There's a book out there you know. Just in case you didn't, it's called 'Court of Contempt', and it's written by me, M.J. McGhee. In my own fair hand, it is. It's only been out in the ether for 21 days, it has. You want your own (virtual) fair hands all over it?
Glamazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Court-Contempt-Family-Division-McGhee-ebook/dp/B00JJ848V6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398895119&sr=8-1&keywords=mj+mcghee
Glamazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Court-Contempt-Family-Division-McGhee-ebook/dp/B00JJ848V6
Nook a Book: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/court-of-contempt-mj-mcghee/1119130713?ean=9781483521169
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/court-of-contempt
Scribd: http://www.scribd.com/doc/216471085/Court-of-Contempt?fb_action_ids=1459360644300333&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=feed_opengraph&action_object_map=%7B%221459360644300333%22%3A703025703083743%7D&action_type_map=%7B%221459360644300333%22%3A%22og.likes%22%7D&action_ref_map=%5B%5D
Copia: http://www.thecopia.com/catalog/details.html?catId=15856091
iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/court-of-contempt/id855957316?mt=11
I thank you I do, and bid you good night!
A demain
MJ xx
p.s. Delighted to welcome my first viewers from Germany, Bulgaria, China and Mexico. The blog's getting a nice international feel to it….
Wednesday, 30 April 2014
Don't Come The Cowboy With Me, Sonny Jim
Good morning. Bonne matin et al.
I've been typing away to the late, great Kirsty MacColl's wonderful album 'Kite' since before it got light. It's wonderfully jaunty and infectious, and particularly useful if you want to wind the not-so-bright neighbours up with your out-of-tune wailing first thing in the morning as an act of revenge for banging their garage door EVERY single morning. There is something cathartic about wailing. 'I'll see you baby, when the clans rise again, women and men, united by the struggle going down,' at the top of one's voice in the morning.
Poor Kirsty came to a very sticky end when she was decapitated by a rogue speed boat driver who came charging through with his piece of metal into a designated swimming area at a resort in Mexico around Christmas 2000. She put herself in the firing line to save her sons. It's an awful ending, and frankly it gives her music added poignancy. Towards the end of her life, she was heavily influenced by Cuban music. What a woman! RIP Kirsty, and thanks for the music.
I am now trying to increase my word count to 7000 a day. I may die myself before this book is finished. After I've had my fix of Kirsty, I think I may move on to Joan Baez. I was reminded by a lovely friend yesterday of her music. I just hope I am not the author of my own misfortune by creating another blub-fest like yesterday's. Mabel didn't like all that moisture over her keys. I hope she doesn't talk to her Union and go on strike like the Tube staff!
I notice the horse chestnut trees are flowering already. What a glorious sight they are. Their numerous cathedral-like flowers always look so glorious. I am intending to go on a nice little jaunt later down by the sea once the mist clears and the sun makes a brief appearance. I get so much more done when I'm not burying myself under the layers of social media. I'm also so inspired listening to those breaks, transporting me off to the world of Brett and Darya.
Laters,
MJ xx
I've been typing away to the late, great Kirsty MacColl's wonderful album 'Kite' since before it got light. It's wonderfully jaunty and infectious, and particularly useful if you want to wind the not-so-bright neighbours up with your out-of-tune wailing first thing in the morning as an act of revenge for banging their garage door EVERY single morning. There is something cathartic about wailing. 'I'll see you baby, when the clans rise again, women and men, united by the struggle going down,' at the top of one's voice in the morning.
Poor Kirsty came to a very sticky end when she was decapitated by a rogue speed boat driver who came charging through with his piece of metal into a designated swimming area at a resort in Mexico around Christmas 2000. She put herself in the firing line to save her sons. It's an awful ending, and frankly it gives her music added poignancy. Towards the end of her life, she was heavily influenced by Cuban music. What a woman! RIP Kirsty, and thanks for the music.
I am now trying to increase my word count to 7000 a day. I may die myself before this book is finished. After I've had my fix of Kirsty, I think I may move on to Joan Baez. I was reminded by a lovely friend yesterday of her music. I just hope I am not the author of my own misfortune by creating another blub-fest like yesterday's. Mabel didn't like all that moisture over her keys. I hope she doesn't talk to her Union and go on strike like the Tube staff!
I notice the horse chestnut trees are flowering already. What a glorious sight they are. Their numerous cathedral-like flowers always look so glorious. I am intending to go on a nice little jaunt later down by the sea once the mist clears and the sun makes a brief appearance. I get so much more done when I'm not burying myself under the layers of social media. I'm also so inspired listening to those breaks, transporting me off to the world of Brett and Darya.
Laters,
MJ xx
Tuesday, 29 April 2014
Yesterday…..
Ahem! Good evening! As promised, herewith attached is the view from my desk yesterday afternoon. A warm breeze complemented the gentle breaking of the waves. As you will also note, Mabel the Mac has photobombed the panoramic view.
I introduced Darya's mother, Vanya, to the story today. She is inspired by my own mother, who was a hippy, then a wife, a mother… and, above all, an irresponsible letdown who turned her back on her children when they needed her the most, and selfishly walked away without any appreciation of the emotional carnage she left behind. One day, she just inexplicably decided to eradicate twenty years of her life. She left me hurting, and it still hurts to this day. I realised as the tears were running down my face onto my keyboard that one never gets over a rejection by a parent. One just tries to learn to live with it.
