This last week gone has been something a wash for me. Have you ever seen the movie 'My blue heaven' (Steve Martin and Rik Moranis). For my money the moral there is we all need a friend who can help us relax and loosen up some and possibly get us into trouble. You know the lovable trouble maker.
Well my own personal Mephistopheles rode into town last week, I love him like a brother - but he has got me to do more wild arse shit than I care to recount out here in the court of public opinion. So we hook up on a Monday night for dinner and a couple of beers.
Then a game or two of pool.
Then it was $10 of coins into the jukebox for a Motely Crue medley and I was so drunk I had to leave my truck in town and walk an hour and half home which I reached by 2am.
Needless to say I was not firing on all cylinders come Tuesday, thank goodness I had a late meeting near my apartment the next day.
So it got me thinking about growing up and having fun. My thoughts coalesced Tuesday night and I concluded I was a total pussy for being an old stick in the mud and taking so long to recover from a night out on the town.
So I picked up the phone and took another buddy of mine up on an offer to join a bike wine tasting tour this weekend just gone.
Helped there were 4 single nurses coming up from Melbourne.
I tell you what Bubba it was some good fun. The location for the tour was a little country town in Victoria called Beechworth, that had as a claim to fame among other things a cell that once held Ned Kelly!
He had gone by the time we arrived, I checked.
Everybody hooked up a local pub that had a tiny pool table in a confined space. I was hurting some from the acupuncture the day before (all to be revealed in a seperate blog) so I was barely drinking anything but lemonade to the complete disgust of my cohorts. On the plus side I was coherent enough to talk to 4 cute nurses, so swings and round abouts.
If you've heard of the Hash House Harriers, you may know that they also do Bike Hash's and this is what the events for the weekend were. Things kicked off around 10am on the Saturday we only rode about 20 km's all up, but we did visit 3 vineyards and 2 breweries.
The day was fantastic, great weather, great company and the ride was very pleasant and broken into easy stages. The ride was graded to allow people to take a hard route should they wish or go easy and enjoy the sights of Beechworth.
Things that stand out in my mind was the Bocce tournament we spontaenously organised during the lunch break. Me and some buddies kicked things off and by the end we had 20 people playing along with us! Everyone was very friendly and welcoming and I think that makes such a positive difference to an outing.
Even though the theme of day was to drink and ride, I piked after the last stop and had a cup of tea with 4 fantastic nurses. I have to tell one thing I find really sexy in a lady is her ability to hold up her end of a conversation. Must be a Gemini thing, but there a lot of girls in Canberra who have trouble with that particular social skill.
I suggest someone with good conversation skills also has a positive social personality, just a thought...
Later that night was footy on the telly, great wine, then off to another pub for disco dancing, getting my arse kicked on a pool table by a couple of good old boys who KNEW there was a lean on the table :)
I had a great time and wasn't too drunk to walk back my hotel and get a good nights sleep.
Sunday morning was a slow recovery day, no hurry to go anywhere. We all reconnected and had brunch on the balcony of a pub Ned Kelly and the Kelly gang once had a brawl in. They must have been sleeping by the time we got there.
So I guess by know your wondering - how did it go with the nurses? Well I don't like to kiss and tell, but I think I have a crush on one very special person in particular.
Lets see where things go! It should be a lot fun finding out!!
To Know Me Is To Love Me...
- BubbaJay
- Suave raconteur and dinner party favourite. Once held the Olympic torch, has delivered newspapers to prime ministers, shaken hands with Prince Charles, wrecked Jason Donovan's skateboard, climbed 300 metre granite cliff faces, surfed with dolphins, appears on community radio and is in demand for these and the accounts of other thrilling exploits!
Monday, September 24, 2007
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Looks familiar
Sometimes it is fun to get another persons perspective on a city.
I know I have fun writing about it. So do the good chaps at The Economist!
Click here for Wellington
Couldn't get the link for Canberra to work...
