Mark Watson the Comedian

169 comments

1. Posted by Knox on May 13, 2011

   Wow – reading all these comments took a little longer than expected!

2. Posted by Knox on May 12, 2011

   Yet another postscript – Elliecat – do you by any chance offer/know a good place for BSL practise? I’m just finishing my level 1, and know I will forget everything very soon (actually, have had a few weeks without class, and feel everything’s slipped away)

3. Posted by Knox on May 12, 2011

   ps – at Anna – I agree about Mooncups!! (maybe a little too much info, but really – everyone should know about them!!)

   pps – Emily – I’m currently listening to, and enjoying Motion Theory – so far, remind me a little of Incubus, if that makes any sense

   3ps – yes, I am reading ALL the comments on this one. I forgot to mention, I am just a *little* bit OCPD in the ‘I’ve started so I’ll finish’ sense. Also, Lydia – I understand about sniffing cups – friends know I need to wash cups clean out of the cupboard – I get uncomfortable drinking at peoples’ houses when I can’t feasibly do this…

4. Posted by Knox on May 12, 2011

   Hmmm – about a year late with this, but here goes:

   Hi. I’m Wasi. I’m going to be 32 next month. I’m an SLT by trade, but work part-time, because there are so many other things I’d like to be doing with my time. Next year I plan to move to Glasgow to do a PG Dip in counselling. I may stay, as despite being a proud Londoner, I am absolutely in love with Scotland.

   “I prefer writing to people than speaking to them face-to-face” – Amy – me too! That’s why I tend to get very excited by this whole blog, and stuff like facebook – the SAD dream way of making friends. Or possibly not. I do love people, but am very paranoid, and worry that I often make an idiot of myself.

   I am a loud-singing often grinning activist, and I love comedy, music, spoken word/poetry, reading, writing, photography, films, languages, scrabble, baking, and people. I really do love people – I think they have the potential to be so awesome, and I have a bad habit of wanting to be friends with many more people than is possible, just based on demonstrations of how lovely and cool they are. My 5 year old niece is my favourite human in the whole world.

   I have a habit of being into a lot of things that I don’t tend to find a lot of other (obvious) Muslims at (oh yeah, I’m Muslim), such as ecology, comedy gigs and live music, which is a shame, as it sometimes fuels my social anxiety. That said, I’m not going to stop going to stuff because I’m paranoid about being the only hijabi in the room. This seems to have been the story of my life, as I was privately fostered from a very young age – when I started secondary school in Kent, I was the only black girl, and one of three muslims in the whole school. It was alright though – just means I’m a bit mixed up.

   I am nocturnal, and hardly ever get enough sleep. I have an atrocious memory, truly pathological, and people rarely believe the extent of it, as it’s a bit weird and haphazard. I believe these two things are related.

   I play guitar, am growing dreads (not that anyone can see them), and have a habit of shopping mainly at charity shops. Libraries are my second home, and books are quite probably my favourite creation. Apart, possibly, from writing materials – I am a stationary freak, with a penchant for Diddl (german cartoon mouse).

   I started reading the blog, then completely dropped out when I descended into a bit of a depressingly overwhelming state on and off for a long while. So now I’m back, and catching up, slowly but surely. I’m gutted at all I’ve missed, but looking forward to being up to date (possibly by the summer!).

   w xxx

   ps – i have a tendency to always write far. too. much.

5. Posted by Andrew on August 2, 2010

   Very belatedly, I will add myself to the demographic. I am, it would appear from the comments left by others, an implausibly old reader given that I am 42. I have four kids and support Oxford United. These are the only salient facts about me really. As my sporadic comments may reveal, I am slowly working my way through the entries getting up to date. We Need Answers was one of my favourite TV shows of recent years.

6. Posted by Ally on May 5, 2010

   I’m a little late to this party But thought I should leave a note to say you should definitely do a book launch in Sydney. In my opinion at least. I’m sure that it wouldn’t be too hard to get together a number of people

7. Posted by James on May 3, 2010

   I have left it ages to post my introduction because I was trying to think of something interesting to say but I still can so here’s the basics:

   My names is James

   I am 20 year old (and I really hate not being a teenager any more mostly because I don’t really feel I made the most of my teenage years)

   I study Cybernetics at Reading University (yes I am a nerd but I’m trying to correct that)

   When I’m not in Reading I live in a tiny village just outside of Cheltenham (Which feels like the middle of nowhere)

   I have only just been introduced to comedy by a friend I met at university but I am really enjoying discovering it

   Ok, turns out I had more to say than I thought.

8. Posted by MusicalLottie on May 2, 2010

   Hi, I’m Charlotte and I’m 20. I have a tendency to ramble so will attempt to restrain myself!

   Although nowhere near as busy as Mark, I am fairly busy so I don’t get to read the blog every day. I then catch up after a few days, or after (*ahem*) a week or so. But I do read every post, and try to read most of the comments too.

   When I comment I usually end up writing an essay, which is part of the reason I don’t comment all that often. Or I write an essay which makes NO sense whatsoever and decide to scrap it.

   This is my third – no, fourth – attempt at this comment and it still ended up a bit of a ramble. Sorry!

9. Posted by dazzling on May 1, 2010

   This is pretty much the only interesting thing that ever happened to me, but I swear it is 100%, straight up, honestly, genuinely true.

   I once blew out the chance to be Britney Spears’ “+1″ at a party in Vegas, because I thought it was a wind-up. It wasn’t. Honestly. Ok, don’t believe me then.

10. Posted by Lina on May 1, 2010

    I guess I’m late with this, but I’m just now catching up after traveling and getting stranded by the volcano. I’m a Canadian who is studying in England for the year (Bristol, to be precise). I started following Mark on twitter, which then pointed me toward this blog. I love how incredibly friendly of an internet corner it is! Even though I’m not that participatory I still feel like I’m part of all these excellent projects. I guess I should get involved with all the rigamarole while I’m still here and not an ocean away. . .

11. Posted by Britt on April 30, 2010

    It’s quite fascinating to see all the different people who read this blog.

    I’m Britt – @brittinboots on twitter. I’m a student [French/Cultural Studies], freelance writer, and amateur television producer. One day I’d like to be paid to write questions for music quiz shows.

12. Posted by Jackiec on April 30, 2010

    Hi I’m Jackie, age 35 and 20 days, married to Andrew, mum to Mahale, and I am a photographer – part time at the minute, but hoping to make it pay and turn full time when Mahale starts school. I read all Mark’s blogs, but am playing catch up tonight as have missed a few days. Am also a TYSICer, quietly in the background, so am here for the long game!

13. Posted by Caleb on April 29, 2010

    Hi, I’m Caleb, 26 years old but look about 16… sounds good? Not as a smoker and someone who likes to generally socialise in a pub type scenario.
    -If I have to hear “Sure, have you got ID?” one more time I think I may end up setting fire to the orange harpy behind the counter, and stand back and laugh as her synthetic fibred uniform ignites the carcinogenic wonder-sticks.
    - I would never do that, however much I was tempted.
    - I miss Mark’s Back of the Net posts, however I understand that with this blog he has other things on his mind, and little time on his hands to write absurd football stories.

14. Posted by Carey on April 29, 2010

    Hello I’m Carey and female unlike the one Joni Mitchell sings about. I’m 22 and studying for an Ancient Narractive Literature MA in Wales. I’m originally from Birmingham.

    I usually read but don’t often comment, don’t have too much to write that is worth reading tbh.

    - I am usually honest to the point of brutality. I can’t help it I just say what I think. Don’t usually see the point in half honesty.
    - I’ve been doing Latin for four years. It is the only other language I know. I can see it being so useful when I apply for a job.
    - I am dyslexic.
    - I never fancied a teacher when I was at school and mourn my lack of involvement in this rite of passage.
    - I had no idea who Mark Watson was until I watched a random episode of ‘Never Mind the Buzzcocks’, looked at my boyfriend and said ‘He’s really hot. On a parr with Alan Rickman and Jeremy Irons hot. I havn’t said that about anyone since I was 15 and added Jeremy Irons to that status.’ My boyfriend rolled his eyes. (Congratulations on being attractive Mark.)
    - Does that make me sound creepy? I’m not creepy. Really.
    - I am terrified of Spiders. They are evil.

15. Posted by glamlovinkitty on April 29, 2010

    Can anyone resist talking about themselves?

    I can’t.

    I’m Helen, I’m 38 and I live in Glasgow. By day, policy manager in a large university. By night, wine drinker, gig-goer and mischief maker.

    I’m a long time vegetarian. My user name refers not to me being glam (those of you who’ve met me will confirm this), but refers instead to my love of glam. I’m a rock chick stuck in the past – precisely, the late 80s and the era of Motley Crue, Poison, and all those other delicious glam men.

    I live with Adam (sturmwulfe on twitter) and our three rescue cats. And I love tattoos.

16. Posted by Mel on April 29, 2010

    Hi! I’m Mel! It’s Melinda. I’m 25, live in Melbourne but grew up in country victoria (where the fires went through last year. I’m the fourth child in a family of six kids and teach Maths/Science/Biology at a rough (by Melbourne standards) school.
    Please come to Melbs mark! I’ll come and. I’ll bring friends.

17. Posted by Rose on April 29, 2010

    Hi I’m Rose, and I was pleasantly surprised going through the comments to find another Rose, a Rosie, and a Rosanna! High five gals! The name ‘Rose’ seems to be pretty auspicious. I am vaguely planning to go into radio, and there is a DJ at Triple J in Australia called Rosie as well as one in my hometown of Victoria, BC, Canada called Rozie who works at The Zone. So I consider that a good omen!

    I am currently on exchange with uni in Melbourne, Australia. The things I miss most about home are: my family, my friends, my dad’s cooking/my favourite restaurants, volunteering at the community radio station and fringe theatre company, my cat. Some things about Melbourne that are better than Victoria, BC: *so* many free festivals, phenomenal architecture (19th century and modern; Fed Square is probably my second favourite building in the world after Notre Dame de Paris), the Comedy Festival OF COURSE (even though Mark wasn’t there this year), people are more chipper and outgoing than in Canada (except in admin, in which case Canadians’ politeness shines through!).

    One of the greatest things about Canada is our incredible music scene. If anyone’s looking for some good tunes, I urge you to check out Patrick Watson, Owen Pallett (used to be known as Final Fantasy), and Lhasa de Sela (recently passed away; she is missed). If you folks on this blog have semi-similar musical taste to Mark, I bet you’ll like ‘em!!

18. Posted by Kate W on April 29, 2010

    Firstly, yes I’d definitely come to a launch in London in September. Secondly, surely to fit in with the title/theme of the book, it should hit 11 on the fun scale? Thirdly, two mildly interesting/odd about me; I once carried a giant mushroom with the drummer from The Lightening Seeds and I’ve had a bath at Penelope Keith’s house.

19. Posted by Alf on April 29, 2010

    I’m Alfred, unsurprisingly, and it’s my firm belief that crane flies are plotting to take over the world. I’m not too worried about this; I don’t think they’re plotting very well. But plotting they assuredly are.

20. Posted by David Calder on April 28, 2010

    Hello, I’m David!

    My little factlet is that all my life I’ve enjoyed listening to the music of Mike Oldfield – especially his earlier stuff. I remember listening to Tubular Bells on the Owl Cassette player that came with our BBC Micro B when I was only 6 or 7 years old (1981-2) and I couldn’t get enough of it. I go through phases of favourite bits – for the past few months, Incantations Part 3 (from 2 mins in) has been going round in my head as I cycle around Europe. I love the way it makes me feel.

    Anyway, that’s all. Bye!

