31 Oct 08. 2.17pm
Happy Halloween! Or All Hallows Eve.
Does anybody really know why we celebrate Hallow'een?? not many I'm sure, I certainly didn't really know, until today! A bit of an educational entry from me today. After some research I have the full story.
The Celts, who lived 2,000 years ago in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France, celebrated their new year on November 1. This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year that was often associated with human death. Celts believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred. On the night of October 31, they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth. In addition to causing trouble and damaging crops, Celts thought that the presence of the otherworldly spirits made it easier for the Druids, or Celtic priests, to make predictions about the future. For people entirely dependent on the volatile natural world, these prophecies were an important source of comfort and direction during the long, dark winter.
To commemorate the event, Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities.
So there you have it a brief history of Halloween. Obviously it has evolved over the years and become incredibly commercialised (mainly in the States). Trick or Treating has become rather literal and been taken to extremes in some cases which is a big shame, and actually makes it a very terrifying time of year for some people.
I shall be ready at my door this evening handing out treats to any children with costumes that I deem worthy of them...and not giving just some hooded youth demanding food. If they threaten me with a trick I shall set Louis on them...although what he would do I dont know?? Slobber all over them? thats enough to make anyone run away :)
31 Oct 2008
30 Oct 2008
The late late show
30 Oct 08, 3.35pm
Computers, don't you just love them! They're like young children. When they behave they're wonderful but they will keep falling over! Ours has been down all day, suffering with a problem that sounds like the latest aerosol wasp killer. Raid 5! Apparently it had a dead drive which took a nice man from Dell most of the day to resurrect. Happily we're now all back up and running, if a little later than planned. Sod's Law that it happened on one of the busiest days of the year but Linda, Kate, Ali, Hayley & the rest of the team proved their unflappability by calmly getting on with the job minus internet, email, spreadsheets and database. All of which begs the question...
Computers, don't you just love them! They're like young children. When they behave they're wonderful but they will keep falling over! Ours has been down all day, suffering with a problem that sounds like the latest aerosol wasp killer. Raid 5! Apparently it had a dead drive which took a nice man from Dell most of the day to resurrect. Happily we're now all back up and running, if a little later than planned. Sod's Law that it happened on one of the busiest days of the year but Linda, Kate, Ali, Hayley & the rest of the team proved their unflappability by calmly getting on with the job minus internet, email, spreadsheets and database. All of which begs the question...
29 Oct 2008
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!...
29 Oct 2008. 10.45am
Good morning from a wonderfully white Rocket Park! Yes it’s been snowing in our neck of the woods – apparently for the first time here in October since 1934! Normally I would get all excited about such an event, reverting back 20 years, on with my hat and gloves and out to play. But after a near death experience on my way to work involving black ice, a steep bend and a bollard, I must say the cold white stuff has fast lost its appeal...! I’m sure Ali and the lads would agree with me there too. Currently outside, working around the clock, their fingers to the bone, to load up vans galore with all the display kit needed for the season, the weather surely can’t be helping. The rest of us are really feeling quite guilty sat in our warm and cosy office - the guilt only slightly eased by the fact we are also furiously working away to ensure all the display admin side is 100% tickety-boo for each show. We’re winning the battle though!!
On the plus side, I’m sure Hayley’s deliciously warming hot chocolates with yummy cream and marshmallows will go down a treat today more so than ever – but be quick people - given half a chance I think I could guzzle the lot! ;o)
Good morning from a wonderfully white Rocket Park! Yes it’s been snowing in our neck of the woods – apparently for the first time here in October since 1934! Normally I would get all excited about such an event, reverting back 20 years, on with my hat and gloves and out to play. But after a near death experience on my way to work involving black ice, a steep bend and a bollard, I must say the cold white stuff has fast lost its appeal...! I’m sure Ali and the lads would agree with me there too. Currently outside, working around the clock, their fingers to the bone, to load up vans galore with all the display kit needed for the season, the weather surely can’t be helping. The rest of us are really feeling quite guilty sat in our warm and cosy office - the guilt only slightly eased by the fact we are also furiously working away to ensure all the display admin side is 100% tickety-boo for each show. We’re winning the battle though!!
On the plus side, I’m sure Hayley’s deliciously warming hot chocolates with yummy cream and marshmallows will go down a treat today more so than ever – but be quick people - given half a chance I think I could guzzle the lot! ;o)
28 Oct 2008
Off with their heads!
28 Oct 08, 10.12am
Should Jonathan Ross & Russell Brand be sacked for their BBC misdemeanour? A quick poll of the ladies here in the Fantastic Fireworks office (the lads are all outside loading vans) produced an overwhelming yes. Only Hayley came to their defence saying she could forgive them because they're both very funny. If the boys could have their say it would probably even up the score. What is certain is that by this time tomorrow it will all be forgotten.
Should Jonathan Ross & Russell Brand be sacked for their BBC misdemeanour? A quick poll of the ladies here in the Fantastic Fireworks office (the lads are all outside loading vans) produced an overwhelming yes. Only Hayley came to their defence saying she could forgive them because they're both very funny. If the boys could have their say it would probably even up the score. What is certain is that by this time tomorrow it will all be forgotten.