I know I have fun writing about it. So do the good chaps at The Economist!
Click here for Wellington
Couldn't get the link for Canberra to work...
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Yoga
I've been giving the Yoga classes at my gym a go, and I have to tell you they are awesome!!
Originally I figured, why not. Never done yoga before, could be fun, lets see what happens.
Weel I have to tell you, its pretty hard core.
As our instructor says at the start of the class, 'This is not relaxation yoga, you are going to hurt.'
I appreciate his openess. That said though, its only been my abs that have been hurting. The kind of yoga we're doing focuses on the abs and lower back muscles as the core group (which is great because those are the ones my chair bound day job mess up the most easily).
Definately getting flexible though (could come in handy later...) can scratch between my shoulder blades with little or no effort now!
So if you have the chance to try yoga, my advice is give it a go!
Originally I figured, why not. Never done yoga before, could be fun, lets see what happens.
Weel I have to tell you, its pretty hard core.
As our instructor says at the start of the class, 'This is not relaxation yoga, you are going to hurt.'
I appreciate his openess. That said though, its only been my abs that have been hurting. The kind of yoga we're doing focuses on the abs and lower back muscles as the core group (which is great because those are the ones my chair bound day job mess up the most easily).
Definately getting flexible though (could come in handy later...) can scratch between my shoulder blades with little or no effort now!
So if you have the chance to try yoga, my advice is give it a go!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Too much coffee
Its easy to get distracted, especially by dumb ideas that have nothing to do with what you are currently being paid for.
That said, this just popped into my head - an idea for a new kids cartoon;
"Toby and Elias"
I'm thinking an educational program, exploring issues and themes such as nature versus nuture, the role of religion in a secular society (with a nod toward church vs state seperation), individuality and the common good, reason and passion - how do they work toward the same goals? Consumerism as well as the collective model.
First episode; "No Mercy for Percy"
Synopsis: Involves Toby and Elias with a giant Go-Go dancing robot (called Greg) who has a fiscal management problem and can't get a loan through a regular bank.
Special Guest Star; Jay Laguia as Greg, Hanibal Lector as 'The Lone Shark'
What do you think? 5 - 8 year olds?
That said, this just popped into my head - an idea for a new kids cartoon;
"Toby and Elias"
I'm thinking an educational program, exploring issues and themes such as nature versus nuture, the role of religion in a secular society (with a nod toward church vs state seperation), individuality and the common good, reason and passion - how do they work toward the same goals? Consumerism as well as the collective model.
First episode; "No Mercy for Percy"
Synopsis: Involves Toby and Elias with a giant Go-Go dancing robot (called Greg) who has a fiscal management problem and can't get a loan through a regular bank.
Special Guest Star; Jay Laguia as Greg, Hanibal Lector as 'The Lone Shark'
What do you think? 5 - 8 year olds?
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Last night I dreamed I saw...
Canberra is an interesting town.
Like yesterday for example, I'm driving past a car yard and next door is a V2 Rocket getting cleaned up for the War Museum.
This week I've been off with the flu, its been a arse kicker to tell you the truth. Being in my new apartment with zero energy, a fucked up head and an insane passion for salt and potatoes (wtf?).
Actually it was a great excuse to get a lot of house work done. Unfortunately my boss was down on the Wednesday, so I had to drag my sorry arse into the office.
At least I managed to infect other people!!
Like yesterday for example, I'm driving past a car yard and next door is a V2 Rocket getting cleaned up for the War Museum.
This week I've been off with the flu, its been a arse kicker to tell you the truth. Being in my new apartment with zero energy, a fucked up head and an insane passion for salt and potatoes (wtf?).
Actually it was a great excuse to get a lot of house work done. Unfortunately my boss was down on the Wednesday, so I had to drag my sorry arse into the office.
At least I managed to infect other people!!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
At what point...
Did you know next month is the 50th anniversary of 'On the Road'?
