Team Submerged, Halloweekend, ZombieBall and BEYOND!

When I first left for Egypt, I jokingly sat down with the rest of the BayPromoTeam and laughed. "By the way Gerald, would you mind if I created an El Gouna PromoTeam? " - At the time it was purely in jest. (To my good fortune he also told me to crack on...) Little did I know that actually, this was a genuine possibility.

El Gouna isn't unlike Herne Bay, both on the seaside with a beautiful coastline and plenty of activities for locals and visitors. Swap your London weekend visitors for Cairo peeps and Bob's your Uncle.. Red Sea Riviera vs Kentish Riviera! Admittedly the types of residents differ, but considering I'm on a different continent it's not particularly surprising. I loved being part of something bigger, the events that I helped form and work at changed my outlook on life and what I want to be doing. I've always had a warm fuzzy feeling watching people smile and enjoy themselves.

A few months ago I was chatting with Dan on how they don't really seem to have events here. Well they do, but not really anything that brings community together. There's events for the tourists, the all inclusive and then there's events put on by the mainstay locals; such as Hoda from the Clubhouse (Highly recommended by the way!) I just sat there one day and thought why the hell not? Kids love Halloween. Adults love Halloween.. let's do this! Therefore the next thing I know, Halloweekend and ZombieBall were born and we've been working our butts off ever since! The team has grown and now between four of us, we're making this happen!

Admittedly, Submerged Egypt isn't exactly the El Gouna PromoTeam, but we've got the same form of basis. We're an event company who will eventually put money back into the area with the formation of an NGO to help the local children.

Orascom and El Gouna themselves have been  amazing with helping us with our vision and day by day we're getting there. On Friday 28th October, we have a marina music festival in the Abu Tig Marina for early evening, followed by the ZombieBall 2016 taking place in the New Marina till early hours of the morning. Then the next day, Saturday 29th October we have a full afternoon of events for families including a new World Record event to form the Largest Human formation of a Pumpkin, a free Abu Tig or Treat walk around the marina for kids and then finishing off with a street disco for all.

Back to why we're doing this all... there's a serious amount of underprivileged children here who have no idea how to swim, let alone know what the Red Sea is about and how we should be looking after the corals and marine life. Our aim is to create an academy of sorts, education through the medium of water sports and conservation. From this, we want to ensure that the Red Sea is looked after for the future. Children who'd never normally get the chance.. will have big opportunities to learn to swim, to scuba dive and to kite surf their way into the future. There's one hell of a lot of potential talent for future sportspersons. Why not start when they are young and let them enjoy themselves?!

So yes.. these are happening.. spread the word because this is a big thing for me. I want my town to be proud to know that from the little acorn that was BayPromoTeam just five years ago has not only become so very successful in putting Herne Bay on the map.. it's spread to another country where I'm hoping that that warm fuzzy feeling, those smiles and enjoyment will be repeated again and again by others.

www.zombieballegypt.com

www.halloweekendfestival.com

www.baypromoteam.co.uk

#zombiesarecoming #zombieballegypt2016 #elgouna #hernebay #baypromoteam #mygouna #spookygouna

Contemplating Life and Politics.

Sitting on the decking with my coffee this morning, relaxing and contemplating the world that I live in. There's a sea mist that is making everything damp but it's quite therapeutic and fresh. It's making me very thoughtful as I hear the birds tweet, and watch a spider making it's web right next to me. Such a creation should never be destroyed. Such an amazing creature.

I've decided to step down at the next election, May 2015. I've known this for a while but it's taken me quite some time to come to terms with it. I've had an ongoing fight for about the last year on whether to attempt to stand again, as I do love my town and what I stand for so much. My opinions may not always follow the crowd, and can cause inner turmoil but at least I know I can stand by what I say.

My old boss, Jim who came to be known affectionately as my Granddad passed away recently. I miss him every day and he was my inspiration for choosing my path into politics. Such a powerful and great presence cannot be replaced and his advice and intuition is sorely missed. Not to mention I just miss not being able to get one of the best hugs I've ever had off someone, or the silly sense of humour that kept me laughing for days on end. I hope to think I've made him proud. (I miss you Jimbo x)

I'm proud of things that I have achieved, there's also things I am not so proud of. However, I feel it's my time to take a step back and actually figure out what I want in life. I've never been the sitting at home, settled kind. I've always been flitting away to find my next adventure. I'm not entirely sure what the plan is yet but I know that standing for re selection would be committing myself to another four years that I'm not entirely sure I could give. That wouldn't be fair on me, or the electorate. On the brighter side, that doesn't mean I'm quitting politics for good come next May. I'm far too opinionated for that. I'll be around, normally manic and doing something silly for charity and the local people.

Right, time to get inside. The sea mist has ensured I have a very wet bottom and my coffee has gone.

Over and out. 

Aldis vs Waitrose

 

 On twitter tonight:

"@freelanceliz: Discussion on aldi coming to Herne Bay & whether waitrose would be better. @jennieledwards says she doesn't want snobs in HB but normal folk"

Please let me explain the context, I spoke with Liz after and she fully agreed it did not come across the way she meant it to. When the subject of Herne Bay having an Aldis, there were suggestions that we'd sold ourselves short as the original plan was to have a Waitrose. Well, as much as we wanted Waitrose, they didn't want us. Unfortunately, you can lead a horse to water but you cannot make it drink. 

