Simon's Sista Saw

My Weekend Walk {Pictures}

2012-01-30T22:58:00.000Z

One of my goals this year was to take 12 walks. Not commute walks but specific, set out on a path to walk a distance. When I wrote that, I really had the Thames Path in mind but realise at other times, there will be other paths to follow. I did a section a few weeks ago (Waterloo to Barnes Bridge) which covered some ground I'd previously done but also covered off some of the path I'd yet to walk.

This weekend, pushed for time (due to a lovely lie in and having to be dolled up for a 30th later on), I decided to do the nearest section of the path I'd never walked; Westferry to the Thames Barriers. The Thames Barriers mark the end of the national path, 180 miles from the source of the river. This section is full of contrasts. It's initially residential, becomes quite stunning (as you approach/pass through Greenwich) and somewhat industrial as you head out. Throughout all, there's great views of the Canary Wharf skyline as well as glimpses of the City of London. The Thames Barriers themselves are quite majestic. For something so functional, I was really quite captivated by them. First because when I saw them I knew I was nearly done and secondly, because they're shiny. Me = magpie = loves shiny things.

I didn't take many pics for the first mile or so, mainly because (a) I didn't think to and (b) it's pretty unremarkably urban. As I got close to crossing the Thames, I had my phone out to capture it. If you follow me on twitter, you would have already seen some of these pics. If you follow me on Instagram, would have seen even more. Sorry about that. IG is slightly addictive and once I started posting the pics, I wanted them all to be square and have matching (X-Pro) treatments. Also, parts of the path were pretty hidden/isolated/less salubrious so it's always nice to have a GPS record of where I last was, right? Here’s how the walk went:

I've walked 23 of the 180 miles so far this year. Only another 157miles to go

A song - Against the Grain

2012-01-28T11:18:00.001Z

This song is both lovely, perfectly timed for things I’m thinking and has the most captivating and nostalgic video. I have fond memories of my pencil cases like those featured.

Hudson - Against The Grain from Dropbear on Vimeo.

Also, does watching this not remind you of the smell of freshly sharpened pencils? No, ok, I’ll wonder off now…

(also guys – it’s posted by Dropbear. Got to watch out for dropbears in Australia!)

Loves and loathes

2012-01-27T06:05:00.002Z

Just so you know how to/no to push my buttons...

Some Loves

People who keep walking at the bottom of escalators. Move along people, move along.
People that keep their hands off their nethers whilst talking to me.
People that let me out of the lift/tube before getting in
People that don’t pick their nose in my line of sight
People who dispose of wrappers if they eat the last cracker/biscuit/lolly/chip
People who get off their moblile phone whilst checking out/ordering food
People who walk in a (reasonably) straight line at a reasonably consisten pace
People who walk in single (or max double if people can still pass) file interchanging in the tube

Some Loathes

People who stop at the bottom of escalators. Move along people, move along.
People that scratch their nethers whilst talking to me. Especially if I’m sitting and their standing.
People that don’t let me out of the lift/tube before getting on
People that pick their nose in public (or private really, but at least I wouldn't have to see it)
People who eat the last cracker/biscuit/lolly/chip but leave the empty bag out.
People who don't get off their moblile phone whilst checking out/ordering food, slowing everyone down behind them
People who stop and start as they walk and those that go from side to side (making them impoossible to pass)
People who walk in multiple file with all who they know file interchanging in the tube or on footpaths making it impossible to overtake.

What little things are ticking you off this week?

*I guess it’s not really the people, it’s the act that they do that I loathe…

Happy Australia Day

2012-01-26T23:54:00.000Z

This time last year, I was in Leeds with Dad drinking Australian wine at a chain pizza restaurant as we helped plan Grandma’s funeral.

Today, I baked Australian goods (hedgehog slice and ANZAC biscuits) for my colleagues and enjoyed a yum cha lunch to celebrate Chinese New Year/Burns Night/Australia Day/Indian Republic day with my Singaporean, Scottish, Australian and Indian colleagues (joined by our English, Kiwi, Israeli, Pakistani, Greek and Korean colleagues to).

Maybe next year I shall be at a BBQ, in the sun, listening to the Triple J Hottest 100 Countdown and having a cold beer.

Who knows – a year is a long time – but regardless, this day means something. Happy Australia Day readers

Bedtime

2012-01-25T21:14:00.001Z

Do you have a set time? Not like when you were a kid and you were being told what to do, obviously but do you try and get into bed by a certain time? lights out?

With all the best intentions, I can’t seem to have an early night. A quiet night, sure, but then I just procrastinate or get caught on the web or read or something and rarely head to sleep before midnight. Lately that’s crept out to 1am.

A little earlier, say 11pm would be better. Not every night but just those nights when I’m in, I should. I’m a sleeper. I love my sleep and can never have enough. Considering sleeping in the morning isn't really an option, I guess I need to work on the nights. I’ve been trying it this week but I have no routine and haven’t been doing very well.

What works for you?

These are just four of the many bedspreads from Urbanoutfitters that I'm lusting after. I'm very very tempted to order the chevron one. But then, maybe I like the fourth one better? hmmm... indecision is saving me money (Australian readers - did you know UO now has an Australian online store -that's where these have come from).

High Times at High Tea

2012-01-23T21:21:00.000Z

As I mentioned, Kathryn and Tristan were in town for the weekend. It was wonderful. WONDERFUL. We chatted and laughed whilst they met my London crew, drank warm beers, had a curry, saw a play (ok, we were didn’t chat during this), sampled my favourite coffee stops and just touristed about. It was beyond wonderful actually.

The highlight though was high tea. Kat and I had spoken about it before, we knew it was something we would do. It was part of my wedding present to them. After seeking recommendations, I booked at The Dorchester for late Saturday afternoon (4.45pm sitting).

It was wonderful from the get go. We arrived early, not wanting to be late, and decided to enjoy a drink from the bar whilst we waited. A gin & tonic for sir and two Sipsmith’s Tea Time Martinis for us ladies.

Afternoon tea in itself started with a choice of champagne (Laurent Perrier rose or Laurent Perrier NV Brut). We all chose the brut (dry).

Finger sandwiches were then served; vegetarian for me and meatier ones for the newlyweds. Fillings included the traditional cucumber; egg & cress, chicken & wholegrain mustard, cheese and chutney, tomato & mozzarella with pesto, smoked salmon and more. All of them served on specialty breads. Our favourites were the two that were served on the basil bread (cheese and chutney for me, chicken & mustard for Tristan, both for Kat). Once we ate our sandwiches, they brought more. It would have been easy to fill up on the sandwiches alone, but no, we needed room for sweets.

We then had our teas, chosen prior. They were served once we’d finished our champagne so we could better enjoy them. When selecting the, Kathryn’s choice of English breakfast was met with a very stern “no” that had us in fits of giggles, until we realised it was for real. Our waiter’s point was that English Breakfast is widely available and when there was such an extensive tea menu, it seemed a shame not to try something else. Guided by Kat liking EB with milk, he made the suggestion of the Dorchester Blend (Ceylon & Assam). I chose their Paris blend (it was suggested as it contains bergamot and I asked for guidance based on liking Earl Grey but also had a hint of caramel) whilst Tristan had one of their blends who’s name and ingredients both escape me.

Sweets were soon served. Scones (both plain and fruit) with a jam (strawberry or apricot & ginger) and cream as well as a selection of desserts. Something with coffee & chocolate, a dark chocolate & orange one, mandarin tart, mango & pistachio mousse and a coconut & cassis delight. Deciding which dessert to try first proved hard but really, it needn’t of for once they were gone, more of the same were brought.

The staff were fantastic – so helpful, polite and patient. It was obvious we weren't the hotel’s target audience but they must be very use to it with their high tea as we were made to feel like we were the only guests.

It really was a treat but one I’d really recommend. Especially if you get to enjoy with some of your best friends.

I loved the setting as well – silvery/gold rimmed greeny plates. I would get some but at £650 for a tea set for two, it’s just a treat too far.

This girl is here

2012-01-20T15:38:00.001Z

This weekend, this person is here.

That's Kathryn and I at her recent wedding. Being all class on the top table. (thanks Penny for the pic)

This punk's with her as well. That's Tristan. Her hubby. I'm rather pleased he's here with her, it being their honeymoon and all. They've been traipsing around Europe and they're in London this weekend.

We've curry, high tea, coffee, markets and a show lined up so far but really, I'm just excited to see them.

Happy weekend friends!

Floating away

2012-01-18T00:37:00.000Z

Parasailing with my brother, Simon, on Moreton Island, Queensland.

The most peaceful experience in recent memory

Smiles all around.

Have you been parasailing? Were you surprised at how calming it is? Is it something you’d like to do?

Pieces of Me - January 2012

2012-01-17T15:15:00.000Z

Relaxing family time at Temple Newsam, Leeds, Sunday 15 January

After a year off from this meme, I'm back in the game. The original host no longer blogs (nor has a blog) so I've no where to link it to but I'm going to do it anyway. It's a simple little meme but one I like, that prompts me to think about things that are important to me.

I like: Good coffee. No surprise there, right? An Australian owned place has just opened in the wharf and I'm a little bit in love. It tastes like home. It's lovely. And the sell lamingtons and ANZACs as well. It's like a real little possum magic in there.So good.

I don't like: The dark days. I know the days are getting longer but I really am struggling with the early darkness this year. And the dark that comes with early darkness. Boo to that as well. Spring can't come soon enough.

I want you to know: That I went to Leeds this last weekend and visited with Granddad. For the first time in nearly a year. For the first time since Grandma's funeral. I know, bad Granddaughter. And that I love him but visiting with him is not easy. The upside was he was so pleased to see me and didn't comment on how long it had been. Another upside was spending some time with my cousin (well, second cousin once removed) and her family though. That's her, with me, in the pic at the top.

I’ve planned: To go see the Pyramids. Egypt has never really been on my radar as somewhere I wanted to go. Seeing lots of my friends pics had no impact on me. Then watching the Egypt episode of An Idiot Abroad made me stop and think about them. They're pretty amazing, aren't they? So when a trip I'd planned to Cuba didn't work out, I booked a different one. To Jordan (where I've long wanted to go) and Egypt. Not a lot of either country but some. I shall float in the Dead Sea, see Petra, camp at Wadi Rum, climb Mt Sinai, swim in the Red Sea and then hang about in Cairo an extra day or two to see the Pyramids.

I want to say to someone special: um, I don't know. I'm as uninspired as they come right now so I'm just trying to keep quiet, lest it be contagious.

What about you? What do you like/dislike/have planned/want me to know/want to say to someone special?

Blue

2012-01-14T01:03:00.000Z

I've been "home" in London for two weeks now. And this time, it doesn't feel like home. Not right now at least.

I don't know if I've got a case of post holiday blues (common), the lonelies, SAD (it's damn dark when I get my afternoon coffee) or just straight out home sickness but it's sucky.

Maybe it's Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). I've heard of SAD and read about SAD and all that but previously the dark winter days haven't bothered me much. I'm not a fan of them but I don't go into a slump over them either. I'm trying to think why that might be different this year. Maybe because the dark afternoons are gradual. They creep up on you, just taking a teensy bit of a jump come the end of daylight savings each year. And my winter holidays have previously been to winter places. So I've eased in and out of winter. Compare that to spending a few weeks in Australia (or anywhere in the southern hemisphere) and returning home in the week of the solstice. Going from the most daylight possible to the least. The contrast is huge. And upsetting. So maybe it's SAD.

Maybe it's the post holiday blues. I haven't shared all the details with you of my trip yet but it was fantastic. Even get didn't suck (well, it totally did but it meant down time at the farm getting looked after by my folks so it was pretty indulgent). My friends wedding was lovely. An emotional day but so full of love. And fun. We had the giggles during the ceremony (yeah, I laugh at inappropriate times). And time with family. Cuddles and games and bubbles and hugs galore with my niece and nephew, who I love more than I knew I could. And the sunshine. Parasailing, swimming and sand tobogganing on an island off the coast of Queensland? Yes please. And the friends? Yep, don't need to say much more. It was a fabulous holiday. So maybe it's the post holiday blues.

Maybe it's the lonelies. My best friends are in Melbourne (and Sydney). They have been the whole time I've been here and that's been ok. I haven't got "a person" here, my go to. But I have always had a great group of friends, such that I haven't needed one. But now? Some people have moved home at the same time a few others have found love. And I find myself a little lonelier than I've ever been here. And maybe, I need to put myself out there more, more chance of meeting people, especially a person. But I don't know that I'm invested in that idea. Before I left Melbourne, for a good 12-18months when I knew that's what I was going to do, I held back a lot. Especially in affairs of the heart. And I think I'm beginning to do that here. So maybe I'm lonely?

Maybe it's homesickness. Melbourne is great. I loved knowing where things were. I loved heading to a coffee shop or a favourite pub, and it being unchanged. I tweeted about how I wasn't ready to live there yet whilst I was there, but now that I'm back here (in the cold and dark), I've been thinking about why. I think a lot of the reasons are tied up in travel I want to do and experiences I want to have. I don't think the reasons are tied up in wanting to work a 9-7 office job in London. Sure, financially, it's rewarding and secure (well, as secure as short term contracting work is in the financial industry right now). So maybe it's homesickness?

And maybe it's just the straight out blues, because we all have times like that, don't we? How do you deal with the cold and the dark? Or the blues? Or how do you meet new people, as an adult?

I'm off to listen to The Waifs now and seek comfort in soup (feel free to suggest a more upbeat song…)

Goodbye Hammond Road

2012-01-10T11:07:00.001Z

Last Friday my parents settled their old farm having moved to their new one earlier in the week. I'm really excited about the new place - it's a 100+ year old miners cottage and whilst a property of that age will need some work/maintenance, it is a lovely place. There's a good feel at the new place, there's lots of outbuildings to explore, the views lovely (it's further up in the hills) and it just excites me.

That said, I was still a little sad about them selling the old place. Whilst it never was my family home (they moved there in my final year at university and none of us kids ever lived there), it was "home". It's where we gathered for Easter egg hunts, Christmas, other family occasions and just because. It was a bolt hole for me and my friends when needed and it was where I'd return to each time I headed back to Australia.

They made the decision to sell mid-to-late last year (based on land requirements and encroaching town developments etc) but thankfully they had a long settlement period meaning Christmas was there one last time. I was able to say good bye to the old place and hello to the new place whilst I was recently home.

My folks rebuilt the house when they bought the place has it had fallen into disrepair, but they kept the original fire places and a few fittings and built to a very similar floor plan. When the house was being framed out all those years ago, there were two brick fireplaces in the midst of it. The original house that had fallen into disrepair had been in the family many years ago. It's where he was taken home from hospital to, and where he spent his formative years until his mum remarried (after his dad passed away) and they moved into the next town over.

I loved the drive down their street, a gum tree lined dirt road (they were at the very end of it), I love the view out over the Bunyip HilIs and the pastures in between. I love the garden (Lynne's hard work, for aside from the palms there was nothing there to being), I loved the bathtup (so big and deep it had inbuilt arm rests halfway up) and most of all, I love the veranda, a big wrap around veranda. Most of my favourite memories of that place are on the veranda (beer tasting, sparkler sparkling, gin n tonic drinking, bubble blowing, playing, reading, sitting, watching storms roll in, watching the sunsets and the sunrises and just sitting, being.

Goodbye Hammond Road.

And here it is in its early days, being built

Books books books

2012-01-10T00:14:00.000Z

Firstly, what a stunning video. Secondly, I received the latest "must read books" list in my inbox last week. There are countless lists around of books to read before you die etc but this one from Emerald Street has piqued my interest. Being only 20 books long, it seems a more manageable list and those 20 are further broken down into three categories based on ages of the books:

The All Time Classics (7 books)
The Modern Must Reads (7 books)
The New Favourites (6 books)

I like this. There are some classics that I want to read because I feel like I should but I'm all for new or modern novels, chick lit as well. I haven't heard of all the books on the list but may check them out. Of the books on it, I've read only five:

The Great Gatsby (F Scott Fitzgerald)
To Kill a Mocking Bird (Harper Lee)
Rebecca (Daphne du Maurier)
The Blind Assassin (Margaret Atwood)
One Day (David Nicholls)

Have you read any of these? Or more importantly, have you read any of the others and would you recommend them?

Film: An Education

2012-01-05T12:43:00.000Z

I’m late to this one as it came out a couple of years back (2009) but I sat down on the weekend to watch it.

For those that haven’t heard of it, it’s a British film starring Carey Mulligan and Peter Sarsgaard. Rotten Tomatoes has some good reviews of it (ie. that I agree with) and IMDB has a pretty accurate tagline; A coming-of-age story about a teenage girl in 1960s suburban London, and how her life changes with the arrival of a playboy nearly twice her age.

I'm not going to review it, for it's been done elsewhere and done well, but one thing that got me in this movie is that whilst she wouldn’t sleep with him until she was 17, when asked she stripped her top off. At this point, they had not yet been seen kissing nor any mention of it. I don’t know about you, but I tend to kiss boys before I strip for them. What about you?

Despite not reviewing it, I really enjoyed it and would recommend it. Do you have any favourite English movies?

Happy birthday little brother

2012-01-04T23:20:00.000Z

My little brother turned 30 today*. I really enjoy calling him my little brother given he's nearly a foot taller than me. And a grown man. And an amazing father to my two favourite kids.

He knows of this blog but I'm not sure if he reads it. On the off chance he's reading today:

Happy Birthday Wizzy Waz.

That's him on the left at Simon's wedding (sporting a basketball injury no less).

*he's actually my step brother but we all lived together and have been one family for so long now I don't usually point it out. Unless in settings where people might freak out about the 6 week age gap between us :-)

Ten on a Tuesday - 112

2012-01-03T10:45:00.002Z

Chelsea's questions again this week. Go say hi, happy new year to her if you will.

1. What did you get for Christmas?
External hard drive, packing cells, jewellery, money, nail polish, chocolates, vouchers. Very happy with my loot.

2. Have you taken down your Christmas decorations?
I didn't put any up. I left for Australia on Dec 6th so just never bothered. That said, my housemates put up a tree which is still up. There's a few days until the epiphany so I guess they'll stay up.