27 Oct 2008
The End?
27 Oct 08, 10.48am
Thank God It's Monday? With a weekend's pyro warm-up already behind us there is a feeling this Monday morning that we are peering into the foaming white water knowing that somewhere downriver, about two weeks hence, there is calm water.
Two weeks of early starts, very late finishes, thousands of logistical jigsaw pieces, frayed nerves, laughter, sometimes jovial, sometimes hysterical. And the very best way to prepare for this period? Well I type this with a dongle internet connection viewing rolling Somerset fields in a crisp autumn sun from the comfort of my motorhome enjoying my last day off before the energy mountains and stress valleys. So this week Tuesday is my Monday, so to speak.
It was Churchill who said as D Day unfolded "This is not the end, nor even the beginning of the end, but the end of the beginning". Welcome to the end of our beginning.
Thank God It's Monday? With a weekend's pyro warm-up already behind us there is a feeling this Monday morning that we are peering into the foaming white water knowing that somewhere downriver, about two weeks hence, there is calm water.
Two weeks of early starts, very late finishes, thousands of logistical jigsaw pieces, frayed nerves, laughter, sometimes jovial, sometimes hysterical. And the very best way to prepare for this period? Well I type this with a dongle internet connection viewing rolling Somerset fields in a crisp autumn sun from the comfort of my motorhome enjoying my last day off before the energy mountains and stress valleys. So this week Tuesday is my Monday, so to speak.
It was Churchill who said as D Day unfolded "This is not the end, nor even the beginning of the end, but the end of the beginning". Welcome to the end of our beginning.
26 Oct 2008
Morning after the night before
26 Oct 08, 9.12amThe 'extra hour in bed' comes in handy to get up at the usual time and start clearing up after last night's festivities. The rain held off until the small hours, allowing our annual village fireworks and Halloween party to be enjoyed by the large gathering of children all dressed up for the occasion. The soup, hot dogs and pork & apple rolls lived up to their star billing. This was all good family fun in which the adults enjoyed dressing up as much as their kids. The fireworks (Fantastic Fireworks just to remind you!) were a great success too, with Canadian pyro Fred Wade, who had flown over with this wife Lynn especially for the occasion, pressing the buttons. My job was far more life-threatening, hand-firing the rockets and roman candles. Apart from a slightly singed finger, I emerged largely unscathed to a hero's welcome! That's my fireworks fun over for another year. Now it's back to the reality of the coming fortnight - helping our team get more than 100 shows out on the road and up in the sky.
25 Oct 2008
Hot dogs, hot soup and The Scream
25 Oct 08, 9.45am
Today's blog comes to you live from the hamlet of Piccotts End in Hertfordshire, England, where preparations for tonight's community fireworks party are in full swing. My task is to assemble a selection of rockets and roman candles suitable for an audience of 70 adults and children. Tonight's display will be choreographed to music for the first time, an eclectic mix of night club and Star Wars. The firework I'm most looking forward to seeing and hearing is The Scream, a specially commissioned pyrotechnic work of art which owes much to Edvard Munch. Somehow the fireworks always look and feel more exciting in your own back garden. With hot soup, hot dogs and pork and apple rolls this is a traditional English winterfest. Long may it last.
While all this is going oin down south, the real action of the day is up at Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire. Here our senior team led by Steve and Dave are setting up tonight's annual Halloween spectacular. So far it looks like being a dry day. Fingers crossed.
Today's blog comes to you live from the hamlet of Piccotts End in Hertfordshire, England, where preparations for tonight's community fireworks party are in full swing. My task is to assemble a selection of rockets and roman candles suitable for an audience of 70 adults and children. Tonight's display will be choreographed to music for the first time, an eclectic mix of night club and Star Wars. The firework I'm most looking forward to seeing and hearing is The Scream, a specially commissioned pyrotechnic work of art which owes much to Edvard Munch. Somehow the fireworks always look and feel more exciting in your own back garden. With hot soup, hot dogs and pork and apple rolls this is a traditional English winterfest. Long may it last.
While all this is going oin down south, the real action of the day is up at Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire. Here our senior team led by Steve and Dave are setting up tonight's annual Halloween spectacular. So far it looks like being a dry day. Fingers crossed.
24 Oct 2008
Hot Chocolate Heaven
Friday 24th Oct. 5.01pm
Its official, the retail shop is now open and in full swing of things. This year to entice our customers to come along and visit we have installed a fancy tea/coffee/...and most importantly hot chocolate machine. There is nothing better on a chilly autumn day than a scrummy hot chocolate to warm the cockles, and it doesn't stop there. To crown this already yummy drink we are also providing marshmellows and sqirty cream.....absolutely heavenly. Needless to say the 'Hayley Special' as it has now been named is a hit amongst the ladies here at Rocket Park. The only downside is that you can only have one in place of your lunch due to the phenominal calorie content, a sacrifice I am more than happy to make.