When Aldis vs Waitrose came up, certain Councillors and others around me started to murmur things like:

'Aldis!?? Bloody awful, I would never shop there' and 

'oh, I only shop in Waitrose, Aldis is disgusting Herne Bay could have done so much better'

So when I stood up to be positive over Aldis, I first mentioned the fact that I'm pleased, Aldis is actually excellent, it was voted Supermarket of the year and I for one am quite pleased that Morrisons will not be monopolising Herne Bay as it's main supermarket anymore. I could, once again hear very snobbish comments from all around me. It was then that I looked around the Guildhall as I spoke and made my comment about snobs and normal people.

To be honest, I think I've been into a Waitrose three times in my life. Not by choice but quite simply as there isn't one near me. My brother buys his cheese from the Ashford store and says its pretty awesome for day to day stuffs. If there was one near me, I'd probably use it. I tend to use my local independent shops for my meat and veggies etc, then the supermarket for the staples.

I did not intend for that comment to sound like I was snubbing all Waitrose shoppers as snobs, any more than I would look down my nose at Aldis shoppers.

Hope that clears it up a bit. Not something I can get into a couple of tweets!

Taking the Plunge

Hello blog. Long time now speaky! What can I say?

Life has been, well, progressive I guess. After the last year and all of the mental challenges it finally feels as if I’m coming out the other side and into the Sun (Although, this is a metaphorical sun as it seems that the real thing has disappeared for good in Kent). Working hard with the new job. Playing hard in the meantime. Put on a little weight, however mostly muscle. Lots of gym work, lots of cycling. I’m happy and at peace. All is well!

The bike ride I’d signed up for didn’t happen, due to a gammy ligament in my right knee. Training went out of the window which is highly frustrating. However, I’m booked in to the London Bikeathon in September, spending a lot of time in the gym trying to strengthen that knee up. The new bike is actually being used. (Huzzah!)  Although the racing saddle is proving to be the challenge of what I need to get used to. Gel shorts have been purchased! However, nice baggy boardie looking ones, rather than the lycra. After seeing my friend get off his bike last year after the London to Brighton; in lycra and looking like he was wearing a full nappy, I decided they were probably not for me. The even better part of joining up to this charity event is that I’ve bullied my brother and the boyfriend into taking part too. Both aren’t exactly exercise nuts like me, so I’m quite chuffed they’ve accepted the challenge. Go team Edwards! Also may have planned a little sky dive trip in July. Not talking about that one though, it scares me just thinking about it. Going to just forget about it until D-Day arrives.

On the same subject of exercise and hobbies, one thing I have done recently is finally set about having my own dive kit. I’ve been deliberating the pro’s and con’s of having my own scuba gear for quite sometime, and finally decided to take the plunge. The London Dive Show at Excel back in March finally swayed me when I picked up a good deal on some regulators. Ebay has been my fwiend ever since J Not to mention I got an absolute awesome BCD (Bouyancy Control Device) through family at a bargain. I’m near enough fully kitted out now. I have to thank my good twitter buddy @Fivemetrestop for all his advice, and the help I got off his website blog, of which you can find at www.fivemetrestop.com  All I’m missing are the gauges and the mask, both of which I shall be purchasing in Dahab, which happens to be next week. I also need to learn how to use the i3 tech. I’ve always been the typical “normal” BCD user, this new fangled technology has thrown me a little, read the instruction manual and just hoping that I can make sense of it when it comes to the crunch!

So my current set up is:

Wetsuit: 5mm Semi Dry Waterproof Lynx/ Mares boots.

Regs: 1t Stage Aqualung  Calypso/ 2^nd Stage Octo

BCD: Ladies Aqualung Pearl i3

Dive Comp: Suunto D4

Fins: Mares Avanti 3’s.

The aim is to use my 3mm shorty wetsuit over my 5mm and actually attempt to dive off Kent this Summer. However, at the moment the weather is dictating no, in the “computer says noooo” fashion. Come on weather, buck up!

Anyway. That’s me for now. Excited about my holiday next week, however I’m not really going solo anymore. I’m off for 11 nights and the boyfriend is joining me for 7 of them. Bloody gatecrasher! On the brighter side, he’s a diver too and has been bitten by the bug. It’s such an addictive hobby, it’s just such a pity it’s not cheap!

Signing off for now.

2013? Bring it on!

Where to start? I normally don't bother with resolutions; they get bent and broken so easily.Instead I'm going for hopes and aspirations, after last year being a bit of a big cock up, it'll be interesting to see how these pan out. A new, fresh start:

1. I'm going to support my Mum and watch her kick the big "C"'s arse. We're half way there but she has still got a long time to go. I know I cannot cure it, but a positive attitude and help when I can is a must. As with most people, we're close to our parents. Mum and I created a strong bond over the time I was ill. Fighting all the way, and I'll be there with her.

2. Learn new things and have different experiences. (Without being alcoholically challenged!) Perhaps finally learn an instrument, or go back to playing the piano and develop my skills. Go back to learning another language. It's been too long since I've done something practical, I enjoy learning and I should utilise this further. I now have the time, rather than watching films, or sitting in the pub I will make sure that I will be proactive with expanding my horizons. (Admittedly signing up to a 200 mile bike ride was a little bit of a crazy moment, but that will be.... Interesting, a challenge??)