3. What did you do for New Years Eve?
Nada. Went out for a semi boozy late lunch with an Aussie friend before retiring to the calm and warmth of my place. I was still pretty jetlagged and had been awake since 4am so I didn't stay up until midnight. I got to speak to a load of Aussie friends over their

4. Do you like accents?
Yep, mostly. Sadly not east London ones though (which is where I live). Accents, yes, but mispronunciation - no. You think things and thought things, you don't fink fings and fought fings. Innit right?

5. What kind of television do you have?
A small flat screen one (it's a housemate's, not mine. Technical answer would be "none").

6. Did you make any changes at the beginning of 2012?
Nope. I set some goals but nothing outlandish.

7. What’s the last book you read and do you recommend it?
Born In Shame by Nora Roberts (part of the Cocannon Trilogy). Recommend it? If you like Nora Roberts novels, sure, after reading the first two of the trilogy. If you're not familiar with Nora Roberts, she's somewhere between Maeve Binchy and Mills and Boon. Judge away. Also, Kindles are great for reading these kind of books because (a) it makes it really easy to get complete trilogies which can be hard in the stores and (b) no one knows what you're reading. Unless you're blushing.

8. Do you stay current on celebrity gossip?
Semi some.

9. Do you know the words to Bohemian Rhapsody? Gangstas Paradise? Fresh Prince of Bel-Air?
If the music was playing, I reckon I would be able to sing along to the first two but wouldn't be so confident with Bel-Air.

10. What is your favourite educational television show?
Is Antiques Roadshow educational? Or some of the cooking shows maybe?

The scenic route

2012-01-02T17:42:00.000Z

I left the house late today, really only needing to head to the supermarket and get some food into the house. Some vegies and milk and things I can (and should) eat.

But then when I went outside I enjoyed the briskness of the air and the dragon breath I had, so I took a detour.

Past the boats.

Past the bridge.

And there I just stayed a while, enjoying the clouds over the Shard.

And then, as the pink disappeared from the sky, I looped back, looked back and went on my way to buy my week’s groceries and continue on with my day.

Do you ever just get distracted when doing the mundane?

(I’m lucky that these skylines are so close to home and I’m thankful that I never seem to tire of them. Sorry if you do.)

My 2012

2012-01-02T15:29:00.001Z

This year has untold potential. Beyond January, I don’t really have anything planned for the rest of the year. Sure, there are some trips I want to take but nothing booked/confirmed/sorted. The year is mine, to do with what I will.

As for resolutions. Well, no, I have none. I’ll take the year as it comes. Goals however, well I have a few. Silly ones. Simple ones. Non life changing ones*. They are:

Try 12 new foods
Read 12 new books
Try 12 new recipes
Take 12 walks
See 12 movies/plays/musicals/shows/gigs**

Simple little things. 12 works for so many reasons – one a month, or because it’s 2012.

So they’re my 2012 goals. Short. Simple. Sweet. What are yours? Do you have any?

* Life changing ones scare me. I know at some point I’ll move back to Melbourne and with that comes some career choices but I don’t know that will be this year. Until then though, I’m all about fluffy stuff.

** combined, not 12 of each.

*** pic at top is one from my recent trip home. It's my older brother and I parasailing off Moreton Island. It's unrelated to this post but I love it all the same.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T13:33:00.001Z

Goodbye

Hello

and my Dad who I took these photos with whilst back in Australia. I’m home in London now and have loads to share (and blogs to read…)

I hope you all had a happy, safe and joyous time over the holidays.

For you

2011-12-06T15:49:00.000Z

This song will not leave my head

Even Baby Monkey (riding backwards on a pig) won't get it out.

Good luck to you

...

and most importantly

...

Hooray, hooray, it's a holi-holiday!

Ten on a Tuesday - 109

2011-12-06T11:31:00.000Z

I had wanted to fill you in on some things but life, as it does, has gotten away from me. And then tonight, I'm making like geese and heading south for the winter. I'm heading to Melbourne after work today for a few weeks. Time will be spent being a bridesmaid, celebrating friends, hanging with , meeting new babies, eating, road tripping, enjoying the coffee, basking in the warmth of the sun and having a merry Christmas. I'm thinking it's not going to be relaxing, more jam packed, but the best sort of jam packed. Given I can barely post when I'm leading my day to day London life, I'm not expecting miracles as I hang about in various corners of Australia (yep, there's some travel in there as well, I'm not in the one place very much), meeting and mealing with all and sundry.

Until I next post, here's this week's 10 on a Ten, via Chelsea with the questions from Sarah at Simply Sarah

1. What are 3 things that are on your Christmas wish list?
I wanted a massage voucher (but then I got an awesome voucher for my birthday that I could use for a massage) so now I don't know. Maybe some Aussie chocolate, given I'll be there? I'm not wanting much because anything I get given will have to fit in my luggage and there is just never enough room. Seriously, hanging with the family on Christmas will be awesome, anything else is bonus.

2. What’s your favourite Christmas song?
Boney M's "Hooray, it's a holiday" is currently it. Mainly because that's the first one I thought of, and it's been stuck in my head ever since Prague. I don’t even remember hearing it for real there, just that my mates sang it pretty much the entire weekend. And you know what? Hooray, it is a holiday.

3. Do you have a favourite band or singer that sings it especially awesome?
Nope. My parents always play Harry Belafonte's Christmas album though I've been slowly giving them new Christmas CDs to play. Any suggestions?

4. Have you heard about the website goodreads?
Heard of it, don't know it (or care to right now).

5. What are 3 books you want to read?
Spoiled (by the Go Fug Yourself girls, Jessica and Heather), The Slap (I've got it, just haven't gotten around to it) and a load of Nora Roberts rom novels (I've just downloaded a few to my kindle - they're the perfect plane read because they don't require that much engagement but are enjoyable and easy to get stuck into. Kindle's great for these because it's a bit less obvious what I'm reading,

6. Do you hunt deer?
No.

7. Have you started Christmas shopping? Are you completely finished?
Yep, all done more or less. I did loads online to get delivered to the parent's farm. I need to get some wrapping paper and then will pick up a few things duty free tonight (TONIGHT!!!)

8. Did you shop on Black Friday? What was the best deal you got?
Surprisingly, semi-yes. Amazon UK had a week of Black Friday sales and I got some DVD's in (An Idiot Abroard Seasons 1 & 2). But not in the true American black Friday sense, no.

9. What’s one holiday tradition your family has?
We don't really anymore. 2007 was the last year we were all together for Christmas and whilst I'm going home for it this year, my older brother won't be there. Champagne's a constant though. Lynnie and I shall be getting stuck in early.

10. How many blogs do you read? Do you subscribe/unsubscribe often or do you purge every once in a while?
100+ Purge every so often. When I first starting using reader, it was mainly home/design blogs. Now it's only a handful of them but mainly personal blogs, personal finance blogs (they intrigue and inspire me), travel blogs and London blogs. I'm a terrible commenter though.

On Being 30

2011-12-02T13:35:00.000Z

3 days of celebrations and partying. I don't pull up like I use to. Prague was fantastic. Such a beautiful city - one of the most picturesque I've seen in Europe. We did some sightseeing, some touristy things and plenty of celebrating. I think it took all of us by surprise. I think we all thought we were all too old for those kind of hijinks. We certainly hadn't planned on it. I had a 5.30am and a 4am finish on the two nights. And I bailed early on the second night. Still, so many many laughs over the weekend and I really did love all of it, and felt very loved.

So 3 days of partying and less than stellar sleep, followed by 4 days of solid work. Probably 4 of the busiest day I've had at work this year. Certainly since beginning this role in May.

So being 30? It's tiring. But mostly it's wonderful and exciting and normal and just another year.

Ten on a Tuesday 108

2011-11-29T15:55:00.000Z

Chelsea is both host and question provider this week. Go her.

1. Do you wear glasses, contacts, or are you one of those perfect eyed people?
I wear glasses mainly, sometimes contacts and sometimes neither, depending on what I'm doing. I'm short sighted (-2 each eye) so don't need them for reading but sometimes forget to take them off.

2. What is the next item you are going to purchase?
Not sure - maybe shoes? There's a few things I want before the trip home next week (NEXT WEEK!!!!), including shoes.

3. Have you ever watched Judge Judy or any other real court show?
Yep, I use to watch Judge Judy after school some times.

4. How do you feel about fake nails?
They're not for me. (also, when they look like talons? I'll judge you as being ghetto for they are gross!)

5. What is your favourite sport to watch?
AFL (Aussie rules). Preferably with the Hawks (my team) winning in a high scoring close game). I'll also watch F1, tennis, cricket, basketball, netball, rugby league, rugby union, swimming, diving, gymnastics, darts and surf life saving comps. Probably other stuff too that I can't think of right now. I like watching most sports (not golf though).

6. If you could create your own Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavour, what would it be and what would it be named?
Coconutterly Fair is pretty much the bees knees, I'm not really sure how I could improve on it.

7. Do you have any scars?
Yep, on my hand from a cut and on my knee from surgery.

8. Does your pet’s name fit them? Is there a more appropriate name?
Technically, I don't really have any pets. The only one of the parents pets that was there when I lived with them is Spike, and yep, it suits him. I think Fraser suits their dog and the other ones I just accept as is (cats - Abacus and Merlin and a new puppy, Cassie, which I'm a little unsure about as I haven't met her but think maybe pets shouldn't have human names? Especially as there has been a Cassie in my life before. Not that I'm explicitly saying she was dog like.)

9. What is your favourite television show theme song?
M*A*S*H* springs to mind but I'm sure I'll read other answers and be all like "aww, I love that song" and nostalgic and such things. The Smurfs one gets stuck in my head the easiest.

10. What was your favourite activity on the playground?
Swings currently but as a kid I was all about slides.

Today

2011-11-25T07:09:00.000Z

I’m now 30 and excited!

{pic – JerryCharlotte}

6. Bake macarons

2011-11-24T23:45:00.000Z

There was some potential foreshadowing in the explanation for this one

6. Bake macaroons
I love them. I think I will suck at them. I want to try them. That’s really all there is too it. And if they fail, macaroon crumbs would be okay with ice-cream, wouldn’t they?

After a shout out on Facebook for tried and tested recipes, only one came forth. A simple recipe; egg whites, ground almond, icing sugar and vanilla. Whisk egg whites until stiff, fold in to premixed dry ingredients. Pipe. Let the tops set. Bake.

Aside from the obviously poor piping skills, I over cooked them. I pulled them out of the oven at the minimum end of the baking time range in the recipe but they were still well overdone. That said, I’m keen to try again soon. Next time though, I’ll either lower the heat or the time to cook and maybe use a different food colour (ergo, make them look less nipple-y!).
Have you ever tried making macarons? Successfully? Any recipes to share?

(Happy to share this recipe if you want to try it – let me know and I can type it up and email it to you).
My 30 before 30 list with progress marked

Weekend Fog

2011-11-23T22:42:00.001Z

On Sunday I headed west to Windsor for the day with some friends. Thankfully, the destination unimportant, the point being to get on the road in a friends newish car for it was as foggy as all get out and visibility was poor.

Here’s what we saw

On a clear day, this is what you would/should see in those last two pics

It wasn’t all a waste of time though – it will still lovely to get out of town and we enjoyed a Sunday roast at the Duchess of Cambridge. I can't wait to get back there and to see it.

I got my Kindle!

2011-11-22T19:04:00.003Z

Updated: I'm not sure what happened with this post and why it went to readers without any text or body. And I'm curious as to where my writing went. I've rewritten it below.

So I bought my kindle. Earlier this week and after a frenetic work day, I stopped by the shops on the way home and got it.

Here it is charging on my bed this morning

I've still got a backlog of actual books to read so I haven't bought anything for it yet but have downloaded a few classics (that I'd selected on my iPhone - because it's the same amazon account, it syncs). I've got Pride and Predjudice and Cranford to read. I love that is knows what page in Pride and Predjudice I was up to on my phone.

There are loads of free books available, where their copyright has passed, so I want to make the most of this. What are your favourite classic reads? What should I be downloading?

Now to find a cute case that I like. I think I want a folio style one rather than a sleeve.

24. A Yum Cha lunch

2011-11-21T16:50:00.000Z

You say dim sum, I say Yum Cha. Given Yum Cha means drinking tea I’m not sure why us Aussies use it to refer to the meal. Sure, we will often drink tea whilst downing many a dim sum but tea is not what I think of when I hear those words.

Anyway, a Yum Cha lunch. Something that I love but do infrequently (noticing a theme?). That said, it’s happened twice in the last few weeks which I’m stoked about. I haven’t seen anywhere here do the trolley service that you get I’m familiar with but the food is tasty all the same.
Once with school friends

Jasmine tea, veggie dumplings, prawn and pak choy dumplings, pork buns, prawn and coriander dumplings, bean curd rolls.

And once with colleagues:

More of the same…

Both so tasty. My favourite items are bean curd rolls, prawn dumplings and crispy squid balls.

What’s your favourite on the dim sum menu?

28. Walk a (new to me) section of the Thames Path

2011-11-20T07:55:00.000Z

The Thames Path is a 184mile path that follows the route of the Thames River from its source to sea. From what I’ve read, seen or heard, the path is mostly easy walking as it’s without much elevation and is signposted (as well as following a the river). Until recently, I’d only walked sections of the path that were in London, and between my home and my work. i.e. I’d never gone out of my way to walk any of it.
Several Sundays ago, much like this Sunday* I headed west with friends. Staying within London, we walked the section from Putney to Barnes (south side) and back again (north side). A gentle afternoon ramble, and had I not been unwell (tonsillitis as the time) I would have to liked to keep going.

More recently than that, I walked only a few hundred metres of it, out in Marlow. Whilst this doesn’t really count (we were killing time between arriving in town and our lunch booking and my foot was still painfully busted), it’s made me that much keener to see more of it.

Whilst it’s wildly ambitious to seek to walk the entire path, I would like to give it a crack, and cover a lot more of the more rural sections.

* Another day trip today, also west.

Guy Fawkes Fireworks

2011-11-19T23:42:00.000Z

So I’ve told you again and again about how I love fireworks. Turns out I like take photos of them as well. A fortnight ago was Guy Fawkes night. Here’s my night in pictures:

The pink ones are my favourite, although as a whole, the display wasn’t that awesome. Low cloud, a very misty night and sever budget cuts means the Blackheath fireworks are probably going to get dingied by me for something new next year.

Friday Fancies

2011-11-18T13:16:00.000Z

Some loves and lusts from around the interwebs and real life. I'm keen to hear/see/read what you're lusting after at the moment as well.

THIS MUG (and this bowl, but more the mug) from Urban Outfitters. How sweet are they both?

These cons. Navy - perfectly neutral, with a hint of teal and an a smaller hint of mettalic (the stars on the tongue are shiny). Maybe my favourite cons yet? They're different enough from the other three pairs I have that I can nearly justify them. Nearly.

"Golden Tree" by Martin Brooks from Ninian Doff on Vimeo.

How cool is this clip? I haven't been able to ride with no hands since I was much younger and never could I do it this well. Makes me want to get back on a bike.

Kindle {pic from thekellyscope}

I think the time has come to get a Kindle. In a few weeks I'm heading to Australia for a few weeks. With 48 hours on a plane there and back, some internal flights and some train journeys once there and hopefully (maybe, please?) some downtime at the parents farm, it makes sense. Do you have a Kindle? Love them?

Day&Night Nurse, Covonia Lozenges (berry blast) and Quash hand sanitiser)

Lusting might not be the right term. I'd love not to want these but given I am now choc full of cold, they're pretty helpful. The Quash sanitiser I first bought because I liked the size of it but having used it a while and readign the label, I do love it. It's a natural one so it smells really good (lavender and lemon). I think from memory I just picked it up in a Boots or Superdrug or something.

What are your Friday fancies?

30. Go to a Comedy Show

2011-11-17T11:37:00.000Z

Comedy shows are a load of fun. Obviously, given it’s comedy. But they’re more interactive than a movie or play (both with the stage and with your friends) and a welcome change to my normal nights out with friends. I was thinking when I added this item to the list that I hadn’t been to any comedy shows over here, after being a frequent visitor to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival back home. Turns out my memory was failing me as I did go and see Jimmy Carr a few years back after being gifted a ticket for my birthday.

Signage outside and inside the Comedy Store

The Comedy Store in London is one of the capital’s oldest comedy clubs and most recommended by my mates so it made sense to head there. A few friends were keen to come along so it was our combined availability (or lack thereof) that determined what we would see – Rich Hall and Friends.

Rich Hall is an American comedian that spends a fair chunk of his time in the UK, appearing on QI and various other British tele shows I’ve seen. He’s apparently the inspiration for Moe, the bartender, in the Simpsons. His comedy is very political but not at all politically correct. How I like it actually. The first set was stand-up, some improve and a lot of political content (bashing both the UK and the US). His second set was more of the same, but set to music with his bluegrass band supporting him. A really good show.

His friends turned out to be John Moloney and Stuart Francis. John Maloney is a British guy, very British looking, who was a story teller. A very funny story teller. His stories were about his day to day life in South London but my, were they funny.

Stuart Francis is a Canadian one line wonder. One liner after one liner. They were all good and got plenty of laughs but there weren’t always a lot of links between them. Whilst still very funny, my least favourite of the night (although his speaking voice...swoon...so deep and velvety).

All in all it was a great night. A lot of laughs from my and my friends. I found it interesting that we all laughed a lot but at slightly different times or things. Thankfully none of us were easily offended. I’m so glad I put this on the list as it being there really was the impetus for a great night out for me and some friends. I’m hoping to return to the Comedy Store again sometime soon. Do you like or frequent live comedy?

Videos below are fairly representative of what we saw/heard. Just a warning that there's a fair whack of swearing in the first one

The Hunger Games

2011-11-16T11:59:00.002Z

I was late to the Hunger Games party, having only read them last month. Last month under duress actually. Duress to begin with at least. A colleague was reading them at the time and couldn't pipe down about them, even reading them on her lunch break (is a good use of time but it doesn't usually happen around here). After hearing her yap on about them so much, she passed them my way and told me to at least read them. And then I did. In quick succession, I read one each weekend/week (yes, including on my lunch break). I had a few trips back to back and they were the perfect folly.