By doing this, I cannot deny it has been an emotional writing experience today, especially as it is now impossible to right the wrongs that were done all those years ago. However, it has meant that I've reminisced about my own childhood sounds today, and one of the positives from my mother was the introduction of the genius that is Joni Mitchell into my life. My mother played three of her first folky albums, Clouds, Ladies of the Canyon and Blue, on long car journeys. I knew all the words to 'Big Yellow Taxi' and 'Carey' by the age of 7. I could play 'My Old Man' (a personal favourite of mine for different reasons) on the organ at 10. Later on my older sister (who is far more intelligent and talented than me) then introduced me to her experimental era, with the fabulous 'For the Roses', the pop-inspired 'Court and Spark', the jazz and blues of the 'Hissing of Summer Lawns', and the wonderful 'Hejira'. So I have spent the day as a 'Free Man in Paris', knowing that 'In France They Kiss on Main Street', watching a 'Black Crow' flying and eating a 'Little Green' cucumber.
So I reached my 5000 daily target today listening to a Joni Mitchell medley on repeat, just like my mother did all those years ago. I would have loved to have known her thoughts at the time. I wish she had taken the time to explain. Perhaps I might have understood. Or at least tried to. She gave birth to me, and I suppose for that alone, I will always be grateful.
See you tomorrow, peoples. Here comes a Rainy Night…!!
MJ xx
… of a Tuesday
Good morning peoples!
The title came from the classic film 'Way Out West' starring two of my favourite comedians, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. It's a line I've quoted since childhood. They've come to deliver grave news to the young beneficiary of the recently deceased. The couple in the scene are masquerading as the bereaved. She asks 'What did he die of?' Stan responds, 'I think he died of a Tuesday, or was it of a Wednesday?' I love Ollie's wide-eyed expression. I often pulled that same expression when something happened in court that surprised everyone. It's timeless comedy and I attach the link to the very scene.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96po3FRJ9uk
Little moments like this can only enhance what is a miserable weather day. I have to express my deepest sympathy to those having to use the vagaries of public transport in London today. Thank heavens my days of commuting are well and truly over. Travelling in London is never a pleasant thing. I remember in 2005, in the aftermath of 7/7 when a significant part of the network was closed, and every man and his dog were using alternative tube lines. I had to travel from Chancery Lane - Paddington, negotiating the packed Central then Bakerloo lines. Like Darya, I also got my heels stuck in drains whilst commuting. However, I digress. One particular early evening, I was standing on Chancery Lane Westbound platform. I had already let several trains pass already. I am blessed with being stick thin, but there was no way I was going to asphyxiate myself on a tube train. Anyway, on the train before the one I caught, a man was standing with his head protruding beyond the doorway. He looked quite smug with his own contortionistic skills allowing him to bend his way onto the carriage. So he was looking sympathetically at the throngs of passengers still waiting on the platform. I looked at him just for something to look at. I smiled at him. He smiled at me and he continued staring. The doors began to close, and he was still staring. I thought he's bound to notice at any second and pull his head in. Unfortunately, that was not the case and his head ended up becoming the meat in a tube train door sandwich. As a direct result of this, the doors reopened, the passengers on the platform gasped in shock and the glasses that adorned his face dropped off in the melee underneath the carriage. He therefore had to de-contort himself and alight from the train. When a member of Transport for London staff (or London Underground, whatever guise it was under at the time) arrived to assist by stepping down off the platform to retrieve the said glasses, he was treated to a right earful. The passenger was sporting a big black mark across his nose where the impact had occurred. He was threatening to sue London Transport for the incident. Of course it was their fault. He was trying to flirt with a passenger on the platform and was not paying attention!
I was with a fellow lawyer, and we discussed the incident standing on the next train. I can distinctly remember saying to her:
'It was one of those moments in time that you could have altered. You foresaw what was going to happen, and could have taken a split-second decision to prevent the incident by forewarning the passenger that he was about to be caught by the doors. But it was also one of those intriguing moments where you stood by and kind of wanted to see what happened!'
Anyway, I've spent far too long on this blog and not enough time on my book. After all, you get this shit for free, but you have to pay for my book!!
Laters,
MJ xx
p.s. I'm thinking my blog is a bit pants. Any ideas on how I can improve it would be greatly welcomed. The blogger design menu seems so unwieldy!
The title came from the classic film 'Way Out West' starring two of my favourite comedians, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. It's a line I've quoted since childhood. They've come to deliver grave news to the young beneficiary of the recently deceased. The couple in the scene are masquerading as the bereaved. She asks 'What did he die of?' Stan responds, 'I think he died of a Tuesday, or was it of a Wednesday?' I love Ollie's wide-eyed expression. I often pulled that same expression when something happened in court that surprised everyone. It's timeless comedy and I attach the link to the very scene.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96po3FRJ9uk
Little moments like this can only enhance what is a miserable weather day. I have to express my deepest sympathy to those having to use the vagaries of public transport in London today. Thank heavens my days of commuting are well and truly over. Travelling in London is never a pleasant thing. I remember in 2005, in the aftermath of 7/7 when a significant part of the network was closed, and every man and his dog were using alternative tube lines. I had to travel from Chancery Lane - Paddington, negotiating the packed Central then Bakerloo lines. Like Darya, I also got my heels stuck in drains whilst commuting. However, I digress. One particular early evening, I was standing on Chancery Lane Westbound platform. I had already let several trains pass already. I am blessed with being stick thin, but there was no way I was going to asphyxiate myself on a tube train. Anyway, on the train before the one I caught, a man was standing with his head protruding beyond the doorway. He looked quite smug with his own contortionistic skills allowing him to bend his way onto the carriage. So he was looking sympathetically at the throngs of passengers still waiting on the platform. I looked at him just for something to look at. I smiled at him. He smiled at me and he continued staring. The doors began to close, and he was still staring. I thought he's bound to notice at any second and pull his head in. Unfortunately, that was not the case and his head ended up becoming the meat in a tube train door sandwich. As a direct result of this, the doors reopened, the passengers on the platform gasped in shock and the glasses that adorned his face dropped off in the melee underneath the carriage. He therefore had to de-contort himself and alight from the train. When a member of Transport for London staff (or London Underground, whatever guise it was under at the time) arrived to assist by stepping down off the platform to retrieve the said glasses, he was treated to a right earful. The passenger was sporting a big black mark across his nose where the impact had occurred. He was threatening to sue London Transport for the incident. Of course it was their fault. He was trying to flirt with a passenger on the platform and was not paying attention!