We have also got fizzy pop and cartoons for the kids so that mummy and daddy can focus on their firework choice, so all in all we are unlike any other firework shop, providing a joyful family experience.
We have had a few birthdays this week at HQ, although I won't say who for fear of my life, but many happy returns to you all!!!
Its official, the retail shop is now open and in full swing of things. This year to entice our customers to come along and visit we have installed a fancy tea/coffee/...and most importantly hot chocolate machine. There is nothing better on a chilly autumn day than a scrummy hot chocolate to warm the cockles, and it doesn't stop there. To crown this already yummy drink we are also providing marshmellows and sqirty cream.....absolutely heavenly. Needless to say the 'Hayley Special' as it has now been named is a hit amongst the ladies here at Rocket Park. The only downside is that you can only have one in place of your lunch due to the phenominal calorie content, a sacrifice I am more than happy to make.
We have also got fizzy pop and cartoons for the kids so that mummy and daddy can focus on their firework choice, so all in all we are unlike any other firework shop, providing a joyful family experience.
We have had a few birthdays this week at HQ, although I won't say who for fear of my life, but many happy returns to you all!!!
22 Oct 2008
Another one bites the dust...
22 Oct 08, 1.15pm
It is with regret that I have to inform you that.................summer is over, yes I had to scrape the ice of my car window this morning and my garden had a distint white tinge to it. Don't worry though, along with the orders for overalls, tape, helmets and the even more essential tea and coffee we have ordered sunshine from 31 Oct - 9th November. We currently await delivery confirmation from our friends in the met office and will keep you posted.
It is with regret that I have to inform you that.................summer is over, yes I had to scrape the ice of my car window this morning and my garden had a distint white tinge to it. Don't worry though, along with the orders for overalls, tape, helmets and the even more essential tea and coffee we have ordered sunshine from 31 Oct - 9th November. We currently await delivery confirmation from our friends in the met office and will keep you posted.
Not Old, Just older!
23rd Oct 08, 09.00am
Yesterday I celebrated another Birthday at FF. It really is the wrong industry to work in if you want to go out and celebrate but still get up the next day at 5am. Thank you to everyone who signed my card.
I would also like to say a big thank you to everyone who has sponsored Team FF (Me) so far for the Santa Run. I am impressed by the faith you have in me actually being able to complete the run. My punishing training schedule will start after the season as I do not intend on letting anyone down.
"I like the bed that I'm sleepin in,
Just like me It's broken in,
It's not old .
Just older!"
Yesterday I celebrated another Birthday at FF. It really is the wrong industry to work in if you want to go out and celebrate but still get up the next day at 5am. Thank you to everyone who signed my card.
I would also like to say a big thank you to everyone who has sponsored Team FF (Me) so far for the Santa Run. I am impressed by the faith you have in me actually being able to complete the run. My punishing training schedule will start after the season as I do not intend on letting anyone down.
"I like the bed that I'm sleepin in,
Just like me It's broken in,
It's not old .
Just older!"
21 Oct 2008
Calm before the Storm
21 Oct 08, 9.10am
A busy weekend training again and a fine batch of new recruits have decided they too wish to work like dogs, in cold wet fields up and down the country all for that 10/20 minute adrenaline buzz. Welcome aboard! Yesterday saw the last of the designs finished and we now have risk assessments coming out of our ears. Otherwise all seems scarily calm.
A busy weekend training again and a fine batch of new recruits have decided they too wish to work like dogs, in cold wet fields up and down the country all for that 10/20 minute adrenaline buzz. Welcome aboard! Yesterday saw the last of the designs finished and we now have risk assessments coming out of our ears. Otherwise all seems scarily calm.
20 Oct 2008
Every day we die a little ...
20 Oct 08, 5.50pm
So go the words to the song. It seems to be a medical fact that when people die of natural causes quite a high proportion do so at around 4 a.m. in the morning. The body is at its lowest ebb. Here at Fantastic Fireworks, and I suspect at many other businesses, the witching hour is 9am on Monday mornings. Not only is this a popular time for people to call in sick, but for computer systems to 'go sick' too, like this morning. Our system had a tantrum and needed a lot of loving care to coax it into the beginning of another week of humming and whirring. And it rained. The Carpenters sang 'Rainy Days and Mondays' and we all know the Boomtown Rats didn't much care for the day either. So if you are feeling a bit icky, then pinch yourself awake at around 4 a.m., and if you are a computer try going straight from Sunday to Tuesday.
So go the words to the song. It seems to be a medical fact that when people die of natural causes quite a high proportion do so at around 4 a.m. in the morning. The body is at its lowest ebb. Here at Fantastic Fireworks, and I suspect at many other businesses, the witching hour is 9am on Monday mornings. Not only is this a popular time for people to call in sick, but for computer systems to 'go sick' too, like this morning. Our system had a tantrum and needed a lot of loving care to coax it into the beginning of another week of humming and whirring. And it rained. The Carpenters sang 'Rainy Days and Mondays' and we all know the Boomtown Rats didn't much care for the day either. So if you are feeling a bit icky, then pinch yourself awake at around 4 a.m., and if you are a computer try going straight from Sunday to Tuesday.