3. Keep my head down and work hard. I have a new job starting soon, it's a chance for a whole new career and life. So many options from it.. Thou shalt not cock it up. I want my own place and to prove things can be accomplished on my own.

4. Support Herne Bay in any way, shape or form that I can do and not just on a Council level. So many events to plan that are all just going to get bigger and better as the year goes on. I'm looking forward to my 2nd year in the BayPromoTeam. They've become a second family, They are all crazy in their own ways but what we've managed to accomplish is totally amazing, long may that continue (and Gerald's amazing costumes!)

5. Dive the US Thistlegorm. I've been to Egypt god knows how many times, I miss out. This isn't a hope, this is happening.  My idol Jacques Cousteau discovered it, I need to do this wreck. I'm back to Egypt on my own this time. I'm quite excited about this. The Thistlegorm is a war grave, a very sad wreck from 1941, but it's probably one of the most interesting wrecks ever. Full cargo.

6. Last and final one, to learn to be happy for myself and myself alone. This is going to be the hardest one, but against 6 months ago, there's no comparison as to what I feel about my life. I just must look to the next 6 months and see what I can accomplish. As Mr Shakespeare once said, "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women are merely players". Time for me to take a main role.

To the family, friends and crazies who seem to like hanging about with me, thank you for everything. XX

Life, 2013, bring it on. I'm ready and waiting! Just let me get out of bed and over this damn hangover first...

Setting the record straight

For anyone and everyone who knows me, you know I'm a Councillor. A Conservative Councillor. A Tory Councillor. A Blue Councillor. I could go on with this list, but the tagline starts getting a big more derogatory towards me, which I'm used to but I don't want to encourage it.

I've had my politics and values questioned recently. Admittedly, I question them myself all the time. I sometimes wonder why I do it but then I remember the bigger picture. I enjoy what I do. I like helping people, or trying to help people. I get passionate about what goes on locally. 

What has saddened me, is that I've discovered that recently I've been branded something that I'm not. When you put yourself in the limelight, you know you're bound to get a bit of negativity, especially if it's something so divisive as politics. But as much as I sit on the Conservative bench, I have never once claimed to be a "party politics" type of Councillor. I  involved myself in Council because I wanted to help the town that I know and love. I've never had a political agenda, or an aspiration past trying to get the right things for my area, and trying to help people with problems that need solving. To be completely honest, I'm quite happy to sit here on the back bench so long as I can have my say and represent the right views for the town and district. If I have an answer, I will give it. If I don't have an answer, I will get research the right information and get one.

I live and breathe Herne Bay. I was born here, and I've always tried to put everything I can back into the town. I've been doing that for years, and even after my time as a Councillor, I still will. 

Take what you want for my title, blast me all you like. I know I'm doing the right thing. 

Bank Jollidays

Well, August bank holiday is upon us. Time for the weather to change from the glorious heat to showers and miserableness for a few days.

Let's face it, it's a Herne Bay curse. When's the last time we had an awesome August bank holiday weather wise?? Being typically British, I do not let the weather get to me and fully intend on being out all weekend no matter what!

There's a lovely classic car show in Herne Bay town centre from 10am, where, the BayPromoTeam will be with our children's characters and also a big stall to promote our Zombie Crawl on the 3rd of November this year. Come on down and get involved with the frivolities.

Tonight there's the end of the Herne Bay Festival Fireworks, well worth a gander down to the seafront to see. It's a free event and kicks off about 9pm, I've also been told there's live bands playing near the clock tower.

I won't go into detail about my night... But it involves friends, birthdays and a little bit of a crawl. NOT of the zombie kind.

Tomorrow there's the annual Herne Bay in Bloom big picnic in the park. Again BayPromoTeam will be in attendance with tons of things to make for the kiddles. It's all free and will be a great day out for all the family.

That's about it for now, I've got to dash for my shower and to go help set up. Have a lovely weekend everyone and hope to see you at some point!


NB... Just got out of bed, opened the curtains to find beautiful sunshine... WOOOHOOO! I love to be proven wrong sometimes... Bring on the day!

HERNE BAY CARNIVAL!

Yes, it's that time of year again!

Left to right: Ashden, Eloise and Keira

I've got quite literally everything crossed in hope that the weather stays nice. I refuse to look at the forecast, I'm not particularly superstitious but I've been told I'm a curse so many times now I've started to actually believe it.

Carnival has always been a big part of my life, I grew up the Broadway end of the Bay. I always remember my Dad putting me on his shoulders and walking me down to see the floats get ready. I especially loved the Queen's floats. Seeing the girls in beautiful flowing dresses and glittery tiaras. I grew up in the "Disney Generation"; to see real life princesses at a young age was the equivalent winning the lottery when you're that small and impressionable. The only thing I couldn't understand why Prince Charming and his white steed were not apart of the procession.

I got involved back in '06 when I randomly decided to enter Miss Herne Bay after having a dream (Yes.. this did actually happen) and managed to win. I had an awesome year with my Princesses, despite being hit in the head by 2p pieces and having the WORST weather in the history of Herne Bay Carnival. (Force 7 Gale... Peeing it down with rain. See, I told you I was a curse!). But overall I've had more fun in the 6 years I've been involved since that year. The work behind the scenes is incredible and I've made some of the most awesome friends possible. 

