I wasn't planning on getting to the internet this early today, but a crazy Irish woman showed up at my hotel last night and has been causing trouble this morning - disturbing the serenity for me, the only other guest. All the other SriLankan's are saying she is absolutely nuts, and after a short conversation with her in which she managed to tell about 5 lies, I concur.
Meanwhile, with a belly full of devilled crab last night, I sat taking photo's, reading my Balzac book (am now obsessed with it - it's fantastic) and wrote these things (among others) in my little book of thoughts that I am carrying with me;
What do crabs eat?
How many people die each year at the hands (shells?)of falling coconuts?
Happiness is not a warm gun; happiness is a warm bed, a warm beer (sometimes) a warm belly (a full belly), a warm heart.
"There never was a truer saying than the most beautiful things in the world are a frigate at full sail, a galloping horse and a woman dancing." The character Eugene, "Old Goriot", Balzac.
"To do what you want is freedom, to do what you like is happness" - Anande, Manager, Lucky Dolphin, 23/6/07.
A rupee for your thoughts Madame? A rupee for my thoughts.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Jelly Legs
Well, I knew I couldn't maintain my early pace for long and consequently I now have to catch you up on the last few incredibly relaxing days in one post. Fortunately (for me and my lazy typing fingers) I haven't been doing very much.
To begin with, it is very much low season here in Hikkaduwa. Which is fine in many respects - no drunk backpackers screaming on the beach, cheaper prices and no waiting anywhere. The downside is that the high, rough monsoon seas have taken a big bite out of the beach which is too rough for swimming, I stick out like a sore thumb, and there aren't many people to talk to about the place.
I have been therefore engaged in several activities which are entirely undemanding, being; sleeping, eating, reading, and ayuervedic treatment.
The first two are fairly self-explanatory. Eating here is good and cheap and because I am next to the ocean have scoffed down a variety of seafood. Also tried vegetable rotti today for the first time, which for fans of Indian food, is like a piece of naan bread stuffed with yummy vege filling.
On the reading - I just finished the book club book, "The Year of Living Dangerously" and am now left with a choice between Balzac or Shakespeare, which were the only 2 English language books I could find in a little book stall I came across. Heavy.
As for the Ayurveda - well that came about because I was looking for somewhere to have a massage - and came upon a clinic where there was actually a Doctor of Ayurvedic medicine. I ended up having a consultation, after which he prescribed me a 3 two-hour sessions of various treatments to re balance my chi or something like that (am being a little trite, mainly because I can't remember the name of what it is that needed to be rebalanced....)
So for the last three days I have been variously slapped, chopped, kneaded, rubbed, prodded, beaten with bags of milk soaked rice, given a facial and had my face massaged (definite winner for those of you who have never had that done) bathed in herbal water and given different energy tonics and herbal concoctions to swallow.
The best thing however was definitely the Shirodara which I was a little worried about at first, as it reminded me of Chinese water torture, but after half an hour of oil plopping on my forehead and running through my hair, I was asleep like a baby and very deeply relaxed. I left the clinic yesterday with my oiled hair wrapped in a weird cloth (much to the amusement of the tuk-tuk drivers on the side of the road as I walked back to my cabana) with strict instructions not to wash my hair until evening, and to "very relax" for the rest of the day. I read my book for about an hour and then fell into a total coma for three hours, at which time I could no longer stand the oil in my hair and ended up washing it and going out to find dinner. But I very much recommend Shirodara.
One thing that I haven't mentioned yet is that Hikkaduwa was one of the parts of Sri Lanka quite affected by the Tsunami. It is not as bad as some of the places up north that I saw on my way from Colombo (my driver pointed out one spot where an entire train full of people were wiped out - 1500 people in one 200 metre spot). On the way down here there were lots of signs along the road, indicating where various aid organisations and donations from countries have paid for regeneration. Hikka was nowhere near as bad as those places, but a lot of the people here lost their families and livelihoods.
Last night I chanced upon just about the only other Aussie in town, a guy from Perth, and after the restaurant we were eating in shut at 10, we took two Lion beers with us and sat on the beach, musing over what we would do if the sea started sucking out in anticipation of a killer wave. I am not sure what conclusion we ultimately reached, but I think it was something along the lines of "run into the jungle as fast as you bloody can". I wasn't too keen on the topic of conversation.
Nonetheless, am not worried - Nimal assured me that Tsunami's happen about every 200 years in Sri Lanka just to wipe out some of the excess population; "You see Madam, every few hundred years the earth get too heavy - like when you carry to many coconut in one arm and your arm tired - you dropping no? - tsunami it get rid of extra people so earth not falling out from sky."
Pristine logic no?
Anyway, have reconfirmed my flight for the next leg. (Apparently Sri Lankan Air are notorious for bumping you if you don't) - and now is time to face the next challenge - getting through Immigration in the UK without my British passport. Sigh. No amount of Ayurveda is going to cure my anxiety about that.
I will try and upload some more photo's - video even. Haven't taken many though - as I haven't moved very far out of the same 2Km stretch of road since Saturday.
Ok am going now - an ancient Sri Lankan lady who looks a little bit like she might be involved in the dark arts (i.e. be a witch) just extended her hand through the window, and I was too scared not to give her 50 rupees. I am sure she is perfectly fine and very nice, but there was something worrisome about that hooky little nose.......
To begin with, it is very much low season here in Hikkaduwa. Which is fine in many respects - no drunk backpackers screaming on the beach, cheaper prices and no waiting anywhere. The downside is that the high, rough monsoon seas have taken a big bite out of the beach which is too rough for swimming, I stick out like a sore thumb, and there aren't many people to talk to about the place.
I have been therefore engaged in several activities which are entirely undemanding, being; sleeping, eating, reading, and ayuervedic treatment.
The first two are fairly self-explanatory. Eating here is good and cheap and because I am next to the ocean have scoffed down a variety of seafood. Also tried vegetable rotti today for the first time, which for fans of Indian food, is like a piece of naan bread stuffed with yummy vege filling.
On the reading - I just finished the book club book, "The Year of Living Dangerously" and am now left with a choice between Balzac or Shakespeare, which were the only 2 English language books I could find in a little book stall I came across. Heavy.
As for the Ayurveda - well that came about because I was looking for somewhere to have a massage - and came upon a clinic where there was actually a Doctor of Ayurvedic medicine. I ended up having a consultation, after which he prescribed me a 3 two-hour sessions of various treatments to re balance my chi or something like that (am being a little trite, mainly because I can't remember the name of what it is that needed to be rebalanced....)
