Russian premier Vladimir Putin has stated that gay people will be 'welcome' at the Winter Olympics in Sochi. 'The archers will need targets,' he added.

Well, as everyone who follows my posts know, I think Putin is a great guy. (And just in case anyone thinks that I would like Polonium in my tea, the answer is no.)  It will be interesting to see how Russia deals with the protests considering the way that those who have acted against Putin have been jailed for one reason or another.  And considering this, it is surprising that Russia was awarded the Winter Olympics.  Mind you, Beijing was given the Olympics in 2008 and the world cup in 2022 is to be held in Qatar the original bid for it to be in the summer. I do not think that any nation that has hosted the Olympics has a perfect human rights record, but some are more honest about things than others.

And on the topic of sport, Arsenal won on the weekend.  We were slaughtered on the weekend before against Liverpool, our players appearing mostly not to be trying after an onslaught in the first twenty minutes.  A draw against ManUre followed, but revenge against Liverpool was sweet, even if we had to thank the ref for it!

But I did not get to watch the match as yesterday we were out in Southwold.  On Saturday, my wife pointed out that the next day was going to be sunny and so a trip out was planned.  This meant that my son missed yet another rubgy practice session, but it was a great day.  We got to spend time on the pier there, a place that I have not been to before despite many trips to the town.  The kids loved it, they bought some rock and also some things which I am sure that they will not lose for a few days...

Anyway, it is getting late.  Have to go now.