The Hunger Games, the first instalment is certainly my favourite. Catching Fire took a little longer to get into and Mocking Jay longer yet. But once I got into the second and third books, it was all good. I was a little sad when I finished them to be honest. A few other colleagues (and friends back home) have now read the trilogy and enjoyed it. Sure, it's not classic literature and is young adult fiction, but maybe because of that they're so easy to read and enjoy, without requiring too much thinking (but allows for some).

And now we all eagerly await the first of the movie instalments. I must admit when I first read of the casting, I was sceptical. Jennifer Lawrence was excellent in Winter's Bone but for some reason I thought she was too pretty, her features too rounded for what I imagined Katniss to look like. But now, having just this week seen the trailer (multiple times I must add - I keep youtubing it every so often), I can' wait for the movies and the casting, despite my initial scepticism looks spot on. Lenny Kravitz as Cinna? Yes please. March 23 2012 can't come soon enough.

Have you read the books? Did you like them? Are you looking forward to the movies? Thoughts on the casting? Have you read any of Suzanne Collin's other books?

Books 1, 2 and 3, read over consecutive weekends on the beach in Majorca (Spain),

at the airport in Tallinn (Estonia) and in the cabin near the beach in Kidwelly (Wales).

Ten on a Tuesday - 106

2011-11-15T08:43:00.000Z

Lauren (from Texas)'s question, via Chelsea.

1. What are your pantry staples?

Couscous, wild rice, flours, sugars (i.e.. Baking supplies), spices, tinned tomatoes, baked beans, vegemite, salt and pepper, Tabasco, Worcester sauce.

2. What are your refrigerator staples?
Milk, butter, cheese, eggs, curly kale.

3. You already look like Heidi Klum (or your favourite supermodel). Now, what are the top three non-physical things you would change about yourself?

My morning persona? I could do with some more get up and go first thing.
My indecisiveness. I get we need to really think about some decisions but I sometimes (often) sweat the small stuff way to much.

I can't think of another. That's not to say I'm only 2 things away from perfect, just that I'm tired right now.

4. What’s holding you back from your dream job? (If you already have your dream job, how did you get there?)
Not knowing what it is. This isn't it but I honestly don't know what I'd rather do. Or how to work out what I'd like to do.

5. You have $500 to spend but it has to be on one item only. Go.
I'm exchanging that for £314. And I'd put it towards an iPhone 4s or some new prescription sunglasses that I like (just as soon as I can find such a thing).

6. What is something that you are embarrassed to admit you buy on a regular basis?

I can't think of anything I buy that is embarrassing...

7. What’s in/on your bed every night?

In? me. On? Me.

8. What is a non-necessity item that, no matter how expensive it gets or how tight your budget if, you will always find room for it?

Coffee. Both beans and cups of it when out.

9. What is the weirdest sandwich you’ve ever made?
Twisties, wasabi peas, vegemite and cheese make an excellent toasty. So does leftover potato salad with powdered parmesan and sweet chilli sauce.

10. Would you rather: Be banned from Pinterest forever, but gain a million captive Twitter followers; or, never get on Facebook again but gain five thousand blog readers?

Be banned from Pinterest forever, but gain a million captive Twitter followers. Not sure why I've chosen that option but I didn't have to think too much about it.

23. See a band

2011-11-14T09:53:00.000Z

I love live music. Big stadium concerts, open air festivals, dirty smelly pup gigs – I really like it all. That said, I don’t head to as many gigs as I use to. This year I’d really only been to a festival (Isle of Wight) and I can’t think of any other gigs I’d gone to. That’s why this item made the list. To get me back out doing what I love.
So soon after compiling my 30 before 30 list, some friends and I booked tickets to go and see Gotye, a Belgium/Australian electro pop act. Maybe doesn’t sound great but he is. I’d seen him live before and was amazed at how good he was (especially given his records are a little unusual).
1 November saw us at the Kings College London student bar for a down and dirty cheap gig. And it was fantastic!

He’s many great songs but one to leave you with is Somebody That I Used To Know:

I’ve also been to Carus Thompson and Dolly Parton with Roxette still to come so item 23 is well and truly ticked.

30 before 30–an update

2011-11-13T22:49:00.000Z

It’s now less than two weeks until I’m thirty, as I was pleasantly reminded by my cousin today (the one that I share a birthday with).

I’ve made some good progress on my list but it seems with just one more weekend to go, I probably won’t get through everything on it. Here’s where things are at currently:

Completed (and most likely details to follow)
1. See a play
5. Cook a dinner for 4
7. Move to a new hood in London
8. Kiss a stranger
10. Visit a new country
12. Eat a steak
13. Take in a sunset from Greenwich / Primrose Hill / Hampstead Heath
14. See Elgin’s marbles
15. Ride a bike
16. Get a pedicure/manicure
21. Go a weekend without coffee
23. See a band
24. A yum cha lunch
28. Walk at least one (new to me) section of the Thames Path

In progress
2. Read the Great Gatsby
17. Learn to crochet
20. Try three new foods
25. Send 29 postcards
26. Get my leg back behind head
27. Design a photo calendar
30. Go to a comedy show

Still to start
3. Visit the London Transport Museum
6. Bake macaroons
9. Visit a market
11. Get up for sunrise
18. Visit and tour St Paul’s Cathedral
19. Attend a Church service
22. Leave a letter for a stranger
29. Make pizza dough

Absolutely not going to happen
4. Attempt Couch to 5kms

I’m happy with where I’m at given I don’t really mind if things don’t get done. I’ve decided to plain axe running from the list. I broke a couple of bones a few weeks back and whilst we’re on track for them to be all better (4-6 weeks), they’re not yet. If I walk around much, they hurt. Based on this, I’m not going to attempt running.

There are going to be some trade-offs as well – I know I can’t head to a market, see St Pauls, go to the London Transport Museum and bake macarons in the time I’ve got left with what else I have on in my life. So come next Saturday, I’ll decide then what I’m doing.

So, anyone want a London postcard?

Harlot Hands

2011-11-12T21:56:00.001Z

I've just painted my nails a deep red, almost burgundy (OPI's Manicurist of Seville for reference) and my housemate said I had harlot hands.

Do you/would you/could you wear red nail polish?

Lest We Forget

2011-11-11T11:30:00.000Z

They went with songs to the battle, they were young.

Straight of limb, true of eyes, steady and aglow.

They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted,

They fell with their faces to the foe.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning,

We will remember them.

Remembrance Day

11-11-11 - One Day on Earth

2011-11-10T12:10:00.000Z

Tomorrow is 11 - 11 - 11. Cool date, huh?

I wonder what we will all be doing at 11.11am then? It's One Day On Earth's chosen day to document the world's story. They're asking you to take pics of your day, to document your day and your world. They ran something similar last year, for 10-10-10 and the results have been made into a movie (trailer below).

One Day on Earth - Motion Picture Trailer from One Day On Earth on Vimeo.

I'm going to be at work, doing work things (think spreadsheets and SQL queries and super exciting stuff like that) and will be stopping for a minutes silence at 11am (it's Remembrance day in Australia and Armistace day the UK. Lest We Forget).

Are you going to take part? Regardless of where/how you share your day, I think it would be great to see and would love to see the results.

Wordless Wednesday - Iceland

2011-11-09T14:27:00.000Z

*Mostly* Wordless Wednesday - Iceland

Epic. Not mine (Midnight Sun | Iceland by Scientific Fantastic)

Midnight Sun from SCIENTIFANTASTIC on Vimeo.

Memories. Mine. November 2009

Ten on a Tuesday - 105

2011-11-08T11:58:00.000Z

Chelsea's questions again this week so they're a random bunch. She's done a shout out for more questions but I kind of really like the randomness of hers so I'm in no rush. Any questions you think she should ask?

1. What’s your favourite television show for each day of the week?
Sunday – n/a
Monday – Made in Chelsea
Tuesday – n/a
Wednesday – n/a
Thursday – n/a
Friday – n/a
Saturday – n/a
(yeah, there isn't a lot that is must see for now, especially since Grey's and Glee are both on cable which we don't have).

2. How many times do you wear your jeans before you watch them?
It depends. Several. More than a couple or a few but I'm not sure. It also depends on what/where I've been (if I've been around smokers or they've got muddy or dirty).

3. What is your favourite pasta shape?
Parpadelle or shells.

4. Do you read newspapers?
Online yes but not so much for real.

5. Do you sleep in socks?
Sometimes but less rather than more often.

6. Favourite genre of movies?
I wish I had an answer that made me sound intelligent but really, it's romcoms. Or history movies (told through either a fictional or non-fiction story, not so much documentaries. examples being Schindler's List and Black Book)

7. How do you feel about wrestling?
Um, I don't? I stopped to think about it just now and "ummm" is the best I can come up with. I use to walk out when my brothers would watch it though so I guess I'm not a fan?

8. Should men pluck their eyebrows?
If they want to? Pretty opinion less on this.

9. Do you have dimples?
On my thighs? yes. Cute ones on my cheeks? sadly not.

10. Do you like to camp?
Yep. Especially in beautiful remote places. Not so much at festivals with 100,000 other people (which seems to be when I do it).

Good camping. Camping in the Saharan Desert. Stars, oh so many stars that night.

Farewelling friends & Wonderful Weekend

2011-11-07T13:56:00.001Z

A busy weekend where I fell a little more in love with London. Just as people are leaving it. Many of the social outings lately have been farewells. Five in the last ten days with more to come before the year is out. 2011 shall be the year of the exodus.

That’s the nature of London. People come, work, play, travel, love and leave. It’s not a forever after place, but a transient town. Now, as we get older and visa laws tighter, it’s seemingly a one way street. Home. Home to Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and elswhere.

But once they go home, life goes on. That's something to love about London - there's always stuff do to and see. Coffees to be drunk, country towns to visit, musems and fireworks to see. I had a really fun weekend that, on looking back at my phone pics, was mostly about colour, culture and coffee.

Choosing ribbons for bouquets
Choosing lip stains
Department store all wrapped up for Christmas
Pretty coloured papers (especially like the fortune tellers above)
Pretty pretty pavement
Because nothing says Christmas like fluro crackers
Fireworks
The Nereid Monument (British Museum)
Refueling at Kaffiene (kiwi café - best ANZAC biscuit I think I’ve ever had and a super lovely cap as well)
Chocolates w coffee. The second chocolateir I visited on Sunday. Oops
Lion (from Knidos) presiding over the Grand Court (British Museum)
Marlow-on-Thames a pretty town for a Sunday pub lunch

A really lovely weekend. How was yours?

I’m moving to Las Vegas for 25 months

2011-11-06T22:22:00.002Z

I’m really only telling you this so you know it’s my birthday in a few weeks And to raise breast cancer awareness of course.

Can someone back up and tell me how the fck these memes* raise breast cancer awareness? Updating my status to indicate where I’m moving (month = where you’re moving, day = how many months you are moving for) to me indicates nothing more than lack of independent thought and understanding. And the bit in the email about telling the guys? What the hell? Frankly, I’m a little jealous of them because at least they don’t get this sht in their inbox.

Not posting your take on the meme doesn’t mean your mum or sister will get breast cancer. Equally, it doesn’t mean they won’t. Checking your breasts, having mammograms and looking after yourself also don’t mean they won’t get breast cancer, but at least it can be detected early.

These memes really piss me off (clearly). My facebook status at time of writing is:

If you want to know more about breast cancer (or bowel cancer which my mum suffered, or liver cancer which ultimately killed her, or brain tumours which killed my uncle, or lung cancer which killed my Pop or skin cancer which affects so many or any of the other 200+ cancers), I’d suggest starting at Cancer Research UK (or even google.com)

Lauren (from Texas) posted about these memes last time. More eloquently than I can hope to. More links as well.

* For the record, I’ve broken ranks and posted a copy of the meme below. I’ve received it from some seriously educated people, and in a a few incarnations but here’s the most recent so if nothing else, at least you can work out when your friends' birthdays are:

Ladies, it is that time of year again! It is time to raise awareness for Breast Cancer.
Remember the status about our bra color or where we put our purse?? It made more people aware of the problem as it went viral on FB and made the news.

Don't tell any MEN what the status means! Copy, and resend this message to all your girl friends, let's see if we can make it work like before, keep them guessing, let's see if we make the news!
The idea is to use you birthdate, month and day only, no year!
Write: "I am going to live in (see corresponding city for your BD month below) for (day of your BD) months and a happy face

Ex. if your BD was on February 14th, then
" I am going to live in London for 14 months!!!!

January - Mexico
February - London
March - Miami
April - Dominican Republic
May - France
June - St. Petersburg
July - Austria
August - Germany
September - New York
October - Amsterdam
November - Las Vegas
December - Colombia

p.s. Ironic much?

Guy Fawkes Day

2011-11-05T18:28:00.000Z

Happy bonfire day folks! My love of fireworks is well documented so tonight's going to be a good night. Not sure if the failed plot to blow up Parliament 406 years ago is something we really should still be celebrating or not, but we do. So with that, off to the fireworks we go. I'm rugged up in my boots and woolly scarf to go and drink mulled wine with friends whilst watching the fireworks. Hopefully they're set to music once more, but we will see.

Do you love them, loathe them or indifferent? Where was the best display you've seen?

Look what my phone can do (but don't ask me why it needs to)

2011-11-04T13:29:00.003Z

I have a boatload of apps on my phone, many that I don't really use. I got to playing with one of them the other day; CamStudio+ which is a photo editing one. A playful one more than anything else. It's easy enough to use and has loads of filters/options/effects etc but some of them got me questioning. Why would you want to turn your cup of coffee into an ultrasound? (the actual effect used here is cylinder, but I see a womb).

Likewise, why would anyone want a skeletal ghost on their coffee? Or anything else? I appreciate the app isn't soley for use of photos of coffee, but what when would you use this overlay? (for the record, this one is Ghost-1 (of 3).

So as much as I don't really see when you'd use those filters, I must say, I do like the tint options. Pretty coffee..

(These are four pics that I then joined together in Diptic, another app (but one that I love and use).

For the record, the coffee pic really looks like this. It was the first of two coffees I had (in two visits) to Sensory Lab last weekend. If in London, go. The baristas are lovely and the coffee even better. It's not far from Oxford St as the crow flies but is cool and calm and a world away when it comes to atmosphere.

What apps are you loving? Or what apps do you have on your phone that you never really use? And most importantly, what photo would you apply a skeletal ghost overlay to?

The cheap seats this November

2011-11-03T17:35:00.000Z

Month of anticipation. It use to be when the warm weather really started at home and the anticipation of the summer ahead was at its peak. Now it's when the cold kicks in and the anticipation of snow and nesting and roasts and red wine sets in. It's the month of my birthday, a much anticipated one this year. It's festive, yet not crazy like December. I think it probably is my favourite month, if I did have to chose one.

I've been busy booking things this week, so combined with already laid plans, I'm excited about the month ahead. Things to look forward to include;

A weekend in Prague with 5 of my best London friends. Not all my friends can come but I'm super excited about this trip. It's somewhere I've long wanted to head and to be doing it with the crew I am, well I'm just super excited about it.

Roxette. Is an explanation really needed? My excitement about this is nearly at Dolly delerium levels. Levels where I randomly "squee". I have pretty crappy seats but this gig shall be wonderful. (so hard to choose a link for this one - I really like a load of their songs

Comedy Store. I haven't been to live comedy since I've lived here. I miss the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (but seemingly not enough to head to Edinburgh for theirs) and have finally got around to booking some in in the coming weeks.

Tennis. The ATP tour finals are at the O2 later this month and I'll be there. Admittedly in the cheap seats (again) but there with some mates by my side it will be great to see some live. Again, not something I've done since I've been here (Wimbledon is much harder to get tickets to than the Australian Open). We won't know who we're seeing until much closer but so far Djokovic, Nadal, Murray, Federer and Ferrer have qualified.

Theatre. A play. A ridgy didge play (and not a musical). Nothing against musicals but I've seens lots of them and less of these. A play about Florida chain gangs. Cool Hand Luke anyone? Again, the cheap seats.

Dinner. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. We finally got a booking at a sociable hour (ie. Not 10pm for dinner on a Monday) so we're heading there this month. Whilst not as whacked out as Fat Duck, nor michelin starred, we've heard good things about this place. It's a colleague/friend/travel buddy's farewell and whilst it will be sad to see her go, I like the style of celebration. Sadly for this one, there are no cheaps

This month is going to be great. And these are only the prebooked ticketed things, there's a lot more fun to be had outside of these. What are you looking forward to this month?

*I tend to gravitate to the cheap seats. I'd rather see more things for less, than less for more. There are some things I'll pay a premium for, occaisionally, but mostly I'm all about the deal.

Daylight Savings

2011-11-02T15:18:00.000Z

It’s just finished here, and it’s been going a month at home. Do you like it? Love it? Loathe it?

I love it in the UK. Really, it getting dark at 3.30pm or 4.30pm makes no real difference to me – the bottom line is it’s dark when I leave work and dusky for my coffee so the comedown off the end of it isn’t too bad. If anything, it being light a bit earlier when it ends – that’s a win. Broken bones aside, I’d be able to walk into work in broad(ish) daylight.

And in Summer – well who doesn’t love it then?

I do wish it was uniform though – trying to co-ordinate calls can be a nightmare. Especially when you’re factoring in Singapore, Mumbai, Zurich, New York and London.

Are you a fan?

On the walk home, when there was still some daylight

Tallinn

2011-11-01T07:15:00.004Z

A few weekends ago (right after Majorca and right before the Welsh coast) I spent a weekend in Tallinn, Estonia.

It’s a sweet little place. The town centre itself is medieval and very well preserved. It’s more recent history is Soviet (liberated in 1991) and that’s what interested me more so. 20th century history is the period that fascinates me the most. Maybe because it’s so recent that people I know of have lived through (maybe not suffered, but I just find it somehow more relatable).

Like many a European town, it’s set out around the old town square, has a skyline dominated by church spires and enjoys a cafe culture. A sweet little town with a mixed up history. My highlights were the KGB museum at the Soviet built Hotel Sokos Viru, the Occupations museum (detailing the two Soviet occupations as well as the German one since 1939) and the views out over the old town from various viewpoints. It’s just an easy town to wander around with no fixed plan.

As always, pics, below (KGB related ones at the bottom).