21. Posted by Rachel on April 28, 2010

    Hello all! My name is Rachel, I’m 20 years old, and I’m a trainee teacher living in Birmingham. I’ve followed the blog from the beginning but have developed a naff habit of leaving comments a day later than anyone is interested.
    Oh and earlier today I killed a giant wasp with a book I was marking. Felt the need to tell someone this as I am massively afraid of anything insect-like! Although, having conquered my fear, I now have to hand poor Pedro* back his spellings with gooey wasp entrails splodged all over them – swings and roundabouts really!

    *for child protection purposes names have been changed

22. Posted by fuzzy_ducky (Laura) on April 28, 2010

    @ Andy Todd! Sup!
    Don’t be nervous haha (although that “haha” may sound creepy… hmmm *ponders should I remove it?* nah

23. Posted by Mark D on April 28, 2010

    Name is Mark, call myself Mark D here to avoid confusion with anyone else called Mark. Live in Dublin, Ireland. Am 28, have apparently a weird sounding surname , that is difficult to pronounce to the point that everyone tries to avoid saying it if possible. I read the blog every few days, I rarely post, and but will usually do so in the Late Review section.

    Also hope to be in Edinburgh for book launch

24. Posted by Kate W on April 28, 2010

    Firstly, I would definitely come to a London launch in September. Secondly, in keeping with the title and theme of the book, it should really be 11 on the fun scale, which I’m pretty confident it will be. Thirdly, two odd if not interesting facts about me; I carried a giant mushroom with the drummer from The Lightening Seeds and have had a bath at Penelope Keith’s house.

25. Posted by Abida on April 28, 2010

    Loved reading everyone’s comments, seriously, everyone here is so cool! (I feel like I got away with using ‘cool’).
    Well, my name is Abida (Abi to friends), I’m British born but my parents are originally from Bangladesh. Interesting? Maybe not, but I think I’m definately unique.
    I usually catch up on Mark’s blog once a week, and comment occasionally. I’m at uni and have exams coming up, truth be told, even right at this moment I should be studying…

26. Posted by Rosie on April 28, 2010

    Hi. I’m Rosie, I’m 26. I don’t comment as much as I should. (Partly I tend to catch up on the blog once or twice a week so I often feel I’ve missed the boat. This is me being brave and stepping off the pier anyway.)

    I like to write, and I occasionally get paid for it. I like cats and video games and food (but mostly the stuff that’s bad for you). I sing in a really cool choir. I’m really enjoying our next concert’s rehearsals a LOT, and after that we’re one of the six-odd choirs that get to do Mahler 8 at the first night of the Proms and I am very excited about that.

27. Posted by Sue on April 28, 2010

    Hi all. I’m a regular blog reader, but I don’t always make it here every day. Sometimes I miss a few days and play catch-up. I rarely comment, but I don’t think it’s a shyness thing, (although it would be in 3D world). I think it’s just a time thing. The more I engage, the more entangled I become and then the more I engage, a sort of unvicious circle in this case as it’s a lovely blog.

    Come to think of it I’m a lurker in real life and on the internet. I read much more than I post on forums… that is until a topic really takes my fancy, then you can’t shut me up!

    Some facts about me? Well, I was born in Bristol, and emigrated to Brisbane. I wanted to be a librarian when I grew up, but I never did anything about it. I didn’t learn to drive until I was 34. I met my husband at a Depeche Mode concert in 1984 and we are still together now, with two teenage kids. We went to see Tears for Fears and Spandau Ballet last night. It was an amazing night. It’s funny to think that all the bands we liked then are still together now, although there were some break-ups and reformations along the way. (Not us, the bands).

    Anyway, In case there were any doubts about my age bracket after that last paragraph. I’ll give you one last fact and that is that I am 44. Having said that, I’m having such a good time in my 40′s that I can throughly recommend it.

    P.S. A Brisbane book launch would be good seeing as my eleven word story didn’t make the cut.

28. Posted by Madeline on April 28, 2010

    Hi, I’m Madeline.

    A fact about me is that yesterday I was so fed up that it was only Tuesday, and today I’m freaking out that tomorrow is Thursday.

    Other than that, I’m 21 (an old-before-my-time-kinda-21), living by the seat of my pants in Battersea.

    My favourite Mark moment is his introduction on Earache. Totally charms me everytime I hear it.

    (To sign off, I will *borrow* a quote from my favourite book.)

    You look lovely today, by the way.

    x

29. Posted by Walmsleys on April 28, 2010

    Hi, I’m Martin and seemingly the oldest person reading the blog! (I’m 54)

    Like many others I drop in and out but like to catch up when I can.

    I co-own my own business which sounds very captain of industry but really amounts to being in the right place at the right time. Employing 25 people is both fun and challenging but we’ve got a great team so it seems to be working.

    A fact about me? I’ve spent most of my life being what I need to be rather than who I am. Not in a gender or orientated way but more to hide the shyness and cope with relationships.

    Starting to be more confident in my own skin (about time too) and working towards retirement in 4 years’ time if all goes to plan.

30. Posted by Martin on April 28, 2010

    My name is Martin. I’m 22 and will be 23 in July. I have been in America since 30th December 2009 and am coming home to the UK on the 6th of May and can’t bloody wait. My favourite TV shows are Two and a Half Men, Mock the Week, Only Fools and Horses etc.

31. Posted by Rachel Winter on April 28, 2010

    I’m guessing I’m a flitter in and out, going by the descriptions above.

    I’m 37, but apparetly look lot younger. Though I am suspicious of this cos I don’t feel it!
    I want to live on a boat.
    I’ve never been to Spain.
    I like coffee, a lot.
    I go to Edinburgh every year.

    hmm.

32. Posted by A lot of Rach[a]els on April 28, 2010

    - I’m also forgetful as I was going to add: I enjoy attention so like it when people add me on twitter (rach998) but now I’m going to feel like I’m pleading for followers by posting this.

33. Posted by Alex on April 28, 2010

    Hi! Long time lurker, first time poster, etc (to chime with the phone-in DJ character in Mark’s new book). I love this blog – it’s so nice to read comments that aren’t a wealth of anonymous bile and pointless ‘everything is shit’ mudslinging.

    Anyway, a fact about me. I wanted to reveal this at one of Mark’s shows that I went to at the Soho Theatre before Christmas (a double whammy of the Environment show and then a ‘work in progress’, which was great), but was too shy. He was talking about being next to a guy on a train, who he was worried was suicidal and wondered if he should have said anything to him, and if so, what. I was once faced with this decision – I was crossing Hammersmith Bridge, about 9pm and saw a guy straddling the handrail, clearly about to jump. I raced across the road to him (wondering whether to intervene isn’t a question at that point!) and grabbed his arm and then thought, ‘Now what?’

    I remembered an article I’d read about someone whose opener in this situation was that she’d had a terrible day and really wanted to talk to someone about it – taking the focus away from the suicidal person broke their concentration, and nearly everyone will help someone else if you ask them directly. So I did the same thing. Thank God the guy climbed down off the handrail (I didn’t have a back up plan!) and I bundled him into the nearest pub to work out what to do next.

    He’d actually come out of hospital that afternoon (was still wearing the plastic wrist identification thing), so after me panicking somewhat about how to get him back there, and calling the police, he was readmitted. I’m ashamed to say I don’t know what happened to him after I left him there, but I do always think of it as a Fact about myself: that I stopped someone from committing suicide. I hope that doesn’t sound arrogant – it’s not meant to.

    If you’re ever in doubt about trying to help someone, I’d say give it a go, if only to say, ‘Bad day, mate?’ (that would’ve been my suggestion for Mark, as the guy was clearly in distress and I think would’ve welcomed talking to anyone, especially someone sympathetic).

34. Posted by Rose on April 28, 2010

    Hello, I am Rose.

    I am 24 and a bit giddy at the moment because I’ve just had an exciting job offer to work at the Hayward Gallery all summer (incidentally filling one of my TYSIC targets). I play ukulele and do bits of stand-up and sketch comedy here and there.

    I am usually armed with cake and will probably make something special for the Edinburgh book launch since I’ll be around, and definitely for the London one if it happens. So yes, there will be cake.

35. Posted by Al Kennedy on April 28, 2010

    Hi everyone, my name’s Alistair Kennedy, although my first name tends to get shortened to Al by most people, which is fine. I’m 30, I live in Edinburgh and I’m a lawyer. I first encountered Mark when I went to review one of his Edinburgh shows (in… erm… 2005?) and was totally bowled over by it; I went to all the Edinburgh-based long shows (at which I made a number of good friends whom I am still iln regular contact with) from that point on, at which I volunteered to do a lot of different things because it was lots of fun but I worried constantly that I was just being annoying.

    I love to cook, and am also a big Doctor Who fan, although the two are not linked to the best of my knowledge. I do a flippant podcast every two weeks about comic books, the blog for which is linked from my name above. I have just co-published a book of poetry and have been commissioned to write a ridiculously long non-fiction book which will probably be out around next autumn some time.

    I am not the writer AL Kennedy, as she is older, a different gender, and most crucially a different person.

36. Posted by A lot of Rach[a]els on April 28, 2010

    My name’s Rachel and I’m 18/
    - at Reading uni (it’s alright, campus lovely, course ok, not much else)
    - grew up in very south east London but originally from Bristol.
    - Just like someone else I dislike peas (but am addicted to frozen peas)
    - I haven’t posted too much on the blog (or other social places) because I’m shy and think that people wouldn’t notice what I say.
    - I love Newcastle united but you’re most likely to see me at Watford matches (but have only been to 2 this season and both away)
    - I enjoy brackets and bullet points.

37. Posted by Paul on April 28, 2010

    Hi all, I’m Paul, been reading every day from the off, but, well, what’s that quote? “Better to keep your mouth shut and have people suspect you’re an idiot than to open it and forever remove all doubt” or something along those lines. That’s why I think I’ve only posted once or twice.

    @Lauren, re: Salad… glad I’m not alone. As I see it most of that nasty sald stuff is basically just water, right? And it’s *green* water, at that. I really don’t see the appeal.

38. Posted by cymruangel on April 28, 2010

    Hello, I’m not really called cymruangel, I’m another Hannah, but answer to both.
    I’m 26, from Swansea originally although my Welsh accent only rears its head when talking to other Welshies. I work for an Oxford College and get to do various interesting things as a result, such as go to black tie dinners, meet minor celebrities and go to swanky venues in London. I will be at the House of Lords in a few weeks’ time, for example.
    Finally, among other random things, between the ages of 16 and 18 I was a magician’s assistant.
    Follow me on Twitter (click my name, above!) for more.

    Re. London book launch, I am rarely in London at the weekends, tending to pop down for work during the week, but I hope you all have a fabulous time!

39. Posted by Chrissy on April 28, 2010

    Sounds like alcholics annonymous
    Hi my name is Chrissy and I read the blog every day !

    I am the grand age of 33, live up north ( said in a very broad lancashire accent ) I am a breastfeeding peer supporter and trainer and if my TYSIC goes according to plan I will be a midwife in 2014.

40. Posted by Lauren on April 28, 2010

    I’m Lauren. I read the blog everyday, but only comment sometimes.

    As for an interesting fact… I’m almost 23 and I’ve never eaten a salad. Ever. Vegetables taste awful on their own, I don’t understand the appeal of putting heaps of them in a bowl together. I know you shouldn’t knock something before you’ve tried it, but no. It’s just… no.

    ALSO: I live in Melbourne, and I’ll still be here in September

41. Posted by Katelils on April 28, 2010

    Hi everyone, my name is Kate. I read this blog almost everyday and comment every now and again. I’m 29, and when I’m bored I try to fold my ears up into little tiny squares.