Our float, of which we are very proud of, gets a total re haul every two years, and adjustments made every year. This year's float has taken months to complete and it's all ready won two major cups at both Whitstable and Margate Carnivals this year all ready.   I will put some decent pictures of the float up soon.. this was a half hearted effort from Ramsgate.


People don't quite realise what goes on to make a carnival. It's an all year thing. The paperwork, finances and grafting doesn't happen all by itself. We're constantly our trying to raise funds for our charity without any funding. We have a small but dedicated committee of some amazing, friendly and hard working people that most of the general public don't even see! The red tape and health and safety aspect has hampered all Carnivals in the last 10 years, but if you keep the dedication going, you can achieve anything. Herne Bay Carnival Committee prove this every year!

If you want to get involved on the day or just generally; contact us on our Facebook page or go to www.hernebaycarnival.co.uk

We also have a post carnival dance being held down at the Kings Hall. £5 a ticket, all for charity. We have the AWESOME Kellys Heros playing. I'm not just saying that.. they really are quite special.... See you down there! 

BayPromoTeam.. Doing what we do best.

We've been hard at work in and around the Bay with an aim to promote the town to it's full potential. We're a collective team of like minded individuals (NO POLITICS, ahem. ) who all are aiming for the same thing.. the progress and promotion of Herne Bay.

For starters, Project Palm Tree has really taken off, we've had numerous press releases and are making great steps with the Council. Hopefully by 2013 we'll be able to have the Herne Bay Riviera in place. The guys have been squirreling away, behind the scenes trying to get permissions for this to work. Cannot wait to see the results!

In other news, we've started up an awards scheme for the town. The first "Flagship Business Award" going to Abi Calder of the Activity Box (Mortimer Street). We'll be doing a presentation with a trophy this afternoon.

You can find more about the wonderful little shop by going here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Activity-Box/131056393633133 I highly recommend it. Wonderful fun for all the family.

See.. Just shows you what a little positive attitude can accomplish. Looking forward to the Herne Bay Festivities once the Summer (weather) commences! Not to mention I best start sorting out my Carnival Costume for this year... Just wait till you see what we have lined up!!

If you haven't all ready done so. Check out our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/baypromoteam and add add add! We have all the latest news and happenings and not to mention we now even have a mobile app!

A Little Bike ride

Soooo... I got my bike out today. It's been about 3 years. Two flat tyres.. Quite a bit of rust and lo and behold needing a little bit of TLC. (A little bit meaning quite a lot!)


I pop round to Daddy Edwards' magical mystery shed to see what he can do and within 10 minutes my tyres were blown, the chain oiled and, well, the rust is still there but I don't mind. I'm not perfect.. why should my bike be too? A little rust adds character. I swear it.


It also turned out I shouldn't bother to use my back brake.. Which was fineeeeee;  by the time I'd squeezed on the front brake the noise factor made sure that anyone within a 300 meter radius knew I was there. Handy when you don't have a bell! But highly embarrassing when everyone who sees you looks at you as if you're a public nuisance (or nutter!)


I leave my parents to pop home and grab my drinks bottle and a jumper et al. Climbed on, wiggled the handlebars and set off... only to brake at the end of the drive by the pavement and nearly end up on the floor. Making things that little bit worse; two youngish lads walk down on said pavement, sniggering away at my uselessness. Nice start Jen; weak legs and not a clue how to ride.... Whoever said that you never forget how to ride a bike needs a short sharp punch. It's lies. I looked a muppet.


So, after collecting my bits and bobs... off I went. I live the "Kings Hall end" of Herne Bay. Not even 2 minutes walk to the beach. I like it that way. Natural outstanding beauty on my doorstep. I don't think I could ever live away from the seaside now. It gets under your skin. That and of course, pubs are on the seafront. This aids my love just a little bit more really.


I headed towards Hillborough, a nice straight route for the "learner" cyclist. I'd only gone out to test my skills and to see how the bike faired. Next thing I know I was there and not wanting to turn back. Dog walkers and cyclists were out all round. I couldn't blame them. It's been such a glorious day. 

I thought it would be rude not to try out the new Oyster Bay Trail to Reculver. I trudged up the hill at Hillborough (walking.. I'm not that fit!) and had great fun on the new track around Bishopstone Glen. I kind of wanted to stop and do it all again as it reminded me of being a kid with those kind of "go faster" hills. Before you say it.. My brakes made sure everyone knew I was coming round the bends!


Next thing you know I'm over hill and down dale in front of the beautiful towers. The sea was like a mill pond. If it wasn't the fact it was only March I'd be out waterskiing. But hey ho.. That's one for later in the year.


By now the adrenaline was running high. I'd joked earlier that I'd stop at Minnis Bay for a pint. Little did I actually realise I'd manage it. Yes.. I cycled straight past the towers, resisted the urge for a swift one at the Ethelbert and straight on track to the Minnis. (Everyone's got to have a target.. By then it was a pit stop with a pint!)


I got to the Minnis in 50 minutes flat. I was so chuffed at myself; until I came to a halt and realised I couldn't quite make it off the bike. My legs had turned to jelly. I also had a slight ache in the gluteus maximus region that wasn't there before. (I think I managed to put that very politely!)