The last row – ex KGB headquarters with the bricked up cellars (to muffle the sounds of torture). The Church next to the ex KGB headquarters, it’s spire was used by the KGB for their radio communications. An old communications room in the KGB museum.

Cupcake Class

2011-10-27T08:38:00.000+01:00

Last night I went along with a colleague and some friends and learnt to decorate cupcakes, thanks to a Groupon we bought a while back. Held at the Sugar Shack, we played around with piping for a while, learning on a fake cupcake, before being let loose with the colour pastes and glitter. Whilst there is an awful lot of room for improvement (in both piping and colour selection!) it was a really fun night.

From this to this

Roses

Swirls, starting from the outside finishing in the middle

Swirls, starting from the inside

Dollops or splodges or stars (I’d ice the cake before using theses I think. Or heck, not use them!)

Do you have a favourite? I like the roses the best or the inside to outside swirl. Just not the colours I chose.

Wordless Wales

2011-10-26T14:10:00.000+01:00

{mostly}

Long weekend on the (old) south Wales coast

Oct 22 - 24 2011

Autumn Days

2011-10-26T13:51:00.000+01:00

Have you seen all the posts around the blogosphere about Autumn? After a late start, it's certainly here now in the UK. The pumpkin spiced lattes aren't but the cooler weather, and darker evenings are. The boots and tights are on, hats at the ready. And the anticipation. Anticipation of Christmas, and of Christmas holidays.

It makes me want to nest. To stay in, bake, cook for others. Tidy. Rearrange. File (but not do tax returns, sadly as mine needs to be done). Rest up and nest up, drink hot chocolate. Or mulled wine. Or warm cider. Or all of the above. Read the books, watch the movies.

I guess Autumn is one of my favourite seasons. One of my four favourites seasons. I like it for what it is, but also for the change. I like all the seasons, and I like that I've always been lucky to live where there are four distinguishable ones.

Happy Autumn All - what do you like about it?

(This post is losely based on the prompt for today "What is your favourite season" on the NaBloPoMo site. I've tentatively signed up to blog each day in November. Hades may need to freeze over for it to eventuate but I'd like to give it a shot. And yes, I realise I didn't answer the prompt exactly, but I don't know that I really have a preference for a particular season).

Ten on a Tuesday - 102

2011-10-18T13:34:00.000+01:00

I really really like the questions this week. Stands to reason though, doesn't it, as I really holidays and that's what this week's questions are all about. Thanks Chelsea for hosting (and thanks Lindsey for the questions).

1. You’re packing for a week long vacation, do you pack ahead of time or wait until the last possible minute to pack?

More or less the last possible minute. So much so that I often stay up into the small hours packing because I am the princess of procrastination. I've usually got a list of sorts or whatnot but actually selecting the clothes etc, very last minute.

2. Are you a light or heavy packer?
Heavy generally but am coming along in leaps and bounds with this. Given we often fly budget airlines, I'm getting much better at just packing carrying on. That, and BA losing my luggage when we went to Italy makes me a bit wary of checking luggage if I don't need to.

3. What are your favourite road trip snacks?
Pringles (can be resealed), lollies/mints. I don't think I've really got any specifics.

4. Do you take any reading material along?
Yep, or pick a book up at the airport.

5. Do you prefer to drive or fly to your vacation destination?
I love a road trip but many of the places I go, flying's a necessity.

6. What is your favourite time of the year to take your vacation?
No bad time right? Love the beach in summer, cities in Autumn, ski fields & Christmas markets in winter and anywhere is good in Spring (especially the countryside).

7. Where is your favourite place to vacation?
The beach. Any beach.

8. You are vacationing in the mountains, what is your favourite thing to do while there?
Ski or walk, depending on season. Drink hot chocolate & curl up and read (not season dependent).

9. You are at the beach for your vacation, do you like to take it easy on the beach or play all day in the water?
Both. Swim a bit, lye a bit, swim a bit, eat a bit, lye a bit. The lying part comes is usually spent reading a book or snoozing.

10. While your on vacation do you prefer to eat out every night or cook some of your own meals?
I like eating out but it depends on the length of the trip. I usually crave fresh veggies or salads towards the end of trips.

Smiling today

2011-10-14T14:31:00.000+01:00

After my whingy ranty whiny post of yesterday, I'm feeling much more positive today. Here's why:

10 hours sleep. man, I needed that. Not every night, but last night I did

Yummy food. I've been craving veggies the last week or so and I'm feeding that craving. Last night included leeks, broccoli & mushrooms ftw.

Quiet time reading last night. I'm currently getting stuck into the second book of The Hunger Games trilogy, Catching Fire. Have you read this series or planning on reading it? I was a little unsure but my colleague has been passing me them as she finishes them and I've got to say - I quite enjoy it. Easy to read (duh, it's young adult fiction) and a welcome change from chic lit and biographies etc.

A bath. For no reason other than I could. A relaxing bath, last night whilst reading.

Family. My cousin is coming over to Europe for a few months, starting Sunday. I don't know what/where or why but I shall see him and cuddle him and enjoy him. Have I mentioned how much I love seeing my family? He's the mug in the pic at the end of this post. That was when he was over last year and we daytripped it to Leeds.

This blog. It's the latest in a long line of old-but-new-to-me blogs I've been finding and loving. Elise is super creative, super talented and seems sweet to boot. Go check her out.

These tea bags. They're provided one the client floors here at work and are super pretty and tasty to boot. Win.

The real picture

2011-10-13T16:33:00.000+01:00

I'm not sure I can work it all out. I can work out some things amiss but I can't work out all the answers. My head and heart are heavy right now and for no real reason. To the outside, my life probably looks pretty peachy. And it is. Good job, great friends, frequent holidays etc.

But really, this is only part of it.

I'm pretty much tired and sluggish all the time. It needs to change because it's no fun. I think it's a combination of poor diet, lack of exercise, excess weight and too much on. All of these things feed each other. I'm tired so I don't cook proper meals. I don't cook proper meals so I'm tired. I don't cook proper meals to I'm overweight. I'm overweight so I'm tired. I don't exercise much so I'm tired. I'm tired so I don't exercise. It's all a big messy circle.

The thing is that some days (like today when my stupidly broken toe is throbbing and my throats/tonsils aching (still! Or again!!) I don't know where to start. I can't eat better, get fit, loose weight and not be tired overnight. So where do I start?

For now, I think I'm going to focus on food. It's the easiest most do-able change.

As to what I'm going to do about food - that's a little obvious (eat better food) and a little complicated (like, what is "better" food?). Food shall be my focus for a little bit. I know things like eating out for lunch or dinner 4-8 times a week doesn't help (I buy lunch every day but I'm not counting sandwiches or salads as eating out). And my sweet tooth that kicks in with 3.30itis? It's bad.

Food also includes drinking. We've had a lot of big nights out lately. Partying like you are 18 is only fun when you are indeed 18. Well, it's fun when you're 29 too, but it's not worth it and I should know better. Know that my hangovers are terrible and that I don't always make good (food) choices etc.

In terms of exercise - I'm limited because I've ill health and injuries right now. I'm going to schedule a new gym program, focussing on my upper body (I'm wearing a strapless bridesmaids dress in 2 short months kids!!). Then as my foot heels, build it up some.

In terms of plans. I'm going to cut back. Not on those I've made, but on making more. I want to see everyone and do everything all the time. It doesn't work. I'm a home body. I want me time. I need me time. I'm going to take me time.

In terms of weight - well, that's covered in the food/exercise parts. And really, whilst I can call it weight, I'll also call is size. I've always been a big girl (well, since puberty, darn you puberty) but I feel like in the last 6 months and gone from big girl to fat girl. Like, it's on my mind. All the time. Like, I'm hating photos of me. Hating photos at a time when I'm seeing some really super cool places is not ok. So baby steps, but I need to work on this.

Sorry for being all debbie downer but I needed to get it out. Now, who wants a hug? I like hugs.

Me. Not really smiling and certanily not relaxing because a fully body photo was being taken.
This is effectively the before shot (taken Sunday). Smile, skin and size hopefully improved upon.

Majorca Magic

2011-10-12T22:47:00.000+01:00

Majorca’s the largest of the Balearic Islands, off the coast of Spain. It’s a reasonably well known holiday destination and to Australians, home of the late Christopher Skase (Australian fugitive).

We booked a weekend here a few weeks ago to try and catch some late Summer sun. We were thinking some sun, sand and sea would be fun and had high hopes.

Well, it delivered. It delivered sun, sand, sea and so much more (including broken toe bones for yours truly).

I’ll let the pictures tell the story for I can’t really.

Friday Night (a la Magaluf)

Saturday night (a la the beginning of the day for me. The beginning of the day that we’ll talk about. We won’t count the first 5 hours of the day. We’ll chalk that up against Friday)

Sunday (a la the best day of the weekend – the day that had sun, sand and sea as planned)

Whilst I didn’t see a lot of the place, I loved what I saw. Notice the lack of Saturday pictures? That would be because I was living through one of the worst hangovers of my life.

Would I return to the island of Majorca? For sure
Would I return to the town of Magaluf? No. No, no, no, no NO.

Ten on a Tuesday - 101

2011-10-11T12:07:00.000+01:00

The pasta edition.

Thanks Chelsea (and Kristin) for the questions. I sort of contradict myself throughout with my answers but really, the main takeaway is that I just like pasta.

It’s a family thing though, not just me – check my nephew out (way back in 2008, the night before I moved to the UK). He was a spag bol machine that night, eating two plates of it!

1. Red Sauce or White Sauce?
Red if I’m cooking. Red or white out (red & white combined is my favourite)

2. Do you prefer pasta you can twirl or stab?
Twirling is usually saved for at home, stabby out.

3. Baked or boiled?
Happy with either

4. Do you like meat in your sauce or do you kick it vegetarian style?
Nope, but then I don’t like meat.

5. Where have you had your very best pasta ever?
Vernazza, Cinque Terre. Here’s the view from the restaurant that lunch time:

It was a prawn and zucchini papardelle with a wee curry hint in a mainly creamy sauce. Amazing food.

6. What is your favourite pasta dish?
Tuna pasta bake is my go to staple comfort food. Tinned tuna, tinned tomato soup, cheese and small pasta (preferable shells or rigatoni). Baked in the oven.

7. Do you serve meatballs when you make spaghetti or just do a meat sauce?
Nope, never. I’ll cook a traditional spag bol but have not once made meat balls.

8. Why type (rice, whole wheat, egg, etc.) of noodles do you use?
Indifferent. I tend to have whole wheat at home though.

9. What type of meats or vegetables do you put in your sauce?
Mushrooms are my go to. Red peppers, olives, whatever else is going.

10. Do you make a “Sunday gravy” to use throughout the week or do you just open a jar of whatever and heat it up? (No judgment on this one!)
Jar of whatever or tin of cherry tomatoes.

Budapest Birthday Bash –Sziget Festival

2011-10-10T20:02:00.000+01:00

On the back of the Isle of Wight music festival for Penny’s 30th, Matt (another school friend) celebrated his 30th at Sziget Festival in Budapest. Being a week long and in August, I wasn’t able to get the leave (regulatory deadlines at work – oh joy). That said, those kids were having so much fun there that the only cure for my FOMO (fear of missing out) was to join them for the weekend. I've just loaded the pics on to fb and whilst I'm at it, I'm sharing here as well.

Booking a Saturday festival ticked and the flights on the Thursday, I scooted out of work Friday afternoon and off to Budapest to surprise the crew in the sweet apartment they’d booked online.

The weekend was large. Sunny, funny and large. So glad I made the trip and I wish I could have been there for longer.

There was a wee bit of sightseeing/relaxing

And there was a lot of music and festival fun. The Saturday line up included Hindi Zahra, Kaiser Chiefs (always fantastic live!), Kate Nash and 30 Seconds to Mars. The line-up was secondary to me being there but was still great. As far as festivals go, Sziget’s the one I’d recommend above all others I’ve been to.

Happy Birthday Matt!

Holiday happenings

2011-10-05T00:20:00.000+01:00

Holidays are wonderful, aren’t they? I was chatting with an old family friend the other day about travel, and also thinking of sprucing up this little slice of the interwebs I call my own and I realised there were so many trips I’ve done since this blog that I haven’t blogged about. I’m going to try and do it, mainly for my own reasons.

I don’t intend for this blog to be a travel blog but more a journal/story of my life etc. and I want these trips to feature on it. I might draft the posts and then just bulk publish them. Then you can just mark them all as read, right?

Off the top of my head, the trips I haven’t blogged (that I’ve been on since starting this blog) include Russia (the Moscow and St Petersburg part), Cinque Terre, Valencia & Barcelona, Budapest and maybe some others? I’m not sure.

I’d love to end up with a page linking to my trips, and whilst at my current blogging pace, that’s going to take a while, I think I will work towards it.

That said,after a full month in London and before I get a chance to catch up on these holidays, I’ve “got” to take some more. Not expecting the sudden burst of sunshine that London was blessed with over the last week or so, I’d booked an end of summer beach weekend with mates. I’m off to the Balearic Islands (Spain) this weekend. I’m hoping the salt water kills my tonsillitis (as not much else seems to be helping).

Add that trip to the list I need to recap.

Ten on a Tuesday 100

2011-10-04T10:27:00.000+01:00

100!! Go Chelsea! Fittingly, these are Chelsea's questions.

1. How do you take your coffee?Morning coffee is a cappuccino, afternoon coffee (if there is one) is a macchiato. Home made coffee is white Americano.

2. Do you prefer soft or crispy chocolate chip cookies?
Soft (but love crispy edges on a soft centre). And now I want cookies.

3. Do you wear a belt everyday?
No. Depends on the trousers I'm wearing but I do most times I wear jeans and certain work trousers.

4. What is your favourite colour combination?
Blue and green (apparently they should never be seen without a colour in between but whatever). I love the eye of a peacock feather and all colours therein.

5. Do you like sour candy?
Yes, to a point. Sour peachy keens for the win.

6. How often do you do laundry?
As needed. Clothes at least once a week (but maybe longer for whites). Sheets and towels generally on alternating weeks I guess.

7. Did you ever wear braces?
Yes, for 3.5 years. I wish I'd worn my plate afterwards so that my teeth would still be braces straight. But I did.

8. Are you good at Roman Numerals?
Semi. Some. Can usually work things out but don't know them off the top of my head.

9. What is your favourite form of social media?
Twitter I guess. Although I can get lost in Flickr really easily,

10. How do you feel about chin dimples?
Love them on a man. Have no real opinion on a girl (I don't have them so I don't think I really need an opinion on them).

The background to my list–pt 3

2011-09-26T22:40:00.000+01:00

Full list | Part 1 | Part 2

20. Try three new foods
Why not…

21. Go a weekend without coffee
My friends laughed at this one because I’m known for loving my coffee. And whilst I do love it, I’d like to think I’m don’t need it and there is truth in me always saying I only drink so much of it because I like the taste. Let’s see…

22. Leave a letter for a stranger
Or maybe some Karma Cards? Something like that. I’d love to find a letter so I’ll pay that forward to someone else?

23. See a band
Ideally in a new venue. London has an incredible live music scene and I just feel like I’m not making the most of it. Or barely any of it.

24. A yum cha lunch
Yum! I love yum cha and the idea of sharing a meal, the lazy susan, the tea, the ritual. All things like that.

25. Send 29 postcards
I love receiving snail mail so now I’m going to pay it forward. Who wants one?

26. Get my leg back behind head
I use to be able to do this. I can’t anymore. That isn’t the real reason it’s on my list though. This comes up from time to time because over the past 18months, I’ve had reoccurring dreams that I could get my leg behind my head but it got stuck there and I had to wait for housemates to come home and help me. Hmmm…reading that, it doesn’t seem like a great goal, no?

27. Design a photo calendar
I love taking pics and I’m sure there’s 12 from the last year or so I’d be happy to look at for 30 days or so. I think of this one each year but hopefully, I’ll actually do it this time.

28. Walk at least one (new to me) section of the Thames Path
I like walking and the Thames Path is a well known National walkway. Let’s get on it.

29. Make pizza dough
Love pizza. Maybe too much. I like the idea of putting some love into the preparation of it though, rather than instant gratification.

30. Go to a comedy show
Because who doesn’t like to laugh?

The background to my list–pt 2

2011-09-22T10:10:00.000+01:00

Part 1 or the Full List

11. Get up for sunrise
I always love a good sunset but I’m just really not that familiar with the sunrises. Time to get up and see one.

12. Eat a steak
I’m a pescetarian and have been for nearly 10 years. Prior to that I ate white meat. Before that I ate some red meat (in lasagne etc. when it was flavoured) and even earlier again, I ate red meat, served as red meat. Eating red meet coincides with being a kid and not really having a say in what I ate. My fussiness with meat has never been for social reasons but rather, I don’t like it. The taste, the texture, the look or the smell of it. But 15ish years ago (my best guess on when I last had a steak), there were a lot of things I didn’t like which I now do. So maybe, maybe my tastes have changed. I’m going to try a steak and see if I still dislike it.

13. Take in a sunset from Greenwich / Primrose Hill / Hampstead Heath
Pretty. Enough said.

14. See Elgin’s marbles at the British Museum.
I doubt they really ever will get returned but since its the most well known exhibit at one of the most well known museums (and is free), I feel like I should trundle along.
15. Ride a bike
Because that’s what the cool kids are doing. I want a bike so I can ride to work and stuff, but I also just like riding for fun. That said, I haven’t since I lived in Australia.

16. Get a pedicure/manicure
Never had a pedicure, hence including it on the list. I’ve added mani to it as the chances of me wearing open toed shoes now it’s getting cold is slim to none.

17. Learn to crochet
I’m a complete knitting fail but I like the idea of being able to crochet flowers, beanies, scarves etc.

18. Visit and tour St Paul’s Cathedral
How long have I been saying I want to do this? (answer… a really long time)

19. Attend a Church service
Religion isn’t something I like to get into on here because I’m really firmly in the “each to their own” camp. I’d say I’m spiritual rather than religious but would like to attend a service. Now just to choose a church to visit…

20. Try three new foods
To get me out of my vegemite toast comfort zone? There’s a huge mix of cultures in this city and grocers for most. Time to be a little adventurous.