42. Posted by ShineUrShoesGuv on April 28, 2010

    Hi everyone, i’m another Lyndsey. I’ve never read a blog before, but have read everyone of these. I’m stunned by how warm you can feel towards someone you’ve never met, I guess it helps that Mark is v v funny and seems like a genuinely good person (the how can I make women feel better about themselves from Can I help you 2 particularly gave me hope that there are some really decent people out there)  
    I like that there are loads of lovely people here that feel the same.
    Thanks Mark x
    Ps I know I haven’t put anything interesting about myself but like I said am new to this and still feel a bit eeeeek about sharing online……hmmmm must work on this

43. Posted by Sarah on April 28, 2010

    Hello – I’m Sarah, a 23 year old originally from Essex (steady…), currently working as an office monkey in an editorial department. I like novelty crisps, old poets, Franz Ferdinand, De La Soul and writing. I met my boyfriend on the online dating website of a major newspaper, which is both out of character and also fairly indicative.

    Nice to meet you all.

44. Posted by Georgia on April 28, 2010

    P.S. Mark- a giant big yes to Melbourne !

45. Posted by Georgia on April 28, 2010

    Hello all,
    I am Georgia. I live an hour and a half south of Melbourne, Aus.
    I travel there to study primary teaching and have very nearly almost conquered the course!
    I am very, very, very afraid of, no…..disgusted by stickers of any shape and form.
    I hope my teaching doesn’t suffer from lack of stickers.
    Stamps are a good alternative?

46. Posted by Andy Todd on April 28, 2010

    *smiles nervously and shuffles shyly away, unsure of what to say*

47. Posted by Andy Todd on April 28, 2010

48. Posted by Beth (@Doomed1) on April 28, 2010

    Hello! Im Beth.

    Im 23 living in Gloucestershire region!

    Im a bit obsessed with Lord of the rings having being called Baggins since i was born! I have a massive fear of flying birds (Same as other Beth! )however when I was little I had 3 imaginary friends who were ducks!!

    I have a condition called Mastocytosis which means im allergic to everything and itch a lot, I love cats, my favourite band is Brand New and im a huge cheese lover (sorry Mark).

    I love your blog, but am often on catch up the next morning! And often dont feel my input is interesting enough to type!

    And im very looking forward to reading every one of these comments over the next day or two!!

49. Posted by Chris H on April 28, 2010

    Hello, I’m Chris. I’m 33 (so about twice the age of some of the others), and I am a solicitor. I grew up in Sheffield, work in London but live in Suffolk. I have dogs and like gardening. In writing this I realise how middle-aged and boring I’ve become. I will try to become interesting.

50. Posted by Simon on April 28, 2010

    Oh yeah, London book launch on a late September weekend sounds AWESOME.

51. Posted by Simon on April 28, 2010

    Blimey! Loads of comments already. I selfishly wonder whether anyone will wade through the swamp and actually read mine.

    I’m Simon, an every day reader and occasional commenter of this fine blog. I’m 21, originally from Ipswich, studying in Nottingham but currently working in London. That’s a big triangle!

    I won’t disclose my surname (this is the internet) but someone mistakenly called me Simon Bycroft at work recently, so it’s relatively close to that.

    I’ve got a cat named Bruce who often becomes violent when provoked!

    Earlier, I watched a stranger flying a remote controlled helicopter, which has thus far been the highpoint of my day.

    I hope this is a sufficient introduction. Please read about my TYSIC here:

    http://tuberunner.blogspot.com/
    

52. Posted by Max on April 28, 2010

    Hi, I’m max (or maxi).
    I’m 28 and come from Argentina (scary prospect, being the only argentine in a mainly Brit blog, specially so close to the WC) but I’ve been living in the Netherlands for the past 2 years. If everything goes as it should, I’ll stay here working on my phd for 3 more.
    Random facts:
    - I love photography. Taking pics and looking at them.
    - music is my life. I’m a music snob, but somehow try to enjoy as much as possible.
    - inexplicably, I like the way the Dutch language sounds. I’ve been trying to learn it with varying degrees of success. But 2010 is the year I crack that nut.
    - Devin townsend is my favorite musician alive. His song “funeral” encompasses everything that is great about music. IMO. If the ocean could make music, that’s what it would sound like.
    - I read you and your tweets everyday. I don’t comment often cause I’m always late and feel like commenting last sucks cause no one will even care what I have to say.

53. Posted by Linzy on April 28, 2010

    Hi, my name is Linzy and I’m not an alcoholic. I built the TYSIC website, and like making dresses: http://skepchick.org/blog/2010/03/girlgasm/

    I’d very much like to be part of this community but shyness is usually the reason that prevents me from posting anything, which is ridiculous because this is the Internet, where you can be whoever you want to be.

    Anyway, have to leave this here as I’m off to work to run a Teesside Hospice charity shop, voluntarily, cos I’m nice like that.

54. Posted by hornseygirl on April 28, 2010

    Hello

    Great blog, Mark. I regularly read it although rarely comment. I put it down to old fashioned English reserve. I am a private person who’s something of an introvert (my twin inherited the extrovert gene). So, here goes…

    I was born in Yorkshire and have lived in North London for over a decade. I’ve put the Wars of the Roses shenanigans behind me in marrying a lovely Lancastrian. I am presently settling into a very new and different routine – we have a four month old daughter who challenges / entertains us on a daily basis.

    My random fact is that I am Omphalophobic – I have an irrational fear of belly buttons; not just my own. I can’t even watch those Activia adverts!

    I’m working on my TYSIC goals…

    Keep up the great work.

55. Posted by Charlotte on April 28, 2010

    Hi! I’m Charlotte and I’m almost 17. I study further maths, history and psychology but in what free time I have I like to play piano and help run after school kids clubs at my local church.

56. Posted by Beth on April 28, 2010

    (I forgot to write this in my previous post)

    But, I am one day short of the Edinburgh book launch, but I’d be up for the London one in september as it’ll be the weekend so work isn’t an issue!
    

57. Posted by elin on April 28, 2010

    Hi there!

    I’m Elin, I’m from Sweden, but I live in Bergen in Norway. It’s very rainy here… I’m doing a masters degree in Fine arts, painting. I’m 27 years old, but have always had the mind of an old lady… When I’m not painting, I like to knit, and I think the superior way of socialising is over dinner or a cup of tea. I don’t like alcohol and I’m over sensitive to noise. I feed the birds on my windowsill. I need to go to school now.

58. Posted by Sam on April 28, 2010

    I am Sam, short for Samantha, some people call me Sammy but I don’t like it.

    I read this blog everyday in the middle of the night when I’m up breastfeeding my 8 week old baby boy. I haven’t commented before as usually have my hands full but thought it would be rude not to today.

59. Posted by cailin on April 28, 2010

    Hi, I’m Cailin, and I’m normally too shy to post comments.
    Interesting fact: I stab people for fun at least a few nights a week. Yes, I’m a fencer.

    Mark, book launch in Australia = I’m keen as mustard.
    However, ADELAIDE. Not Melbourne, A-del-aide. Yeah? x

60. Posted by Matthew on April 28, 2010

    London on a Saturday/Sunday in September suits me I wish I could come to Edinburgh or (even more) Australia but my studies/finances just wont allow either.

    I’m Mat, I am a Medical Student in London in my 4th year. I already dropped down a year (took 6 months off) because yeah the path from being 18 to be a grown up wasn’t as easy for me as I thought it would be. I’m a late comer to this blog, I don’t really have a ten year project as getting through the next couple seems pretty scary as it is. I always think I have something to say, but mostly I’d probably be better off keeping my mouth shut.
    If I was going for the one fact:
    I’m Mat, and I hate sports and dogs.

61. Posted by Madeleine on April 28, 2010

    Hi, I’m Madeleine (everyone calls me maddy in “real life” but I’ve taken to making all my online names madeleine, in an effort to seem more sofisticated.) and I’m 16 and I look forward to and read this blog every day, it’s really become a big part of my life and definatly eases the boredom of my fairly event-free existence.
    I love music and comedy and television. I regularly go places (comedy shows, music festivals, even to the movies) on my own, because i assume none of my friends will want to come with me (not always true) and I genuinely enjoy being able to do whatever I want, and not have do deal with anyone elses shit. (I’m one of those people who is referred to as “independant” when people mean “selfish”). I plan to move inter-state next year, and to England after I finish a degree (not sure which, somethine in film and television or music production. maybe). England is where I’ve wanted to live my whole life, and I’m a little worried its not going to live up to the image in my head (All the men are Noel Feilding and all the women are Helen Mirren, all the music is Radiohead and all the tv is Black Books…. right?). I’ve always wanted to have outrageous adventures and get in and out of “scrapes”, so I have a bad habit of putting myself in dangerous situations, which always seem to turn out fine, much to my annoyance. Thats probably too much about me. I tend to write very overlong, rambling, posts here. And then over analyse everything I’ve said.

    I AM AUSTRALIAN – I live in Brisbane, but I will definatly fly down to see you in either Sydney or Melbourne (Melbourne would be better… I just like it more). It would probably just be me (I’ve been trying to get my mum to read this blog for a while now, but she owns her own business and works about 39 hours a day) but I’ll bring the enthusiasm of 10! (If it fits in my carry-on luggage).
    September, yay!

62. Posted by Zoe Fell on April 28, 2010

    *Waves*

    Hello.

    I’m Zoe. Zoe Fell. Yes, that’s Fell as in ‘tripped over’. Don’t pity me – I still have to say that when I’m on the phone to people. Fell is a very difficult surname to get across.

    Mildly Interesting Fact 01: I am the last remaining Fell in my particular family tree. The surname has a lot of comedy potential so I’m a bit reluctant to change it if I get married. Therefore, I’m going to double barrel it. To make the most of the opportunity, I will have to marry someone with one of the following surnames. Over = Zoe Fell-Over. Down = Zoe Fell-Down. Out = Zoe Fell-Out. Comedy Gold, you have to agree.

    (Alternatively, if my lovely TYSIC friend James Walker and I were to get married, I’d be Zoe Fell-Walker. That’s fairly amusing too. I laughed for at least a minute when I thought of that. Sorry James.)

    There is more to me than my surname though. Honestly. I’m 19, an Aquarius, live in Plymouth and am allergic to all types of animal hair and fur. There’s a frankly horrific story I could tell you about a horse ride I went on about 4 years ago, but I don’t want to inflict all that pain and suffering on people I consider to be my friends (you lot).

    I study (in the loosest sense of the term) Media at college, after failing Chemistry and Biology at the all Girls’ Grammar School I went to. And do you know? It’s the best failure I’ve ever made. I finish this course in July and after a gap year, I’m hoping to study Radio Production at the University of Gloucestershire.

    Mildly Interesting Fact 02: Earlier this year, I was mistaken on a regular basis for the ‘Shakeaway Girl’. For more details look here: http://tinyurl.com/y89mta7 It’s not quite as good an accolade as the Milkybar Kid but let’s be honest – it’s the closest I’m ever going to get!

    Mildly Interesting Fact 03: I am currently attempting to get a family on my street to lend the lovely Alex Horne a Pigeon. I will keep you updated as to how this is going.

    And that is me. In a very large nutshell. Also – I like hugs. So if you do happen to bump into me at the Edinburgh Festival (You won’t miss me – I’ll be the walking billboard for ‘Eleven’) don’t be surprised if I pounce on you and hug you. A lot.

    You lot are all wonderful. It’s a real honour to be part of such an amazing community of people. Here’s to the next nine and a bit years. Can’t wait to share them with you!

    Love & Hugs.

    Zoe.
    Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

    Addendum: I really want to come to the London book launch, I will grovel with work to get the time off. Unfortunately I’m 5 days late for the Edinburgh launch, but I do not despair as my entire Fringe-going experience will be ‘Eleven’-centric from start to finish…

63. Posted by Suz on April 28, 2010

    Hello, I’m Suz, 26, and my mum accidentally dropped me down the stairs when I was two. Then she fell down the stairs as well and landed on my leg. I make excellent chocolate brownies and scrambled eggs, and my thumbs can bend in directions generally considered to be wrong. It’s charming. I hate other people’s bare feet, but I make an exception for Tim Minchin. I’m scared of using downstairs toilets in case someone looks in the window. I also think Dunstan is a bloody amazing name for a hamster. I used to have one called Balloon and I think it’s about time I had another.