19 Oct 2008
The Play's the thing
19 Oct 08, 10.54am
Having a theatre only a short walk from where I live is one of the bonuses of town life. Hemel Hempstead's excellent Old Town Theatre is a small, intimate 100-seater, perfect for the sort of rivetting play we saw last night. Humble Boy, by Charlotte Jones, mixes comedy and pathos in a spell-binding two hours which examine relationships and the dynamics which make or break them. The closing scene was so tense you could hear a pin drop. Well done to the cast of London Classic Theatre for a superb production. With the outstanding Rex cinema in neighbouring Berkhamsted and the Old Town Theatre both on our doorsteps we're lucky to have two counter-attractions to Strictly Come Dancing and the X-Factor.
Having a theatre only a short walk from where I live is one of the bonuses of town life. Hemel Hempstead's excellent Old Town Theatre is a small, intimate 100-seater, perfect for the sort of rivetting play we saw last night. Humble Boy, by Charlotte Jones, mixes comedy and pathos in a spell-binding two hours which examine relationships and the dynamics which make or break them. The closing scene was so tense you could hear a pin drop. Well done to the cast of London Classic Theatre for a superb production. With the outstanding Rex cinema in neighbouring Berkhamsted and the Old Town Theatre both on our doorsteps we're lucky to have two counter-attractions to Strictly Come Dancing and the X-Factor.
18 Oct 2008
Blogging from the motorway
18 Oct 08, 1.35pm
For every satisfied customer there is a mountain of logistics that produced the display. For every display there are miles to drive - lots of them. So I am sending this blog from The M1 (hands free of course) and Chris at FF HQ has agreed to be my typist.
We drive miles for site visits and presentations, miles to move stock around so it is in the right place at the right time, and even more miles to carry out the display itself. Part of the job specification for a professional pyrotechnist must be to enjoy driving, often in the dark, and often in the early hours of the morning. Today I made the trip from the Northern Office to Luton to collect material for upcoming displays - about 6 hours round trip. It's just as well Fantastic Fireworks are aiming towards carbon-neutral status.
Hey Ho, I'm a pyrotechnician tee hee hee
Hey Ho, it's the motorway life for me.
Steve B
For every satisfied customer there is a mountain of logistics that produced the display. For every display there are miles to drive - lots of them. So I am sending this blog from The M1 (hands free of course) and Chris at FF HQ has agreed to be my typist.
We drive miles for site visits and presentations, miles to move stock around so it is in the right place at the right time, and even more miles to carry out the display itself. Part of the job specification for a professional pyrotechnist must be to enjoy driving, often in the dark, and often in the early hours of the morning. Today I made the trip from the Northern Office to Luton to collect material for upcoming displays - about 6 hours round trip. It's just as well Fantastic Fireworks are aiming towards carbon-neutral status.
Hey Ho, I'm a pyrotechnician tee hee hee
Hey Ho, it's the motorway life for me.
Steve B
17 Oct 2008
Tick Tick Boom!
17 Oct 2008 2:01
OK so here is the answer (to last Friday's puzzle) you have all been waiting for! You completely fill the 5 gallon jug. From the 5 gallon jug fill the 3 gallon jug leaving you with two gallons in the 5 gallon jug. Empty the 3 gallon jug and pour the two gallons into the 3 gallon jug. Refill the five gallon jug and pour what you can to fill the 3 gallon jug. You now have four gallons in the 5 gallon jug!! Hooray!
Well done to all those that got it right.
And for all you film buffs out there, this problem appeared in Die Hard With A Vengeance. Bruce Willis and Samuel L Jackson have about 2 minutes to solve this problem and place exactly 4 gallons onto a scale to defuse a bomb in a busy city centre. Definitely worth a watch to see how they get on.
OK so here is the answer (to last Friday's puzzle) you have all been waiting for! You completely fill the 5 gallon jug. From the 5 gallon jug fill the 3 gallon jug leaving you with two gallons in the 5 gallon jug. Empty the 3 gallon jug and pour the two gallons into the 3 gallon jug. Refill the five gallon jug and pour what you can to fill the 3 gallon jug. You now have four gallons in the 5 gallon jug!! Hooray!
Well done to all those that got it right.
And for all you film buffs out there, this problem appeared in Die Hard With A Vengeance. Bruce Willis and Samuel L Jackson have about 2 minutes to solve this problem and place exactly 4 gallons onto a scale to defuse a bomb in a busy city centre. Definitely worth a watch to see how they get on.
16 Oct 2008
Now Ian, you can give up the day job
16 Oct 08, 10.12pm
Great to see our sister company ConfettiMagic showering Britain's Olympic heroes in confetti and streamers on TV today. Confetti has become the daytime must-have for any celebration & ConfettiMagic has established itself as first choice for event organisers like Jack Morton. From England's Rugby World Cup victory parade & the Ashes victory celebrations to today's London parade, ConfettiMagic is always at the heart of the action. The man behind this success is Fantastic Fireworks director Ian Woodroof. Ian leads a double life, as confetti master by day and firemaster by night. Well done Ian. Now you can get back to designing some of FF's firework displays!