I laid out on a picnic table bench with some amazing music in my ears (Seth Lakeman, Frank Turner and U2, if anyone's interested) and disappeared into a nice daze for half an hour whilst slowly supping on a nommy pint of Gadd's whatnot. By then I was slightly tempted to call the parents to see if they'd pick me up.. Jelly legs had really hit in. Also by then, my pint had begun to take effect. Lazy days by the sea; you can't really go wrong.


I started to people watch; only to find a chap walking up on what could only be described as one gigantic horse onto the beach. By the time he'd got him onto the sand and let him play in the water I think I'd fallen in love. (To be fair, I couldn't see what this chap looked like.. by my god he could ride. That was enough. I think I got up from my bench and stood royally perving for a good five minutes before I realise what I'd actually been doing.) He then decided to go for a royal gallop up the beach. By then my enthusiasm for heading back had been spiked by wanting to watch this man on such an elegant horse. So I got on my bike and followed him up on the grass. Of course I couldn't catch up but I did manage to take a couple of shots of such a magnificent sight, I'll only put one up as so not to bore you all:

I didn't want to leave. It was pretty mesmerising. I spent the next part of my journey wishing I had a horse rather than a bike. Although I probably would ache far, far more.


By then, my energy levels had peaked so I headed back towards the towers. Not that I could see them. A haze had dropped over the seafront and gave this eerie glow with the sun trying to break through. I pottered back across and took another photo. Get me with my camera phoneyness! I was quite chuffed with this as I think it does the haze that I'd described some justice.


Anywho, I managed to make it all the way home. I was very proud. I had to stop on the lovely green patch after the towers. My poor legs really couldn't take the up hill battle. My glutes had begun to ache just that little bit more but I still managed to have the greatest of fun down the Hillborough track. Got a fast speed up and wooosh... Almost as fun as being at Thorpe Park! 


I'm home now. It took me just over two hours with my pint stop. I'm about to pour a bath with TONS of aromatherapy oils in as I have a great feeling I shall be needing the 'therapy part.  


I'm meant to don 4 inch heels for my friend's 21st birthday party tomorrow night. Good luck to that one me thinks!

Herne Bay Expo - Come one and all

There's nothing I can say.. So watch this instead!

Annual Projects and Business Exhibition

Celebrate Herne Bay at the Community, Projects & Business Open Day 2012

Visit the Community, Projects & Business Open Day on Wednesday 21 March from 2pm - 7pm at the Kings Hall, Herne Bay.                                                                   

It's an opportunity to engage with many local businesses and get an update on the great progress made on Herne Bay’s regeneration and community projects over the last 12 months, as well as seeing some exciting plans for the future. You will also be able to have a closer look at some of the services offered by the city council.

City councillors and project officers will be available to answer your questions and provide more information about the projects featured.

Some of the stands you can expect to see include: 

• QE2 Jubilee Park application
• The future options for Herne Bay Pier
• The seafront improvement plan
• The plans to refurbish the world renowned clock tower
• Bay Card – the loyalty card for Herne Bay
• Herne Bay Festival 2012
• Herne Bay Museum
• Play Provider Network
• Herne Bay in Bloom
• Bay Arena and Herons Leisure Centre

Please put this date in your diary and tell your colleagues, friends and neighbours - everyone is welcome to come along and help celebrate the good things that are happening in Herne Bay.

For further information please contact Patrick Rynne on 01227 862329 or Angela Furlong on 01227 862400.

All about ME... Part 1.

Someone asked me to explain the history of my illness the other day. I don't know how I can compact this into a blog post without writing a whole essay.. It's quite a task! Gradual parts, I think, is the way forward. I didn't realise quite how much of it I blocked out my brain until I talked about it with my parents a little while ago. Hopefully it makes sense; here it goes:


Growing up; I was a bubbly blonde happy go lucky girl who took part in practically everything. I loved life and spent most my time at gymnastics, sea cadets, dance, cycling and tons of other things. I loved school, I was a normal kid who was rarely ill.


Age 10: I moved schools due to moving house. (Big Mistake of life No1.) I missed my friends chronically and for some reason I could not glue into this school whatsoever.


Age 11: I moved into a class where I didn't get on well with most of my class mates. I only had one friend (The wonderful Beth, who is still near and dear to me) and my teacher decided to put her into a different class to me. 


I got bullied, physically and mentally by a few girls in my class. One would even be as so bold to kick my legs on the way home from school despite walking back with my own mother.  I got sworn at, spat at and pretty much humiliated in front of my whole class on a regular occasion. Kids can be so cruel.  The reason? Because I spoke nicely. Supposedly I was too "posh" to fit in. I'm a very friendly and open person and it really got me down. I also got accused of stealing a (cheap and half used) lipstick by a girl who then spread the rumour through the whole year. I hated not being liked and for some reason I wasn't just disliked.. I was pretty much hated. Not that I was ever popular in my previous school but this was another level of loserdom. I didn't want to go to school any more; it was misery. I pretty much didn't want to be alive anymore. My family and Beth were about the only things keeping me going.


Not that I knew it for many years until being told by Great Ormond Street, but I'd actually contracted Glandular Fever through my brother at the same time. It all went downhill from there. The combination of the Kent Test (11+), being bullied badly and the GF my body started to cave in. I couldn't eat without being in pain, I lost so much weight and I physically couldn't get out of bed anymore. My body ached all over, my throat was sore, my glands were up and I could barely make it up the stairs at home without giving out half way up. It took forever for the doctors to diagnose me, a good year at least. Problem was ME/CFS, back then was non existent. Known as "Yuppie Flu" or "The Fakers Disease" If only!!