So for the last three days I have been variously slapped, chopped, kneaded, rubbed, prodded, beaten with bags of milk soaked rice, given a facial and had my face massaged (definite winner for those of you who have never had that done) bathed in herbal water and given different energy tonics and herbal concoctions to swallow.
The best thing however was definitely the Shirodara which I was a little worried about at first, as it reminded me of Chinese water torture, but after half an hour of oil plopping on my forehead and running through my hair, I was asleep like a baby and very deeply relaxed. I left the clinic yesterday with my oiled hair wrapped in a weird cloth (much to the amusement of the tuk-tuk drivers on the side of the road as I walked back to my cabana) with strict instructions not to wash my hair until evening, and to "very relax" for the rest of the day. I read my book for about an hour and then fell into a total coma for three hours, at which time I could no longer stand the oil in my hair and ended up washing it and going out to find dinner. But I very much recommend Shirodara.
One thing that I haven't mentioned yet is that Hikkaduwa was one of the parts of Sri Lanka quite affected by the Tsunami. It is not as bad as some of the places up north that I saw on my way from Colombo (my driver pointed out one spot where an entire train full of people were wiped out - 1500 people in one 200 metre spot). On the way down here there were lots of signs along the road, indicating where various aid organisations and donations from countries have paid for regeneration. Hikka was nowhere near as bad as those places, but a lot of the people here lost their families and livelihoods.
Last night I chanced upon just about the only other Aussie in town, a guy from Perth, and after the restaurant we were eating in shut at 10, we took two Lion beers with us and sat on the beach, musing over what we would do if the sea started sucking out in anticipation of a killer wave. I am not sure what conclusion we ultimately reached, but I think it was something along the lines of "run into the jungle as fast as you bloody can". I wasn't too keen on the topic of conversation.
Nonetheless, am not worried - Nimal assured me that Tsunami's happen about every 200 years in Sri Lanka just to wipe out some of the excess population; "You see Madam, every few hundred years the earth get too heavy - like when you carry to many coconut in one arm and your arm tired - you dropping no? - tsunami it get rid of extra people so earth not falling out from sky."
Pristine logic no?
Anyway, have reconfirmed my flight for the next leg. (Apparently Sri Lankan Air are notorious for bumping you if you don't) - and now is time to face the next challenge - getting through Immigration in the UK without my British passport. Sigh. No amount of Ayurveda is going to cure my anxiety about that.
I will try and upload some more photo's - video even. Haven't taken many though - as I haven't moved very far out of the same 2Km stretch of road since Saturday.
Ok am going now - an ancient Sri Lankan lady who looks a little bit like she might be involved in the dark arts (i.e. be a witch) just extended her hand through the window, and I was too scared not to give her 50 rupees. I am sure she is perfectly fine and very nice, but there was something worrisome about that hooky little nose.......
Sunday, June 24, 2007
A Cheeky Post
Just to make it 4 from 4 days - and to tell you that I have uploaded some pics of the trip so far for your enjoyment.
You know the drill.
You know the drill.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Hikkaduwa
Well I can barely believe it, but I have limped my way down the coast to Hikkaduwa and wouldn't you know it, the sea air has breathed some new life into my still-hurting throat.
My hotel, The Lucky Dolphin, is run by a dutch guy and is impeccably clean, very cute, and damn cheap. So ner mum! You CAN a decent room for 20 bucks a night.
I am mainly blogging today for the benefit of Uncle Daz, because he asked before I left to have cricket related tales relayed to him and I can't leave this one out. (As a side point, what is with the recurring cricketing theme of the journey so far?!
Once again the present story involves Nimal, my driver.
As we were leaving the airport and he was sussing me out so as to try and sell me his driving services, he asked where I was from. This has happened a number of times now (usually blokes asking) and when you say "Australia", they ramble off all the cities that have cricket grounds, and when they get to "Adelaide" and I say "yes", the inevitable answer is, "oh, that's a very famous cricket ground, Adelaide Oval" (sounds funnier if you imagine it said with a Sri Lankan accent - like Indian basically).
So Nimal launched into this tirade, "Well your country, you beat my country in world cup. Australian is cricketing King. Sri Lanka, we only come second."
"But that Adam Gilchrist, he is no good man".
To which I responded "Really, why do you think so?".
"Oh you know, he play with the ball in his glove and he wrecking the ball during world cup. He bad man."
Now I knew nothing of these ball tampering allegations whatsoever. So I was a little incredulous, and was sitting there musing over it when Nimal begrudginly said;
"Don't get me wrong, Adam Gilchrist, he is the "Master Blaster", but he no good man, he playing with ball."
Did I hear Nimal correctly? "Excuse me?, I said.
"Oh you know, Gillie is the Master Blaster. He is bloody good player."
I am not sure this comes across as funnily in print as it did in person, but my goodness, I had to bite my fist not to wet myself with laughter.
Its really hilarious, that Cricket is the cultural reference point for me and the bulk of the Sri Lankan populace, given that I generally loathe the Australian team. Nonetheless, it is nice that EVERYONE has heard of Adelaide here, if a little weird.
Meanwhile, all my male friends beware - I have merged you into one man and create a mythical boyfriend of you, just to keep people off my back when they ask if I have one. Don't ask which traits I have taken from which friend.....
Ok, have befriended and Irish lady here in the net cafe and invited myself to join them tonight when they are having drinks. Not going too hard, given my ongoing affliction (bought antibiotics today - that was amusing in itself - an ancient Sri Lankan man insisted on talking to me through a microphone that the whole pharmacy could hear, even when I was standing directly in front of him!) but will be nice to have a beer.
Okey. I believe thats three for three. (In some people's language I believe that is in fact called, a hattrick!)
My hotel, The Lucky Dolphin, is run by a dutch guy and is impeccably clean, very cute, and damn cheap. So ner mum! You CAN a decent room for 20 bucks a night.
I am mainly blogging today for the benefit of Uncle Daz, because he asked before I left to have cricket related tales relayed to him and I can't leave this one out. (As a side point, what is with the recurring cricketing theme of the journey so far?!
Once again the present story involves Nimal, my driver.