    I enjoy comedy, photography, reading, learning new languages, cookery, food blogging, old man pubs, and lots of lovely tea. I’ve just finished a TEFL course and I have an interview for an exciting job (well, to me anyway) soon, but I don’t like to say too much when things aren’t certain, even to people who have no idea who I am. I speak French quite well and I want to live in France. I used to live in Edinburgh (for uni), but now I don’t. I think about moving back sometimes. I do miss it.

    I’d love to try and make the London launch if I can. I’ve loved all your other books, especially A Light-Hearted Look at Murder.

    I also just type whatever comes into my head.

    Anyway, I read the blog daily (the high point of my blog feed), but I don’t always comment that much. I’m thoroughly enjoying it though and it’s wonderful to see what it’s grown into. Thank you. x

64. Posted by Natalie-Helen on April 28, 2010

    Hello I’m Natalie, I’m 20 years old and will NOT be getting any older.
    I try to read every day, and sometimes check the sight far too much. Currently a student at Liverpool Uni (History and Politics) but home is outskirts of London.

    I worry, over analyse and think far too much about all kinds of meaningless and insignificant things. I’m not as confident as pretty much everyone thinks I am due to over compensating whenever I meet people.

    I devour books like the Really Hungry Caterpillar devoured that leaf and the rest of the food and have to be physically restrained from walking into bookshops and buying books that I have no room for!

    I love to cook and am constantly surprised (and worried) by how successful it normally is. Today I made bread without a recipe. It was really good. How on earth is that possible?!?!

    And comedy makes my day brighter. I seek it out at every possible opportunity! Listen to Radio 7 on a loop and Radio 4 far too much too.

    I would love love love to go to the London book thing, its should be perfect timing too as will not longer have Uni terms to worry about. I’m going to go an vomit about the fact that Uni is ending now!

    Thanks for listening to the babble and sorry it’s so long!
    ^_^

65. Posted by Elise on April 28, 2010

    Hello all! I’m Elise, I live in New York and do journalisty things. As far as interesting facts, both of my parents run marathons but I’m the laziest person you’ll ever meet. Also I can’t stand the feel of velvet. I’m currently contemplating what to do with my night, as Lost is a repeat. I’m open to suggestions.

66. Posted by Sam on April 28, 2010

    I’m Sam, an 18 year old sixth form student in West London and wannabe musician. I rarely comment and tend to read every three days or so an catch up on everything i’ve missed. I have such a lack of commitment and motivation that I can’t even manage to read such a wonderful blog daily, shameful. However, I’ve been here since the beginning and am working away at my TYSIC. Hello everyone.

67. Posted by deanna on April 28, 2010

    Hello, my name is Deanna and I am from New Zealand. I am 26 and 10 months old and I read this blog every day.
    Depending on what day of the week you want to do book things in Melbourne/Sydney, I will be there

68. Posted by isabelle on April 28, 2010

    Hi, I’m Isabelle. I’m French Canadian. I’m obsessed with British television, which is a heresy considering my background. I’m 21 and entering my last last year of film school next year. My dream job would probably be to be a DP on a BBC show. I’m a vegetarian and I’m really craving a falafel sandwich at the moment.
    I read the blog every day, yet only posted once in the last late-review thing. I’m also really sad you’re not coming to Just For Laughs in montreal this summer.

69. Posted by Idris on April 27, 2010

    I’m Idris. I like miming in my spare time along with listening to nerd rap. Currently in year 10 and have aspiring dreams to be a starfish. This is the first time I’ve read your blog, and yes I’m being payed to do this. I just want to mention that you are not funny, charismatic or even cool. Hehe.

    I hope you give up on what could be a fatal career in comedy. And please don’t take this to heart, becuase you could work for me as my assistant starfish.

70. Posted by Kate on April 27, 2010

    Hello, I’m Kate. I’m 45, married to a musician and have two children, one of whom is Meg, who has posted below. I used to be an orchestra and concert manager in my life-before-children but since then have been doing bits of admin work, though I hope to work in the arts again one day. I am an avid listener to the spoken word (Radio 4, numerous podcasts, comedy, Mayo & Kermode film reviews etc) and also love reading, grammar, shopping and the bassoon.

    I have read Mark’s wonderful and inspiring blog from day one, though I normally skulk in the background rather than participate!

71. Posted by Robyn on April 27, 2010

    Hey, I’m Robyn and I have read your blog everyday since it began due to the amazingness of Twitter
    I’m 21 and a student and I’m studying Criminology – strange one, yes?! and no i dont know what im going to do with this possibly worthless degree, as yes i did just look down the list of courses and think ah yes, that looks fun, without thinking much about future consequences!
    i like flowers and miss them whilst living in the city and therefore buy them to make my room a bit nicer. (it is a tiny student room after all)
    I love cooking random things and i made risotto the other day for the first time ever and it was amazing!
    I hate prawns
    I play rugby, which is weird for a girl!
    I really want to come to the book lauch in London at the end of september as i will be in america until the beginning of the month and it sounds like fun, so go for it!
    lastly and most importantly im a Christian and proud of it

72. Posted by Bloomability on April 27, 2010

    Hi ^_^
    I’m Beth *curtseys*
    Facts:
    - I love musicals despite only ever seeing one so far (and that one isn’t even my favourite) which was Blood Brothers.
    - I’ve never been to London before or been on a train (apart for the strange kiddie ones you get at garden centres etc)
    - I can’t think of anything else. I’ve deleted about 4 facts now. I’m so indecisive.

73. Posted by JoC on April 27, 2010

    Yes, I read this blog every day but only comment occasionally (you’re all quite intimidating with your cleverness and wit, but don’t stop on my account, you just add to the pleasure of reading this blog). I’m from Melbourne (yes Mark, do an Eleven event here!), but moving to Manchester later this year for work. I’m a scientist with a PhD (did I just admit that?!) and love lots of things and hate almost as many things too, not that I’m opinionated or anything…

74. Posted by Jen on April 27, 2010

    Hello, all. My name’s Jen (as you might’ve guessed), I’m american, I’m studying English at a little college in the middle of nowhere, and I’m turning 20 in two weeks. A combination of overwork, introversion and a short attention span has kept me from posting more than a handful of times, despite reading every blog from the very first. My TYSIC is to be more social, ironically. I’ll be studying in York next spring semester, so I’m looking forward to participating in some of the real world collaborative things, as well as just generally living in the lovely country of tea, Doctor Who and good stand up comedy.

75. Posted by lisa brunders on April 27, 2010

    Hi, I’m Lisa. I read every day, and have done right from the beginning, a lifer, and proud of it!

    I comment less often now, there’s so many people with interesting things to say and I’ve often not got anything to add.

    I’ve ordered Eleven, from Amazon, on my phone, several firsts there for me. I feel technically diadvantaged in the group, both by my age and because I’m on a phone!

    I’m 52, I hope I’m not the oldest.

    I’m impressed there’s 300 regulars, bet there’ll be more when it gets in the Sunday Times.

    Thanks Mark x

76. Posted by Lukey on April 27, 2010

    Hi I’m luke, a very odd, unliked 17 year old male. Intersting thing about me… I’m in a band. Does that quallfy as intersting?

    (I’m one of the people that reads every day, yet has only ever commented once before, I’m too shy)

77. Posted by Hannah on April 27, 2010

    Hello, my name is Hannah (as you’ve probably gathered from the header of my post) and from Sydney, Australia. I’m 18, studying design, have a fear of spiders and like to make things out of felt. Sums up most of my character.

    Mark, obviously I would love a book launch to be in Sydney, but I’m sure if time and money permitted, we would travel to Melbourne to join in with the festivities. And you know Caitlin (CatOnAHorse) and I would rally as many people to join in.

78. Posted by Carl on April 27, 2010

    Hey there. I’ll try and be quick.

    My name’s Carl, I’m 23, graduated from Uni last year and am currently going through a bit of a life crisis from missing my friends and the student life too much, and I have to admit I’m not hiding it that well. I’ve recently got myself an adult job in Marketing in a lame attempt to follow my ambitions of becoming a creative writer. Between me and you, I’ll admit I have a secret need to feel loved and accepted. That’s probably why I miss Uni so much. And I think it’s important you know, Mark, and fellow Watsonians, this whole process has made me feel both wanted and needed again. Thank you.

    Happy Tuesday.

79. Posted by Debbie C on April 27, 2010

    Hello everyone, my name is Debbie, I’m 27 and I live near Oxford with my boyfriend (but I’m originally from Cheshire). I read this blog every day but have only commented a few times as I’m a bit shy! I work as a researcher for 63336 – that’s the people who provide the questions and answers for ‘We Need Answers’. It’s really fun.

    Some things about me:

    - I speak fluent French
    - I love cooking, reading, and musical theatre
    - I have a hamster called Dunstan
    - I like writing fiction but tend to do it in fits and starts
    - I have a Masters Degree in Translation Studies and was a freelance translator for a while, but didn’t make any money
    - I’m a big fan of The Monkees.

80. Posted by EmmaT on April 27, 2010

    I have failed to comment for a while as the Hotmail ads are wrong. The new busy is EXACTLY the same as the old busy, still Very Bloody Busy.

    I am 27, and I love to travel around the world. I work in the travel industry and spend my spare time either thinking about travelling or doing so.

    Another fact is that I am, at present, regretting eating a burger king on the way home from the Shooting Stars filming. I will have to do a marathon or something to erase the guilt.

81. Posted by Lau on April 27, 2010

    Hi Everyone,
    I’m (yet another) Laura. I read the blog everyday or catch up when possible but have never commented, until now…
    Strange but true – I’m 20 & still call my Grandma “Mars” as I could never pronounce Grandma when I was little. I buy her a Mars bar every birthday as a reminder. She doesn’t like them & gives them to Grandad.

82. Posted by Katy on April 27, 2010

    I’m one of those that read every day but seldom comment. Im aiming to change that, starting today.

    I’m Katy, 28 years old, turning 29 at the start of July. I’m a qualifed financial adviser, though currently I just do admin. I live in London but I’m originally from the north-east. I live in a houseshare where ive been for 6 years, along with 3 other people and my 2 cats.

    Interesting facts about me: i still have 4 baby teeth and i support Reading football team despite having no connections to them.

    I will definately be at the London launch, and possibly even the Edinburgh one.

83. Posted by Tasha on April 27, 2010

    Hiya, I’m Tasha and I’m a youth worker so I get to do these kind of introducing myself things all the time – however, I’m still rubbish at them! I’ve been reading the blog for a while now and am loving what’s coming out of them. As someone who generally struggles with being optimistic and self-belief in general, it is nice to know I’m not on my own! Am feeling very brave now for having finally commented x

84. Posted by Catherine on April 27, 2010

    My name is Catherine but generally I am referred to as Cathy. I live in North Carolina, USA, have two dogs, three children, 1 grandbaby, and 1 grandbaby due in September. The dogs live with me. I ran away from home, so the rest of the family lives in Florida. I am in college working on a bachelors in Spanish so that I can go live in Spain or South America.

    I like the following: books (mysteries), the internet (spend way too much time on said internet), reading Mark’s blog everyday and generally all of the comments, my children (I wasn’t always fond of them), music (Jimmy Buffett is my all-time favorite musician) and comedy (Mark Watson, Ed Byrne, Eddie Izzard).

    My favorite song by Jimmy Buffett is “Growing Older But Not Up.” Guess that sums it all up.

85. Posted by Timm on April 27, 2010

    Hello my name is Tim. I am currently a student and my dissertation is due on Friday, so better get on with that now then.

86. Posted by Phill Sacre on April 27, 2010

    Hello everyone. I’m Phill, and I’m probably one of the most dull people on the planet. I’m quite geeky, I am into computers, but also comedy, music, the odd bit of reading, films, etc.