Listening to

2011-09-20T08:42:00.003+01:00

I’ve noticed a load of tunes based posts recently, most interesting of which was Sarah’s 10 albums every lady should own & replay on Yes and Yes which I love. The one here that stands out for me, or has made me go back to my music archives (i.e., what is on my ipod and not my iphone) is India.Arie’s Acoustic Soul.

This album is a long time love of mine. I’m not sure how I first came about it but I remember seeing India perform on Oprah (back when I was a student and had time to watch day time tele). Love this album and will be listening to it as I walk into work in a few minutes time.

I can't find a legit embdeddable video but I’ll leave you with a link to the video of her most well known track; Video. Lyrics below

What album would you add to the list?

Sometimes I shave my legs and sometimes I don’t

Sometimes I comb my hair and sometimes I won’t

Depend of how the wind blows I might even paint my toes

It really just depends on whatever feels good in my soul

[Chorus]

I’m not the average girl from your video

And I ain’t built like a supermodel

But I learned to love myself unconditionally,

Because I am a queen

I not the average girl from your video

My worth is not determined by the price of my clothes

No matter what I’m wearing I will always be

India.Arie

When I look in the mirror and the only one there is me

Every freckle on my face is where it’s suppose to be

And I know my creator didn’t make no mistakes on me

My feet, my thighs, my Lips, my eyes, I’m loving what I see

[Chorus]

Am I less of a lady if I don’t where panty hose

My momma said a lady ain’t what she wears but what sheknows…

But I’ve drawn the conclusion, it’s all an illusion

Confusion’s the name of the game

A misconception, a vast deception,

Something got to change

Now don’t be offended this is all my opinion

Ain’t nothing that I’m saying law

This is a true confession

Of a life learned lesson

I was sent here to share with y'all

So get in when you fit in

Go on and shine

Clear your mind

Now’s the time

Put your salt on the shelf

Go on and love yourself

‘Cause everything’s gonna be alright

[Chorus]

Keep your fancy drink, and your expensive minks

I don’t need that to have a good time

Keep your expensive cars and your caviar

All’s I need is my guitar

Keep your crystal and your pistol

I’d rather have a pretty piece of crystal

Don’t need you silicone, I prefer my own

What god gave me is just fine…

[Chorus]

The background to my list–pt 1

2011-09-18T22:46:00.004+01:00

30 before 30, 101 in 1000 days, bucket list etc. We’re all familiar with them. I’m late in the game, deciding only a matter of months before my 30th to do things. Some of the items are more meaningful than others but I’m going to try and explain the reasoning behind each one.

Today, I’ll just do the first 10 and follow up with the remaining 19 shortly.

1. See a play
I’ve seen many a musical but rarely do I go and see plays. London has a lot of theatre options so this really shouldn’t be that hard, should it?

2. Read the Great Gatsby
Movies coming out (well, being filmed) and I bought the book at the beginning of the year at the recommendation of a friend. So just read it already, right? right.

3. Visit the London Transport Museum
It’s the London museum that I most want to go to. And have for a while. So again, just do it already, right? right.

4. Attempt Couch to 5kms
I say attempt because I’ve never been a runner. But maybe I’ve never been a runner because I’ve never really tried and certainly never stuck with it. A program to follow might make it easier. So let’s see how this goes.

5. Cook a dinner for 4
I’m sure I can cook, but I just don’t do it very often. I like the idea of cooking for friends though. Taking time to plan a meal, get the ingredients and cook. Just need some friends to come over for dinner…

6. Bake macaroons
I love them. I think I will suck at them. I want to try them. That’s really all there is too it. And if they fail, macaroon crumbs would be okay with ice-cream, wouldn’t they?

7. Move to a new hood in London
Done. This one shows the age of the list (mid July). I was tossing up staying where I was (lovely big sunny room in a location I was bored with that was no longer really convent for me to get to work or my friends. So I decided it was time to experience a different part of London.

8. Kiss a stranger
My friends mostly laugh at this one. If we’re out for a few drinks, and especially if we’re at a gig, I’m a big fan of the pash n dash. But drunk disco pashes weren’t what I meant.
I’m very single but am not helping my cause. I don't respond well (I’m the awkward turtle) to being chatted up & often I don't even know when it's going on. ie. I'm a dating dork. So basically, I need to put myself out there more AND respond better to it.

9. Visit a market
Portobello, Brick Lane, Petticoat Lane, Columbia Road, Bermondsey, Broadway. London has loads of markets but I couldn’t tell you the last time I made it to one. Time to rectify that. Just shop already, right? Right.

10. Visit a new country
New country = new to me <> South Sudan. This was another one friends laughed at, mentioning that I’m always away. I do travel a bit but this year, Morocco is the only new country I’ve been to. I’ve been to some new places (Cinque Terre & Valencia off the top of my head) but many (Paris, Amsterdam, Budapest) are repeat cities as well as countries. That’s not a bad thing, but I want to see more, see new.

Dolly!

2011-09-14T13:28:00.001+01:00

Wednesday last week wasn't just hump day, it was Dolly day.

Dolly Parton, as part of her Better Day tour had a few shows in London at the O2. I remember back when the tickets went on sale how much I wanted to go. I was even prepared to pay the £90 (yes, £90) for the shittiest of seats if someone else would. Sadly, no one else that I asked would.

Fast forward a few months and last Tuesday I got some corporate box seats from work for £10 each (£10 donation to our charity of the year). My employer has a corporate box there where tickets are offered in a lottery when not being used by the bigiwgs and clients.

So, exhousemate Kate and I, after many singalongs at our old place, headed off to see her. I was so ridiculously excited about this gig, it was all I could talk about/think about for the 36 hours between getting tickets and going, and then for another 48 hours afterwards.

Dolly came on, all 5 feet of her decked out in gold sparkles and rocked it from the get go. Joelene was the fourth song in and I'm not ashamed to say my eyes teared up with the excitement of it all. That also could have been because we were drinking gin & tonics (the main benefit of the corporate box is that whilst catering wasn't included, we did have in seat drinks service, meaning no cues at the bar).

From start to finish, her gig was AMAZING. I really do only know her bigger hits but then there were many many songs I didn't realise were hers. And there were some fantastic covers - Tina Turner, the Beatles, Led Zepplin & Dusty Springfield all got a Dolly-ing. And whilst her voice has such a distinctive twang, it was amazing. Little Sparrow, done a capella was mind blowing for me. But not only was it her singing (and rapping!), she's such a witty corker and had as all laughing a lot through out.

All in, this was probably one of the best gigs of my life and one that I will hopefully be able to tell future Grandkids about.

The setlist was:

Set 1
Light Of A Clear Blue Morning (Intro)
Walking On Sunshine / Shine Like The Sun
Baby, I'm Burning
Jolene
Bluegrass Medley
Rocky Top
Mule Skinner Blues
Help! (The Beatles cover)
Shine (Collective Soul cover)
Stairway to Heaven (Led Zeppelin cover)
My Tennessee Mountain Home
Precious Memories
Coat of Many Colors
Smokey Mountain Memories
Son of a Preacher Man (Dusty Springfield cover)
Better Day
Together You and I
Holding Everything
He Will Take You Higher
He's Everything

Set 2
White Limozeen
Country Is As Country Does
In The Meantime
The Sacrifice
Little Sparrow
River Deep – Mountain High (Ike & Tina Turner cover)
Here You Come Again
Islands in the Stream
9 to 5

Encore
Two Doors Down
I Will Always Love You

My photos aren't nearly as awesome as the night was, and nor is the video (the encore, I Will Always Love You) but that's ok by me.

Such a great night out. Thanks Dolly!

(are you a Dolly fan? Most of my mates and especially my colleagues laugh at how excited I was about it all).

Ten on a Tuesday - 97

2011-09-13T12:49:00.000+01:00

This week’s questions are delightfully twisted and come from Rachel at Rachel Heather via Chelsea at Roots and Rings. There all multichoice;

Would you rather?

1. eat chocolate covered grasshoppers or this freaky squid thing?
Chocolate grasshoppers sound pretty good right now… (for the love of man, please check that link out at some point! It's beyond my vocab)

2. never see another movie or never watch TV again?
Never watch TV again.

3. be a superhero with a lame power or a super villain with an awesome power?
Superhero.

4. eat only salty snacks for the rest of you life, or only sweet snacks?
Salty. I love sweet things but I can tire of them way more quickly than salty.

5. never read another book or never hear another song?
This is not a life I’d want to live. I guess never hear another song. As much as I love music, there is a lot of it in my memory that I guess I’d have to rely on. Not being able to read another book would be a cruel cruel life.

6. be a whale carcass remover or a sewer inspector?
Whale carcass remover. It would be a sad job but so long as it’s only beached whales, I’d choose that over being in a confined space such as sewer. I think my heaves whilst doing that would reclog anything I had to unclog in the first place.

7. have no electricity or no running water?
No electricity. Doesn’t appeal but I guess I’d learn to cope. Running water; well not so much.

8. be a dog or a cat?
Cat. Like dogs but have you seen how lazy and lovely cats have it?

9. always be hot or always be cold?
Neither appeals. At all. I would generally rather be cold (because I think it’s easier to warm up than cool down) but if I was set to always be cold with no chance of heating up… I don’t know. Would you get use to it?

10. be forced to watch all 3 High School Musicals on an endless loop, or the Twilight movies?
Seriously? I haven’t seen the Twilight movies but I’m going to say them because I know I don’t want to have to watch the 3 HSM on loop.

Weekends are lovely

2011-09-12T11:42:00.000+01:00

A low key weekend, movies, dinner, aussie rules football, shopping and a walk with friends. No sleep ins but early nights instead. What’s happening to me? I must be getting old? (or just wise, because they were lovely).

Sunday – a walk in the Chilterns with an assortment of friends. An eight mile loop from the village of Wendover up Coombe Hill, past Chequers and back to Wendover. For a Sunday lunch. And afternoon tea. And amazing hot chocolate.

It rained some, but mostly it didn’t. Open fields & closed in woods. A wonderfully English walk really. I think all enjoyed it*.

* I think all would have enjoyed it more had there been no rain but really, you can’t wait for the dry days to enjoy this country. And I’m glad we all enjoyed it as I’d chosen the route and organised it for 10 of us, some who I hadn’t met before. I love doing things so I organise the things I love. And then I freak out and worry that others might not like what I’ve organised. But really, it seems people are often happy to be organised. And if they wouldn’t come along if it wasn’t what they wanted to do.

**I now know they all enjoyed it as the email this morning has run hot thanking me and asking when the next one is. Just as soon as I have a free Sunday, I'm going walking again. I really do love it.

29 before 30

2011-09-08T12:36:00.001+01:00

So I’m 30 soon. 25 November 2011 marks the day.

I’m pretty excited about this birthday. I love celebrating a birthday and well, a milestone, just a bigger reason right? I’m excited about the decade ahead. But really, I’m getting ahead of myself. Because there are still a chunk of days left in my twenties. Days I want to put to good use, to do some things I often speak off.

So here is my 29 before 30 list. I started writing it early in the summer and thinking about it long before then. So, some of the things I’ve just recently done but mostly, what’s on it is what’s to come. I’ve done 29 before 30 (rather than 30 before 30) as I’m really celebrating being 29 (i.e. The now). That, and well, adding a 30th would be reasonably meaningless as I can’t think of anything else I especially want to do.

I’ll break them into chunks probably to explain why there on it, or share the reasons when I blog the results. Some have some real meaning and reasoning. Some are just fun. Many are things I’ve been saying I want to do for quite a while now so I’m just putting a deadline* on it.

1. See a play
2. Read the Great Gatsby
3. Visit the London Transport Museum
4. Attempt Couch to 5kms
5. Cook a dinner for 4
6. Bake macaroons
7. Move to a new hood in London
8. Kiss a stranger
9. Visit a market
10. Visit a new country
11. Get up for sunrise
12. Eat a steak
13. Take in a sunset from Greenwich / Primrose Hill / Hampstead Heath
14. See Elgin’s marbles
15. Ride a bike
16. Get a pedicure
17. Learn to crochet
18. Visit and tour St Paul’s Cathedral
19. Attend a Church service
20. Try three new foods
21. Go a weekend without coffee
22. Leave a letter for a stranger
23. See a band
24. A yum cha lunch
25. Send 29 postcards
26. Get my leg back behind head
27. Design a photo calendar
28. Walk at least one (new to me) section of the Thames Path
29. Make pizza dough
30. Go to a comedy show

So, some will be easy to accomplish, some will require a bit of planning and some might just be impossible. Regardless, let’s do this

Friends, if you are in London or nearby and want to do any of these things with me in the next few months, let’s talk…

*deadline. If I fail, well I guess I’ve got a good start on some things to do once I’m 30. I’d love to get through everything on this list but needing to balance it with down time, work, friends etc, I’m not going to stress (too much) about it.

**I'll be back to provide links where possible etc, and update this as I go

Ten on a Tuesday (96)

2011-09-06T12:18:00.000+01:00

Chelsea's questions this week. I don't really know how she comes up with the random easy to answer ones but I like them.

1. What temperature do you keep your thermostat on during the day?
Ah, we don't. The new place is quite warm naturally (it's east/west facing). We don't have aircon and we haven't needed the heating in the 10 days I've been there so far.

2. What temperature do you keep your thermostat on at night?
Again, n/a.

3. In a canister of mixed nuts, do you pick out certain varieties and leave the others?
I prefer brazil nuts, macadamias, cashews, almonds, pistachios & walnuts so I guess I'd eat them first? Peanuts are generally the last to go I guess.

4. What is your favourite kind of M&M?
Peanut of what's available in Australia or the UK. Love the peanut butter ones and the coconut ones I've been able to get at specialty stores and really looking forward to trying the Pretzel ones (when some mates bring them back from the states).

5. How do you buy books? (Amazon, bookstore, new, used, electronic, etc)
If online it's the Book Depository. Otherwise, 3 for 2 or something at train stations/airports. No hard and fast rules.

6. How do you like your eggs cooked?
Poached. I like a runny yolk but I'll sacrifice that in the name of a well done (and no clear runniness) white. I'm happy with scrambled or fried as well, but I tend to order poached because I don't poach at home.

7. Can you whistle?
Yes, in a pretty meek whistle while you work kind of way. Not in wolf whistle/at the footy/woohoo kind of way.

8. What common word do you always misspell?
Kayaking. I always try and put a double "k" towards the end. And surprise. That first "r" always surprises me (suprise). Oh, and necessary (neccesary, neccessary). They're my main misspellings I think (note that my spell check just autocorrected misspellings…I didn't have a double S initially). I mistype Sue (Seu anyone?) and individual (inidvidual) a lot.

9. Are you afraid of flying?
No. I don't love it, especially take off and landing but I'm not afraid of it (maybe bored of it? It's a necessary part of my life if I want to see the places I want to see. Yes, a first world problem I realise).

10. How often do you go shopping?
Grocery shopping - ad hoc. Other stuff - ad hoc. Basically, ad-hoc.

Reading time

2011-09-06T08:11:00.000+01:00

I’ve just ordered/borrowed the books above to kick-start my Autumn reading;

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
The Slap
The Help

I started The Help last night and will then move on to whichever of the others comes first I guess? (I order my books through the Book Depository* which means they don’t always come together). Quite a few bloggers have recommended the Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks whilst a friends book club did the Slap a little while ago.

I just finished reading Room recently. Wow. Quite a story. It’s written from the point of a view of a 5 year old locked in a room with his mum and he’s never known freedom. A sad story for sure, but little Jack, having never known any different is an interesting voice to follow. It took me a bit to get into it but then suddenly I really couldn’t put it down.

What are you reading? What should I be searching for next?

*Book Depository is a great online book ordering website if you don’t have a local book store you like or that stocks what you want. They do free delivery worldwide and are usually a good price. With the pound weak, it is probably super cheap for Aussies to order from there.

Looking Forward, Looking Back

2011-09-01T12:38:00.000+01:00

Looking Back

My old place and my old street.

August, wonderful as you were, I'm looking forward to a calmer September. Things that went down in my August include:

I hit two (of 6 annually) deadlines at work. Come 5pm 31st August I was a happy and relived little worker ant. And then I promptly left the office (leaving so early, I didn't really know what to do with myself to be honest!).

I moved house. After three years in the south (near Kennington and Oval), I moved to the East. No longer an SW postcode, I'm now an E. I'll share more on the new place and area but so far I've been able to leave home later, walk the Thames Path to work and arrive earlier which delights me. It's such a good start to the day. That said, I'll miss the old place and my old housemates (all who have moved to pastures new as well). This move more or less occupied my mind all month so I'm glad it's done now. Despite not being completely unpacked, I feel a lot more settled now than I have for a little while.

I holidayed. A long weekend in Italy (sans luggage) sneeks in as it carried over until 1 August. An impromptu weekend in Budapest for a mate's 30th as well.

I relaxed. In amongst it all was a super calming and fun day with my Aunty, visiting from Australia. Everywhere we went that day was just a backdrop to the conversations we had. Conversations that bely we only see each other for a day a year. We can pick up where we left off, no worries. We can play games in fabric stores, talk of the ridiculous and daydream of the even more ridiculous. That said, backdrops such as the V&A, the Wallace Collection and Liberty of London are fantastic and we're glad to have them.

Looking Forward

September is going to be a much calmer month and I'm pretty excited about it. I've got a mix of things booked and spare time and just have a really good feeling about the month ahead.

A weekend enjoyed. Mostly

2011-08-22T14:11:00.000+01:00

Monday, nasty Monday. I really could have done with a longer weekend this weekend. No real reason - I just think we all could do with it every week.

I stayed local for this one and thoroughly enjoyed it. Friday night and Saturday at least. Sunday was a wee bit mundane.

Here is it in pictures:

Friday night

Beers for a mate's 30th. We went for "quality not quantity" this time (Budapest was very much "quantity not quality"), heading to a beer pub, The Draft House. They were:

Little Creatues Pale Ale - one of my favourite beers. It's Aussie and not widely available over here (although it does seem to be popping up more and more). It's not super special anything, just a really tasty everyday beer (if you were to have a beer every day!). I'd drink this again (and again)
Rodenbach Original - a vintage blend Beligum red. Heavy, would have probably enjoyed it later in the evening (I don't think I've had a Belgian red before but would again).
Monteith's Radler- A NZ beer I drank plenty of and enjoyed back in NZ for my bro's wedding. It's lemony and refreshing and lovely (it somehow manages to avoid tasting like dishwashing liquid, which many lemon drinks can in my mind)
Dogfish Head Festina Peche - A peach flavoured wheat beer and quite the lovely one at that. Not as sweet as the usualy peach beers (which I always stake out in Belgium, or Belgian beer bars) but yum.
Paul Kwak - strong beer that if served in the true glass, would have looked super awesome. Label told it would taste unique and it certainly did. It grew on me but it's probably not something I'd chose again.