As we were leaving the airport and he was sussing me out so as to try and sell me his driving services, he asked where I was from. This has happened a number of times now (usually blokes asking) and when you say "Australia", they ramble off all the cities that have cricket grounds, and when they get to "Adelaide" and I say "yes", the inevitable answer is, "oh, that's a very famous cricket ground, Adelaide Oval" (sounds funnier if you imagine it said with a Sri Lankan accent - like Indian basically).
So Nimal launched into this tirade, "Well your country, you beat my country in world cup. Australian is cricketing King. Sri Lanka, we only come second."
"But that Adam Gilchrist, he is no good man".
To which I responded "Really, why do you think so?".
"Oh you know, he play with the ball in his glove and he wrecking the ball during world cup. He bad man."
Now I knew nothing of these ball tampering allegations whatsoever. So I was a little incredulous, and was sitting there musing over it when Nimal begrudginly said;
"Don't get me wrong, Adam Gilchrist, he is the "Master Blaster", but he no good man, he playing with ball."
Did I hear Nimal correctly? "Excuse me?, I said.
"Oh you know, Gillie is the Master Blaster. He is bloody good player."
I am not sure this comes across as funnily in print as it did in person, but my goodness, I had to bite my fist not to wet myself with laughter.
Its really hilarious, that Cricket is the cultural reference point for me and the bulk of the Sri Lankan populace, given that I generally loathe the Australian team. Nonetheless, it is nice that EVERYONE has heard of Adelaide here, if a little weird.
Meanwhile, all my male friends beware - I have merged you into one man and create a mythical boyfriend of you, just to keep people off my back when they ask if I have one. Don't ask which traits I have taken from which friend.....
Ok, have befriended and Irish lady here in the net cafe and invited myself to join them tonight when they are having drinks. Not going too hard, given my ongoing affliction (bought antibiotics today - that was amusing in itself - an ancient Sri Lankan man insisted on talking to me through a microphone that the whole pharmacy could hear, even when I was standing directly in front of him!) but will be nice to have a beer.
Okey. I believe thats three for three. (In some people's language I believe that is in fact called, a hattrick!)
Friday, June 22, 2007
All I (Don’t) Wanna Hear Is The Message Beep
Apart from myself there were 3 other non Sri Lankan or Indian women on the flight, and the plane was about 70% men.
I am yet to work out whether it was blatant disregard for the authority of the air hostesses or blatant disregard for their own safety, but it became apparent as the plane flew into land, that very few of the idiots on board the flight with me had actually switched their phones off when they got on the plane, and so I (and my fellow rule-abiding passengers) were struck by a cacophony of message beeps just as we hit turbulence on our way down.
The guy sitting next to me, who I idiotically had pinned as a nice quiet Indian man (especially since he reacted so placidly to my spilling half a cup of disprin on him), turned out to be a dirty rotten mid-flight texter. I couldn’t believe the audacity of the man to sit there sms-ing (Probably along the lines of - ‘Yeah, coming in to land now bro, see you in 20….”) , when my unhappiness at the whole situation was palpable.
After getting caught in the disembarkation stampede, I followed the steps of my Lonely Planet guide to the letter (look for information desk in arrival hall 1 – ask for price of taxi – go to arrival hall 2 - engage taxi driver), only to find myself standing like piffy at the front of the airport with no taxi’s in sight (“Madam, they aren’t allowed in here anymore for security reasons”).
Cue the entry of my new friend Nimal. I couldn’t even haggle him down 50 rupees, but was getting sick of standing there, and so agreed to pay a premium price (don’t ask) to get taken to my hotel. Now Mr Nimal is like Encyclopaedia Sri Lanka and I certainly made sure that I got my money’s worth from him on the way to my hotel. He even stopped to pick me up a sachet or 4 or a herbal remedy that he assures me will assist with my sore throat and bad chest. Meanwhile he was rescheduling my entire trip to
Anyway, just had a forgettable meal in an unforgettably dowdy restaurant in my hotel – the only good thing about it was the wonderful views of the port, which is right next to where I am staying. I haven’t seen another Anglo face now since I left the airport, which is not something that I am unused to, but it’s just that when it has happened in the past I spoke the language.
I got a free upgrade to a deluxe room when I checked in (you get what you pay for, this place is OKAAAAY), and the concierge then rang half an hour later to ask if I liked my room and also to inform me that there is a nightclub in the hotel. Quite hilarious, but not for me right now. I am exhausted – my body is 4 hours out of whack – as well as sick still. My glands feel enormous – shudder.
Anyway enough melodramatic talk. Wow 2 days 2 posts. Can she maintain the rage????
Signing off from Lanka.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Do Eastern Europeans Play Cricket?
Friends, you know that I love discordant juxtapositions, and my flight over to KL was no exception. I was stuffed in the back section of the plane with half of eastern Europe butted up against the
Rewind a moment. As I boarded the plane, a very nice lady pointed out that I might want to dab my tear-stained face with a tissue, and when I looked at myself in the mirror, I thought that it had been very polite of her NOT to point out that I looked like a half-drowned swamp monster. When I took my seat, the man I was sitting next to was a little elderly, and could see that I had been blubbering, and in that reassuring grandfatherly way called me “good girl” every time I said anything, and “luv”, as only Aussies can.
He turned out to be the coach of the Saints cricket team – a man by the name of Neil Danzie, who played cricket for SA for 20 years, and was a state selector for 30 years. He was an absolutely delightful man, salt-of-the-earth, and kept me company throughout the flight (and I taught him how to use the inflight entertainment).
Anyway, cut to random plane full of Europeans. The whole row behind me were Albanians and then to my left and the front were Croatians. Those who saw me off at the airport, may remember the Albanians for such things as – having 2 screaming children (one who threw herself on the floor for a good 10 minutes as I was checking in!) The children did scream for a portion of the flight, however thanks to a good combination of Sudafed, Red Wine and Neil Young on my ipod I managed to ignore them, and ultimately befriended them (they gave me lollies – or “caramelle” in Albanian). They were only little after all – 1 and 2½ . The older one insisted on talking to me in her guttural accent that made absolutely no sense to me of course, but it was endearing. She won me over. I must be getting jelly-hearted in my old age….
Anyway, as I disembarked with Mr Danzie from the plane, the Saints boys all cheered him on (he threw his arm around me for good measure) and the little Albanian girls bid me adieu. I then realized that my bloody bags should have been checked all the way through to Colombo, as I had to do a dodgy at immigration and come all the way back out to the airport hotel having collected my bags (involved an intra-airport train ride and lots of stares – “Why has SHE got her suitcase on this side of immigration!?!”) It was one of those times where speaking a little bit of Indonesian (Malaysian) helped me to a) jump the queue b) get assistance and c) bend the rules. I knew that semester last year wasn’t wasted!!
