wendy was extremely productive.

Yesterday evening, our Westminster staff team dined at Cottons www.cottons-restaurant.co.uk for our staff Christmas dinner. I then went to the Jazz Cafe www.jazzcafe.co.uk/ where I listened to the beautiful voice and music of Angie Stone.

Angie Stone.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lr1kzk5WATs

by

Angie Stone www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angie_Stone

I am looking forward to our Westminster team's Xmas dinner party tomorrow. We will dine at Cottons in Camden. Afterwards I will make my way to the Jazz Cafe, to see Angie Stone perform.

The Homelessness Training Unit.

Steve Gardner and Dr Micheal Hadjulis

This morning I enjoyed a beautiful slow gongyo, with a SGI-UK leader in my neighbourhood, before setting off at 9am, for day two of the Personality Disorder training. This enlightening and worthwhile training, which provided me with much food for thought, was facilitated by Steve Gardener, from the Homelessness Training Unit www.homelesstraining.slam.nhs.uk and Mike Hadjulis, a psychiatrist from Maudsley Hospital.

This evening I attended my first official Hearing Voices Group, facilitated by Lambeth Mind www.lambethmind.org.uk

Personality Disorder Course.

Today I attended day one, of a two day work related Personality Disorder course. Very interesting.

This evening, I was in the company of the very amicable Stonewall team, attending the Stonewall www.stonewall.org.uk/ Xmas party. Whilst at Stonewall, I had the opportunity to converse with the extremely handsome and debonnaire, Ben Summerskill, Stonewall's chief executive.

Mental Health Foundation.

This afternoon, after an interview, Mental Health Foundation www.mentalhealth.org.uk/
accepted me for the role of Fundraising Volunteer Assistant - subject to references - and I am elated.

This evening, whilst adjacent to the BFI www.bfi.org.uk/ enjoying some light refreshments at Benugo Riverfront www.bfi.org.uk/whatson/bfi_southbank/visitor_information/food_and_drink I discussed my Mental Health Media www.mhmedia.com film, with the producer and production manager. The responsibilities of being a film director seem to be vast.

How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You.

How sweet it is to be loved by you

How sweet it is to be loved by you
I needed the shelter of someone's arms and there you were

I needed someone to understand my ups and downs and there you were

With sweet love and devotion deeply touching my emotion

I want to stop and thank you baby

I just want to stop and thank you baby
How sweet it is to be loved by you

How sweet it is to be loved by you
I close my eyes at night,wondering where would I be without you in my life

Everything I did was just a bore, everywhere I went it seems I'd been there before

But you brightened up for me all of my days With a love so sweet in so many ways

I want to stop and thank you baby

I want to stop and thank you baby
How sweet it is to be loved by you

How sweet it is to be loved by you
You were better to me than I've been to myself

For me, there's you and there ain't nobody else

I want to stop and thank you baby

I just want to stop and thank you baby

How sweet it is to be loved by you

How sweet it is to be loved by you

www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VCr45XDKzA

by Marvin Gaye

www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marvin_Gaye

Marvin Gay Sr www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marvin_Pentz_Gay,_Sr

Advent Craft Fair.

The irresistable, top quality DEVOTION, 15 Hildreth Street, Balham SW12 9RQ, www.devotion.co.uk to purchase 'The Sacred Chef', was the first stop that I made with my son today, just prior to attending the Advent Craft Fair.

The Waldorf School of South West London

http://www.waldorf-swlondon.org

Madness, Mystery And The Survival Of God.

Earlier this evening, I attended the 'Madness, Mystery and the Survival of God' book launch, by Isobel Clarke www.scispirit.com/psychosis_spirituality at the Marlebone Parish Church, at 7pm.

Isobel Clarke

Consultant Clinical Psychologist

in an mental health hospital

Catherine Lucas

Founder of the Spiritual Crisis Network

http://www.spiritualcrisisnetwork.org.uk/