I was with a fellow lawyer, and we discussed the incident standing on the next train. I can distinctly remember saying to her:
'It was one of those moments in time that you could have altered. You foresaw what was going to happen, and could have taken a split-second decision to prevent the incident by forewarning the passenger that he was about to be caught by the doors. But it was also one of those intriguing moments where you stood by and kind of wanted to see what happened!'
Anyway, I've spent far too long on this blog and not enough time on my book. After all, you get this shit for free, but you have to pay for my book!!
Laters,
MJ xx
p.s. I'm thinking my blog is a bit pants. Any ideas on how I can improve it would be greatly welcomed. The blogger design menu seems so unwieldy!
Monday, 28 April 2014
The Author's Bureau
Happy Monday to y'all. (sorry, I am not giving you Bez!)
Managed to write five thousand (yes, five-thou-SAND) words by the sea, sitting on a dyke/ tide-breaker thing swinging my legs over the edge like a little child with Mabel on my lap typing away. I had a 'whale' of a time…. I'll post some images when my iPhone decides to synchronise with iCloud and iMabel…..
Two (well three) things I forgot to mention earlier:
1. I had a lovely, unexpected conversation with a distant friend (200 miles away) who confirmed that she had been reunited with her partner after he had been away for a considerable period of time, realised the spark was not there anymore for either of them and both ended it maturely. No drama. No accusations. Same hurt. But it was handled by both parties impeccably. It is a credit to them, and I hope they both move on with their lives enjoying the good memories and building more, either individually or in a new relationship. It also represents the very first time I have witnessed a 'conscious uncoupling'. I suppose this is what GP meant on her blog. I have had to be 'consciously uncoupled' from the snooker tonight. I love it when the World Championships at the Crucible reaches the business end. I'm backing Selby, but I'm sure my expressed prediction will ensure he now loses against Alan McManus in the next round. Kiss of death.
2. I realised I had not commented on yesterday's rugger. At least I was pretty spot on there. Wilko's masterful boot scored all 24 points for Toulon. So they will defend their title against Saracens at the Millennium Stadium. Got my ticket - can't wait! Will need to ensure I double my word count the day before.
3. And finally….. Good Morning Britain was resurrected like a phoenix today for the first time since 1992. Anne and Nick have had a make-over, and now inhabit the very toned bodies of Susanna Reid and Ben Shephard respectively. I have to confess that I avoid breakfast tv as if it was a contagious disease, but I did peruse the write-ups. Apparently we owe a great deal to our American brethren for the set style/ format/ primary colours of women etc. On another note, a teacher was stabbed to death in a school in Leeds. I do hope this is not a trend we adopt from America too.
A demain,
MJ xx
Managed to write five thousand (yes, five-thou-SAND) words by the sea, sitting on a dyke/ tide-breaker thing swinging my legs over the edge like a little child with Mabel on my lap typing away. I had a 'whale' of a time…. I'll post some images when my iPhone decides to synchronise with iCloud and iMabel…..
Two (well three) things I forgot to mention earlier:
1. I had a lovely, unexpected conversation with a distant friend (200 miles away) who confirmed that she had been reunited with her partner after he had been away for a considerable period of time, realised the spark was not there anymore for either of them and both ended it maturely. No drama. No accusations. Same hurt. But it was handled by both parties impeccably. It is a credit to them, and I hope they both move on with their lives enjoying the good memories and building more, either individually or in a new relationship. It also represents the very first time I have witnessed a 'conscious uncoupling'. I suppose this is what GP meant on her blog. I have had to be 'consciously uncoupled' from the snooker tonight. I love it when the World Championships at the Crucible reaches the business end. I'm backing Selby, but I'm sure my expressed prediction will ensure he now loses against Alan McManus in the next round. Kiss of death.
2. I realised I had not commented on yesterday's rugger. At least I was pretty spot on there. Wilko's masterful boot scored all 24 points for Toulon. So they will defend their title against Saracens at the Millennium Stadium. Got my ticket - can't wait! Will need to ensure I double my word count the day before.
3. And finally….. Good Morning Britain was resurrected like a phoenix today for the first time since 1992. Anne and Nick have had a make-over, and now inhabit the very toned bodies of Susanna Reid and Ben Shephard respectively. I have to confess that I avoid breakfast tv as if it was a contagious disease, but I did peruse the write-ups. Apparently we owe a great deal to our American brethren for the set style/ format/ primary colours of women etc. On another note, a teacher was stabbed to death in a school in Leeds. I do hope this is not a trend we adopt from America too.