20 days and counting...
16 Oct 08, 12.42am (from Henry in Peru)
Just wishing you all luck in the last 3 weeks running up to the big day. Things here have been good, we haven´t been shot at for at least 4 weeks and have spent time in the Andes. Glad to see the blog providing riddles and recipes, if only I could get to those apples!
Ali, still haven`t seen the phone holders and leave Peru in 2 days. I will keep my eyes open though...
Just wishing you all luck in the last 3 weeks running up to the big day. Things here have been good, we haven´t been shot at for at least 4 weeks and have spent time in the Andes. Glad to see the blog providing riddles and recipes, if only I could get to those apples!
Ali, still haven`t seen the phone holders and leave Peru in 2 days. I will keep my eyes open though...
15 Oct 2008
Late Nights And Early Mornings
16 Oct 08, 6.30am (from Tom sleep-walking)
You know you're spending more time at work than at home when someone asks you what colour your sofa is and you can't remember. The Season is here and the intrepid Site Team are putting in the hours to ensure that everything is ready in time. We have been so busy that there is no longer time to play the ritual pranks on each other, however some members of the Team have started to produce their own works of "Art". It's times like these that people really show what they're made of and I can assure you that the Fantastic Fireworks Team outside are made of pure steel!
You know you're spending more time at work than at home when someone asks you what colour your sofa is and you can't remember. The Season is here and the intrepid Site Team are putting in the hours to ensure that everything is ready in time. We have been so busy that there is no longer time to play the ritual pranks on each other, however some members of the Team have started to produce their own works of "Art". It's times like these that people really show what they're made of and I can assure you that the Fantastic Fireworks Team outside are made of pure steel!
The difficult second blog...
15 Oct 08, 11.40am
Much like you hear bands talking about their ‘difficult second album’ or authors referring to their ‘difficult second novel’, we now have my difficult second blog...! I’ve been so busy printing, copying and laminating I honestly haven’t had time to let the creative juices flow this week! It seems I even have work lurking in the depths of my sub-conscious at the moment - to my embarrassment I was told I was mumbling about rockets, of all things, in my sleep the other night! Oh dear... it must be bad!!
So as I hurry back to my laminating frenzy, and in the spirit of the diverse blogs we’ve seen recently (poems, facts, riddles and quizzes to name but a few) I shall leave you today with a ‘Kate’s Top Tip’!* If there are any apples left in the kitchen, take some home, peel and slice, lightly fry with some shallots in a little butter and a splash of water. Meanwhile brown off pork chops in a pan, then add to the apples & shallots, cover, and let simmer in the apple juices for a few mins. Serve the chops with a spoonful of the apples & shallots on top, & some new potatoes and green veg... Mm-mm delish!! (Eat your heart out Nigella!)
* Please note I take no responsibility for any burnt kitchens or food poisoning as a result! ;o)
Much like you hear bands talking about their ‘difficult second album’ or authors referring to their ‘difficult second novel’, we now have my difficult second blog...! I’ve been so busy printing, copying and laminating I honestly haven’t had time to let the creative juices flow this week! It seems I even have work lurking in the depths of my sub-conscious at the moment - to my embarrassment I was told I was mumbling about rockets, of all things, in my sleep the other night! Oh dear... it must be bad!!
So as I hurry back to my laminating frenzy, and in the spirit of the diverse blogs we’ve seen recently (poems, facts, riddles and quizzes to name but a few) I shall leave you today with a ‘Kate’s Top Tip’!* If there are any apples left in the kitchen, take some home, peel and slice, lightly fry with some shallots in a little butter and a splash of water. Meanwhile brown off pork chops in a pan, then add to the apples & shallots, cover, and let simmer in the apple juices for a few mins. Serve the chops with a spoonful of the apples & shallots on top, & some new potatoes and green veg... Mm-mm delish!! (Eat your heart out Nigella!)
* Please note I take no responsibility for any burnt kitchens or food poisoning as a result! ;o)
14 Oct 2008
Going Shopping
14 Oct 08, 4.14 pm
Isn't spending money such FUN! However, when you are a business and you need to keep a tight reign is has to be CONTROLLED fun. My title of Operations Manager at Fantastic Fireworks sometimes translates to Chief Shopper. To go into a season with 100+ giant shows using 100+ giant firers and 200+ van-hire-days you need to make sure you do not run out of (takes a deep breath)* air gun nail pins, sticky hazard diamonds, 300mm wooden stakes, narrow guage electrical wire, fire extinguishers, helmets, hazard barrier tape, tachometer discs, gloves, elastic bands, mortar tubes, foil tape, hooded sweatshirts, vehicle hazard marking signs, sledgehammers, 'cake' boards, garden rakes, cable ties, black refuse sacks, 500mm wooden stakes, tie wire, overalls, and, essential to the fundamental functionality of employees, coffee. Lots of it.