    Sometimes I find that the phrase “jack of all trades, master of none” fits me rather too well

87. Posted by Corey on April 27, 2010

    I’ve just enjoyed meeting you all, so I will now introduce myself.

    Hi, I’m Corey, I’m 34, I’m an outgoing introvert, I should be grown up, I’ve got a grown up job, I have to act grown up round clients (I work as a Payroll Manager at a Chartered Accountants) but as you all move on to the next introduction…thats enough of work….I am most certainly not grown up….something has malfunctioned somewhere!!.

    I love traveling, animals, sport, comedy, music, my god-daughters, adrenaline sports and Bob Dylan, I share this love with my best mate Rob and we’ve seen him over 30 times all over America and Europe. Our next trip is in June to Slovenia and Italy. I met the man once at Stirling Castle on Friday July 13 in 2001 and he was as weird as I hoped he would be…or as my friend Amanda said ”Who’s was that weirdo in the cowboy hat you were talking to?”.

    I read ever day, and comment quite often. As many have said, after a busy day of work I do find myself looking forward to a new post, and it nearly always puts a smile on my face. Especially yesterday in the ‘Bloody book’ competition!!….thanks again.

    I write a ‘spoof sports news’ blog which I am very lazy with, and never put as much into it that I should. But when I get it right I make myself and a few others laugh…..I hope.

    Thats me

    Night all

88. Posted by Heather Jones on April 27, 2010

    Hi! I’m Heather J (there’s another Heather who posts comments sometimes, but I’m this one) I’m Northern Irish but have lived in London for over 25 years. I’m 47, married with teenage sons and have a lovely little cocker spaniel called Cadi. Since September I’ve been working as a part-time Teaching Assistant in a primary school (I’d previously done ‘administrative’ type jobs for over 18 years, but I much prefer this).

    In my spare time I’m a Beaver Scout Leader (that’s the Scout section for 6-8 yr olds). I also love amateur dramatics and get involved in a local community panto every year.

    I am probably having a bit of a mid-life crisis, but it’s made my life much more interesting recently! I went to my first stadium gig last summer (to see U2) and then, at the start of 2010, I discovered the musical comedian Tim Minchin and went a bit doo-lally about him. Like a trail of Youtube bread-crumbs, my Tim-hunting led me to various other interesting comedians and artists, including Duke Special and (ofcourse) the man who makes the world substantially better, Mark Watson himself….

    I’ve been reading this blog every day since the start and have commented a few times, but less so recently.

    Just after I graduated I was lucky enough to be in a little show that a group of us from Cambridge took up to the Edinburgh fringe – it was a fantastic experience. although I can now admit that the show itself was AWFUL. Sadly, I haven’t been to the Fringe since then and don’t know when I’ll ever get to go again.

    I’m up for the London book launch.

89. Posted by Vikki on April 27, 2010

    My name is Vikki and I like to blow bubbles during my lunchbreak.

90. Posted by fuzzy_ducky (Laura) on April 27, 2010

    @Adele!!!!

    You work for the guide dogs? I trained a puppy 5 years ago in her first year. Unfortunately she didn’t make it, but I had the best time with her. Her name was Isobel and I loved her. I was so sad when she went away We lived, at the time in town, so we couldn’t keep her after she was rejected.

    Do you know what happens to the rejected dogs? My parents told me she was living on a farm, and that made me glad at the time, but now I’ve realised “the farm” could be, well, 6 feet under if you get my meaning.

    Do they go to familys?

91. Posted by Adele on April 27, 2010

    Hello all

    My name is Adele. I live in Nottingham with my fella, Roger. I’m 31.

    I work for Guide Dogs for the blind, and before you ask, no I don’t train them!

    I’ve read every blog to date (to specify, every blog Mark has written, not every blog there is) and am working on my TYSIC – slowly.

    I love food. I love the water. I love my family. I love the idea of being a better version of me, but I’m pretty happy as I am even if I never run a marathon or get a degree.

    Oh, and a make a killer chocolate cake!

92. Posted by perian on April 27, 2010

    Hi, my name is Cindy, despite what the name above says. I’ve been using perian (or some variation) on the internet for 16 years — longer than some of you have been alive, so I’m feeling kind of old. It came from the name of my role-playing character in high school, which should explain just how much of a geek I am.

    I’m 32 years old now and still play RPGs. Good old paper and dice ones, not computer/console based ones. I have a degree in History and a diploma in computer science and instead of doing something in either of those fields, I run a bookstore (possibly the best job ever.)

    I live in western Canada, so I won’t be at any of the book launches. Though someday I’m going to make it to both the UK and Australia (specifically, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.) I am one of the many who read every day but have only commented a couple of times.

93. Posted by Dawn on April 27, 2010

    An interesting fact about me:
    When I was 19 I went to see The Clash in concert at The Apollo, Manchester. In those days as soon as the band started playing you were allowed to leave your seat and run to the front. I managed to see many punk bands whilst draped over the front of the stage!
    Unfortunately this time as we all pushed at the front the stage collapsed and I landed in a heap (losing my shoes which contained my bus fare home and front door key). I lost consciousness and came round in an ambulance on its way to Manchester Infirmary!
    At 5a.m.I was discharged with severe bruising (all over). As I had lost my money (and shoes) I had to persuade a taxi driver to take me home where I frantically banged on my flat mate’sbedroom window so she could pay the taxi driver.
    At 7a.m. I had to get up for work and I had a few very sore days in the office. But, everyone was impressed with the size of my bruises!

94. Posted by Iona on April 27, 2010

    Hello!
    I’m Iona, I’m 16 and my birthday is in august so all my friends are passing their driving test while I can’t even start learning. Bad times.
    I read this every day but normally have nothing to say for myself so only comment occasionally.
    Facts about me: I’m half Scottish, half Vietnamese (scotnamese if you like) so quite short. I think I may have just reached 5″!
    I like fantasy books which us quite geeky but I’ve had to give up reading novels for exams.
    I am VERY excited about going to Reading festival this summer.
    My claim to fame is that I ‘met’ victoria beckham when I was 6- I gave her a bunch of flowers when she opened a maternity unit in a hospital and my picture was in hello magazine!

    I will (hopefully) be in Edinburgh for the 11th and my friend and I will be at your book thing. We saw you 2 years ago at the fringe and it was amazing and we saw you around last year (actually we saw you at simon amstell’s show and were quite starstruck!). But I live near London so I may come to the London event too if that’s ok? Exciting stuff!

95. Posted by Terry on April 27, 2010

    Hello there, I visit this site pretty much once a day, it keeps me sane.

    My name is Terry and I am currently, slowly, writing a full length stand up show about the forgotten religions, as in Pagans and all the Greeks and that. Possibly a bit over the top considering I’ve never done a single bit of stand up, or even performed in front of people other than in wind band at school(I used to play the trumpet, I dearly miss it), but as they say nothing ventured nothing gained.

    I also started a blog which currently has a competition going, so far one entrant and that was my brother so go enter! Sometimes it’s amusing, other times it’s just me angrily banging away at the keyboard. http://soveryconfusing.wordpress.com/

    Currently I’m living the dream packing boxes in a warehouse in essex, there’s nothing like having to lower your game everyday to numb the mind.

96. Posted by Richard on April 27, 2010

    Evening all, I’m Richard

    I’m one of the ones who reads the blog pretty much every day but this is only my second ever comment (the first was my TYSIC).

    Some facts about myself
    - 31 and living in London, although I have a flat in Italy and so consider that my home even though I don’t spend as much time there as I’d like
    - Despite having a very lazy childhood have discovered the joys of exercise in the last couple of years so keep myself active mainly with cycling and running but like to add a few fad sports in there such as sailing, climbing, Krav Maga, Parkour, fencing where I get really into them for a few months and then get interested in something else
    - Seem to have a vague recollection about becoming an ordained minister when I was at university (the joys of the internet!) but can’t find the paperwork anymore so not sure on the legality
    - I’m the 100% shareholder in a company in Bulgaria that doesn’t actually do anything (long story but connected to property)

    I’d be interested in coming to the London launch (just finished reading CATE and loved it)

97. Posted by louisel on April 27, 2010

    My name is Louise, I’m 16 and I live near Newcastle. I like comedy, music, shoes, reading, Australian accents, hugs and running. I play the viola and the piano
    I read the blog every day, but I don’t comment very often because I’m a bit shy and my GCSEs are scarily close *gulp* so I’m trying (but failing) to stop procrastinating on the internet so much so that I can actually do well in them.
    I’m really scared of having things in my ears (it feels like they’re in my brain!), and I’m seriously clumsy and always losing things (iPods, phones, Alton Towers tickets, my train of thought …)

98. Posted by Lynsey on April 27, 2010

    Hello! My name is Lynsey and I am a 29 year old, left handed Northerner.
    My family and friends call me Lyns (you can too if you like). I read this blog pretty much every day. I find that it often cheers me up after a hard day at work, and at times when I just feel fed up about life in general. I like writing, music, tea, chocolate, meerkats and the Asterix books. And I am generally useless at writing introductions to myself.

99. Posted by Seamus on April 27, 2010

    Oh, and I should probably mention that I read every blog, though not always on the day the blog is published. I don’t comment that often, but I try to add anything I think others will find informative/funny.

    Oh, and my birthday is on the 11th of September, which can make things, um…… interesting.

100. Posted by Someone on April 27, 2010

     Howdy! I read the blog every day and I check the website far too many times for it to be healthy. I comment quite a lot – sorry about that. I’m very shy in real life but I quite like it here as I like to think we’re all a bit anonymous. My name is not really Someone for instance (shock horror)… and I post under a few other names just in case anyone links this to me and then I’ll only be associated with about half of the stupid things I say… I suppose, if we’re all being friendly here, my actual real-life proper name is Lizzy. But I think I’ll stick with Someone if that’s alright – I know it’s stupid, but it’s no word of a lie.
     I am a geek, but i am also an idiot. Also, I turn 21 next week, which I think is interesting because it seems at least 4 other people who’ve commented here also have birthdays next week.. what’s that all about?
     Oh dear; when I start typing I find it difficult to stop. I’d like to be a writer as I’m even worse at everything else. Again, hello.

101. Posted by Lauren on April 27, 2010

     Hello, i’m lauren
     I am 17 and 15 days away from my Higher exams .. damn that’s sooner than i actually thought.
     I read you’re blog everyday and am halfway through you’re Crap At The Environment book – it’s brilliant and i can’t wait for Eleven!
     Oh, i also have tickets to see you in Glasgow in october, i can’t wait!

     Em, unsure wha to say now, CSI has just began on tv however so i must run

     Bye! x

102. Posted by Tom Beasley on April 27, 2010

     I’m a fairly regular commenter, so I’ll give the whole introduction thing a go.

     Hey, I’m Tom and I am a 15 year old guy from Coventry in the wet, uninteresting heart of the West Midlands. I perpetually have to explain my location to outsiders as “near Birmingham”, which pisses me off no end. It’s worse when people then assume I want to hear a horrid impression of the stereotypical Brummie accent. *sigh*

     I am a self confessed nerd. My interests lie almost solely in pursuits that the mainstream sees to be “nerdy” or “geeky”. Over the last 2/3 years, I have learnt to embrace my nerdiness and this has made me a much more confident person and I enjoy life a hell of a lot more.

     Perhaps my one major mainstream interest is that I share your love of football. I have been brought up in a family that loved the game and as such I have grown to love it too. There is nothing more entertaining than cheering on the national team along with a roomful of people who all want the same thing. I love it.

     My main passion in life though has always been writing and thus I would love to become either an author or (more realistically) a journalist. Even at this age, I already do loads of journalism stuff, as well as a bit of freelance writing and I have also done a manuscript for a novel, which I hope to get to a publisher at some point in the near future, after considerable refinement.