A demain,
MJ xx
Monday Monday….
I have to confess a slight weakness for the Mamas & Papas. I loved Cass Elliott's voice, and so many of their numbers are timeless. 'California Dreamin', 'I Saw Her Again Last Night', 'Got A Feelin' and 'Words Of Love' are amongst my favourites, and I can regularly be seen busting shapes to them in my very appropriate underwear whilst waiting for the kettle to boil in the morning.
It's full steam ahead with Book 2 today. I am looking forward to finishing the series as I already have another idea for another book. It's a cracker, hopefully! Will disclose all at a suitable juncture. Need to focus on this project, as I'm a terrible procrastinator. I also need to research it just an ickle bit more before I decide finally on the topic.
I've just discovered that HRH Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales no less, has had one of my posters discarded from the most prominent spot I placed it on. Well, it probably wasn't him personally, but it was on his Duchy land, and the buck stops with him. Writing a very indignant missive after this blog update.
Second cafe au lait consumed. Back to the grindstone.
Laters from MJ xx
It's full steam ahead with Book 2 today. I am looking forward to finishing the series as I already have another idea for another book. It's a cracker, hopefully! Will disclose all at a suitable juncture. Need to focus on this project, as I'm a terrible procrastinator. I also need to research it just an ickle bit more before I decide finally on the topic.
I've just discovered that HRH Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales no less, has had one of my posters discarded from the most prominent spot I placed it on. Well, it probably wasn't him personally, but it was on his Duchy land, and the buck stops with him. Writing a very indignant missive after this blog update.
Second cafe au lait consumed. Back to the grindstone.
Laters from MJ xx
Sunday, 27 April 2014
Blurred lines….
I know you wan' it! Oooh! I know you wan' it! Oooh!
Sorry, that's the only lines I know of that song! I sing it sometimes in the shower, doing the 'Oooh' bits really loudly whilst punching the air and shaking my booty! If only Robin Thicke knew what an impact he has made to my cleansing routine….
Anyway, I've realised that my last posting contains some very strange white lines that have pervaded the posting. I love the word 'pervaded'. However, I am digressing. It is supposed to detail my silly Amazon Author profile. However, having commented on the marvel of cross-pollenating fonts, I note that my cut n' paste jobby has resulted in nothing but these strange white lines. How very Dr. Who!
So, it is not possible to see it. And I cannot be arsed replicating it word for word here. So…. it's a jolly good excuse to plug the link if you want to see it…
Go see! It'll make your Sunday a Funday!
Now, Robin, you're newly single… aren't you?!
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Court-Contempt-Family-Division-McGhee-ebook/dp/B00JJ848V6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398588991&sr=8-1&keywords=mj+mcghee
Sorry, that's the only lines I know of that song! I sing it sometimes in the shower, doing the 'Oooh' bits really loudly whilst punching the air and shaking my booty! If only Robin Thicke knew what an impact he has made to my cleansing routine….
Anyway, I've realised that my last posting contains some very strange white lines that have pervaded the posting. I love the word 'pervaded'. However, I am digressing. It is supposed to detail my silly Amazon Author profile. However, having commented on the marvel of cross-pollenating fonts, I note that my cut n' paste jobby has resulted in nothing but these strange white lines. How very Dr. Who!
So, it is not possible to see it. And I cannot be arsed replicating it word for word here. So…. it's a jolly good excuse to plug the link if you want to see it…
Go see! It'll make your Sunday a Funday!
Now, Robin, you're newly single… aren't you?!
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Court-Contempt-Family-Division-McGhee-ebook/dp/B00JJ848V6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398588991&sr=8-1&keywords=mj+mcghee
Sunday with no sun is no fun….
Today is another action-packed writing day. I'm busy thinking up excuses for my poor grammar/ use of punctuation in the first and second books. The cat, flooding, boyfriend trouble, time of the month have all been considered and have been put in the mix. Any more valid excuses that can be provided will be gratefully received. The more pathetic and far-fetched, the better - applying the theory that 'it's so unbelievable it has to be true!'
You'll be delighted to know that I got absolutely soaked last night. This weather is appalling. Having said that, the background of grey seems to make the foliage and flowers seem even more vibrant. I managed to squeeze the dictation of my Amazon author's profile into my very action-packed, allocated procrastination/ faffing around time. It goes something like this:
Former lawyer, marathon runner, tennis player, dreamer. Current writer, Thea Gilmore devotee, champagne drinker, green-fingered gardener, procrastinator, toe-curler, curry and fish n' chips devourer, rugby aficionado, Russian history buff, thigh admirer, eyebrow and bikini-line waxer (ouch!). No longer dreaming it but being it!
I can: touch-type, run in high heels, gaze out of windows for an inordinately long time, wash delicate clothing, iron men's shirts, drink beer whilst simultaneously eating curry, drive long distances, shout at my partner, get my bits stung by a jellyfish whilst swimming in the sea, flirt my way out of a speeding ticket, distract myself and others, be exceedingly nosey, keep secrets, play table tennis like a human possessed.
I cannot: sit in an open-plan office without being distracted, touch my nose with my tongue, drink Guinness, do the splits, travel in standard class carriages, work with strange people, be depressed, pole-dance, clean out kitty litter, wash someone else's dirty underwear, have a tattoo, stand politicians/ ignorant people/ homophobia/ airport security frisking, dry hair within 30 minutes, be early for anything.