Saturday was a change of pace, spending the day with my Aunty, playing tourist of sorts. Meeting at the V&A (as always), checking out the Wallace Collection, some afternoon tea (no photos, too hungry to wait) and some shopping at Liberty London.

Sunday...filing, culling, packing, cleaning etc. I move this coming weekend. I've saved you the task of having to look at photos of that!

How were your weekends?

My life

2011-08-18T11:42:00.000+01:00

This pic best sums up my weekend, and probably the last month. A little bit crazy but a lot of fun. It was taken late (late late late) in the day at Sziget Festival on Saturday with a school mate.

I had a last minute weekend trip to Budapest over the weekend just gone. By last minute, I mean I booked it Thursday arvo and flew out Friday after work. It came on the back of a few other weekends away, flat hunting, working busy season and life. Things are starting to calm down and I can’t wait to share the pics with you from some of these trips.

A prettier view of my last month might be this:

L-R, Aguille du Midi (Chamonix, France), Riomaggiore (Cinque Terre, Italy), Parliament House (Budapest, Hungary)

(Oh, and that Budapest pic on the right is from my trip there in 2009 – I mostly used a film camera in Budapest this weekend so waiting for those pics back before I have anything to share. Even then. they're likely to mainly be of the festival and not really of anything pretty like this.)

Ten on Tuesday - 92

2011-08-09T13:25:00.000+01:00

London is burning. I can't begin to understand what is going on (or more so, why) in this great city I have chosen to call home. It is a great city and it's desperately sad to see it go this way. Whilst the nearest rioting has been about 1.5miles from my home, I've not been directly impacted.

Here's what I saw in London last night. Nothing riot related, just a beautiful rainbow over the Tower of London. The sky had a eerie ethereal quality to it (which I suspect was in part to do with the smoke from the fires as well as rain clouds, fluffy clouds and a sunset). I was busy looking west (sunset) but stopped to glance back a the Tower and was faced with this. From this viewpoint, the rainbow is coming out of Tower Bridge (that you can barely see in the background).

London, it seems not everyone does, but I love you.

Ok, on to the scheduled programming - 10 on a Tuesday. Thanks Chelsea (& Kara)

1. Mac or Windows? (Or Linux for you super geeks!)
Windows.

2. What drew you to that operating system?
My Dad? It's what I grew up using at home and mostly in school (aside from Apple 2Es).

3. Mice – Wireless or Wired? Mouse pad or none?
I'd love a wireless one but I'm wired for now. Mouse pad at work, not at home.

4. Other than the Internet – What do you use your computer most for?
Photos and music.

5. What’s one computer-related thing you wish you were best at? (CSS, Photoshop, Excel, etc.)
Photoshop would be cool but I need another time suck like I need a hole in my head. CSS would be more useful. I think I'm pretty dandy at Excel (good enough for my role).

6. Describe the first time you ever used a computer.
Very first time? NFI. I remember playing with Logo writer in the study in my first home. And we had them at school from Grade 1 (1988) but I can't pinpoint the very first time.

7. How often do you upgrade to a new operating system?
When I get a new computer (at home) and then I have no choice (work).

8. Are you a short-cutter (CTRL+C) or a right-clicker?
I'm keyboard queen. Short cuts all the way - I find them so much quicker and easier than the mouse. The mouse is way to far away (like 5 - 10 inches away from my hand when I type.

9. Is computer-use a constant thing in your life (such as using it both at work and home) or do you get a break (because you don’t use them at work)?
Both. Although I don't actually turn my laptop on at home each night, so that might be considered my break? (I read blogs etc on my phone)

10. Where do you think the world would be if personal computers did not exist?
Outside? Checking mail boxes, stargazing, wander lusting? Being happy with our lot because we don't know what the Jones' have? I love computers like the next person but I do think they're taking over just a wee bit much. That, I'm in a bit of a "what is the world coming to" frame of mind.

Bullet points are beyond me

2011-07-28T14:14:00.000+01:00

A bullet pointless brain dump & semi explanation...

Work is busy. Like crazy busy. I knew it would be around this time of year but wow, it's on like donkey kong. My old role saw me with 4 deliverables a week (oh how I loved Fridays). This "new" role sees me with six a year. All at month ends - 1 each in May and November, 2 in February and August. Whilst it's great to have less deliverables, these one obviously require a lot more work (less number crunching, more conceptualising etc). It's going to be a bumpy ride from here in.

Maybe work being busy is compounded by me taking time off? I had a long weekend last weekend and I've an even longer one this one. This afternoon I'm heading to the land of gelato, pizza, pasta, tiramisu and limoncello. To where the forecast is for a serene sky (I kid you not!). Where there are walks, gelato, a beach, gelato, sunshine, gelato, friends (7 of us in total), gelato, the unknown and gelato. I can't wait. Sadly, nor can some of my workload so I'm on it at the moment.

Maybe I seem overwhelmed a bit to because I've decided to move flats. I'm moving at the end of August. I just don't know where to. My lease is a 12 month one and after 3 years here, it's time for somewhere new. I know where I want to move to but it's a popular place and rooms go quickly (I want a share house, not solo). I saw a great flat last night so fingers crossed the girls like me and pick me. It's a bit like being in high school again.

The antidote to some of the uncertainty, the stress (or just busy, not actually stressed) is kayaking. A while ago I signed up for a kayaking course. I've just finished my one star BCU and have joined the club. Two hours on the water every Tuesday after work is fantastic.

That's all for now, I'm off to do some stress testing (yeah, that's what I do…happy happy joy joy - doesn't it sound thrilling?)

Richard Kelland via Flickr

Where you will find me this weekend

(oh, and people waiting on postcards, they're coming, I haven't forgotten!)

Ten on a Tuesday - 90

2011-07-26T12:58:00.000+01:00

Ok, disclaimer. These are my questions that I submitted to Chelsea. And pretty sucky 2D ones at that. Boo to the hoo for that. Sorry. Anyway, I’ll answer them anyway…

1. What colour are your toenails painted?

Bourjois’ 10 Day Nail Enamel in No. 19 (what a fun colour with a boring name!)

2. What colour are your fingernails painted?

Essie’s Sugar Daddy (what a boring colour with a fun name!)
3. What is your favourite brand of nail polish?
Essie. I’m newish to it but it’s my clear favourite.

4. As the norm, do you DIY your nails or get mani/pedis?
DIY. I hear they’re cheap in the states but they’re not in the UK or Australia. I can count on one hand how many times I’ve had a mani.

5. Have you ever had a gel mani? Do you recommend it?
No, but I’d love to know what others make of them. I like the idea of them, especially ahead of a week or so travelling.

6. What is the last movie you watched on television? (TV, Netflix, Redbox, etc.)
This question was meant to be NOT on Netflix etc (or Lovefilm, the UK one). Harry Potter 1 was the most recent one I watched on tele.

7. What is the last movie you watched in the cinema?
Harry Potter 7.2. Prior to that – Senna.

8. Is there a movie that everyone talks about as if it is a classic but you haven’t seen?
Star Wars (any and all of them). Or Bond (any or all of them). Or Reservoir Dogs.

9. What is your favourite movie soundtrack?
Empire Records. Hands down. There are lot of movies with great soundtracks (Garden State, 500 Days of Summer spring to mind) but Empire Records is the ONE.

10. Have you ever seen a movie and thought it was better than the book it was based on?
Not that I can think of right now. I wonder what I had in mind when I asked this question.

Chamonix

2011-07-25T12:43:00.001+01:00

I ducked away for the weekend to Chamonix, France, skipping out early Friday and landing at 8am this morning (yep, straight to work, this afternoon may suck).

A friend had just finished the Tour de Mont Blanc, was around for the weekend and keen for MORE walking (the TdMB came on the back of the week of the GR5) so who was I to say no?

The weekend? Well the weather wasn't fantastic (we had rain, we had snow but we did also have some sunshine) but not bad enough to prevent us doing some walking. Nothing to strenuous - a couple of hours each day. Saturday we had to fit the farmers market in first, Sunday a trip up Aiguille du Midi for some sightseeing.

Saturday we did a valley walk (mostly in forests, so sheltered from the rain) whilst Sunday we ventured up to Brevent and walked along the range to Flegere. Both were fantastic but I especially loved the Sunday walk. Do you know the best bit about walking at altitude? Any shortness of breath can be blamed on it (even though I think we both know it was my lack of fitness that was causing it!). Cable cars are also my friends - makes walking up high with stunning views very achievable without having to do the nasty hill climbs. Another thing I learnt - I like longer walks. I don't really hit my stride until the 3rd hour onwards but then often can just keep going and going. I love being outside.

Also another good thing about walking in the French Alps? Makes you feel like you really deserve the raclette/fondue/crepese/macarons you are going to eat afterwards...

Anyway, I have some pretty fantastic pics on my camera, but they'll have to wait. Today, I can really only share with you those from my phone that I've uploaded to flickr... (and are mostly repeats of what made it to twitter...i would apologise but I don't think there is really any hardship in enjoying these views more than once!).

Cable car from Plan de l'Aguille to Aiguille du Midi

View of Mont Blanc from Aiguille du Midi

View to the top of Aiguille du Midi (we went to the base of the tower, which is where the 2nd pic was taken)

View from lunch. Cloudy day but beautiful all the same

Lists

2011-07-22T09:55:00.000+01:00

I love them. They remind what I need to do and in a way, that helps me get things done. But lately, they've also been reminding me of what I've not being doing, what hasn't been getting done. I've got my regular to do list and this is the one that has some stagnant items on it. Items like "send Morocco postcards". You know, how I went to Morocco in April?? Postcards still waiting to be written and sent. So are the Amsterdam ones (weekend before Morocco) and Paris (a month ago!).

I've got the list of things for a trip. I'm heading away for the weekend, leaving work at 12, flying at 2 for some hiking in the French Alps. This list will get done. It had some things I needed to pack (done) and some things I still need to get (hydration supplies). There is also an accompanying list of things forgotten (hello watch, hello book). I've got a similar list for next weekend's trip as well.

I've got a list of blog posts prompts that I want to right. Haha, as if I will get to them. Seriously, I posted my July 2010 pics in July 2011! Some I've got to cut loose and start again. Maybe this list is more of a weight. A list of what I'd wish I'd done. Who knows. I do still want to post trip recaps I've missed because this blog semi serves as a travel journal of sort. Facebook gets more photos, emails get more words, Simons Sista Saw gets a bit of both.

And most fun or important to me, my 30 list. A growing list of things I want to do before I'm 30 (later this year). I want 30 things on the list, hence I haven't posted it yet. But I'm not sure there is 30 things I especially want to do so I'm struggling with either having only things I really want to do/try/achieve or having a ridgey didge 30 before 30. Regardless, I need to start sharing this one soon because things that are on it are getting crossed off already.

What do you think? Should my 30 list have 30 things on it (and maybe loose some integrity) or should I share it as is? Do you use lists successfully? Are they electronic or noted?

Other lists I have are of places I want to go, shopping lists and let's not forget - the work to-do lists (which I keep meticulously).

(pic at top is a screenshot of my 30 list, currently in draft in teuxdeux. I think it would be better served in a pretty blog post with links, but getting that done is still on my to do list)

Ten on a Tuesday - 90

2011-07-20T00:05:00.000+01:00

Running late today. Drafted the answers at work and then work got in the way (ie. lunch got cut short). Figured I'd do it after work but then I got a surprise visit from a friend (hi Lari). Oh, and a couple of hours kayaking as well.

Zoo theme today, from Lindsey via Chelsea.

1. What is your favorite zoo to visit?

Probably Dubbo (Western Plains Zoo) in outback NSW is my fav. It's really open and you hire mini mokes to drive around in to get to the various animals. Or Melbourne Zoo as it means I'm probably either seeing a band with mates (Zoo Lates) or hanging with my niece and nephew.

2. Do you visit a zoo very often?

Not really. I've been once in the last 3 years. I go in Melbourne a little more often as they have night gigs (away from the animals) and it's a popular place for work functions etc.

3. Do you have a membership to a zoo?

Nope.

4. When you visit a zoo, do you stay all day or just an hour or two?

It makes sense to stay and see it all (value wise) but it really depends on why we're going. Last month we went to London Zoo for their Friday Night Lates so we could only be there for a few hours (and it was raining)

5. Do you buy food at the zoo or pack a picnic lunch?

Usually take some and buy some. Zoo Lates is a great excuse for a really delish picnic. And when with my niece and nephew, there are allergies and young ages to deal with - easy to have some stuff to hand.

6. What is you favorite animal to see at the zoo?

Probably the butterflies. I always love a good butterfly house.

7. What is your least favorite animal to see at the zoo?

Australian animals. They

8. What is your favorite memory of going to the zoo as a kid?

The mini mokes at Dubbo Zoo or taking the ferry to Taronga Zoo in Sydney or the carousel at Melbourne Zoo. Hard to pick one.

9. Do you visit the gift shop when you go to the zoo?

Usually. I collect bouncy balls and Zoo's usually have a good supply of them.

10. On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being the best and 1 being the worst) how nice is your city’s zoo?

London - I’d say 4. Melbourne - I'd say 8

Monday musings

2011-07-18T13:18:00.000+01:00

Short and sweet for there is not much to muse on today. My weekend was quiet. I hadn't really planned a super quiet one but it ended up that way. That I arrived home Friday 11pm and didn't leave the house (except for stepping on to the balcony) until Sunday 11am probably best paints the picture. There were things on but it was raining, I was cranky (and crampy...very connected to each other) and cosy. Oh, and I had the house to myself as my housemates were both away. Love them but the peace and quiet of being solo is such a welcome treat.

During my hibernation I did

some spring cleaning (2 garbage bads of clothes for goodwill, 1 large bag of books that I can't actually lift);
some movie watching (Harry Potter 1, Harry Potter 7.2, Guess Who's Coming to Dinner, Marley and Me);
some sport watching (Tour De France for 6 hours over 2 days, I can't get enough of it at the moment & 45 mins of golf in the background before I realised what was on!!)
some nail painting (hot hot pink crackle for the fingers- fun, but not adding to the banker look I've got going on 9-5, a deep pinky purple for the toes)
some washing (me, my sheets, my towels, my colours & my whites)
some baking (if you can call it that - I made the 5 minute cake in a mug (using a pyrex measuring jug rather than a mug to avoid spillage. Better than you might expect it to be, but certainly not something to serve to others)

During the non-hibernation period (all 4 hours of it on Sunday where I managed to get rained on 4 times), I met with friends for a waterside pub lunch. Good food, good company (them, not me) and good chat (holidays, it always comes back to holidays!). Crap weather.

So that was my unexciting weekend that need not be recorded for posterity, but kind of is. How was yours?

Project 365–July 2010

2011-07-14T14:21:00.000+01:00

You know that project I started last year? Project 365? Well I never did finish it completely but I didn't totally give up on taking the pics (but did on posting them). I'm ONE YEAR behind! So here are the July pics. July 2010!

July was a ripper month, and include photos from my London life, Wales, Scotland, Thailand,Sydney, Melbourne and country Victoria (Australia). It's really strange looking at them now, a year later! There's a subtle ode to my Canadian reader right on day 1.
Enjoy – and let me know your favourite pic

*missing – 9 July 2010

Ten on a Tuesday - 88

2011-07-12T12:24:00.000+01:00

I really like this week's questions. They're a bit themed, but a theme I love. Travel. But not too themed. Go Kyria (Travel Spot) and Chelsea (Roots and Rings, once again a gracious host).

1. When you are on a plane and the kid behind you is kicking your seat, what do you do?

Recline it, then turn around and ask if that makes it easier for them to kick it. Actually, probably not. My response depends. If it's a short haul, I probably say nothing. If it's long (long long) haul, I might glance back over and say something. Saying that, it depends on the age of the kid and if they should know better or can understand. And is it incessant kicking, or the odd kick? It's not always easy travelling with kids.

2. What food that you KNOW is bad for you and you shouldn’t have, but you love/eat it anyway?
Ice cream. Pizza. Thai green curry. Loads. Better to ask what I know is bad so I don't eat (answer - pretty much nothing).

3. What is your favourite book of all time?
Seven little Australians. My first favourite book, so I'm going to say all time.

4. If I came to visit you in your town, where would we eat?
A curry house (it's England) and then probably Breakfast Club Hoxton for an English breakfast or derivation thereof and then probably a picnic from Borough Market or a good pub lunch. Not necessarily in that order. Of course there would be cocktail and coffee stops in between. I hope you are hungry.

5. You have 500 dollars and 40 minutes to spend it at any store you want. Where do you go?
Cotswolds/Snow + Rock. An outdoors store. I need for nothing but love those stores. I'd love a lightweight waterproof jacket (a new one, I mean), some more trail shoes, a fleece, a new pack etc.

6. What blog do you read every day/the most often?
Pretty much all that are in my reader. Which is a hotchpotch of stuff. Personal blogs, travel blogs, a few (very few now) design blogs, photogrpahy blogs, personal finance blogs, friends blogs. All awesome blogs.

7. What’s the longest you’ve ever been stuck at an airport?
For delays? About an hour. Stopovers - 12 hours (but we left the airport so that doesn't really count). 3 hours is the longest I've hung around without leaving the airport (Frankfurt airport - it's so large though it takes that long to transit). I've been pretty lucky really.

8. What’s your daily makeup/face/cleansing routine?
It's pretty lax. I wear an spf moisturiser (boots brand) and a cliniqe pressed powder. I have a Simple foamy face wash for the morning and a boots brand cream cleanser for night. I love the Waitrose Essential brand (i.e. homebrand) 3 in 1 wipes when travelling though.

9. Where is your farthest away friend?
My first though are any that are in Melbourne. But really, it's probably Jen, a Canadian friend who I met in Austria when she lived in France, through an Australian friend who met her in Belgium. She's since lived in Australia and is now based in New Zealand. I like her.