     In a perfect world, I would love to combine my writing with a bit of stand-up comedy, but my complete lack of funnyness (despite my ability to make up words) is likely to be somewhat of a barrier there.

     So yeah, that was me. I hope you enjoyed reading me ramble about myself.

103. Posted by Hal on April 27, 2010

     I’m Hal, I’m 32 and have only commented twice but I read every day

     1) I hate peas
     2) I bought a mooncup after reading CATE and can’t believe I was so suggestible
     3) I love anything in the comedy or horror genres (just imagine how much I liked League of Gentlemen)

     H

104. Posted by Seamus on April 27, 2010

     Hello. I’m Seamus, as my name (Just up there. ^ See?) would imply. I was one of the MP3 player contest finalists, and spend most of my time doing music-y/nerd-y things. Oh, and over-using hyphens for shits and giggles.

     As far as interesting facts about me, last year I built my own electric guitar. I had always wanted to try it, so I made one for my woodwork final exam. That way, I had access to an entire workshop full of tools, which made things a lot easier. It also meant that at the end of it all, not only did I have what is pretty near my ideal guitar, but I also got a good exam result, because I wasn’t just making it for the class. I was making it for me. If any of you want to check it out, here are a couple of pictures: http://twitpic.com/lvlsu http://twitpic.com/1721vd http://twitpic.com/1721hg (<– In bits during a deep clean.) (Ignore the profile picture. That is me wearing a feather boa as a purple beard while backstage. I guess you had to be there.)

105. Posted by Ed Holroyd on April 27, 2010

     Hi, I’m Ed. I’m a 32 year old designer, artist and father of three. I tend to read this blog in the small hours of the morning as my children seem to have a rota which ensures at least one of them wakes me up. I’ve been reading the blog for a while and have posted a few times in the last few days. I sometimes don’t post because I have this weird feeling that in the time it takes me to post, someone else will have posted the same thing. I’m pretty sure that’s not going to happen this time.

     I like Bristol Rugby, Tom Waits’s music, Richard Ford’s novels, John Burnside’s poetry, sausages, tea, ginger cake, 6 music and lists (amongst other things).

     My interesting fact is that I received an invite to Gary Lineker’s first wedding. I actually got it after the wedding. It was really for my second cousin who had worked with Gary on Leicester market. He missed the wedding because he had arranged a fishing trip for that weekend.

106. Posted by Maddie on April 27, 2010

     Hello everybody! *waves*.

     My name is Maddie, (Madsticks in the forum), which is short for Madelaine. Not Madeleine, Maddison and most definitely not Madeline. – I don’t have a problem with any of these variations of Maddie as names, I just have objections to people getting my own name wrong.

     I am 21, live in a small sea-side town in Essex and am in my first year of university studying Childhood Studies and Youth Studies in Ipswich. I like music, films, pub quizzes, saying random words/phrases in foreign languages as it is the only bit I know, and singing silly pop songs/ hymns from school assembly’s when clearing up at the end of the day work with my best friend.

     Some facts about me:
     I am 5’1″ and a little bit.
     I can sing ‘Heads, shoulders knees and toes’ in German.
     I have a terrible memory which I think is a result of being a bit of a wild child in my younger teenage years.
     I like cows and cow-related things.
     My eyes change colour

     And last but not least, I try to read this everyday, although once or twice I have had to ‘catch up’ after a busy day. I try to post comments, and frequently do, but am always worried everyone will just think I am a numpty as I tend to babble on and on. (See above). On the other hand I happen to think you are all lovely people and am very glad to be part of this ‘little community’.

107. Posted by Sam on April 27, 2010

     I don’t like cheese or milk or bread or butter. I like toast though and i will have butter on the toast. It’s all about the texture. Except for the milk and cheese, because cheese tastes like feet and milk came from an udder. I’m sam by the way.

108. Posted by LisaD on April 27, 2010

     Hi all,

     I used to post as Elizabeth, which is my actual name, but nearly everyone calls me Lisa so I switched it to be friendly within our (oh ick I’m gonna have to call it that word as well…) community.

     I always feel a little shy about saying anything about myself is interesting, as I grew up in New England and we tend to be a bit wary of people getting big for their britches. Also, there is always the fear that I’ll pick an ‘interesting” fact about myself and no one else will think it’s interesting. Nevertheless here goes: Although I’m an atheist now, I was raised Quaker and spent a lot of my younger days either being mocked outright for not being something “normal” like Catholic (in Boston Catholic is the default religion) or having to explain to well meaning folks that A) the guy on the oatmeal box is not an accurate representation and B) we really hate hearing “You’re a Quaker? Like Richard Nixon?” James Dean was raised Quaker as well and not once has anyone said to me “You’re a Quaker? Like James Dean?” but I live in hope.

109. Posted by Helen on April 27, 2010

     Yet another Helen here, willing to join the army, so long as we can bake cakes. I nearly wasn’t called Helen, due to my granny’s innability to pronounce ‘h’. When I was born, she called everyone up to tell them my name and as a result, everyone thought my name was Ellen.

     So anyway, I’m 17 and not very good at introductions. I am doing A-Levels at the moment and should be planning for a timed essay on the nature-nurture debate for psychology. To continue this nature-nurture theme, my current environment is a house and more specifically sitting at a desk looking at these words, just as you are doing now. My genes are a bit cocked-up, I have a nerve disorder and my spine is curved which makes me neither apple nor pear shaped, more like a banana but with a face and limbs. All this is fine though, I can still walk and function normally etc etc. I wear eyeliner to try and look edgy but I am whole heartedly aware I look more russell and bromely than brand. I want to live in the village that’s on the yorkshire tea box.

     I read this blog everyday and I very much enjoy it. That’s all I think. x

110. Posted by Kathryn on April 27, 2010

     Hi, I’m Kathryn, I’m 18 and I’m from Northern Ireland, hence I have a really horrible accent. I have 3 days left at school before doing A-levels. If I get A*AA I’m hopefully going to Cambridge in September to study English.

     Today was not what I would describe as the best day of my life.

     I have grade 8 treble recorder and oboe and grade 6 piano. I like coffee. If I went on Mastermind my specialist subject would be Black Books or Flight of the Conchords. I don’t think I have anything much of interest to add here.

     My most irrational and long-standing phobia- buttons. Even typing the word makes me feel nauseous.

     I read the blog every day, I try to comment on occasion.

111. Posted by david on April 27, 2010

     see?

112. Posted by david on April 27, 2010

     Hi, i’m david, and my name is now underlined.

113. Posted by Rosanna on April 27, 2010

     Hello, i’m Rosanna (only one here it seems although I’ve never met another Rosanna in my life so it’s hardly surprising), I’m 17 and am another one of those people that reads everyday but rarely comments – will make more of an effort from now on I think (although I only discovered the blog fairly recently). Hmmm… I’m not the coolest of people, having just been made physics prefect and the I’m taking A level maths a year early… Like Steph I can do Rubik’s cubes I like comedy, playing the saxophone and ice skating. Oh, and I can unicycle That’s enough for now I think (hmm… think i’ve been overusing those smilies a bit…) xxx

114. Posted by tothesky on April 27, 2010

     wow, this type of blog post was exactly what I needed today as I spent some time today thinking that I’m so hopelessly socially inactive/shy/lacking in motivation that I can barely find the courage to post comments on the internet or enter any of your delightful competitions due to the fear of failure.

     Anyway, I too read this blog everyday (part of my routine of procastination but an enjoyable one which I do even if I’m not procastinating) but rarely comment but I’m always there….

     ‘Interesting’ fact – I’m 4″6 (and a half).
     I tried rasperry and pomengranate tea today hoping to enjoy but down the sink it went, I’ll stick to PG Tips.

     Also I’ve just started a blog, about reading. But it’s empty at the moment. I’ve stolen the idea from another TYSICr. But it’s not part of my challenge just something I’d like to do for fun, is that acceptable?

     Gosh, I rarely talk but once I start I don’t half go on! Sorry.

115. Posted by EllieCat on April 27, 2010

     Hi, my name isn’t Ellie (that’s my cat Ellie’s name), but rest assured it isn’t Rachael and/or Helen and I’m not in a witness protection scheme or anything. I’m training to be a sign language interpreter, (I’m typing with one hand and performing a simultaneous translation with the other).

     When I qualify, I plan to work at home via a video link, from the comfort of my own sofa (this is possible, I haven’t made it up). From the waist up I will the epitome of sleek professionalism, but from the waist down I will be in pyjamas and novelty meerkat slippers.

     I love cats, tea and chocolate. Wind chimes and people who put a butter-covered knife into a jam, honey or marmite pot, make me incandescent with rage.

     I too had my question picked at a Derren Brown stage show. I asked “Will I successfully become a sign language interpreter?” but he weaselled out of giving a proper answer. He certainly didn’t mention having to train for five years or that I would be unable to stop moving my hands, even when not signing, to such an extent that people must think I am mocking them in some unspecified fashion.

     I am a fairly recent convert to the works of Mr Watson and must stay late after class every day until I catch up with the others.

116. Posted by Hannah on April 27, 2010

     Oh, and I would love to come to the book launch thing in London. Not quite sure if it will be possible, but I would really really love to. Really.

117. Posted by DizzyDoo on April 27, 2010

     Hi, I’m Matt, I read this blog everyday, I’ve never commented on any posts before, and whenever I eat a polo my mouth bleeds.

118. Posted by Hannah on April 27, 2010

     Well, then. I’m Hannah, I’m 16, Im currently being shouted at to get off the computer so we can catch up on Lost, so I’ll make it brief.

     - I have just today realised that I am actually very competitive. Events leading up to this realisation: History coursework, and the (by now, surely) famous book competition.

     -I have three chickens, none of whom like me very much.

     -I have a small phobia of pointy things/ anyone else touching my feet

     -And…I read this blog everyday and it is often a highlight of said day. Unless something really really good happens, like having a brand new much awaited book to read. Or getting a present.

     And in leaving this comment, I have forfeited the right to watch Lost until tomorrow. It was worth it.

119. Posted by Marbles on April 27, 2010

     Hey all. I’m Hannah, 27, studying forensic science at uni. Today my shoulders got a little pink in the sun in the beer garden at lunchtime.

     Def up for the London book launch

120. Posted by Aislinn on April 27, 2010

     Hello, I’m Aislinn. Or Ash, or @ashy99 (it’s a horrific username).

     I can join my hands together, step through my arms and then lift my hands over my head and back round the front of me again, all without undoing my hands. Once I went inside the house they filmed Spaced in. It was incredible.

     I draw sort of okay-ish pictures of people I like. Here are three of them:
     1. http://bit.ly/awgtoF
     2. http://bit.ly/buG6SW
     3. http://bit.ly/9iRYWV

     I enjoyed reading all the other comments, too.

121. Posted by Cathy on April 27, 2010

     We should make it into that game where you put four facts, but one of them is false and you have to guess which one…

     *I like knitting hats for innocent Smoothie bottles
     *I came fourth in a county swimming contest
     *I read this blog every day
     *Physics is my life

122. Posted by Helen on April 27, 2010

     Hi everyone, I’m Helen (another one, and willing to join the Helen-based army!!)
     I rarely comment on the blog but always read it, like a lot of other people it seems.
     I’m staying in Aberdeen, where I’m in my 3rd year at uni, but I still think of (near) Inverness as my home.
     I don’t really have any interesting facts about myself that I think anyone would really like to know…
     I really would like to go to Edinburgh on Aug 11th, but I have no idea if I’ll actually make it. (I’m not very good at decisions or planning ahead (both things I’m aiming to ‘fix’ as part of the TYSIC)).

     Hope everyone is alright xx

123. Posted by Dan on April 27, 2010

     Hi, I’m Dan. I have read this blog every day from pretty much when it started and it’s always something to cheer me up especially with the immense stress of coursework/exams combined with my girlfriend deciding to split up with me. I probably sound such a depressive little sod now but there you go. One introduction as asked for.