* the list is MUCH longer but you get the gist ...
Isn't spending money such FUN! However, when you are a business and you need to keep a tight reign is has to be CONTROLLED fun. My title of Operations Manager at Fantastic Fireworks sometimes translates to Chief Shopper. To go into a season with 100+ giant shows using 100+ giant firers and 200+ van-hire-days you need to make sure you do not run out of (takes a deep breath)* air gun nail pins, sticky hazard diamonds, 300mm wooden stakes, narrow guage electrical wire, fire extinguishers, helmets, hazard barrier tape, tachometer discs, gloves, elastic bands, mortar tubes, foil tape, hooded sweatshirts, vehicle hazard marking signs, sledgehammers, 'cake' boards, garden rakes, cable ties, black refuse sacks, 500mm wooden stakes, tie wire, overalls, and, essential to the fundamental functionality of employees, coffee. Lots of it.
* the list is MUCH longer but you get the gist ...
13 Oct 2008
Apples a-plenty
13 Oct 08, 9.20am
Here at Rocket Park we don't just do fireworks. The season of mists and mellow fruitfulness has brought a bumper crop of apples. The office kitchen is brimming with a feast of russets all waiting to be eaten. For connoisseurs the Egremont Russet is a traditional English apple, with a distinctive pale yellow and orange skin, a mellow mouthful on its own or the perfect partner with a slice of cheese. Pink Lady and Golden Delicious it isn't. If you'd like to sample this rare treat, please call by any time soon. They're not good keepers but hurry and we'll keep some for you!
Here at Rocket Park we don't just do fireworks. The season of mists and mellow fruitfulness has brought a bumper crop of apples. The office kitchen is brimming with a feast of russets all waiting to be eaten. For connoisseurs the Egremont Russet is a traditional English apple, with a distinctive pale yellow and orange skin, a mellow mouthful on its own or the perfect partner with a slice of cheese. Pink Lady and Golden Delicious it isn't. If you'd like to sample this rare treat, please call by any time soon. They're not good keepers but hurry and we'll keep some for you!
12 Oct 2008
Now Hamilton will have to do it the hard way
12 Oct 08, 8.45am
Lewis Hamilton is giving all UK motor racing fans a nerve-jangling finish to the season. It always seems to be the way with British sportsmen. They like to do it the hard way, keeping us on the edge of our seats right to the finish. Compare that with Aussie cricket where the home fans just assume their team will win, or the way Swiss tennis fans must feel about Roger Federer. With England's football team on a roll at the moment it's tempting to think they might eventually be put in the same category, but don't bet on it. They have flattered to deceive too many times before.
Lewis Hamilton is giving all UK motor racing fans a nerve-jangling finish to the season. It always seems to be the way with British sportsmen. They like to do it the hard way, keeping us on the edge of our seats right to the finish. Compare that with Aussie cricket where the home fans just assume their team will win, or the way Swiss tennis fans must feel about Roger Federer. With England's football team on a roll at the moment it's tempting to think they might eventually be put in the same category, but don't bet on it. They have flattered to deceive too many times before.
11 Oct 2008
The one that got away!!
11 Oct 08, 11.30am
With a day off from the office Dave has gone fishing today, braving the driving rain to catch the Big One as we once again open the doors of the Manchester Rocket Shop. Not sure about the validity of the fishermen's tales about 'the one that got away' we sent our superspy Digicam to see what was really going on. The picture on the right says it all....... Fishy or What??
10 Oct 2008
Something for the Weekend
10 Oct 2008, 11:30am
Here's a little puzzle for you to think about. With a 3 gallon jug and a 5 gallon jug your task is to measure out EXACTLY 4 gallons of water. Apart from as much water as you like, you can only use the two jugs to solve this. For bonus points, name the film this puzzle appeared in.
Answers to follow next week.
Here's a little puzzle for you to think about. With a 3 gallon jug and a 5 gallon jug your task is to measure out EXACTLY 4 gallons of water. Apart from as much water as you like, you can only use the two jugs to solve this. For bonus points, name the film this puzzle appeared in.
Answers to follow next week.
8 Oct 2008
Imagine
09 Oct 08, 6.38am
If the World was a different place John Lennon would be celebrating his 68th birthday today. The word Legend does not do him justice when you consider all that he accomplished in his life. So if you are one of the millions of people who own one of his records, stick one on your stereo and take a moment to spare a thought for one of our all time greats.
On a lighter note I am still waiting for another member of the Fantastic Fireworks team to step up and join me on my Santa Run!
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". J Lennon
If the World was a different place John Lennon would be celebrating his 68th birthday today. The word Legend does not do him justice when you consider all that he accomplished in his life. So if you are one of the millions of people who own one of his records, stick one on your stereo and take a moment to spare a thought for one of our all time greats.
On a lighter note I am still waiting for another member of the Fantastic Fireworks team to step up and join me on my Santa Run!
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". J Lennon
Who am I ?