So yeah, I am actually in KL in one piece, practically catatonic, throat swollen and very sore, in the airport hotel typing this on the delightful 1970’s bedspread, waiting for morning and wishing I had some Aspro Clear.
The first leg is complete.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Ze Adelaide Weekend
The Adelaide weekend is over - and the debaucherous evidence is available on my photostream.
It was also the anniversary of the Yogya quake on Sunday. I was awake at the exact anniversary - approx 5.54 am. I can still remember it like it was yesterday. :-(
It was also the anniversary of the Yogya quake on Sunday. I was awake at the exact anniversary - approx 5.54 am. I can still remember it like it was yesterday. :-(
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
A Comment on Simple Pleasures
In the last two days I have had two experiences which have given me cause for great delight.
One - walking down to the pub for Monday night drinks, watching the sun set behind moody clouds and between two buildings while listening to the bells from the Adelaide Town Hall ring for no apparent reason at 6.17pm.
Two - eating a gigantic juicy field tomato this afternoon while perched in front of my computer reading Crikey in lieu of a lunchbreak.
Aaaaah yes, the simple things in life are often the best.
I know, I'm a loser.
One - walking down to the pub for Monday night drinks, watching the sun set behind moody clouds and between two buildings while listening to the bells from the Adelaide Town Hall ring for no apparent reason at 6.17pm.
Two - eating a gigantic juicy field tomato this afternoon while perched in front of my computer reading Crikey in lieu of a lunchbreak.
Aaaaah yes, the simple things in life are often the best.
I know, I'm a loser.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Xavier Rudd
This probably breaks a whole bunch of laws, but if you click this link, you can see the 5 minute video of Xavier Rudd that I took at Blues and Roots. It is his song "Let Me Be" in full!
Monday, April 09, 2007
Generational Dilemmas
So I promised a few more words about the Blues and Roots Festival before the week was through. I might not get these published until Monday, but I am writing them on Easter Saturday. Erina and I have been watching/listening to Live 8 all day at the shack, which is an interesting musical backdrop to discuss the importance and power of music as an instrument of change and engagement.
That aside, the crowd got right into the “stand up and be counted” messages.
But – I am not sure if the songs are ever construed by the punters as the writers intend them. I wonder if the social commentators of today hit their mark?
Now to Ben Harper, who played one of the most inspiring sets I have ever seen. That guy is a very skilled musician and from my privileged viewing position about 10m from the stage, some of his songs took on a new meaning for me. The beauty of his music is that he writes wonderful songs about love, loss and heartbreak but also makes political statements about war, violence, corruption and so has the capacity to speak to anyone who will listen about whatever is on their mind. His political messages are subtle, but to me are about engaging with a system that won’t always engage with you, about the power that one person has to refuse to accept that the way things are is the way things must be.
As someone caught between two generations of politically apathetic peers*, these are potentially powerful messages.
I worry that the punters, the people most likely to be listening to the messages, hear them not as words of motivation and messages of empowerment, but as excuses to disengage and to detach…. Using them as justifications to absolve themselves of responsibility for decisions made on their behalf by the governments they may have helped to elect, or to dismiss as lost causes the ongoing struggles of people around the world, and of those in their own backyards………..
“Policy and politics, it’s a drag – they put one foot in the grave, and the other on the flag”. And that is a lyric that links back to my previous post about inspiration and the ongoing quandaries of a surface dwelling existence – that lyric, it burns behind my eyeballs in those rare and self-indulgent existential moments …..
So, yeah uh…. Thanks to those people who wrote emails to me about the inspiration blog – even though there is only one comment on there, a few people took the time to tell me their thoughts, which was nice. And Erin your compliment did not go unnoticed (thanks – very kind) although obviously I am obliged to disagree with you. Hahaha.
*AM happy to take debate on this point, but I have decided that at 24 I am neither Gen X nor Gen Y, but a bit of both, Gen X+Y/2. Sound right?
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Blues and Roots
Just got back from Blues and Roots festival in Perth - it was absolutely amazing. Saw (amongst others) Wolfmother, The Waifs, Blue King Brown, Eugene Hideaway Bridges, John Mayer, Gomez, Ben Kweller and the master, Ben Harper. Also discovered a new artist - Piers Faccini - who was Jeff Buckley-esque and had the (slightly hungover) Sunday mid-afternoon crowd absolutely mesmerized.
I should get more thoughts about the festival on here by the end of the week, but in the meantime - here is a pic of Erina and I enjoying a bev and a sing to Xavier Rudd!
I should get more thoughts about the festival on here by the end of the week, but in the meantime - here is a pic of Erina and I enjoying a bev and a sing to Xavier Rudd!
Saturday, March 24, 2007
The Inspiration Void
Sitting a few nights ago at a work function, which should have been one of the more rewarding things to pad out my working week, I was struck quite suddenly by two thoughts.
Firstly, as the speaker on the podium discussed the importance of professional mentors for young women who are trying to climb the ladder in what still is (sorry but it is) a man's world now decorated with the cacophony of competing interests tugging at the trouser legs of young women, it dawned on me that it is important in your professional life to have someone quite removed from your working situation, to mentor you throughout your career. It is a meritorious idea for a number of reasons. One being because in your workplace you rarely get the kind of g's up and pats on the back that spur you on and give you the confidence to push yourself that bit harder, and secondly, because of the intrinsic value of having the unbiased advice of someone outside the circle, who has your interests at heart, and, no reason to be anything except honest with you.
While I was sitting there contemplating possible mentor candidates for myself, I was thinking that my potential mentor would need to be someone who along with all the other things, was inspiring.
And then it hit me. I have been struck in an inspiration void since I got back from
I love ideas. I love thinking about them, talking about them, debating them. And I rarely have time to do any of those things. Or, when I do, translating that excitement into something tangible that I can put into practice is usually doused by the hum-drum ho-hum of the day to day drudge.
Playing catch-up is not innovative. Absent a big-picture, the piecemeal nibbling at ideas is not visionary.
But alas, that is where I am in my window-less office, working on stuff that is going to make a massive difference to the lives of the constituency it is aimed at, but nonetheless which should have been accomplished years ago, and for which, being associated with claimers of kudos, feels a little dishonest and the diametric opposite of inspiring.