10. Where is your favourite place to go hiking (or to enjoy nature)?
I'm liking it anywhere. I can't wait until the day I get to explore more of the Grampians and Wilsons Prom at home. Over here, Wales is stunning (and accessible for a weekend) and I could easily spend a week or more in Scotland. Then there is all the places I want to go but haven't yet...

Jen and I late in the day at Oktoberfest (Munich, Sept 2008)

Weekend wrap up

2011-07-11T12:11:00.000+01:00

I've had a fun few weekends of late, mostly in London town. As much as I love travelling (and have a few trips later this month), I love being at home, waking up in my bed.

This weekend just gone was spent with school friends, making the most of the London, and the weather.

Saturday

Champagne high tea, cocktails and the theatre.

Rather more classy than our usual shenanigans but it was fun to get dressed up and treat ourselves (oh, I know I treat myself plenty, I just don't often dress up for it).

Sunday

Canterbury - Cathedral, Wall and Castles

(farmers market, fresh produce, coffee, cute town and pretty parks as well)

Whistable (f&c on the beach for dinner to cap of a great day)

How was your weekend?

Ten on a Tuesday - 87

2011-07-05T13:39:00.000+01:00

They're all a little ID4 today. Makes sense given Chelsea is American. I'm hijacking them and pretending they're about Aussies things. Otherwise it would be a whole lot more dull around here. Oh, and excitedly - I booked some flights to Australia for Christmas today. Bring on the Aussie summer - I hope it pulls one out after what I hear was a terrible one last year.

Anyway, on with the questioning...

1. What do you traditionally do for 4th of July?

No traditions. Being Aussie, it doesn’t really affect me. For Australia Day, which I guess is the equivalent – it’s usually a bbq and listening to a national radio countdown (Triple J Hottest 100) if I’m in Australia. If in the UK, it’s usually work and then something with Aussie mates.

2. Did you follow your tradition this year? How did you celebrate yesterday?
N/A

3. What’s the best fireworks show you’ve ever seen?
Las Fallas, Valencia. A festival devoted to fire. Unfreakinbelievable. (in linking to that post, I realised I never posted the pics of the fallas themselves. to come...)

4. Have you ever been injured by a firecracker?
I got hit in Spain earlier this year, but not injury. You can tell in this video when I get hit because I duck the fck down. Right around 33 seconds. The firecrackers that hit me were to the right of screen. Still, I'd do it all again.

5. Burger, Brat, or Hot Dog?
Burger. Vegie.

6. Do you sport red, white and blue on our Independence Day?
No. Maybe green and gold on Australia Day but even then, maybe not.

7. If you had to be from any country other than the USA, what country would it be?
Australia, ahead of all others, including the USA. If not Australia, probably NZ (closest in outlook and lifestyle to Australia and they need visas for even less countries than Australia).

8. Charcoal or gas?
Gas for convenience but charcoal if it’s a leisurely weekend kind of thing.

9. What’s your favorite thing about this fair country of ours?
N/A

10. God Bless the USA, My Country Tis of Thee, or the Star Spangled Banner?
N/A. Advance Australia Fair (the Australian national anthem) all the way. Yes, I like it more than I like Waltzing Matilda. I like “I still call Australia home” even more though (even though it is possibly more well known as part of a QANTAS advert).

The Aussie song has 5 verses, only two of which make up our national anthem (verses 1 and 3). We use to sing 1, 3 and sometimes 4 at school.

La Tour Eiffel

2011-07-01T20:59:00.000+01:00

Whilst I don’t think it truly dominates the Paris skyline, it certainly dominates their souvenir industry. It seemingly dominated my Paris pics as well.

Larissa and I found it ridiculously hard to get a self portrait in front of it at night although I find the many attempts amusing!

Ten on a Tuesday - 86

2011-06-28T11:30:00.000+01:00

Tuesday. See Chelsea's blog (Roots and Rings). Thanks Chelsea.

You know how I don't like to talk about work on here? Sometimes I wish I was more open about it - it's doing my head in at the moment. Or someone is. I take comfort knowing I work alongside and not for said head do-er-in-er and that he's got the same effect on others though. Comfort in it not being just me.

You know how I like chocolate? Totally happy to talk about how I take comfort in that on here. With friends, I stumbled upon the M&M world that has just opened in London. I remember the one in Times Square and this one is pretty much the same, save for a few London/UK references. My favourite part (the only part I like, actually) is the wall of m&ms for pick'n'mix. They don't yet have the special flavoured ones not widely available in the UK (I'm talking peanut butter, coconut, cherry or almond) but they assure me they are coming. Still, plain m&m's taste best when they are hot pink or teal coloured.

1. What’s the recipe for your favorite drink? (Smoothie, alchoholic, coffee, whatever.)
Affogato. 1 scoop good vanilla ice cream. 1 shot espresso (or a double). Put ice cream in a glass. Pour coffee over. Devour.

2. What kind of razor do you use?
Gillette Venus something or other. It's aqua-ish

3. Who is your favorite Sesame Street character?
None really. I was really scared of it when I was a little kid (dude, they live in garbage cans in a dark alley - not at all what I knew growing up). I did have a tickle me ernie when I was about 15 though. Go figure.

4. What makes the perfect salad? (Lettuce type, toppings, dressing, etc.)
Baby spinach. Balsamic. Sweet corn, crumbly cheese (goats, feta, something like that), steamed but still crunch brocoli, snow peas (mange tout), pumpkin seeds.

5. What was your favorite subject in school?

Geography - for it was endlessly interesting
Politics - for the debates (I think it should be a compulsory, not an elective as well as a lot of what I know about political systems etc come from that subject)
Accounting & Maths for the ease of it the and satisfaction of things being right (or wrong. But I appreciated the lack of grey area).

I was a nerd (still am) so liked most classes to be honest.

6. What’s your favorite summer tradition?
Beach.

7. Do you suffer from season allergies? How do you combat them?
Nope. Sometimes I think I'm allergic to Mondays but usually, I just have another coffee.

8. How often do you have to charge your cell phone?
Every day. I use the apps all the day and listen to music on it all day long at work.

9. Do you have a bucket list?
Not as such. There are a lot of things I want to do - before 30 (not long now…), in London (see that completely neglected page on my blog?), in life. Maybe if I put them out there a bit, friends would buy in? On that note - who wants to go to Windsor Castle or the London Transport Museum with me? Anyone?

10. Do you have any desire to go back to school?

Not at the moment. Once I return to Australia, there is a good chance I will depending on what industry I settle in but not for now. I often think if I won the lottery (the same lottery that I don't actually enter), I'd study again, something completely not vocational. Call me a nerd but I quite like the idea of studying Geography. Or photography - for the sake of a hobby only.

The best day of my life…thus far

2011-06-24T01:22:00.000+01:00

(written yesterday, 23 June but not posted)

23 June 2010

It’s one of those days that I think will stay with me as one of the best days of my life. Nothing earth shattering, no life long lessons or impacts, just a really fun day.

I was half way through a Greek Islands sailing trip with 7 friends. Our boat, suffering technical difficulties, was not able to leave the port on Paros so we were faced with another day there.

We hired quads & set off, 4 of the 8 of us, plus 3 new friends
Off to the ferry, bound for Antiparos
Where we went to explore the Antiparos Caves
Then down a dusty dirt track
To a secluded cove. Secluded but for the naked Scandinavian couple
A swim
On for a seafood lunch
To another beach
Oh, and let’s biscuit as well
Back to Paros, time for an ice cream
And and a cartwheel in the sun
Back to the boat in time for sunset
Off to a bar. Australia won (the only game they won during the world cup)
And a crazy night of dancing and uber strong long island ice teas.

So many many more pics from this day. Looking back at them though, even though none of them really do it justice, it’s like I can tell at the time it was a wonderful day. This makes me infinitely happy.

What’s the best day you’ve had (aside from the days of big life changes like weddings, births etc)

Isle of Wight Festival

2011-06-22T13:08:00.000+01:00

Or as one friend aptly named her album on fb - Isle of Awesome

It truly was an awesome weekend. A bunch of school friends. A bunch of work friends. A bunch of bands. A whole bunch of fun.

It was 4 nights camping (Thursday through Sunday nights) and thankfully mostly sunny. Muscial highlights included

Foo Fighters (the entire set, Grohl is a legend, Taylor Hawkins is a .... I like him, insert choice word here)
Joan Jett (I Love Rock'n'Roll)
Imelda May (all, I don't know her or her music so couldn't name songs)
Eliza Doolittle (pretty much all but skinny genes and pack up for sure)
Hurts (symphonic cover of confide in me)
Mike + The Mechanics (the Living Years)
Pulp (Disco 2000, Common People)
Seasick Steve (entire set - that guy is a festival legend)
Boy George (Karma Chameleon)
Kings of Leon (yes, Sex on Fire. They mostly suck live but when the audience creates the ambience, it's hard to beat)

A bunch of others (we saw many more bands but memories are blurred/mixed etc).

Other highlights inlcude the rides (some, some were nasty), the silent disco (so much fun), general silliness, glowsticks (be still my beautiful glowsticks - I took 200 along). Best left to pics:

I didn't take my usual camera with me (to high a chance of trashing it) so all of the above were taken on my digital harinezumi 2+++, which I love (even it with it's lowtech processing, or because of it).

So many many more fun moments were had. Thanks friends!!

Ten on a Tuesday - 85

2011-06-21T12:02:00.000+01:00

I'm home from Paris and I have to say it was pretty good. I'm still not in love with the place and don't think I' ever will be, but I can see how others are. I left my pics uploading at home when I came to work this morning so I hope to share them with you soon. There isn't anything there you won't have seen before, but hey ho, I'll post some anyway.

This Tuesday's questions come from Ashley D at That Super Awesome Blog via Chelsea over at Ring and Roots. Ashley's in the midst of a love story that happens in the movies. It's pretty super exciting for her. I guess that's why the questions are all about perfect this week. I'm pretty indecsive and, for the most part, pretty easily pleased, so I found it hard to answer them. I think you'll pick up on that though as you read the answers as I'm clearly rambling during some of them. Sorry about that.

1. What’s the perfect meal?

Food wise, I’m not so sure. Something I don’t think I’d be able to cook myself, certainly something I haven’t cooked myself. I think the ambience and company would be equally important.

2. What are the perfect pair of shoes?

My silver Birkenstocks (similar to the Madrid style but with cutouts – I can’t find the style name or a pic on the webs for the life of me) are pretty close right now. I can walk all day in them, and they’re cute. At least I think so.

3. What is the perfect afternoon?

A non working one, for starters. Maybe a lazy picnic or day at the beach? Or a wintery one in by a fire with a good ale or a nice red? Lots of things sound like a pretty perfect afternoon for me.

4. What’s the perfect house?

One that has my things in it, is pretty clean and smells like me and my stuff. I’m not sure what design style I’m drawn to really, or anything like that.

5. What is the perfect outfit?

Jeans, birkies/havianas & tee/tank/blouse. It means it’s warm (but not hot hot hot) and I’m probably doing something pretty low key.

6. What’s the perfect wedding song?

Haven’t really got one. I think it’s best to, I don’t know, meet the groom, before going down that path! (Seriously, I have friends who know are single and can tell me which song they want for their first dance). That said, if I get married and have a traditional reception, I’d quite like to dance to "More I Cannot Wish You" from Guys and Dolls with my Dad at some point. We’d both need to brush up on our dancing skills, but I love the song and it’s sentiments.

7. What is the perfect job?

Making coffees by the beach. Perfect in that I’d love it to be my job, and it combines two of my fav things. Not so perfect in that as much as I love the beach and love coffee, it’s rare for me to want a coffee at the beach so I’m not sure on the success of it as a business model. Maybe iced coffees by the beach?

8. What’s the perfect hairstyle?

Loose bun thing is my default but I like my hair best when it’s pretty straight, certainly frizz free (rare) and side angle parting. I’d show you a pic, but it’s a rare day for it to work as I plan so I don’t have one.

9. What’s the perfect music festival?

Meredith Music Festival probably. It’s small (capped at 10,000), has only one stage (so no clashes as to who to see) and is super laid back. You camp near your cars, you can bring couches etc.

10. What’s the perfect day to yourself?

Wake up, shower, make a coffee, back to bed to read the paper (it feels so indulgent to get back into bed after a shower, I love it), head out to see something I want to see (museum/gallery etc), have a coffee out stop at the Borough market for food. Cook said food, watch a movie, paint nails.

Paris Planning

2011-06-17T11:09:00.000+01:00

This weekend I'm heading to Paris. It's not a secret, but it's not really well known, or a popular thought either - I don't like Paris.

(Photo via Nep)

I went there a couple of times in 2002, the first time being my first experience as an independent in a non English speaking country. Maybe we were staying in a dodgy area but I found the men too full on (groping on the metro, the street, the constant chat etc) and I just never felt at ease. I wasn't travelling alone either - with a friend - but we were both wary. It was hard to reconcile the beauty of the Metro signs with the horrible reality of the Metro on that trip. We returned a month later and whilst we liked it a bit more, my overriding memory of Paris is of feeling very ill at ease and uncomfortable.

Fast forward 9+ years, and I'm finally returning tomorrow. And I'm really looking forward to it. I'm looking forward to falling in love with the place, like so many have done before me. I can't erase earlier memories but I want to override them completely.

I'm meeting some school friends there (they are on holidays and enjoying more flexibility so have headed there this morning whilst I get to work today) tomorrow morning, after an early bird Eurostar journey.

We're a mix of people - two have us have been before (multiple times) and two are freshies. And we've all got different things we want to see and do.

A picnic (cheese, champagne and baguettes) up near Sacre Coeur and the Catacombs top my list.
The Eiffel Tower and maybe the Louvre top someone else's (both great, but not really at the top of my list as I'm a little bit been there/done that)
Père Lachaise Cemetery tops someone else's (specifically, Jim Morrison's grave)
A day trip to Versaille has been mentioned as well

We all share the craving for cheese, baguettes, cheese, champagne, cheese and macaroons though so at least we have that in common.

If you were heading to Paris, what would you want to see or do?

Whilst I was missing - Scotland

2011-06-16T13:43:00.000+01:00

I was all pumped to share pics with you from the Isle of Wight music festival last weekend, but alas, I'm not so organised to have sorted and uploaded pics etc. And I really want to include pics for that post. Rest assured it was buckets of fun!

Two weekends prior to that (28 - 30 May) was a long weekend here in the UK. Taking advantage of that, my housemate Kate and I headed north, to Scotland, to attempt to climb Ben Nevis with her sister, brother-in-law and a few friends.

Ben Nevis is the highest point in the UK and the last of the Three Peaks I want to scale so I was pretty excited about it. Fresh from the Lake District and confident in my new boots, I was pretty hopeful.

Well, turns out Mother Nature had other ideas and hopeful alone was not enough. On what was one of the most feral days I can remember, we attempted and failed. We made good ground and got beyond half way before one of our group took ill, forceing us all to stop for a bit. Stopping on the side of a mountain with wind, rain and hail lashing you is cause to cool down. After being stopped for a while and it becoming apparent we couldn't all go on, we turned around, somewhat defeated.

So Ben Nevis remains a challenge for another time. The next day we read the news of a fellow walker (a fit, well equipped 22 year male) dying from hyperthermia that same day who didn't even get half way. It really was a feral day and had we had more time, we probably never would have attempted the climb in those conditions, waiting for a clearer day.

Our smiles hide just how cold we were. The snow that fell was a welcome relief from the hail that smashed our faces.

So whilst Ben Nevis (the main aim of our trip) beat us, the trip itself was still worthwhile. Scotland has a natural rugged beauty that I don't think I will ever tire of. I can't wait to one day go furthter north, and to the Orkneys. Mostly from the comfort of our car, we oohed and ahhed as we drove around the Argyll Coastal Route and the A82 (Britain's best road apparently).

In order:

Loch Lomond, from Duck Bay Marina

The Nevis Ranges, from Spean Bridge

Loch Ness, from Fort Augustus

Glencoe

Loch Tulla, from Achallader

Is Scotland on your to see list? have you been there? I love it and can't wait to return. Again. And again. And again.

Ten on a Tuesday 85

2011-06-14T12:57:00.000+01:00

I'm back from a great weekend away with friends at the Isle of Wight festival. I'll be doing a recap once I upload photos (lower down the priority list than cleaning my gear which is well and truly mud covered). One of the highlights for me was hanging out with my mates. One chunk of our group was my school friends, another chunk was my work friends. But really, they're all just really good mates and I really loved how easily they all get one.

Some random questions this week from Lisa via Chelsea, about perfect for my current brain power (must drink more water/eat more veggies).

1. How do you pronounce the word aunt? Does your pronunciation rhyme with ‘haunt’ or ‘can’t'?

Aunt, like can't. I can't imagine it like haunt.

2. Do most of the people in your life know you blog? Or are you partially or totally anonymous?
Some yes, some no. It's not a secret but I don't advertise it either.

3. When you grocery shop, do you prefer to bag your own groceries or do you like it when the store bags them for you? Paper, plastic, or reusable bags?
There's no choice but to bag your own in the UK.

4. Do you have a green thumb?
Nope, it's a black thumb. We have some communal basil in our flat but between the three of us, even that is on the way out.

5. If you watch the Food Network, which chef/show host is your favourite?
N/A

6. Do you like to take baths? Do you take them very often?
Love them but don't have a bath. I take them about once a year when I visit my parents farm.

7. What colour are the walls in your kitchen?
Greigey.

8. Do you prefer to dine outdoors or indoors?
Outdoors if the weather allows for it. Most lunches are eaten outside at the moment, dinners a little less so.

9. Describe your ideal weather.
London - around 25
Melbourne/beach/not sight seeing in a city - 30

10. If you could learn any foreign language, which would you choose to learn?
I think Spanish but I'd also like to know German and Italian as well. French might also be handy.

Play along if you will...

Ten on a Tuesday - 83

2011-06-07T12:31:00.000+01:00

Yesterday was one of those slow slow slow work days. Not really different to any other day in terms of my work load etc but I knew there was somewhere else I wanted to be. My friends Penny and James arrived from Australia yesterday and I just wanted to go and play with them.