Ooh how clever. When you cut and paste it from source, it retains the original font setting. I must ask them how they do that when I want to plagiarise my own work!
So, the second cafe au lait has been consumed and it's onto the cucumber-infused water and MacBook Air. Thinking I might call her 'Deirdre' in future posts. Or Mabel… that's it! Mabel the Mac!
I'm going to have to build in more rugger into my allocated procrastination/ faffing around time today. I was wrong about yesterday's match. What a blinder Saracens played yesterday in their 46-6 trouncing! I couldn't believe my eyes when I watched it on Sky+. They were all over Clermont Auvergne like Edward IV over Margaret of Anjou. I have to say that Brad Barritt looked tres Ming the Merciless sporting a goatee beard in his official Heineken Cup image. And poor Aurelien Rougerie, the ubiquitous capitaine, looked so crestfallen at the end. I wonder if such a heavy defeat will have an impact on the business end of the domestic Top 14. Allez Montpellier!
Bit concerned about this Ukraine thing too. Putin may be showing his true colours now. Thought we'd sorted this whole imperialistic land-grabbing thing out during the last century. That, amongst other things, culminated in World War I. I'd like to see a vociferous, organised opposition in Russia. I cannot countenance this recent decline into homophobic legislation. And didn't Putin want Volgograd to revert back to Stalingrad? Or have I got that wrong? See above re my rugby predictions - it's possible folks!
The observations of that dizzy bird from Blackpool on Twitter did make me chuckle: 'If barroco barner is our president, why is he getting involved in Russia'. I note she later claimed in The Daily Mail (a publication I only read when I accidentally click on a link, scream, then direct my cursor quickly to the 'back' button, and reach for the smelling salts before any further distress is caused) that is was a big typo. Ah well, the wonders of modern technology!
Au revoir - a bientôt!!
p.s. This afternoon's fixture in Marseille? A hard-fought victory for Toulon. They seem to have their tails up at the moment and Jonny Wilkinson, the talismanic fly-half, has recovered from his thigh strain/ fractured eyelash to lead his Varois team out.
You'll be delighted to know that I got absolutely soaked last night. This weather is appalling. Having said that, the background of grey seems to make the foliage and flowers seem even more vibrant. I managed to squeeze the dictation of my Amazon author's profile into my very action-packed, allocated procrastination/ faffing around time. It goes something like this:
Former lawyer, marathon runner, tennis player, dreamer. Current writer, Thea Gilmore devotee, champagne drinker, green-fingered gardener, procrastinator, toe-curler, curry and fish n' chips devourer, rugby aficionado, Russian history buff, thigh admirer, eyebrow and bikini-line waxer (ouch!). No longer dreaming it but being it!
I can: touch-type, run in high heels, gaze out of windows for an inordinately long time, wash delicate clothing, iron men's shirts, drink beer whilst simultaneously eating curry, drive long distances, shout at my partner, get my bits stung by a jellyfish whilst swimming in the sea, flirt my way out of a speeding ticket, distract myself and others, be exceedingly nosey, keep secrets, play table tennis like a human possessed.
I cannot: sit in an open-plan office without being distracted, touch my nose with my tongue, drink Guinness, do the splits, travel in standard class carriages, work with strange people, be depressed, pole-dance, clean out kitty litter, wash someone else's dirty underwear, have a tattoo, stand politicians/ ignorant people/ homophobia/ airport security frisking, dry hair within 30 minutes, be early for anything.
Ooh how clever. When you cut and paste it from source, it retains the original font setting. I must ask them how they do that when I want to plagiarise my own work!
So, the second cafe au lait has been consumed and it's onto the cucumber-infused water and MacBook Air. Thinking I might call her 'Deirdre' in future posts. Or Mabel… that's it! Mabel the Mac!
I'm going to have to build in more rugger into my allocated procrastination/ faffing around time today. I was wrong about yesterday's match. What a blinder Saracens played yesterday in their 46-6 trouncing! I couldn't believe my eyes when I watched it on Sky+. They were all over Clermont Auvergne like Edward IV over Margaret of Anjou. I have to say that Brad Barritt looked tres Ming the Merciless sporting a goatee beard in his official Heineken Cup image. And poor Aurelien Rougerie, the ubiquitous capitaine, looked so crestfallen at the end. I wonder if such a heavy defeat will have an impact on the business end of the domestic Top 14. Allez Montpellier!
Bit concerned about this Ukraine thing too. Putin may be showing his true colours now. Thought we'd sorted this whole imperialistic land-grabbing thing out during the last century. That, amongst other things, culminated in World War I. I'd like to see a vociferous, organised opposition in Russia. I cannot countenance this recent decline into homophobic legislation. And didn't Putin want Volgograd to revert back to Stalingrad? Or have I got that wrong? See above re my rugby predictions - it's possible folks!
The observations of that dizzy bird from Blackpool on Twitter did make me chuckle: 'If barroco barner is our president, why is he getting involved in Russia'. I note she later claimed in The Daily Mail (a publication I only read when I accidentally click on a link, scream, then direct my cursor quickly to the 'back' button, and reach for the smelling salts before any further distress is caused) that is was a big typo. Ah well, the wonders of modern technology!
Au revoir - a bientôt!!
p.s. This afternoon's fixture in Marseille? A hard-fought victory for Toulon. They seem to have their tails up at the moment and Jonny Wilkinson, the talismanic fly-half, has recovered from his thigh strain/ fractured eyelash to lead his Varois team out.