124. Posted by Magnificent Josh on April 27, 2010

     How do.

     I am Josh, the magnificent is a descriptor rather than a given name.
     I read every single post and have done so on the day all but 4 or so days. I am an overly active poster on the forum (5th highest, don’t you know) and I made that little picture of mark used therein.

     My Great-Granddad apparently employed Ken Wood, inventor of the food processor, and complained about him spending all of his time working on it. While this is undoubtedly not true, it would need him to baker (which there was no evidence of) and spend 4 years in hiding in Margate, it seems wrong to question it.

125. Posted by fuzzy_ducky (Laura) on April 27, 2010

     Right, well what a nice invite cheers

     So I’m Laura, friend call me Laur Law because of my imaginary marriage with Jude Law, or just Laur. The name “fuzzy_ducky” came about one night when I stumbled upon the drinking game – fuzzy duck. Fuzzy ducky has become my username on almost every site I’ve joined. Small differences like fuzzyducky, fuzzyducky5, fuzzy-ducky or as my twitter says fuzzy_ducky.

     I’m 16, turning the big 17 on the 28th May. 5th year in Ireland – stress? YES! These daily blogs, along with a certain “youtubers” vlogs keep me going and let me relax after a stressful day learning about A: How to dissect a worm or B: studying poetry (which I quite enjoy, but can be tedious) or C: trying to convince the deputy principle my shoes really are black.

     Hobbies? – cooking, photography, athletics and well, watching tv.
     Hobbies are stuff you do a lot so I guess studying could be a hobby, although you’re supposed to enjoy hobbies… hmmm

     So that’s me, Laura, in a nutshell.
     Thanks for reading, now it’s off to write a 4 page English essay – oh the joys

126. Posted by Matt on April 27, 2010

     I’m Matt and a 23 year year old male.

     I believe in comfortable things like jumpers, loose hoodies and dressing gowns.

     I love to read, watch good telly that is well made, shot and written. Same for films, hence my avoiding of Avatar. That and I dislike James Cameron. I also love all sport, bar golf and boxing. Anything else I will happily watch. I fence (the sport with swords).

     Errrr… Not sure what else to say really.

127. Posted by Anna on April 27, 2010

     I’m Anna (Yep, the iPod winner), I’m rapidly heading towards my 29th birthday, and I’m an Essex girl. I have a 1 year old son who was named after the bass player from the Manic Street Preachers, I used to have pink hair (going to dye it again soon, I’m sick of looking normal), I like books more than people, and I met my husband 8 years ago today.
     I’m stupidly shy, but compensate for this by oversharing horribly. Seriously- within 10 minutes of meeting me you will know my bra size, childbirth/breastfeeding experiences,and why I think mooncups are the greatest invention ever. I should be at the London launch, if it’s reasonably child friendly, as I want to bring my son with me.
     Oh, and I’m one of the 300 who read every day, but I don’t comment very often as I’m not very good at thinking of anything clever/funny to say.

128. Posted by Louise on April 27, 2010

     Hello. My name’s Louise and I’m 28. I’m almost having palpitations writing this and I’m also struggling to think of anything interesting to say about myself (or anything else), hence why I’ve never posted anything before.
     I generally read the blog daily and enjoy the comments as much as the blog itself.
     Having listened to Mark’s CD about making the world substantially better, I can no longer hear the words ‘exemplum’, ‘turning point’ and ‘Mark Watson’ without breaking into (an internal) song!
     Hope to be brave enough to post again someday x

129. Posted by Irwin on April 27, 2010

     Oh, this is exciting. I never miss a chance to make an unashamed appeal for friends.

     Well, what can I say? Unlike the producer of all six Rocky films, Irwin Winkler, Irwin isn’t my real name. It is, like legenday Irish left back Denis Irwin, my surname. I can’t really put it more succinctly than that.

     I’m fairly new to this particular blog, but came by it via Back of the Net. Frankly I’m quite glad I did. It seems this is essentially a community of people who have a strong dislike of rap music and South Park, and a general enthusiasm for convuluted competitions and Pear cider spokesman Mark Watson.

     I’m a 20 year old student in Winchester. I’ve previously dabbled in stand up comedy. I was supposed to ‘open’ for Russell Howard once, but he didn’t show up. I did meet Steve Furst of Orange Cinema advert fame though.

     True fact: wrote a novel last year. Now I’m writing another one, with the theory that if I write enough of them one of them is bound to be published eventually.

     On a less wankerish sounding note, my favourite TV is Magnum, PI.

130. Posted by helen (@iamanicelady) on April 27, 2010

     I feel I should add that rachel and I will not discriminate against non-rachels and non-helens and non-twins and non-people that look like us. we love you all xx

131. Posted by Becca on April 27, 2010

     I’m Becca, though I get called every variation of Rebecca possible, as well as a number of other nicknames (which I will not list here as they amount to double figures.)

     I read this every day, though I’ve only commented once, as I don’t think what I have to say is that interesting; I see I’m not the only one who thinks so, but this relates to how I’m standardly negative about everything. I have many phobias but the weirdest one is probably yogurt. Today I got horrifically sunburnt and am quite in pain. I’m in my first year at uni and I’ve met some of the best people here. People think I’m anorexic but actually I just have problems gaining weight.

132. Posted by rachel (pandora) on April 27, 2010

     i agree with my esteemed twinny helen. if there is ever such a need for a rachel/helen army we’re SO there.

133. Posted by helen (@iamanicelady) on April 27, 2010

     evening!

     I’m helen, one of a few here it seems, which is exciting as I have only met two others in real-life. I’m the identical twin of rachel/pandora (lots of rachels too, i feel me and the sister could be the twin generals of a rachels/helens army when the name revolution comes). I’m a student having a year out in France at the moment, but soon have to return to university and a daily life that has a lot fewer baguettes and a lot less cheese. I read the blog every day, it has a place on my favourites between youtube and northampton saints rugby team, what a pleasant place to be…

134. Posted by Sam on April 27, 2010

     Hello, my name is Sam.
     I can say “Cliff Richard live under my bed” in Romanian, even though I don’t speak any other Romanian.
     The only time it comes up in conversation is during these interesting facts sections.
     Never once has a Romanian person asked me about either my bed of Cliff Richard, yet alone a combination. Frustrated I did once yell it at an elderly woman whilst out there. She looked understandably confused, and I felt deserverdly ashamed.

135. Posted by T on April 27, 2010

     Hi, I’m T, I’m 26 and I’m originally from Australia. Have recently moved over to the UK – joined the bandwagon of 20-something aussies living in London. I’m a qualified librarian and I love libraries… most people think that’s interesting (although sometimes I just think that’s just their polite way of saying that I’m weird!).

136. Posted by Emily on April 27, 2010

     Well I’m Emily and I fall into the “There are some who I sense are too polite/shy to comment except on special occasions.” category (more shy than polite). Interesting fact… hmmm… I’m a boring person and a somewhat sad and geeky person so I guess I’ll come out with my usual judgement-inducing fact that I can recite pi to 120d.p. I also like science, especially Chemistry, a lot. Something else I mention too much is my extreme hatred of the pure evil that is citrus and all citrus-based items and I often quite like to shamelessly promote an awesome unsigned band local to me called Motion Theory (website is http://www.motiontheoryband.com – go listen, free music download). That’ll do I think.

     Oh and I wasn’t planning on going to the Fringe as it’s expensive, but I never have so I might make an exception for this event and call it visiting a friend in the same trip (also meaning free accommodation I hope!).

137. Posted by Laura on April 27, 2010

     Hello everyone. My name is Laura (yet another one) and I am a daily reader and almost daily commenter, even if I have nothing of interest to say, as it is a nice place here and nobody ever says anything horrible.

     I’m 30 but feel anywhere between 18 and 50 depending on my mood and whether I am dealing with one of my bouts of depression.

     I love dogs, Joss Whedon, Neil Gaiman (well, books and comics in general) and football (and my beloved boyfriend, Matt). I have the habit of picking up a hobby and then giving up six months later; my current one is knitting but I am pretty crap at it. If anyone can explain where I might be going wrong with rib stitch it would be appreciated!

     I have more weird phobias than anyone else in the known universe including, but not limited to, ketchup (but I adore everything else tomato related), stickers and people who write on their hands. Ick.

     I’m also scarily competitive in a Monica Geller kind of way so I don’t play games. The worst example of this was throwing the Monopoly board across the room when aforementioned beloved starting beating me.

     I will definitely be at the London launch. That was very long – sorry!

138. Posted by david on April 27, 2010

     Hello I’m david. I’m 21 and I study marine psychiatry at Edinburgh.

139. Posted by Lydia on April 27, 2010

     Hello all, I’m Lydia, I’m 28 (29 next week, urgh). I live in Kendal but I’m from Manchester. I have two sons called Elliot and George.

     I don’t post an awful lot because I’m very aware that I’m a social numpty, when I chat to people I don’t really know, my mouth goes into overdrive and brain ceases to work, this means I talk an awful lot of inane drivel, the same happens when I type, take this post as proof!

     I have to smell a cup before I use it, people who know me well give me an empty cup to sniff before making me a drink (then take the piss out of me). I have a hard time in coffee shops and pubs.

     Nice to ‘meet’ you all.

140. Posted by Emmy on April 27, 2010

     Hello, my name is Emmy, I am 19, I am somewhat American, and I live in London. I am fluent in Spanish, have four tattoos, and love bicycles. Yoghurt is one of my favorite foods. Ever.

     I am very, very excited for the London book launch! Thank you so much Mark for organizing it and doing it on a weekend. Although I would have called in fake sick to work in order to go if it wasn’t.

     And don’t put yourself down. Everything you do is always a 10 on the fun scale. The book launch and everything about this blog are no exception.

141. Posted by DeborahF on April 27, 2010

     Hello everyone. My name is Deborah I am 36 though my mental age morphs between 26 and 66 depending on my mood. I’m definitely a grown up though as I have a house, a mortgage and bills to pay which I think is what qualifies you as an adult.

     I work at a University and I’m a complete IT geek which is useful as that’s a massive part of my job. Like Megan I’d love to be a QI elf as I love learning new stuff and collecting interesting but practically useless facts.

     Now for something random which Mark might like – I was once sat on Leeds train station when a guy approached me and started undoing his belt and trousers. Fearing the worst I looked up horrified to see Jack Charlton busy tucking his shirt into his trousers. So I was once almost flashed at by the legendary Sir Jack Charlton!

142. Posted by James Walker on April 27, 2010

     Hello. I’m James, and I’m 18 years old. I live in Edinburgh, and for the EdFest attenders, I’m happy to report that the weather is currently ‘fine’.
     Also, the tramlines are now in place along Princes Street! but places are still being dug up, so don’t get me started (I’m fine about it; I’ve forgotten what life was like previous to tramworks)

     (Possibly) Interesting fact: I took part in ‘The Hotel’ for about 2 weeks last year. It was a lot of fun, but as I knew no-one (apart from in the ‘that’s them off the telly, that is’ way) I probably came across as a bit shy & awkward, and therefore made a bad impression overall, so yeah; sorry about that.

     I’d quite like to write comedy for a living. That would be quite nice. If anyone has any spare humour, or potential, I’ll happily take that off your hands.

     Enough about me, let’s talk about this book launch. I’m definitely up for the Edinburgh one. Enough about this book launch, back to me now.

     I’ve just had Lasagne.

     Hello to everyone else commenting & reading; lovely to meet you all (if reading your comments count as ‘meeting’. I think it does.)

143. Posted by Marie on April 27, 2010

     *clears throat and steps forward nervously*

     Hello all. I’m Marie. I’m 24 (until next Tuesday) and I’m living in Scotland (for another few weeks). I love reading, musical theatre, stationary and one of my lifelong goals is to live in Wales for a while.