So as I sat there glazed-eyed, listening to debate and discussion about *someone's* vision, I depressed myself almost to the point of having to clutch the table - panicked and white-knuckled. Where does one draw inspiration from such a bleak picture?
I find books and music are often the sources of great exhilaration, but rarely inspiration. You can chuckle behind your hand, spit at my feet, roll your eyes, when I tell you that one of the most inspiring books that I have read, was Paul Keating's biography.
For his multitudinous flaws, and occasional lapses of public front, Keating had and articulated with passion, a clear vision of the type of
It is a little glum to think that any little flames that everyday things ignite, can be so easily extinguished by the sodden grey rag that is, ahem, reality. Slap, slap goes the rag. What's that you say? I am only allowed to think ahead until the next election? this financial year? until I decide to have children?
Of course, this is not the way I feel about life generally, but it is, I think, the peril of the worker drone. The 60 hour week, paper pusher – the 70 hour week billable unit machine – you name it. Absent leadership and inspiration, too easy it is, to bog on down in the day-to-day and forget or ignore, the ideas that make it worth it.
I am still trying to work out exactly what the point of this post is, apart from pointing out the frustrations of rudderlessness. And the ironic thing is that I have a rudder – one that is going to steer me on out of my office, the state and the country. Deh!
I am concerned that I always come off looking pessimistic, angry and defeatist on this blog when I raise this kind of issue – but you know I’m not. Things just niggle at me until I have to bring them up.
,
I am interested to hear what inspires you kids (and no, boozy nights out, fine food and wine, and the football don’t count!)
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Sittin' Down Trackside
I went to the races on the weekend! There are some pics on the photostream for your amusement!
Friday, March 02, 2007
Le Calendar
In testament to our diabolical experiences with the opposite sex (noting that this is largely her idea - but one that I liked so have tacked my affiliation on to) my housemate(friend) and I are hereby accepting nominations for a calendar. Not just any calendar. Oh no.
This calendar is a special one - for all those special lads out there who make our lives that bit teeth-grittingly worse, frustratingly head-banging on wall, eyes upwardly, irritating.
Said Calendar possesses a name which many would find a little offensive - it uses alliteration, and that's all I am saying. For the purposes of this blog it shall be known as the "Man of the Year Calendar". One of those words is substituted for a rude one. One that I never say.
In an unanticipated flurry, the months are filling up faster than they can pass us by. Mr January was crowned way back in the first week of that month and Mr February almost dead-heated such was his competition. Mr March was already saddled with his title in February, with a runner-up snap, snap, snapping at his calendar-worthy little heels.
We could ruin their lives by publishing their names, so we won't. But I shall outline their noteworthy contributions to being COMPLETE AND UTTER UNFATHOMABLE GITS that so earned them their nom.
Been jilted, smited, irked, disrespected, badgered, chevied, tormented or vexed?
Submit your nomination for Man of the Year! The competition is depressingly hot......
This calendar is a special one - for all those special lads out there who make our lives that bit teeth-grittingly worse, frustratingly head-banging on wall, eyes upwardly, irritating.
Said Calendar possesses a name which many would find a little offensive - it uses alliteration, and that's all I am saying. For the purposes of this blog it shall be known as the "Man of the Year Calendar". One of those words is substituted for a rude one. One that I never say.
In an unanticipated flurry, the months are filling up faster than they can pass us by. Mr January was crowned way back in the first week of that month and Mr February almost dead-heated such was his competition. Mr March was already saddled with his title in February, with a runner-up snap, snap, snapping at his calendar-worthy little heels.
We could ruin their lives by publishing their names, so we won't. But I shall outline their noteworthy contributions to being COMPLETE AND UTTER UNFATHOMABLE GITS that so earned them their nom.
- For services to saying nasty, nasty things in the throes of a break-up we have Mr January.
- For excelling in thinking that being a B-grade celebrity is license to be an unprecendented ass - there is Mr Feburary.
- And the honourable mention for February - for wanting to slap a label on things, and inexcusable confusion about crystal clear issues is Circa85 (that's his nickname that he doesn't even know about so we can use that one).
- For excellence in jumping to conclusions, pursuing & then wigging out and changing his mind (oh, and being old) is the indomitable Mr March.
- Closely followed by the snap, snap, snap of Mr "I Just Didn't Get The Feeling but I-shall-continue-to-send-you-indecipherable-mixed-messages" as his oh-so-worthy runner-up.
Been jilted, smited, irked, disrespected, badgered, chevied, tormented or vexed?
Submit your nomination for Man of the Year! The competition is depressingly hot......
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
In one way or another - still here...
This is a photo of mum, dad and I at my recent housewarming - just to show you that I am in fact, still alive.
Update on last month or so ..... hmmm - went to Melbourne for horrible college of law exams, work has been mental, had a couple of dates, housewarming party, becky's bling bling party. U know how it is.
Have been planning a contemplative, academic post for a while just haven't gotten around to it....!
Anyway here I am, still here, just....
Update on last month or so ..... hmmm - went to Melbourne for horrible college of law exams, work has been mental, had a couple of dates, housewarming party, becky's bling bling party. U know how it is.
Have been planning a contemplative, academic post for a while just haven't gotten around to it....!
Anyway here I am, still here, just....
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Busride Patriotism
Well, something very strange happened as I caught the bus home to my new house tonight.
Adelaideians will know that the Tour Down Under is about to start here - and tonight there was a warm-up event which amongst other things, blocked off the entire East-End and meant it took ages for me to get home. So anyway, there we were cruising along the road adjoining the Eastern part of the track, and suddenly the bus driver randomly pulled over. I turned off my I-Pod to try and work out why, and lo and behold the National Anthem was playing somewhere over near the track. At first I could barely believe that these two events were connected, but, as soon as the Anthem finished he turned on the engine and kept on chugging along.
I know that we should be deferential and respectful when the anthem plays and stuff, but seriously, does anyone else think that is excessive?
Well anyway, its been a while since I updated you on stuff.
I have moved to my new house. And 4 days after I moved in, Erina headed over to LA - and I leave for Melbourne for a fortnight the day she gets back. So we won' t see each other for almost an entire month! C-razy.
The new place is good, but having been the oldest of four children, I must say I am thoroughly unaccustomed to arriving home to an empty house. All of these new experiences like cooking every night, washing clothes, cleaning etc etc - of course I have done these things before - but my very survival has not been contingent on me doing them! Hehehe, I sound like a spoiled brat. I'm not I have just been fortunate to have a mum who mothered me longer than many do......