Saturday, 26 April 2014
Jill Dando
It's 15 years to the day since Jill Dando was murdered on her doorstep in Fulham, South West London, by a still-unknown assailant. I was in Bath that day, and I remember being told by my friend Anne Willmott, thinking she was pulling my leg. It was only when I watched the BBC Six o' Clock News that evening that the awful reality sunk in. Barry George was convicted of her murder then his conviction was overturned by the Court of Appeal. It's unlikely that anyone will be brought to justice for this crime now. Shame. Carry on resting in peace, Jill xx
Saturday Morning Update from Chez McGhee
And it's still plowing on with Book 2 as more sales come in, which is a good thing I suppose. It'll keep me in fags and booze and out of trouble. I can't work out the whole Amazon sales rankings thing. I've tried to apply the pie formula that I was taught by Mrs. MacKenzie in 1990 (3.14 blah blah blah), and failed miserably (funnily enough). I suppose I won't know until my sales figures are submitted to my publisher. Until then, I can dream of topping the best-sellers list without actually having to face the harsh reality…
More good news to announce is that the fabulous Hollie Hyde, artiste par excellence, will be treating you all to another raunchy cover for 'Court of Deception', after her stunning artwork graced the cover of 'Court of Contempt'. I'm sure many sales have been achieved purely down to her genius. I can tell you that a blueprint has been drawn up. The scales make a welcome return, but the Louboutin shoes do not. Will it be Darya, Brett, Lucy or Neal on the cover?
Anyway, I have to admit that I'm still toying with the idea of naming the second book 'Court of Protection'. The thought of my tome in law libraries and on judicial benches makes me chuckle. I'll get over it soon, promise.
Batten down the hatches today. It's a windy one. I've already seen a parasol that was left out after the unseasonably mild weather blowing around as if it has just dropped Mary Poppins and she has left it outside the nursery open and exposed to the elements.
Darya would be excited this afternoon as it's Heineken Cup semi-finals this weekend, even though neither match features her beloved Montpellier. Saracens v Clermont at Twickers is a tough one to call, but I reckon 'Les Jaunards' may just squeeze out an away victory (a rare event for a French team, although that is changing these days in a most competitive Top 14 domestic league). Tomorrow we have Toulon v Munster at the Stade Velodrome, Marseille. Are Toulon sans Jonny Wilkinson? That could be a decisive factor. I think Munster may be more powerful in the scrum, but watch out for Toulon's flying backs, and Steffon Armitage at open side flanker is having a champagne season. So I pick a 'tout francais finale' for the European Cup. Am I right?
See you on the other side of another mammoth writing session! Enjoy your Saturday. I've developed a taste for cucumber flavoured water. It clears your skin, and you can use the slices at the bottom of the glass to put on your tired, Mac-weary eyes. Result!
MJ xx
More good news to announce is that the fabulous Hollie Hyde, artiste par excellence, will be treating you all to another raunchy cover for 'Court of Deception', after her stunning artwork graced the cover of 'Court of Contempt'. I'm sure many sales have been achieved purely down to her genius. I can tell you that a blueprint has been drawn up. The scales make a welcome return, but the Louboutin shoes do not. Will it be Darya, Brett, Lucy or Neal on the cover?
Anyway, I have to admit that I'm still toying with the idea of naming the second book 'Court of Protection'. The thought of my tome in law libraries and on judicial benches makes me chuckle. I'll get over it soon, promise.
Batten down the hatches today. It's a windy one. I've already seen a parasol that was left out after the unseasonably mild weather blowing around as if it has just dropped Mary Poppins and she has left it outside the nursery open and exposed to the elements.
Darya would be excited this afternoon as it's Heineken Cup semi-finals this weekend, even though neither match features her beloved Montpellier. Saracens v Clermont at Twickers is a tough one to call, but I reckon 'Les Jaunards' may just squeeze out an away victory (a rare event for a French team, although that is changing these days in a most competitive Top 14 domestic league). Tomorrow we have Toulon v Munster at the Stade Velodrome, Marseille. Are Toulon sans Jonny Wilkinson? That could be a decisive factor. I think Munster may be more powerful in the scrum, but watch out for Toulon's flying backs, and Steffon Armitage at open side flanker is having a champagne season. So I pick a 'tout francais finale' for the European Cup. Am I right?
See you on the other side of another mammoth writing session! Enjoy your Saturday. I've developed a taste for cucumber flavoured water. It clears your skin, and you can use the slices at the bottom of the glass to put on your tired, Mac-weary eyes. Result!
MJ xx
Friday Night Update from Chez McGhee…...
Yes, still at the MacBook Air, desperately trying to remain coherent after a couple of glasses of fine red wine. I don't know how on earth my characters Brett and Darya could get three sheets to the wind and rock up to Court on time in the morning. Well, Brett could!
My Americanised spelling check is getting on my bosom as it unilaterally changes 'woollen' to 'woolen', amongst other things. How do I change this on a reconstituted Mac?
Another lovely landmark was reached today as I received my 9th 5-star review on Amazon. In honour of this, I have included an appropriate link to this message that will take you back a few years. It is also fitting for the changeable weather we are experiencing at the moment. My tender perennials are very confused as to what season it is. Grateful for no repeat of last year's 'brass monkeys' winter that made everything so late, they are now wondering if their growth spurt in March and the early part of this month is now somewhat premature, as the lovely Louise Lear on the Beeb has informed us that we will be experiencing night frosts next week. Fabulous! Just when I had flung the electric blanket into the back of the airing cupboard when I changed the bed yesterday. Now I'll have to find a human to warm my bed. Or maybe now is the time to get a dog…?