 Luckily my parents took me to a private physician out of pure desperateness and even luckier for us, he happened to be one of the leading doctors in the field of ME. He wrote to Great Ormond Street to get me on the list to see the specialist.. but that didn't happen till quite some time later.


In the meantime I'd passed my 11+ and had been accepted into a local all girl's Grammar School. (Not going to name names here) My parents were very proud of me bar the fact that I struggled with life. The new teachers had reassured my parents that I would be looked after and helped with my learning considering I struggled to concentrate for an hour without developing sickness and dizzyness. I lost count of the amount of times I'd fainted.. I'd just keel over at any given moment. Beleive me when I say, that school = Biggest Mistake of my Life. 


I spent the Summer in hospital.. about 7 weeks being "monitored". I had ECG's, blood tests and   practically every other test under the sun to see what was wrong with me. It was a boiling Summer and I'd be huddled up under fleece pajamas and hot water bottles. All a bit strange really. The doctors still couldn't figure it out although they had worked out I had developed at least one stomach ulcer. (No wonder I couldn't eat!!) I dropped down to well under 5 stone and spent pretty much most my time in bed, or in a wheelchair. By now I had such bad insomnia I was lucky to get 3 hours sleep a night. My poor parents; they were at their wit's end. 


I think that's enough for now. Considering that's only the first 2 years and my concentration is failing me. Don't pity me though; this story is what makes me who I am now. A walking, talking survivor who happens to know everything and anything about drugs :-)


Part Deux.. coming soon!

Don't take life too seriously; Nobody gets out alive any way.

I was on the phone to my mum this morning when it dawned on me that tomorrow is the 10th anniversary of my Grampy passing, and a week since I had to lose my beloved Cookie. Within seconds I was once again in flood of tears. (I must sound like an emotional screw up to all who read this after my last post!)


My mind cast back onto who I've lost; especially the few in the last few months too, namely my amazing Uncle John. I couldn't help the tears; it never gets any easier, does it? They go and yet we're the ones left behind in pain. I've never dealt with loss well. I hate the idea of not existing any more; which is hilarious really considering everyone technically is a drop in the ocean of life.. It's not exactly like we make the biggest impact.


It's days like this a few old sayings pop into my head: "Don't take life too seriously; nobody gets out alive any way" and it's oh so true. We're born, we die.. perhaps we should try to enjoy the little bit we have in between (Thank you for that one Max Heinze). 


The philosophy behind my thinking could go on for hours here; is life what you make it? Is everything set in stone? Have I made the right decisions so far or will I be destined to make more bad or good choices? Should I buy chocolate or bananas for breakfast? (Actually, that one's a given!) Then I realise I've sent my head into a spin with all of this and develop a headache. (This happens on a regular occasion, trust me.)

Isn't she fantastic?!

My Grandmother turned 90 last year. (There's exactly 64 years and a day between us) She's awesome for her age but she carries this air of sadness; She's lived a long an full life but she's watched so many pass and yet she's still here. She misses Gramps terribly but at least she has all of us around her for company.  To think that I'm just over quarter of her age makes me think there's a hell of a lot more out there still to do. The question is, what do I want next? How do I go about getting it? I guess I don't know what life has in store for me yet; I keep forgetting that life goes on and that I'm only 26.  


The one thing I have decided; Life is one big question and it never, ever gets an easier. (Especially if you're involved in politics!!!)


Live in the now; life is far too short to worry about what you did yesterday, or perhaps what might go wrong tomorrow as you may never get that chance to see it.


"Sh*t happens.. it's how you deal with it that counts" - Quote Jennie Edwards 2012.

Family of the Furry Kind.

Very sad day in the Edwards Household yesterday... My little Cookie-Monster had to be put down. To anyone who is currently rolling their eyes and thinking that it's just a cat, get over yourself Jen.. Please leave this page now.


Animals teach us to love unconditionally. They are the one thing you know that you may never count on and yet want them around not matter what. (The little buggers really get to you!) I am a major animal lover and have always had a moggie in tow. Even though the first cat I ever really had contact with hated me with a vengeance till the day he passed, I still loved him to bits. (I still have the scars to prove it!) Inspector Gadget was evil. But awesome all the same


Cookie-monster  was a rescue from the Herne Bay/ Canterbury branch of Cat's Protection League. Found in a field at about 8 weeks, never to have had human contact before only to be lumped with me after a scary few days in someone's bathroom. I will never forget going to see her, she was such a bright spark for such a little thing. She won me over within moments of meeting her; she was so tiny she fitted on my right hand. We'd adopted Solimonster as an adult so I hadn't done the whole kitteny thing. I refuse to buy a cat when there's so many that need a loving home all ready.


She came home with me one sunny afternoon back in August '09 and then spent the next two weeks hiding under my bed, refusing to come out and shivering when touched. I finally managed to coax her out with the promise of food. Gradually, from then onwards, the only time you'd see her is when she'd climb up on the bed, perch on my shoulder for a mini cuddle before disappearing under the bed again. How tiny? --->


The process of getting her out of the bedroom and into the house was a slow and painful one. She was the shyest thing possible, it took months just to get her to stray into the living room. Don't even get me started on trying to get her to go outside! A leaf would fall down and she'd be shivering under the table.