Watering the garden is a chore that causes me massive guilt. People outside of Oz may not be aware that here in Australia we are currently in the midst of a massive drought with water restrictions to boot. No sprinklers are allowed, except on your allocated day on the weekend - and you are only allowed to water on weekdays with a hose before 8am or after 8pm. I water on Erina's behalf for maybe 5 minutes and live in constant fear of someone peeping over the fence to put me on a guilt trip. :-( And the ironic thing is that I have had disputes with my own father about his garden-watering habits...!
In un-water related news - I just watched Alicia Molik's Australian Open match and I have to say I am a massive fan. She seems like a cool chick. Much respect 'Licia! In fact, I am even thinking of maybe taken some tennis lessons........
Adelaideians will know that the Tour Down Under is about to start here - and tonight there was a warm-up event which amongst other things, blocked off the entire East-End and meant it took ages for me to get home. So anyway, there we were cruising along the road adjoining the Eastern part of the track, and suddenly the bus driver randomly pulled over. I turned off my I-Pod to try and work out why, and lo and behold the National Anthem was playing somewhere over near the track. At first I could barely believe that these two events were connected, but, as soon as the Anthem finished he turned on the engine and kept on chugging along.
I know that we should be deferential and respectful when the anthem plays and stuff, but seriously, does anyone else think that is excessive?
Well anyway, its been a while since I updated you on stuff.
I have moved to my new house. And 4 days after I moved in, Erina headed over to LA - and I leave for Melbourne for a fortnight the day she gets back. So we won' t see each other for almost an entire month! C-razy.
The new place is good, but having been the oldest of four children, I must say I am thoroughly unaccustomed to arriving home to an empty house. All of these new experiences like cooking every night, washing clothes, cleaning etc etc - of course I have done these things before - but my very survival has not been contingent on me doing them! Hehehe, I sound like a spoiled brat. I'm not I have just been fortunate to have a mum who mothered me longer than many do......
Watering the garden is a chore that causes me massive guilt. People outside of Oz may not be aware that here in Australia we are currently in the midst of a massive drought with water restrictions to boot. No sprinklers are allowed, except on your allocated day on the weekend - and you are only allowed to water on weekdays with a hose before 8am or after 8pm. I water on Erina's behalf for maybe 5 minutes and live in constant fear of someone peeping over the fence to put me on a guilt trip. :-( And the ironic thing is that I have had disputes with my own father about his garden-watering habits...!
In un-water related news - I just watched Alicia Molik's Australian Open match and I have to say I am a massive fan. She seems like a cool chick. Much respect 'Licia! In fact, I am even thinking of maybe taken some tennis lessons........
Thursday, January 04, 2007
New Year Bulletin
Well loyal readers, I am back for 2007. Had a fantastic week in Bali - having a lot of fun and not doing much at all (although you may be able to read between the lines in that I am now somewhat in need of a detox!). Was great seeing Alana again - and will look forward very much to hanging out with her in Adelaide!
I have uploaded a bunch of relatively self-explanatory pics onto my Flickr page, which I hope you will enjoy......!
Just moved into my lovely new place today with Erina - its in Norwood and so close to work. Very exciting, although a bit sad to finally "leave" home, as they say. Have almost unpacked everything, but am back to work tomorrow so am just chillin right now. I have got so much College of Law to catch up on it is sickening. I will have the house to myself for a fortnight though to catch up before I head over to Melbourne for exams. Crikey.
Right, well here goes my third year of this thing. It promises to be one where I yet again pull up my roots and float around like a hydroponic lettuce. Hopefully you will keep reading, even if I do get all green and leafy. He he.
Okies, Happy New Year kids!
I have uploaded a bunch of relatively self-explanatory pics onto my Flickr page, which I hope you will enjoy......!
Just moved into my lovely new place today with Erina - its in Norwood and so close to work. Very exciting, although a bit sad to finally "leave" home, as they say. Have almost unpacked everything, but am back to work tomorrow so am just chillin right now. I have got so much College of Law to catch up on it is sickening. I will have the house to myself for a fortnight though to catch up before I head over to Melbourne for exams. Crikey.
Right, well here goes my third year of this thing. It promises to be one where I yet again pull up my roots and float around like a hydroponic lettuce. Hopefully you will keep reading, even if I do get all green and leafy. He he.
Okies, Happy New Year kids!
Thursday, December 21, 2006
A Good Year
Well this may well be a little premature - but given that I will probably not have time next week when I am in Bali/Gili's to be writing on my blog- I have decided to publish my reflections on the year in advance of Xmas and going away.
Shit, its been a good year. One with ups and downs yes, but overall I feel like I have taken some big steps forward and its cool to think that I have done some of the stuff that I have done.
For a start, living in Indonesia was amazing. To have become at least reasonably proficient in another language is something that I have been wanting to do for a long time, and this year I managed it. And re-testing my skills next week is going to be fun!
The test of living in a country with a completely different culture taught me a lot about myself. And waking up after three hours sleep to a magnitude 6.4 earthquake definitely gave me a lot to think about, and I must say, it was an absolute privilege to work with my peers in that disaster zone. It is honestly true that extreme situations bring out the best and the worst of people, and I saw both.
Travelling around Indonesia was magnificent. Making Indonesian friends who were generous with their time and their friendship was also magnificent. Unexpectedly, I also made some great friends from around the world - I am thinking of Kenta from Japan, Kara from Turkey, Cal from Ireland and Sofie from Germany. They are people who I think I will maintain friendships with for a long time.
The wonderful family that I lived with in Yogya and their generosity with and tolerance of the mad Australian woman who sang at the top of her voice and came home at 5am.
Climbing mountains, visiting the biggest Buddhist monument in the world, singing in a band at a bar in Yogya, cheerleading at an inter-law firm soccer tournament in Jakarta, drift snorkelling in Gili Trawangan - all amazing experiences. I have to say that the time I spend at Borobudur on the day of the Waisak festival was remarkably spiritual, and beautiful. Possibly the most outstanding highlight of that 6 month period.
There has then of course been, the coming home. After freaking out about being unemployed, and what it would be like, and whether I would settle, I have to say Adelaide has pleasantly surprised me. I have once more fallen in love with Adelaide. It is going to be hard to leave next time, knowing that it may be a while before I live here again.