I take no responsibility whatsoever for this link. Some may cringe. Others, like me, may even know the words and actually sing along whilst moving their hands, head and shoulders to the music. Shame on you. Shame on me! Rain or shine, we'll always be one in a million!!
Have a lovely weekend readers, and please do keep chivvying me on with your virtual pitchforks aimed at my behind!!!
MJ xx
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOXjoLf-bLw
My Americanised spelling check is getting on my bosom as it unilaterally changes 'woollen' to 'woolen', amongst other things. How do I change this on a reconstituted Mac?
Another lovely landmark was reached today as I received my 9th 5-star review on Amazon. In honour of this, I have included an appropriate link to this message that will take you back a few years. It is also fitting for the changeable weather we are experiencing at the moment. My tender perennials are very confused as to what season it is. Grateful for no repeat of last year's 'brass monkeys' winter that made everything so late, they are now wondering if their growth spurt in March and the early part of this month is now somewhat premature, as the lovely Louise Lear on the Beeb has informed us that we will be experiencing night frosts next week. Fabulous! Just when I had flung the electric blanket into the back of the airing cupboard when I changed the bed yesterday. Now I'll have to find a human to warm my bed. Or maybe now is the time to get a dog…?
I take no responsibility whatsoever for this link. Some may cringe. Others, like me, may even know the words and actually sing along whilst moving their hands, head and shoulders to the music. Shame on you. Shame on me! Rain or shine, we'll always be one in a million!!
Have a lovely weekend readers, and please do keep chivvying me on with your virtual pitchforks aimed at my behind!!!
MJ xx
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOXjoLf-bLw
Carry on Up the Amazon…..
http://www.amazon.com/Court-Contempt-Family-Division-McGhee-ebook/dp/B00JJ848V6/ref=sr_1_47?ie=UTF8&qid=1398517073&sr=8-47&keywords=court+of+contempt
Worldwide/ American link for the readers across the Pond (i.e. Atlantic Ocean… and a bit of the Irish Sea)
http://www.amazon.com/Court-Contempt-Family-Division-McGhee-ebook/dp/B00JJ848V6/ref=sr_1_47?ie=UTF8&qid=1398517073&sr=8-47&keywords=court+of+contempt
Worldwide/ American link for the readers across the Pond (i.e. Atlantic Ocean… and a bit of the Irish Sea)
http://www.amazon.com/Court-Contempt-Family-Division-McGhee-ebook/dp/B00JJ848V6/ref=sr_1_47?ie=UTF8&qid=1398517073&sr=8-47&keywords=court+of+contempt
Friday, 25 April 2014
Book Two Now Has A Name…...
Today we have a title for instalment two: 'Court of Contempt' will be joined by 'Court of Deception' shortly. It was a choice between that and 'Court of Protection', however the latter suggests that my book is actually a reference guide to the actual Court of Protection, and naive students/ law practitioners may buy it in their droves thinking they are getting the latest precedents and information on best practice and procedure (not to mention further 'Views from the President's Chamber'), and be bitterly disappointed with the actual content. They may then insist on refunds, which could seriously dent my royalty income. However, a prize (probably a hard hat) goes to the first legal practitioner who quotes a line from the book in the Court of Protection.
Also, there isn't much 'protecting' going on in the second book. Pretty much the opposite. A few things can be guaranteed, however. More heels stuck in drain covers and various other inconvenient places. Rugger matches where far too much excitement in the scrum causes spillages and knock-ons. Dennis and Davina will be entered into the Grand National, ridden by Daisy and Felix. Spot the Dog will know his way through Darya's Manolo collection. Oh, and there's sex. Lots of it. Far more than the first book. I let you in gently with the first one. Now you're just going to drown in it. Even I am having to rack my brains to think of new positions. I've decided that all characters shall henceforth be double or triple-jointed or made of rubber.
It's been an odd day here at McGhee Mansions too. Beautiful sunshine meant a yearning to procrastinate in my thriving spring garden. Clematis is shooting up the fence, and a really unusual perennial shrub that I picked up at the fabulous RHS Hampton Court show last year with red brush-like flowers emerging. I walked through a field with a dead pregnant sheep. 'Dead' in the literal sense unfortunately. And I nearly fell into a stream trying to prune a rampant buddleia. However, a visit from an old friend cheered up the household no end.
Good news re the sales rankings too. It appears my tome is growing a little fan base across the pond. For the last few nights there has been a little overnight surge in my standings. I could be wrong, but if Uncle Sam is reading about middle-class Hampshire, I want to take all the credit!
Back to the grindstone. Happy Friday readers. xx
Also, there isn't much 'protecting' going on in the second book. Pretty much the opposite. A few things can be guaranteed, however. More heels stuck in drain covers and various other inconvenient places. Rugger matches where far too much excitement in the scrum causes spillages and knock-ons. Dennis and Davina will be entered into the Grand National, ridden by Daisy and Felix. Spot the Dog will know his way through Darya's Manolo collection. Oh, and there's sex. Lots of it. Far more than the first book. I let you in gently with the first one. Now you're just going to drown in it. Even I am having to rack my brains to think of new positions. I've decided that all characters shall henceforth be double or triple-jointed or made of rubber.