08 Oct 08, 8.38am
An insight to my life in real
Just so you get a good feel
Of who's in the office at the end of the phone
And who am I really when I get home?
When I leave Fantastic I walk the streets
I ply my trade to the people I meet
I ring on their door with my special ding dong
But whatever you're thinking you're probably wrong!
You can give me a call for a brochure for free
There's something to tempt the whole family
It's AVON I sell and with Christmas so near
Why not let me fill your stockings this year..
An insight to my life in real
Just so you get a good feel
Of who's in the office at the end of the phone
And who am I really when I get home?
When I leave Fantastic I walk the streets
I ply my trade to the people I meet
I ring on their door with my special ding dong
But whatever you're thinking you're probably wrong!
You can give me a call for a brochure for free
There's something to tempt the whole family
It's AVON I sell and with Christmas so near
Why not let me fill your stockings this year..
7 Oct 2008
A Day at the Races
07 Oct 08, 1.53pm
Ok so it's the busiest time of the year and guess what I had to do yesterday..... spend the day at the races. Drink champagne and present the cup to the winner of the Fantastic Fireworks Sponsored Race at Royal Windsor racecourse. I know I will pay for it for the rest of the week trying to catch up but it was brilliant, and I won £20 on my careful £2 each way betting.
Ok so it's the busiest time of the year and guess what I had to do yesterday..... spend the day at the races. Drink champagne and present the cup to the winner of the Fantastic Fireworks Sponsored Race at Royal Windsor racecourse. I know I will pay for it for the rest of the week trying to catch up but it was brilliant, and I won £20 on my careful £2 each way betting.
6 Oct 2008
Well done to the Poets of Pyro
06 Oct 08, 12.30pm
Congratulations to Jubilee Fireworks who were last night crowned Champion of Champions at the British Musical Fireworks competition. Although I was present as competitions clerk and therefore strictly neutral, it's a pleasure for me now to be able to say that Jubilee put on a display of pure musical and visual poetry. The standard reached by all those taking part showed that the UK industry can produce truly world class displays. Fantastic Fireworks played a significant role each evening of the three-day event at Southport, Merseyside. While not taking part, we were invited to produce a pre-show demonstration of firework effects for the nightly audience. Our thanks to PK Roberts for volunteering to be visiting Professor of Pyrotechnics for the weekend.
Congratulations to Jubilee Fireworks who were last night crowned Champion of Champions at the British Musical Fireworks competition. Although I was present as competitions clerk and therefore strictly neutral, it's a pleasure for me now to be able to say that Jubilee put on a display of pure musical and visual poetry. The standard reached by all those taking part showed that the UK industry can produce truly world class displays. Fantastic Fireworks played a significant role each evening of the three-day event at Southport, Merseyside. While not taking part, we were invited to produce a pre-show demonstration of firework effects for the nightly audience. Our thanks to PK Roberts for volunteering to be visiting Professor of Pyrotechnics for the weekend.
5 Oct 2008
It's raining again
05 Oct 08, 9.45am
There's nothing else for it, I'm just sitting here downloading useless gadgets for my iphone. Most useless is probably the Speedometer which tells me how fast I'm going (currently 0mph but may come in useful to test out whether Eurostar really does travel at 225mph). Next up is the DecibelMeter. Even in the quiet of a Sunday morning ambient noise is measuring 32db (that's me eating toast). Last but not least is the Seismometer which will tell me if we have an earthquake and if so how severe. For clients who want Fantastic Fireworks to make the earth move, I am now fully equipped to prove a point.
There's nothing else for it, I'm just sitting here downloading useless gadgets for my iphone. Most useless is probably the Speedometer which tells me how fast I'm going (currently 0mph but may come in useful to test out whether Eurostar really does travel at 225mph). Next up is the DecibelMeter. Even in the quiet of a Sunday morning ambient noise is measuring 32db (that's me eating toast). Last but not least is the Seismometer which will tell me if we have an earthquake and if so how severe. For clients who want Fantastic Fireworks to make the earth move, I am now fully equipped to prove a point.
4 Oct 2008
That Time of Year Again.....
04 Oct 08 14.00
Its true what they say about years going by quicker as each one passes and today sees the Manchester Rocket Shop move up a gear and into full swing for the season with the northern team once again says Hello to Heather and the girls who will be on hand to deal with the expected rush....... It is also rumoured that somewhere in the FF community there is a certain person with a birthday today - So, 'Happy Birthday' whoever you may be from everyone connected with FF......
BTW... no prizes given for those of you that guess who the birthday boy is!!
Its true what they say about years going by quicker as each one passes and today sees the Manchester Rocket Shop move up a gear and into full swing for the season with the northern team once again says Hello to Heather and the girls who will be on hand to deal with the expected rush....... It is also rumoured that somewhere in the FF community there is a certain person with a birthday today - So, 'Happy Birthday' whoever you may be from everyone connected with FF......
BTW... no prizes given for those of you that guess who the birthday boy is!!