Rediscovering the single life (that I never really had before anyway) has been interesting. Starting my working life in a Minister's office has also been interesting. I am very lucky that I love my job, but perhaps it is easier to feel that way about work when you know you are leaving...... Nonetheless, I have tried to make the most of the opportunity I have been given there, and I hope to continue to enjoy work until such time as I move to the UK.
That was another epiphany this year - working in that law firm in Jakarta really taught me that I would not be suited to that kind of work, and gave me a nudge in the direction of further study. While my plans this year were foiled after my ill-fated tilt at a Fulbright, I still am very keen to do a Masters in International Affairs and continue to pursue my passion for international politics. How that will happen is something that I can hopefully reflect on this time next year.
But back to Adelaide. Discoveries and re-discoveries of the year have included Rocket Bar, Augie March, The Pre-Sets, Murakami Books, Morning Jogs, I-Pod (best purchase of 06 without question!!), The Monthly Magazine, Ann Mitchell, Ash Blonde, Special Patrol, Monday Night Drinks, Jill Scott, Ky Chow, Erina(!), Continental Toast, Double Macchiato's, Cinema Nova, online news and Itunes, MySpace.
My gorgeous group of friends have of course made the year tops- Alana (in Indo), Claudia, Kate and Becky, my brothers Sandy and Jonathon, and of course the baby of the family Gabs. And who could forget the weekend in Sydney with that mad woman Peta? I haven't seen much of her because of random circumstances (mainly - that we have both been variously overseas) but Shani has been a great support and I am glad to see her loving life. And who could forget Uncle Brad? He is outrageous & preposterous but with him life is never dull......
Habits I wished i could have broken - nail-biting, second guess SMS, never being able to stop at one chocolate, lack of discipline with money, day-dreaming, saying "dude", snapping at people, being slave to my hormones.
And with that I bid you adieu. Assuming that is in fact how that word is spelled.
To friends overseas Merry Xmas and Happy New Year - to friends in Australia the same. I hope that 2007 is as good to you as 2006 was to me. I'm not any richer, or any thinner, but I am happy, and a bit fitter, and my direction is a little more set.
And people, please forgive my self-indulgence - I am actually just putting my thanks out there into the Universe - because 2006 could have gone two ways for me.
And fortunately it was indeed, a good year.
Shit, its been a good year. One with ups and downs yes, but overall I feel like I have taken some big steps forward and its cool to think that I have done some of the stuff that I have done.
For a start, living in Indonesia was amazing. To have become at least reasonably proficient in another language is something that I have been wanting to do for a long time, and this year I managed it. And re-testing my skills next week is going to be fun!
The test of living in a country with a completely different culture taught me a lot about myself. And waking up after three hours sleep to a magnitude 6.4 earthquake definitely gave me a lot to think about, and I must say, it was an absolute privilege to work with my peers in that disaster zone. It is honestly true that extreme situations bring out the best and the worst of people, and I saw both.
Travelling around Indonesia was magnificent. Making Indonesian friends who were generous with their time and their friendship was also magnificent. Unexpectedly, I also made some great friends from around the world - I am thinking of Kenta from Japan, Kara from Turkey, Cal from Ireland and Sofie from Germany. They are people who I think I will maintain friendships with for a long time.
The wonderful family that I lived with in Yogya and their generosity with and tolerance of the mad Australian woman who sang at the top of her voice and came home at 5am.
Climbing mountains, visiting the biggest Buddhist monument in the world, singing in a band at a bar in Yogya, cheerleading at an inter-law firm soccer tournament in Jakarta, drift snorkelling in Gili Trawangan - all amazing experiences. I have to say that the time I spend at Borobudur on the day of the Waisak festival was remarkably spiritual, and beautiful. Possibly the most outstanding highlight of that 6 month period.
There has then of course been, the coming home. After freaking out about being unemployed, and what it would be like, and whether I would settle, I have to say Adelaide has pleasantly surprised me. I have once more fallen in love with Adelaide. It is going to be hard to leave next time, knowing that it may be a while before I live here again.
Rediscovering the single life (that I never really had before anyway) has been interesting. Starting my working life in a Minister's office has also been interesting. I am very lucky that I love my job, but perhaps it is easier to feel that way about work when you know you are leaving...... Nonetheless, I have tried to make the most of the opportunity I have been given there, and I hope to continue to enjoy work until such time as I move to the UK.
That was another epiphany this year - working in that law firm in Jakarta really taught me that I would not be suited to that kind of work, and gave me a nudge in the direction of further study. While my plans this year were foiled after my ill-fated tilt at a Fulbright, I still am very keen to do a Masters in International Affairs and continue to pursue my passion for international politics. How that will happen is something that I can hopefully reflect on this time next year.
But back to Adelaide. Discoveries and re-discoveries of the year have included Rocket Bar, Augie March, The Pre-Sets, Murakami Books, Morning Jogs, I-Pod (best purchase of 06 without question!!), The Monthly Magazine, Ann Mitchell, Ash Blonde, Special Patrol, Monday Night Drinks, Jill Scott, Ky Chow, Erina(!), Continental Toast, Double Macchiato's, Cinema Nova, online news and Itunes, MySpace.
My gorgeous group of friends have of course made the year tops- Alana (in Indo), Claudia, Kate and Becky, my brothers Sandy and Jonathon, and of course the baby of the family Gabs. And who could forget the weekend in Sydney with that mad woman Peta? I haven't seen much of her because of random circumstances (mainly - that we have both been variously overseas) but Shani has been a great support and I am glad to see her loving life. And who could forget Uncle Brad? He is outrageous & preposterous but with him life is never dull......
Habits I wished i could have broken - nail-biting, second guess SMS, never being able to stop at one chocolate, lack of discipline with money, day-dreaming, saying "dude", snapping at people, being slave to my hormones.
And with that I bid you adieu. Assuming that is in fact how that word is spelled.
To friends overseas Merry Xmas and Happy New Year - to friends in Australia the same. I hope that 2007 is as good to you as 2006 was to me. I'm not any richer, or any thinner, but I am happy, and a bit fitter, and my direction is a little more set.
And people, please forgive my self-indulgence - I am actually just putting my thanks out there into the Universe - because 2006 could have gone two ways for me.
And fortunately it was indeed, a good year.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
My iPod Top 25
I thought some of you might be interested in this...........