I'd spent nearly 3 years with this wonderful kittencat as company. She was mine. She'd talk back to me and no one else, she'd follow me around the house and we had a very special bond. I'd miss her as much as she missed me. I especially loved waking up in the morning to find her perched on my shoulder, staring at me with "WAKE UP.. I NEED FEEDING!!" expression. She was always so kind not to paw at me, would patiently wait there for hours until I felt the need to be horizontal. Soli, on the other hand, would have no qualms on jumping on you, pawing you or even biting you to get attention.


She developed FLUTD (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease) back in November. Poor thing started to go to the loo indoors, which she'd never done before. You could tell she'd suddenly lost that spark of wonderment and fun. She constantly needed the loo, blood started to go everywhere and she just wanted to curl up and be loved. I spent many an hour massaging her belly for her, something she came to really enjoy. Feline cystitis is supposedly ridiculously painful. Problem was she was causing it herself. She'd been stressed out by two local bully toms, and the situation just got worse. We tried every medical technique, drugs, tests over the next few months. I refused point blank to give in to drastic options. She'd perk up a little, then suddenly all hell would once again break loose. I even tried making her an in-door cat which just plain stressed her out even more. I knew I was running out of options fast.


I thought things were better, then a few days ago I came home to what was such an upsetting scene; she was cowering under the table and there were blood spots littered across the living room floor. I just couldn't take it any more, it played on my mind for a few days; I didn't care about the mess, I just couldn't bring myself to put her through more pain. Mum accompanied me to the vets and I then spent the next few hours in floods of tears. I had a lovely cuddle with her before saying goodbye and I'll never ever forget her.




I knew I'd done the right thing. Although, that is the first and last time I ever want to play god. I was glad to have had her in my life, albeit a short period and I hope that she was happy too. I feel odd today, such a surreal feeling to think she will not be there when I get home any more. I have to try and remember the great moments, and perhaps one day I'll feel up to finding another stray in her honour as I'm sure she'd be quite upset to know there's no one sitting on her favourite patch of the sofa.

On a Serious Note... Manston Night Flights

Any suggestion of Manston Night Flights remind me of an old horror flick; it gives me a shiver down the spine and makes me want to run and hide under my duvet till it's all over. ----------->


It's the question I always dread being asked. I'm very sure of my answer; it's just not always what people want to hear. 

Every so often I get attacked with this; normally when completely off my guard, casually chatting away and it gets snuck in...... "What are your thoughts on Manston expanding, what are your views on night flights Jen??" BOOM.. straight into Politico mode. (Which to the apathetic; is NOT "lying through my back teeth" but genuine want to answer mode). To me these are two completely different questions, to which I answer seperately:


1. Manston Expanding = Wonderful! If it ever does happen, I will be fully behind it. I've lived next to the airport my whole life and never once have been bothered at the thought of it becoming a fully operational passenger affair. I welcome the day when a decent company would like to come in and spread a little economical magic in Thanet, What with the Gateway, fast train services, hotels and now the lovely bypass this is long overdue.


On a different note, I was lucky to visit the opening of the Equine Transport Facility last week with Lady Gale (name drop!!)  and was bowled over at just how above and beyond fantastic the facility is. Polo and Eventing horses from around the world will now be ferried in through a very top class base. The stables are high quality and no doubt they will see a lot of business throughout the Olympic year.  My love of all things horsey got me quite excited, especially when they used two local carriage horses at the official opening. Jen in horsey heaven. Anyway.. I digress, back to the important stuffs...


2. Manston Night Flights: No.. no.. No.. and NO! I am completely against this.


On a personal level, being woken up at 1am with a low flying blunderbuss shaking everything my apartment does not appeal. I have had the pleasure of this experience a few times with "emergency" landings. No sleep and lots of noise make a very grumpy Jen. 


Night flights are not wanted or needed, I find it very hard to believe that the few cargo flights a night being suggested could have such a positive effect on the local economy. Not that Manston is in any way comparable to the "big 4" but, none of the larger airports of the South have night flights, so why should we?? Everyone else managed to schedule their flights in the daytime.. Why is Manston different? If there was solid evidence that this proposal would really benefit us locally, then perhaps I would take a different view but until then my mind is set.


From what I can gather, the general consensus amongst the Canterbury City Councillors is about the same level as my own pondering. I would not like to speak for all, but certainly this is the vibe I receive back from most. I think I might well just direct people to this blog post in future.. would save time but I guess would take out the fun part of getting people's feedback...!

Not so Hernia Bay?

Kudos to Mr Gerald McCarthy of Herne Bay..


He's been a very busy boy. After all ready successfully pulling off the First Official Herne Bay Zombie Crawl of 2011, he's all ready planning the 2012 route and has some even bigger and wilder plans! (I will obviously blog on this subject at a later date..  but very excited to be involved!)

In his spare time he's created this wonderful promo video for the town..It's been such a hit I've heard that the Council all ready want to use it in official promotion for the Summer. I love it; it just shows how perception can change with the right attitude.









It's wonderful to see that there are Bay residents who are so passionate about the town that they want to get involved. It's the positive things that got me involved with the town in the first place. I've always taken the attitude: if you can get involved locally and actually make a difference.. it makes every bit of effort worth it.


