And since then ... well ... the shit has hit the fan!
Pardew had his list written out, and he was well on the way to getting his three players, then Mike Ashley changed the rules.
Not happy with Pardew's 'performance' last campaign, they had a heart-to-heart meeting, but the Toon boss didn't get off as Scot-free as he expected.
He came out of the meeting telling the media he was "still in the job", but said very little else, as we expect he was primed that something was going to happen to change his standing at the club.
We were all stunned by Joe Kinnear's appointment, but Pardew has yet to comment, because we believe he knew it was coming.
So what now? Will the Toon boss get his three players? Not before the squad return on July 4th, and that is a fact!
Eight miles down the road it is "all systems go".
Sunderland have had a busy summer with Maritmo defender Valetin Roberge, Basel midfielder Cabral and Lazio's Modibo Diakite all joining on July 1.
They have also signed Benjamin Mendy and signed two other youngsters, with an Argie, two Italians and a goalkeeper expected to go to the Stadium of Shite next week.
The Mackems, who hammered us 3-0 at St James' Park not too long ago, are strengthening.
What the f*** are we doing?
Mr Ashley ... please tell me!