     I generally read this blog every day, and post on it a couple of times a week. If I don’t happen to be in Edinburgh for the launch, I’ll try and make it to the London one.

     Here’s two truths and a lie about me:
     1) I have a tattoo on my lower back which I kept hidden from my parents for over three years.
     2) I have an irrational fear of eggs.
     3) My ringtone is a John Barrowman song.

144. Posted by Rachel on April 27, 2010

     Hello My name is Rachel (yes, another one) and I leave school in 15 days. I was once rollerbladed over by Shaznay from All Saints whilst walking through Bridlington. I’m currently trying to learn Croatian for an expedition there with my school in July and failing dramatically. I wish I lived in somewhere more interesting, i.e. London or similar, however live in the wet city of Wakefield (recently voted the second worst place for things to do, apparently). I don’t comment on here as much as some others, but make an effort to read it each day…it always cheers me up to see a new post Like Meg, I listen to my Mark Watson Makes the World Substantially Better audiobooks over and over again (I now cannot hear the name ‘Pedro’ without laughing to myself like an idiot).

145. Posted by lora on April 27, 2010

     Hello everyone!
     I tried to post earlier but my dodgy internet connection died after me pressing submit and it would appear the comment never made it. (If the previous post randomly appears from the depths of the internet, I apologise for inroducing myself twice).
     I’m Lora and I’m a media student. I also have a fear of pigeons (and pretty much all birds which attempt to dive bomb you randomly in the street). I’m sure I wrote more in the previous post but I forget…
     I am considering going to the Edinburgh book launch, and may investigate how feesible it is to get to and return from Edinburgh in the same day(as well as attending the book launch obviously).

146. Posted by Laurs on April 27, 2010

     Hi everyone, I’m Laura (hundreds of us round here, so I’ll go by Laurs!) I read every day and have commented quite a few times, but there are more times than not when I think that people aren’t interested in what I’ve got to say so delete my comment…

     I’m 26, I teach English and I love music, comedy, books and pub quizzes.

     I hate bad grammar from those who should know better, violence of any sort (even things like rugby, which I know isn’t proper violence, but people get hurt playing it quite a lot)and thunderstorms.

147. Posted by Spencer on April 27, 2010

     Here’s a very quick introduction as this here 29 year old is actually meant to be supervising both the cooking of lasagne and his 18 month old daughter. No I’m not cooking my daughter. I’m supervising her and she’s currently chewing on a tuna sandwich which makes my life somewhat easier for now. I have very good intentions when it comes to multi-tasking, but I am also easily distracted. What was I saying? Oh yes, hello. How are you? Nice to meet you here. Can someone smell burning?…

148. Posted by rachel (pandora) on April 27, 2010

     afternoon all.
     my name is rachel. i’m 21. i live in birmingham. i’m graduating in a few months as a qualified physiotherapist, although i also work part-time in the MP3 Conveyance Feasibility Team.
     exciting fact about me – i once got picked on by derren brown. he told me the name of my guinea-pig (dobbin, not the previously mentioned Notorious P.I.G). he thought it was a very funny name.
     i’m proud to say i’m a lifer, in both blog and show. and i comment quite a lot. i have LOTS of opinions you see.

149. Posted by Louise on April 27, 2010

     I am louise and on the first of june I will be 23. I study criminology student and last week I got to spend a week at bar-l (glasgow prison) which was so much fun! My ‘interesting’ fact is that I have freckles in both of my eyes, I dont like people pointing them out though. Also I own roughly in the region of 300 dvds, the sign of a person that has more money than sense and doesnt get out very much.

150. Posted by Kate on April 27, 2010

     Hi! My name is Kate or Katie, I don’t really mind, and I read the blog everyday (unless my computer breaks >:| …) and I comment fairly regularly. I’m 14, nearly 15. I love: West End plays and musicals, reading, music and comedy. And I have a phobia of needles. It is my lifelong dream to become an actor, but it’s one of those fun dreams that you already know is unachievable.

     I also love reading everyone’s comments.

151. Posted by h2osarah on April 27, 2010

     Hello, I’m Sarah and I’m from Canada. I’m 5’11″. Despite this, I like to wear high heels. My favourite colour is red (as well as the current colour of my hair). I’m unnaturally obsessed with comedy and the idea of moving to the UK. It’s basically what keeps me going.

152. Posted by Meg on April 27, 2010

     My name is Meg. I am 14 and in Year 10 and am particularly interested in politics, history and broadcasting. It is my main ambition to work at the BBC – especially radio. A lot of people at school think I am weird – mainly because I like politics and refuse to pretend to be like everyone else just to fit in. I like being different – although it seems selfish to claim that I have problems because of being different, since my younger brother is autistic and will probably have a lot more problems than me when he’s older.

     I read this blog almost every day and spent a huge amount of time on Twitter. However, I do not comment very often because I am very aware that compared to everyone else, I am relatively boring and not funny at all. However, I consider myself to have a good sense of humour. I listen to my Mark Watson Makes The World Substantially Better CDs over and over again because I never get bored of them! I also like computers a lot.

153. Posted by Holly on April 27, 2010

     Hello. I’m Holly. I’m one of the polite/shy ones. I can turn my feet until they are pointing backwards and I once opened a branch of Wickes in Bury.

154. Posted by HelenLS on April 27, 2010

     Hello! I’m Helen (or some people know me as Dgymn (pronounced Jim)). I’m a bit of a geek, and proud of it, I’m 19 and in my first year at Uni studying Psychology.

     I read this blog pretty much every day and if I’ve missed a day I will always catch up. I don’t often post because decide that what I was going to say is stupid and delete it.

     I will definitely be at the book launch in Edinburgh, it will be my first time at the festival and I can’t wait!

     Oh and I can juggle.

155. Posted by Ben on April 27, 2010

     I’ll be at the Eds launch for sure.

     My name is Ben, I’m 22 — for another 8ish days, I think. I like books and music and football and my guitar and bad food and watching snooker and evolution and Sharpies and comedy and my typewriter and loooong journeys and beaches in winter and walking and old friends and laughing, oh God I love laughing, and all sorts of other things.

     I am wearing a very green T-shirt.

     I live in the sweet-as attic room of my parent’s house, which is awesome fun but distinctly uncool. I went to university and did fuck all.

     I grew up in a mansion with a go-kart track, and the only clothes I consider worth buying are jumpers. The rest are just necessities, and should either be provided by the government or my more fashionable sisters (in reality, it’s usually the sisters. Tsk, politics. You can’t see this because it’s only the internet, but I just rolled my eyes satirically.)

156. Posted by Rachael on April 27, 2010

     Hello. My name is Rachael (like many others on here it seems) and I quite like the thought of being cool and mysterious.

157. Posted by Mike on April 27, 2010

     Hello everyone! My name is Mike and I guess I am one of the 300 people that read every day but have only commented twice. I am 20; study Theology at Bristol Uni and after my degree I want to train to teach Religious Studies…thats if I can battle the nervousness that has stopped me from introducing myself and commenting beforehand!

158. Posted by Katie on April 27, 2010

     Hello there. My name is Katie Campbell, I’m 17 and I like music and other trivial things. I live in Glasgow, Scotland, where it is currently (and usually) raining. However, I like the rain, so that’s ok. The most interesting thing about me is that I have a small scar just above my left eye that I received last December on the day of my 6th year Christmas Dance when a Thermos flask full of 4-week old tea exploded in my face. I got 3 stitches and they matched my dress.

     I found the whole thing quite funny though, and the boy I have my heart set on danced with me. It was a bit of a win-win situation, to be honest.

159. Posted by Mikey! on April 27, 2010

     My name is Mikey! It’s not really, that’s a fake name. I read every day but have only commented once, on the Very Late Review: Episode Two. I’ve started reading every day because I’m still waiting for you to publish the results of that, and do the next one. Can you fucking well do that please, you piece of shit?

160. Posted by Megan on April 27, 2010

     I’m Megan. I’m probably older than most people posting here (32). I like the northern seas, coffee, and reading in pubs. I do not like very hot weather, the sudden (re)popularity of recreational hardcore drugs, and losing at Scrabble. I live in Canada, but would (probably) move to Scotland tomorrow if money and visas allowed. I did my postgraduate work in Birmingham, but spent most of the year trying to catch up on British culture through Radio 4 and TV panel games. I am trying to write a semi-autobiographical script about this. My dream job would be as a QI Elf.

     I live with my brother in our late mother’s house. I’m starting to embrace the possibility of being a spinster, though I’m not 100% pleased about it. I have a very complicated relationship with my ex of five years. The numbers of letter Is in this description makes me seem like an egomaniac.

     (I didn’t mean to write this much either. Oops. Sometimes this blog is a bit too much like therapy.)

161. Posted by Gabi on April 27, 2010

     Hello new people. It’s nice here. Cookies and laugher can be found in vast quantities.

     Mark I would like to come to the Edinburgh one. Up there for the festival and this sounds like a very exciting mission.

     Big love
     Gabi

162. Posted by Steph on April 27, 2010

     Whoops. I would definitely be interested in coming to the unofficial London book launch in late September

163. Posted by Steph on April 27, 2010

     My name is Steph(anie). I will be 18 in June, when I shall be sitting those stupid exams they call A Levels. I need to get 3 As to get into the love of my life; Imperial College London.
     I would like to second what Beth said, I also do not post everyday but I always read whatever Mark offers
     Something interesting about me is that I can solve a Rubik’s Cube and at this moment in time I am eating Lasgne.
     One more thing…can’t wait to get my hands on this travelling iPod!

164. Posted by Anji on April 27, 2010

     Hello *wave* my name’s Anji (yes that is how it has been spelt all my life, no I’m sure it’s not Angie, and yes it appears like that on my birth certificate).
     I have a stinky cold today and feel very sorry for myself.
     I love seeing the blog and everyones comments, it feels like I know a lot of you, yet don’t. It’s quite strange but in a great way! I’m sure that’s the same for a lot of you!

165. Posted by amycool on April 27, 2010

     Hello there.

     My name is Amy and I prefer writing to people than speaking to them face-to-face. I haven’t actually seen two of my closest friends for a few years now but we converse via pen and paper/the internet very regularly. I also hate nightclubs.

     That’s probably less an interesting fact and more an opening at socially anxious anonymous.

     As for reading the blog, I check it a lot on my days off and sometimes not at all if I’m working, but I always catch up eventually.

166. Posted by Sam on April 27, 2010

     I’m Sam. I’ve read every day, but only posted once. I’m quite worried about making an unnecessary spectacle of myself, I think. Plus, I’m not really sure how to exist in an ‘online community’. I have enough trouble with physical ones, so this is a very new venture for me.

     I’m 20, I’m male and I live in Preston while I do my degree. I’m most definitely a southern boy though. I would be going to your show here in October, but there’s a chance I’ll be in Malawi, so I’m reluctant to commit.

     Right, that’s me done.

167. Posted by Misha on April 27, 2010

     My name is Misha (you pronounce it mee-sh-a) it’s nearly my 18th Birthday, I live in Coventry with my Dad and brother.
     Weird things tend to happen around me.
     I have aspergers syndrome and I like music, comedy, cats and tea.

168. Posted by Beth on April 27, 2010

     I feel like this is my first day at school, but, hello! My name’s Beth, I’m 18. Facts: I have an irrational fear of pigeons and I like going to festivals (music or comedy, I’m not fussy). I also have my heart set on going to Edinburgh University in September 2011, an unlikely-to-happen ambition but a fact nonetheless!

     And, although I don’t post much, I do in fact read this blog everyday. It’s part of my routine now

169. Posted by Linsey on April 27, 2010

     Hello everybody, my name is Linsey and I’ve just left commenting on this blog for twenty so that I wouldn’t the first person to comment. But it seems like I might be (although if someone else has commented now I’ll feel stupid(er))