Penny's one of my dearest friends from school, my good time girl who certainly knows how to have fun. In the months before moving to the UK, I'd see her three, four or more times a week so seeing her every nine to fifteen months over here, well, I miss her. James is her delightful firefighting, website coding boyfriend who I can't wait to hang out with and get to know a bit better. They're here for a few weeks of fun and hijinks.

Today is one of those good days. Yeah, I'm working and I'd rather not but Penny and James are here and playing in London town and I've seen them (over a yummy pub meal and some ale last night)

Todays is also made good (how's that for improper grammar) as it's a Tuesday with 10 easy to answer mobile phone related questions. Thanks Chelsea and Krys). It's all about mobiles. I'm most curious about your answers to Q3 - how many phones have you had?

1. What type of phone do you have? Do you like it?
Apple iPhone 3GS. As said before, I like it as a gadget, but not so much a phone.

2. How old were you when you got your first cell phone?
16years, 1 month (Christmas present)

3. How many cell phones have you owned since your first?
This is my 10th. 2 Siemens, 6 Nokia, 1 Motorola and 1 apple thus far.

4. How much is your average monthly phone bill?
£35. I’m on a £30 plan plus about £5 worth of international sms’ not included (although I’m not clued up on Viber, I might have a lower bill?)

5. When you were a kid/teenager, were you allowed to have a phone in your room?
No. We had a cordless phone and could chat in our rooms but as soon as we were off the line, it had to go back to it’s cradle.

6. Do you like talking on the phone or do you despise it? Or somewhere in-between?
Somewhere in between. I can chat to family and friends for hours but hate calling service providers etc etc.

7. Do you text a lot? Is texting/talking while driving illegal where you live? Are you guilty of it anyway?
Not as much as I used to, no.

8. What sort of texting keyboard does your phone have? Touch screen, slide out, or something different? Do you care?
Touch. It is what it is.

9. Look at the last call in your call log – who is it? What were they calling about? Who calls you the most?
Daniel. I think he was calling because his flight was cancelled so might have been wondering if we were still at the pub (we were) and it worth him joining us. But as I didn’t answer it or see the missed call, it might have been about something else entirely.

10. What is the longest phone call you can recall having?
Can’t remember specifically but more than an hour.

Penny & moi. Melbourne, 2010. Byron Bay, 2008.

I've just gone through my pics on Flickr and there are no normal happy smiley (& sober) ones of the two of us. Maybe this trip, we'll get some.

iConnect for coffee

2011-06-06T17:27:00.000+01:00

iConnect is the instant messenger we have at work. It's a great tool, for both work and play. I use it send links and directories to team members (very much work related) and to touch base with colleagues (non team members, not so much work related). It's funny though, as my really, the majority of the time I use it to talk about food. An example from the first half of today:

Conversation 1 (guy from my wider department but doesn’t always sit on the same floor, my old boss)
10:04 Colleague 1: coffee?
10:04 sue: yep, let's go now
10:04 sue: I've got a 10.30meeting, need to post something and have the taste of an absinthe flavoured hard boiled lolly in my mouth
10:04 Colleague 1: alrightie
10:04 Colleague 1: gross
10:05 Colleague 1: why did you do that?
10:05 Sue: NFI. But coffee needed stat. Foyer.
10:05 Colleague 1: yep, let's go now
10:05 sue: AUTO RESPONSE: I AM AWAY FROM MY COMPUTER RIGHT NOW
11:00 sue: 2 coffees & 6 mints later and I can still taste that feral lolly.
11:00 sue: I’ll give you one when you’re next on L8
11:01 Colleague 1: Ta, I’m good.
11:50 Sue: bit early for food but when the time comes, I'm in a tortilla mood. I think it’s the weather. want anything?
11:51 Colleague 1: yeah I could burrito.
11:51 Colleague 1: 12:30?
11:51 Sue: You can always burrito. I think that’s why we’re friends.
11:51 Sue: sounds good

Conversation 2 (guy on the same floor different department but we both use to be in the same team)
10:05 sue: going now for coffee. Meeting C1 in foyer.
10:05 colleague 2: K. swinging past.
10:22 colleague 2: Sht coffee this morning. Too foamy.
10:28 sue: dude, cap = foamy.
10:28 colleague 2: I like my foam at parties. You been to one?
10:28 sue: Nope. Not about to either. Instead, I’m about to head for another coffee with {boss}. Catchya
10:29: colleague 2: have fun
10:29 sue: AUTO RESPONSE: I AM AWAY FROM MY COMPUTER RIGHT NOW
10:29 colleague 2: you really should change that to AUTO RESPONSE: I AM AWAY FROM MY COMPUTER RIGHT NOW GETTING COFFEE.
11:00 sue: might just do that. Not my fault my bosses all live for coffee.
12:31 colleague 2: not going to gym now - a bit late..... lunch? Tortilla?
12:33 sue.wells: come past
12:34 sue.wells: we're about to head off

Colleague 3 (girl in my old team, she remains there)
10:24 Colleague 3: coffee?
10:28 Sue: already been. Sorry dude.
10:28 colleague 3: you suck. This afternoon?
10:28 Sue: Sure thing
10:29:colleague 3: going now. Was it wet out there? Need a brollie?
10:29 sue: AUTO RESPONSE: I AM AWAY FROM MY COMPUTER RIGHT NOW
10:29 colleague 3: :-(Where’d you go?
10:44 colleauge 3: so wet outside. I’m saturated.
11:00 Sue: sorry, had a meeting. W more coffee.

Convo 4 with Boss
10:28 Boss: Ready?
10.28 sue: yep. Which room are we in?
10:28 Boss: no meeting rooms available. Let’s get a coffee on L9?
10:28 sue: k

So what can you gather from that?

My name is Sue and I’m a coffee-a-holic
Also, my name is Sue and I will never ever ever be an absinthe-flavoured-boiled-sweet-aholic
(oh, and burritos, always and forever)
(oh2, and I did go get an afternoon coffee - it's a recently begun bad habit that I hope to break some time soon).

Weekends gone by

2011-06-06T13:39:00.000+01:00

I’m no longer going to apologies for the blogging absences. They happen and will continue to happen, especially whislt I'm spending more and more weekends away. This weekend I was home, but didn't turn my laptop on until 00:06am Monday. That's when I'm writing this post so any errors...chalk it up up to that.

The next few posts are going to be recaps, mainly for my records.

Three weekends ago (14/15th May) I headed to the Sussex coast to walk part of the South Downs Way. Armed with a picnic, clear day and plenty of time, we did a 14mile walk along the coast,traversing the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head.

Setting off, early early days

Cliffs pretty much the entire way

Not that we tired of the views.

Being near the sea is something we both took for granted growing up in Australia

We stopped for a rest here and there as well. That's Beachy Head ahead.

Whilst it was a fantastic walk, I think we were both delighted when we rounded the bend and could see Eastbourne, the finishing point (or at least, where we’d get the train back to London from).

The walk was just on 14 miles and whilst not challenging, we could tell we'd done something. The wind that day was like nothing else I’d felt up until that point. So strong at times we couldn’t even walk into it (we tried for fun, as thankfully we had a tail or cross wind most of the way, never a head wind).

It was a last minute walk, one that we organised to do on on the Sunday late Saturday night but one I’m glad I did. Something so freeing about spending the day by the sea. For those in London, it's only an hour & half to get to the start or finish so well worth it.

Have you been enjoying the outdoors lately?

Ten on a Tuesday - 82

2011-05-31T12:18:00.000+01:00

Summer questions this weekend. Ironic really. We've just had a long weekend here in the UK and in theory, Summer starts tomorrow. That said, I got snowed on Sunday in Scotland and am somehow still trying to warm up from a ridiculously cold day up there. These questions though, they warm me up somewhat. Thanks Chelsea and thanks Akirah.

1. From your childhood, what do you miss most about summer vacation?
Time off and time at the beach with cousins (camping on the NSW coast, nippers at Sandy point etc)

2. Are you going anywhere on vacation this summer?
The only "summer" holiday to the beach currently booked is to is to Cinque Terra in Italy but I've got a music festival and a trip to Paris booked in, and a few other trips in the pipeline.

3. What foods do you like to barbecue?
Pineapple rings and corn on the cob. My Dad's allergic to pineapple so I always feel rebellious having (we couldn't have it as kids at home)

4. How do you celebrate the fourth of July?
Same as the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th etc. I don't. I know the question doesn't ask it but I would guess the Australian equivalent is Australia day (26th Jan) and we celebrate that with an all day BBQ and listening to a national radio countdown, the Triple J Hottest 100.

5. What’s your favourite beverage to drink in the summertime?
For the last few years it has been cider but I'm a bit off it at them moment. A cold beer is always good, as is pimms, or icy coola cordial.

6. What movie are you looking forward to seeing this summer?
I'm not really sure what is coming. I guess the final Harry Potter.

7. In the car: windows down or AC?
Either -depends when, where and how hot. I love the windows down on an open road but appreciate the cooling abilities of AC.

8. Have you ever had a summer fling?
Yes. There's a funny story to it as well but not for sharing right now. Oh, and the one I'm thinking of, I was 14 so it was only as serious as that sounds (so think stolen kisses, hand holding etc).

9. Do you wear sunscreen?
Yes. Everyday. More so in summer and certainly more so on holidays. I'm a fair skinned red head.

10. Do you have any favorite summertime activities?
Anything involving beach/water (but not actually sunbaking). I love late chilled BBQs that stretch into the long days (to make the most of them, given the short winter ones!)

Maze

2011-05-27T23:22:00.000+01:00

Maze is one of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants here in London. Per the Maze website, it’s

“… breaks formal traditions by serving French cuisine with Asian influences in tasting sized dishes allowing diners to sample a wide variety of flavours and textures”

So after seeing a deal for a four course tasting menu on a local travel site, I (together with three friends) went last night and had a really good time.

I’m by no means a foodie and whilst I often eat out, it is rarely (read never) anywhere of note but I really enjoyed it. The service was excellent, I had one of the tastiest martini’s I’ve ever had (a raspberry passion fruit one) and really enjoyed the food.

Some of the combinations are more adventurous than what I’m use to, but not so far fetched that they didn’t appeal. Whilst my mates went for meatier options, I had:

Marinated beetroot, Dorstone organic goat’s curd, pine nuts, Cabernet Sauvignon dressing
Loch Duart salmon, fondue of leek, vinaigrette of brown shrimps, horseradish
English pea and white asparagus risotto, aged parmesan and pea shoots
Rhubarb soup, ginger pannacotta, coriander

All of it in small serves, immaculately presented and delicious. I think it was the dessert I was most aprehensive about but I really (really really really) liked it.

A thoroughly good night out, but because of the combination of food, service and company. All of us enjoyed it and appreciated it for a what it was – a treat.

Have you eaten anywhere special lately or somewhere you are eyeing up? I’d love to eat at Dinner by Heston. That’s next, just as soon as I can get a booking.

(Like a bad blogger but a good dinner guest, I didn’t take any photos).

My inbox, priorities and procrastination

2011-05-26T12:18:00.000+01:00

My work inbox has zero unread emails, 2 unactioned emails and a total of 5 emails. I'm on top of it. I have a lot to do at work but at pretty much all times, I know what I've got (or, what I've been asked over email at least, I'll always get things sprung on me last minute - it's the nature of the beast).

My own inbox has zero unread emails, 42 unactioned emails and a total of 58 emails. I'm so NOT on top of it. I read emails on my phone but hate replying on it. I spend up to 10-12 hours in front of a computer at work each day so I turn my laptop on about once in a blue moon (hence scarcity of posts- I need to schedule some, hey, when I do actually turn the beast on).

How do you stay on top of things?

(oh, and let's talk about the things that are stagnating on my to do list - I haven't posted some cards I've had for MONTHS because I don't like going to the post office, I want to order some glowsticks online (for a musical festival) etc). I'm not sure what I do with my down time but it is not productive.

So - do you have a to do list? Does it help? How do you keep it? (ie. Electronic/written). Do you follow it? And do you reply to emails when you get them?

Help me, I need it.

(I'm currently using the iphone app TeuxDeux and I whilst it's helping me keep track of what I need/want to do, I'm still not actually doing it).

(I'm so bad at responding emails that a friend, a really good friend, wondered and asked if she'd upset me because I took so long to reply).

That time of the year

2011-05-25T12:02:00.000+01:00

Time for togs

Shopping for togs (bathers, swimmers, swimsuits etc) is one of my least favourite activities. I find it so so hard, I end up with something that is semi-half ok but I don’t really like or feel confident it.

A lot of it (all of it?) has to do with my body. I’m a big girl. I have boobs that are happiest in underwire and a belly best covered. When I wear togs, I wear them all day. So I want a tankini. That supports my bust.
The strange thing when shopping for tankinis is that the vast majority of the ones I see offer little to know support. Underwire bikinis are easy to come by but not something a little longer.

After exhausting my options in the stores I’d been to and realising that I needed to get a move on (I don’t need it for a few weeks but I’m short on shopping time), I took the search online.

A few weeks ago I ordered this one from Very:

It doesn’t look over supportive but for only £12, you can’t go to wrong, right? I ordered it in to sizes (it has bra sizing) but their delivery never reached me. They can’t explain why, and have refunded the cost (but not the postage which I’ve taken up with them). They suggested I reorder it. Well, based on the one experience I’ve had with them, I’m in no such rush.

Today I ordered this one, again in two sizes:

This one from Fig Leaves (Fantasie brand) has underwire as well and looks a little more supportive. I know I’m being all old before my time and wanting to cover up etc but I just want to be as comfortable as I can (which in turn means not exposed etc). I love that it has straps and not a halter neck also – I’ve never really been a fan of them on me.

These ones were a little pricier (£34) but if I like it, it will last more than just this year.

Last year’s ones were never quite right and I gave out more than my fair share of nipple flashes, so they really just do need replacing.

What do you wear for swimming? Bikinis? All in one? Tankini? And how often/how many do you have?

Working 9-5

2011-05-18T07:50:00.000+01:00

Do you like Dolly? I've been listening to her greatest hits album this week a bit. Can we still be friends? I hope so. (I hope so because either (a) you like her too or (b) you don't like her but don't mind that I do. I'm not really interested in other points of view so much.

So I started the new role a fortnight ago.

So far? It's good. It's a real steep learning curve but at the same time, it's pretty quiet and reasonably straight forward so far. The more I learn and do, the more I will need to learn and do. I think it's a good move for me though - more co-ordination and project work, more in depth analysis of figures, more exposure to more types of exposure. It's a real jack of all trades role, rather than a master of one. This will be good come the day I head home to Australia (we don't have the same depth in financial services so there are far fewer risk roles and they're far less specialised).

It's fun getting to know the new team but without some of the awkwardness that comes with being the new person. I mean, I am the new person, but I still have coffee and lunch each day with the same guys I did before (we're not in the same team anyhow) and my afternoon tea options are endless. So I'd call it a win.

And a little work related comic for you...based on my experience with the IT guys over the last few weeks, I'd say there was some truth to it...

My weekend–Lake District

2011-05-16T21:31:00.000+01:00

Doing this

Walking and then rock climbing (learning to at least) in the Lake District.

Scaffell Pike is the highest peak in England and been on my must do list for a little while now. Weather could have been better (wind and rain for 6 of the 7 hours) but it was worth it.

The walk took us 7 hours, had plenty of scrambling and climbing as well as some gentle parts. I really found my stride coming down and ran parts of it*.

Now…well I’m sore all over and chock full of cold. I’d do it all again though.

How was your weekend?

*Jogged. Jogged really, when the downwards momentum over slippery boulders was to hard to fight. Good fun though. Grateful to be wearing my new boots – no blister, no rolled ankles, no missing toe nails (and all those good things that come with descents). The Meindl Burma Pro are my new best friends

Mothers Day

2011-05-09T00:03:00.000+01:00

Happy Mothers day Mum. Wherever you are. I love you.

Mum on her wedding day, 1974.

Mothers day is a bittersweet day for me. Bitter because it’s nearly twenty years since she passed away and so much as happened since that I wish she was able to be a part of.

Sweet because of the number of people that have stepped into that void over the years – my dad, my aunties, my friends’ mums, my mum’s friends and Lynne, my stepmum. People who I have extraordinary relationships with and who I am forever thankful for.

(Ironically, I was hanging out with Aunty Gabs today, the brunette bridesmaid, and wife of mum's brother, my uncle)

Simon's Sista Saw

My Weekend Walk {Pictures}

A song - Against the Grain

Loves and loathes

Happy Australia Day

Bedtime

High Times at High Tea

This girl is here

Floating away

Pieces of Me - January 2012

Blue

Goodbye Hammond Road

Books books books

Film: An Education

Happy birthday little brother

Ten on a Tuesday - 112

The scenic route

My 2012

Happy New Year

For you

Ten on a Tuesday - 109

On Being 30

Ten on a Tuesday 108

Today

6. Bake macarons

Weekend Fog

I got my Kindle!

24. A Yum Cha lunch

28. Walk a (new to me) section of the Thames Path

Guy Fawkes Fireworks

Friday Fancies

30. Go to a Comedy Show

The Hunger Games

Ten on a Tuesday - 106

23. See a band

30 before 30–an update

Harlot Hands

Lest We Forget

11-11-11 - One Day on Earth

Wordless Wednesday - Iceland

Ten on a Tuesday - 105

Farewelling friends & Wonderful Weekend

I’m moving to Las Vegas for 25 months

Guy Fawkes Day

Look what my phone can do (but don't ask me why it needs to)

The cheap seats this November

Daylight Savings

Tallinn

Cupcake Class

Wordless Wales

Autumn Days

Ten on a Tuesday - 102

Smiling today

The real picture

Majorca Magic

Ten on a Tuesday - 101

Budapest Birthday Bash –Sziget Festival

Holiday happenings

Ten on a Tuesday 100

The background to my list–pt 3

The background to my list–pt 2

Listening to

The background to my list–pt 1

Dolly!

Ten on a Tuesday - 97

Weekends are lovely

29 before 30

Ten on a Tuesday (96)

Reading time

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

The Slap

The Help

Looking Forward, Looking Back

A weekend enjoyed. Mostly

My life

Ten on Tuesday - 92

Bullet points are beyond me

Ten on a Tuesday - 90

Chamonix

Lists