1) I Go Hard, I Go Home The Presets
2) Landed Ben Folds
3) If You Stay Special Patrol
4)Greatest Hit Annie
5) One Crowded Hour Augie March
6) You Never Give Me Your Money The Beatles
7)Andy Said Special Patrol
8)Humble Man Special Patrol
9) Paint Your Name Special Patrol
10) Golden Slumbers The Beatles
11) Funky For You Common
12) Just Mark Ronson feat. Alex Greenwald
13) Are You The One The Presets
14)My Sweet Jewel Special Patrol
15) She Came In Through The Bathroom Window The Beatles
16)Carry That Weight The Beatles
17)Eleanor Rigby/Julia The Beatles
18)Drive My Car/The Word/What You're Doing The Beatles
19)Jazzalude II - Defining Purpose Guru
20) In Your Head Special Patrol
21) Victoria's Secrets Augie March
22) Thin Captain Crackers Augie March
23) Peach, Plum, Pear Joanna Newsom
24) Down, Down, Down The Presets
25) My Friend Gorgeous George Special Patrol
Wow, there is a lot of Special Patrol in there.
Recent developments - I didn't get the Fulbright Scholarship after making it to the last stage. Kind of annoying. But I have decided instead that I will be moving to London in August next year. It is not yet a steadfast plan, but, one that has grown legs faster than I imagined. The 2 "Signs from London" were helpful in helping me to make the decision not to apply for Uni in the States at all. One was a call from Frilly, the other was a nice London lad I met on the weekend. A somewhat intoxicated member of the Barmy Army.
The 2 week date challenge continues. Can't believe I am even mentioning it on here. But it makes life interesting!
1) I Go Hard, I Go Home The Presets
2) Landed Ben Folds
3) If You Stay Special Patrol
4)Greatest Hit Annie
5) One Crowded Hour Augie March
6) You Never Give Me Your Money The Beatles
7)Andy Said Special Patrol
8)Humble Man Special Patrol
9) Paint Your Name Special Patrol
10) Golden Slumbers The Beatles
11) Funky For You Common
12) Just Mark Ronson feat. Alex Greenwald
13) Are You The One The Presets
14)My Sweet Jewel Special Patrol
15) She Came In Through The Bathroom Window The Beatles
16)Carry That Weight The Beatles
17)Eleanor Rigby/Julia The Beatles
18)Drive My Car/The Word/What You're Doing The Beatles
19)Jazzalude II - Defining Purpose Guru
20) In Your Head Special Patrol
21) Victoria's Secrets Augie March
22) Thin Captain Crackers Augie March
23) Peach, Plum, Pear Joanna Newsom
24) Down, Down, Down The Presets
25) My Friend Gorgeous George Special Patrol
Wow, there is a lot of Special Patrol in there.
Recent developments - I didn't get the Fulbright Scholarship after making it to the last stage. Kind of annoying. But I have decided instead that I will be moving to London in August next year. It is not yet a steadfast plan, but, one that has grown legs faster than I imagined. The 2 "Signs from London" were helpful in helping me to make the decision not to apply for Uni in the States at all. One was a call from Frilly, the other was a nice London lad I met on the weekend. A somewhat intoxicated member of the Barmy Army.
The 2 week date challenge continues. Can't believe I am even mentioning it on here. But it makes life interesting!
Sunday, November 26, 2006
The Golden Mile?
It is nothing short of remarkable to me that in two days time I will have been home from Indonesia for 4 months. That time has flown.
Just like the bird from the Beatles song.
Has anyone been listening to the remastered Beatles album by the way? "Love". I think it's great, but I do feel a little cheated that George and Giles didn't take the concept a little bit further..... so much good material to pump into the mix. Ah well.
Last night was a pretty run-o-th-mill-but nonetheless a good one- however, the meal we consumed prior to dancing was delicious. Taj Tandoor on Rundle Street. Definitely some of the best Indian food I have had in Adelaide. Or anywhere probably. Except for in Manchester perhaps - what is the name of that street again??? The Golden Mile or something??? Hmmm I can't remember. In fact I can barely remember eating there at all - I do believe it was about 2 in the morning that I sat down to a full meal there. Somewhat bizarre.
Senile, senile.
Nothing is really annoying me this week as much as it was last week. So I can't really stoke up the irritated-o-meter. I was slightly irritated tonight that I didn't get to watch a full episode of Project Runway tonight which is my fave tv show of the moment (possibly with the exception of Sex & The City Re-Runs) but that isn't quite on the same level as concern over natural justice and fair trials etc etc.
Bon Voyage brother of mine - whatever you do get your bum over to Europe or risk being beaten up by me when you get home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tomorrow is my first overnight work trip. I have to drive myself in a borrowed car to the final destination which is a little daunting. I'm not exactly a veteran of country driving....... shall try to remember to take photo's.
Okies.
Well cuz oh wondrous possessor of knowledge about HTML....!- if you could tell me how to line everything up so neatly as you do on your blog, that would be lurvely.
And that concludes another uninspired post from me.
Just like the bird from the Beatles song.
Has anyone been listening to the remastered Beatles album by the way? "Love". I think it's great, but I do feel a little cheated that George and Giles didn't take the concept a little bit further..... so much good material to pump into the mix. Ah well.
Last night was a pretty run-o-th-mill-but nonetheless a good one- however, the meal we consumed prior to dancing was delicious. Taj Tandoor on Rundle Street. Definitely some of the best Indian food I have had in Adelaide. Or anywhere probably. Except for in Manchester perhaps - what is the name of that street again??? The Golden Mile or something??? Hmmm I can't remember. In fact I can barely remember eating there at all - I do believe it was about 2 in the morning that I sat down to a full meal there. Somewhat bizarre.
Senile, senile.
Nothing is really annoying me this week as much as it was last week. So I can't really stoke up the irritated-o-meter. I was slightly irritated tonight that I didn't get to watch a full episode of Project Runway tonight which is my fave tv show of the moment (possibly with the exception of Sex & The City Re-Runs) but that isn't quite on the same level as concern over natural justice and fair trials etc etc.
Bon Voyage brother of mine - whatever you do get your bum over to Europe or risk being beaten up by me when you get home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tomorrow is my first overnight work trip. I have to drive myself in a borrowed car to the final destination which is a little daunting. I'm not exactly a veteran of country driving....... shall try to remember to take photo's.
Okies.
Well cuz oh wondrous possessor of knowledge about HTML....!- if you could tell me how to line everything up so neatly as you do on your blog, that would be lurvely.
And that concludes another uninspired post from me.
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