3 Oct 2008
Boys will be boys
Oct 3rd. 14.10pm
Here at HQ I think all us bloggers do a sterling job of keeping everyone up to date on the latest news in the office....but what about out of the office???? Our wonderful team outside...putting up with whatever mother nature has to throw at them, to prepare shows for our even more wonderful audience.
It's a tough job outside in the elements away from a cosy office and soft chair...so what do our FF boys do to keep their spirits up? That's right, you guessed it. They play pranks on each other.
I am sure many more go on than the few I have giggled over. Just today one of them (who shall remain nameless) brought in a trick lighter, so when your thumb turns the wheel to create the spark instead of producing a calm small flame you proceeded to receive a fairly hefty electric shock! Poor Paul was caught out, and the first to have a nasty surprise. Just last week Toby went to retrieve his mobile phone from the site office only to find it completely encased in gaffer tape!
Needless to say a small war has been declared between them and they shall continue to play tricks on each other at every opportunity. Who knows what will happen in the next 6 weeks as the season unfolds.....
Here at HQ I think all us bloggers do a sterling job of keeping everyone up to date on the latest news in the office....but what about out of the office???? Our wonderful team outside...putting up with whatever mother nature has to throw at them, to prepare shows for our even more wonderful audience.
It's a tough job outside in the elements away from a cosy office and soft chair...so what do our FF boys do to keep their spirits up? That's right, you guessed it. They play pranks on each other.
I am sure many more go on than the few I have giggled over. Just today one of them (who shall remain nameless) brought in a trick lighter, so when your thumb turns the wheel to create the spark instead of producing a calm small flame you proceeded to receive a fairly hefty electric shock! Poor Paul was caught out, and the first to have a nasty surprise. Just last week Toby went to retrieve his mobile phone from the site office only to find it completely encased in gaffer tape!
Needless to say a small war has been declared between them and they shall continue to play tricks on each other at every opportunity. Who knows what will happen in the next 6 weeks as the season unfolds.....
2 Oct 2008
The Running Man
02 Oct 08, 2.15pm
Today I have decided to do my bit for charity. I will be running 5km whilst dressed as Santa for The Pasque Charity and Keech Cottage hospice in Luton. It is supposed to be a Fun Run but as always my competitive nature makes me think I will take it all too seriously.
I am currently working on several members of the Fantastic Fireworks staff to join me in my public humiliation. I am sure that they will not let me down and they too will be willing to take one for the Team!
Today I have decided to do my bit for charity. I will be running 5km whilst dressed as Santa for The Pasque Charity and Keech Cottage hospice in Luton. It is supposed to be a Fun Run but as always my competitive nature makes me think I will take it all too seriously.
I am currently working on several members of the Fantastic Fireworks staff to join me in my public humiliation. I am sure that they will not let me down and they too will be willing to take one for the Team!
1 Oct 2008
Stop me if you've heard this one before...
01 Oct 08, 11.31am
Well one week in, and what an explosive week it's been! I'm really starting to find my feet and will soon be coming out of my shell (boom boom!). I've been having a blast with you all and can't help but feel that this is the start of a sparkling new career! ....Ok ok I’ll stop with the puns now, I can hear your groans of despair from here!!
I can honestly say this pyro malarkey is a whole new world for me. Not least discovering that some people would like to depart this mortal coil in a rocket! I'm actually liking that idea more and more... In fact as I write this I am venturing into yet deeper & darker unknown territory - I am losing my bloginity!! (gulp) There is no going back now...
I've been up to all sorts so far - from researching Disney characters on the internet, to getting to grips with all the curious FF lingo - vulcans or silver spinner coconuts anyone?! - and giving my humble opinion on Kajagoogoo and Kool & The Gang!! I have also laminated the first of a trillion firing orders. I feel the laminating machine & I are going to become the best of friends – or arch enemies – before the season is out!!
Anyway, before I rush back to my (at the moment) new best friend, I would just like to say a big thank you to all those I have met so far for the very warm welcome, and I am looking forward to meeting the rest of you soon :o)
Well one week in, and what an explosive week it's been! I'm really starting to find my feet and will soon be coming out of my shell (boom boom!). I've been having a blast with you all and can't help but feel that this is the start of a sparkling new career! ....Ok ok I’ll stop with the puns now, I can hear your groans of despair from here!!
I can honestly say this pyro malarkey is a whole new world for me. Not least discovering that some people would like to depart this mortal coil in a rocket! I'm actually liking that idea more and more... In fact as I write this I am venturing into yet deeper & darker unknown territory - I am losing my bloginity!! (gulp) There is no going back now...
I've been up to all sorts so far - from researching Disney characters on the internet, to getting to grips with all the curious FF lingo - vulcans or silver spinner coconuts anyone?! - and giving my humble opinion on Kajagoogoo and Kool & The Gang!! I have also laminated the first of a trillion firing orders. I feel the laminating machine & I are going to become the best of friends – or arch enemies – before the season is out!!
Anyway, before I rush back to my (at the moment) new best friend, I would just like to say a big thank you to all those I have met so far for the very warm welcome, and I am looking forward to meeting the rest of you soon :o)
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