It's been an odd day here at McGhee Mansions too. Beautiful sunshine meant a yearning to procrastinate in my thriving spring garden. Clematis is shooting up the fence, and a really unusual perennial shrub that I picked up at the fabulous RHS Hampton Court show last year with red brush-like flowers emerging. I walked through a field with a dead pregnant sheep. 'Dead' in the literal sense unfortunately. And I nearly fell into a stream trying to prune a rampant buddleia. However, a visit from an old friend cheered up the household no end.
Good news re the sales rankings too. It appears my tome is growing a little fan base across the pond. For the last few nights there has been a little overnight surge in my standings. I could be wrong, but if Uncle Sam is reading about middle-class Hampshire, I want to take all the credit!
Back to the grindstone. Happy Friday readers. xx
An update on Book Two…..
Book 2 is well underway. It will be dedicated to Roger Craddock and Paul Pinder as they battle on against Roger's debilitating lymphoma. If Paul decides to publish his eloquent and emotive blog at some point, may I recommend it to you now. He publishes a nightly update on their day, covering both the highs and the significant lows. It makes all their friends feel as though they are accompanying them on the journey, albeit from a trawler that is guiding the cruise ship out of the harbour into the vast ocean. By doing this blog, they are giving their readers so much perspective on life.
Expect some pleasant (and some unpleasant) surprises for all the main characters. The imagination is very fertile at the moment with a combination of the spring, vibrant yellow fields of rape seed oil in view of my writing room and an unintentional bang on the head last night - and no, that is not a euphemism! Desperately trying not to be distracted by FB, Wii Fit and YouTube.
Thank you all for responding so enthusiastically regarding printed copies. I have exceeded my quota quite significantly, so will be ordering more. Rest assured, they will all be signed. Can I take this opportunity to thank the lovely Anne Shuker from Hereford who I met about 5 years ago whilst she was the now defunct FPC Court Clerk and I was a lowly LA lawyer. She has highlighted with her beady eyes a few minor errors in my ebook. Hence, when the printed copies are available, you should have a word perfect publication. The anal Anne (not in the Darya sense) has also offered to be a proof-reader for the next two books for nothing except cheap Sainsbury's cava! What a girl.
Happy reading xx
Expect some pleasant (and some unpleasant) surprises for all the main characters. The imagination is very fertile at the moment with a combination of the spring, vibrant yellow fields of rape seed oil in view of my writing room and an unintentional bang on the head last night - and no, that is not a euphemism! Desperately trying not to be distracted by FB, Wii Fit and YouTube.
Thank you all for responding so enthusiastically regarding printed copies. I have exceeded my quota quite significantly, so will be ordering more. Rest assured, they will all be signed. Can I take this opportunity to thank the lovely Anne Shuker from Hereford who I met about 5 years ago whilst she was the now defunct FPC Court Clerk and I was a lowly LA lawyer. She has highlighted with her beady eyes a few minor errors in my ebook. Hence, when the printed copies are available, you should have a word perfect publication. The anal Anne (not in the Darya sense) has also offered to be a proof-reader for the next two books for nothing except cheap Sainsbury's cava! What a girl.
Happy reading xx
Thursday, 24 April 2014
A Little Knowledge for you
The inspiration for the title is at 0:34…. Kick off your shoes, lie back, close your eyes and let Green Gartside's silky vocal chords make love to your ears….
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IbRMjElVT8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IbRMjElVT8
A very important announcement…… COURT OF CONTEMPT….
Ok folks, I'm going to say this very quietly so only you can hear…. come closer… I said closer…. don't be shy…. let me see the inside of that shell-like…. right, ok…. here goes….
THE BOOK IS OUUUUUUUUTTTTTTT!!!!!!
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Court-Contempt-Family-Division-McGhee-ebook/dp/B00JJ848V6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398376192&sr=8-1&keywords=mj+mcghee
http://www.scribd.com/doc/216471085/Court-of-Contempt?fb_action_ids=1459360644300333&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=feed_opengraph&action_object_map=%7B%221459360644300333%22%3A703025703083743%7D&action_type_map=%7B%221459360644300333%22%3A%22og.likes%22%7D&action_ref_map=%5B%5D
http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/court-of-contempt
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/court-of-contempt-mj-mcghee/1119130713?ean=9781483521169
https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/court-of-contempt/id855957316?mt=11
THE BOOK IS OUUUUUUUUTTTTTTT!!!!!!
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Court-Contempt-Family-Division-McGhee-ebook/dp/B00JJ848V6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398376192&sr=8-1&keywords=mj+mcghee
http://www.scribd.com/doc/216471085/Court-of-Contempt?fb_action_ids=1459360644300333&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=feed_opengraph&action_object_map=%7B%221459360644300333%22%3A703025703083743%7D&action_type_map=%7B%221459360644300333%22%3A%22og.likes%22%7D&action_ref_map=%5B%5D
http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/court-of-contempt
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/court-of-contempt-mj-mcghee/1119130713?ean=9781483521169
https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/court-of-contempt/id855957316?mt=11
Rush out… (ok, don't do that)… stay in, and buy it from your platform of choice…. then rush out and tell your mates, their mates, their families, their extended families, compatriots, non-compatriots and Presidents!!
It would also be jolly nice to get some reviews and feedback after you have devoured it. Go on, take a train journey down to Hampshire and discover just how contemptible the world of the 'Court of Contempt' is…..
Happy Reading People xx
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