I always find it amazing that so many are so happy to snipe and moan when the town doesn't get enough positive coverage. The amount of names I've heard the Bay called over the years still astounds me, especially as I absolutely love living here. The sea, the fresh air, local business... What more could one want? I did the London life and I still ended up back at my favourite seaside residence.


It also astounds me furthermore that the people who are behind the negative comments never seem to want to get positively involved in perhaps changing the perception.


Well done Gerry, hopefully this will conjure more positive thinking and I look forward to working with you in the future!




NB: You can follow the progress of the 2012 Zombie Crawl on twitter: @hbzombiecrawl or look it up on Facebook!

Wedding Belle Du Jour?!

Well that's it! C'est fini! My life is complete and officially over. 


As the old saying goes... "All I refuse, and thee I chuse"


My maid of honour dropped this pearl of wisdom just before I walked up the aisle: "Mrs" is actually a derivative of "Mistress", which in turn didn't mean a bit on the side but more "Head of the Household". This made me giggle, but also made me question which one I'd prefer!



The registers signed, and we now have an official piece of paper to prove it. Does this mean my life is over? The ball and chain dragging behind me as the shackles of life tie me down. Never to speak to anyone again as any title but someone else's property?  Does a ring on my finger and name change really mean that much? These questions have been swirling in my mind for the past few weeks.



To be fair, I'm not exactly a feminist. Yes; I'm quite happy to be the cook and cleaner; I believe it's lovely to have a man open a door for me or buy me a drink but that's about as far as it goes. Anything else and I get antsy. The thought of being "owned" brings a chill to my spine. It's like being compared to a car, or a house and I'm not the materialistic type...


It took me till this morning to realise; it dawned on me, so long as I'm known as Jennie last names are irrelevant. I am the master of my own life, I am still just me! It's funny how others opinions can really get to you. Life will carry on just as it did before. We had a lovely party to celebrate the "officialness" of us in front of family and friends but overall, it's been official for many years. 


We made it through the chaos and madness of a wedding and out the other side. I have a husband who loves and (tries to) understand(s) me, even with my quirks. Therefore technically making him crazy himself.......


C'est certainement la fin... Well, of this chapter anywho.

January part 2

January's doom and gloom seems to carry on and on, will it never end? I'm not going to even mention the opening batting of our boys down in Dubai.. ...Well actually, I will. 

My high hopes for this year went flying out the window within a space of a few hours yesterday. What a crap start!  I got up this morning hoping it was all a dream, we'd done ok at least and onwards and upwards. I then downloaded a Live Cricket app for my Windows phone, only to discover the scorecard racking up runs for Pakistan. I then realise in my frustration of seeing this news; that I'm talking loudly at my phone as I walk down the street to work with quite a few strange looks on the way. Great start to the day Jennie, just great. The day just carried on in this tone...

In other news, I was saddened to hear of Dave Lees' passing on Monday. Cancer is a terrible disease which effects not only the sufferer but everyone around them.  Dave did wonders for his charity, Happy Holidays, and I managed to have the pleasure of fund raising with him once. Professional and passionate to the core he was a gem to know. 


On a happier note. T minus 10 days and counting till the big one. Even better it's 11 days till I can stop stressing!

January Blues/ New years Resolutions

Where to start eh?

Christmas has been and gone. I've eaten far too much, drank even more than I should do and I've got a wedding dress to fit into in less than 3 weeks. Yes, that's right.. 3 WEEKS!

Booking a wedding in January may have been the cheaper way forward, but it certainly was not the cleverest. Early morning runs and gym visits have been occurring in a desperate effort to remove any form of Christmas fat!

My 2011 New Year's Resolution was actually to shop local as and when I could manage it.  I really made improvements on this resolution throughout the year. This year I intend to stick with it. I've really taken to walking down into Herne Bay in the afternoons and shop in the little shops rather than the big supermarkets. I'm a lot healthier for it (When I resist the temptation of a Rook's sausage roll...) The town seems to be really bustling at the moment,  with only one shop closed on the high street, we're doing pretty damn well overall in the financial climate.

Hopefully when the parking restrictions come into place down Mortimer Street,  it'll make it even busier.  The Bay card has done wonders and the cafe culture really suits the town. I can think of nothing better than sitting outside, even in Winter and having a nice big coffee... MMMmm.. Coffee. Time for a walk methinks!

Introductions..

I thought I'd start this blog off on the right foot and introduce myself with some random facts:

1. I am afraid of silence. It makes me uncomfortable. Hence why I never shut up. Maybe blogging is the way forward?

2. I am one of the most optimistic people you'll ever meet. Everyone has low points in life, it's how you deal with it that counts. I let little things frustrate me, but I soon deal with it logically and move on.

3. I only have a select few friends. Friends are the family you choose for yourself.  I found this out the hard way.

4. I have an unhealthy obsession with books, films and pointy objects.  I tend to quote a lot.

5. I am a Tomboy at heart: cars, cricket, rugby and dirty jokes are my life. Otherwise it's horse riding, scuba diving, water-skiing and martial arts. Oh and perhaps a little politics thrown in the mix...

So there you have it, me in a nutshell. I'm sure I'll put something far less self absorbed to post the next time.