You need not necessarily care about the book, its plot or characters - there are enough of us for that. But it is a book that has had a lasting impact. It captured a zeitgeist at the perfect moment, it created the Beat Movement.
As Kerouac's publisher said; the night before 'On the Road' was published, Kerouac went to sleep for the last time as a nobody.
But what does it mean? Did it change anything? Does it still change people? Or has this book, like others (Hemingway, Joyce, Miller et al) become a tedious right of passage for the next generation of angry young men. (where are they all these days?)
I hope not, last night I picked up 'Tender is the Night' and began reading it again. I haven't tried to read 'On the Road' for many years (my preference is for 'The Vanity of Duloz') it is a difficult book to read. There is no coherent plot to speak of, don't bother trying the Wikipedia approach, it doesn't map out well and I suggest its an anathema to the spirit of the novel the try and apply a plot arc.
Perhaps it is a feeling you get from the book. The idea of living for sake of living. I'm typing this from my desk at work and the sensation of a lost summer is strong. But I digress, from a literary perspective 'On the Road' is an okay book. From a cultural perspective, its a milestone.
From my perspective, I believe I've lost touch with people in that book. I say this as nothing bad or good, I've become indifferent to the spirit it once evoked.
On the other hand, 'Tender is the Night' is right up my current alley.
You need not necessarily care about the book, its plot or characters - there are enough of us for that. But it is a book that has had a lasting impact. It captured a zeitgeist at the perfect moment, it created the Beat Movement.
As Kerouac's publisher said; the night before 'On the Road' was published, Kerouac went to sleep for the last time as a nobody.
But what does it mean? Did it change anything? Does it still change people? Or has this book, like others (Hemingway, Joyce, Miller et al) become a tedious right of passage for the next generation of angry young men. (where are they all these days?)
I hope not, last night I picked up 'Tender is the Night' and began reading it again. I haven't tried to read 'On the Road' for many years (my preference is for 'The Vanity of Duloz') it is a difficult book to read. There is no coherent plot to speak of, don't bother trying the Wikipedia approach, it doesn't map out well and I suggest its an anathema to the spirit of the novel the try and apply a plot arc.
Perhaps it is a feeling you get from the book. The idea of living for sake of living. I'm typing this from my desk at work and the sensation of a lost summer is strong. But I digress, from a literary perspective 'On the Road' is an okay book. From a cultural perspective, its a milestone.
From my perspective, I believe I've lost touch with people in that book. I say this as nothing bad or good, I've become indifferent to the spirit it once evoked.
On the other hand, 'Tender is the Night' is right up my current alley.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Summer Wind
In my ongoing series of good music I now present Mr Frank Sinatra and his version of 'Summer Wind'.
What you should be listening out for is the phrasing, tone and pitch. This is Frank at the top of his game. The voice the strength and the emotion (somewhere between frustration and time to move on). This version, in my book, is the definitive one [though having said that, I'd like to hear the Tony Bennett cover]. Watch, listen and enjoy...
What you should be listening out for is the phrasing, tone and pitch. This is Frank at the top of his game. The voice the strength and the emotion (somewhere between frustration and time to move on). This version, in my book, is the definitive one [though having said that, I'd like to hear the Tony Bennett cover]. Watch, listen and enjoy...
Monday, July 30, 2007
Late Night Boogie
So I'm here at the radio station doing the late show (8pm - 10pm). This might not seem late to some, but it is late to me. And I'm reflecting on the possibility that no one is listening...
But its always on occasions like these that you mess up and some 'offended' dude rings in the next day.
So let me tell you about the context of this show - its genre's are Jazz, Blues, Soul, Funk, Groove.
It is a pleasure to be able to play music from these classificatios and I always love to push the envelope!!
So far tonite I've spun; Money Mark, Mississippi John Hurt, Jeff Buckley, Sam and Dave, Brassey, Morphene and more. I've got this regular listener, he's another Kiwi from the Canberra area, who always rings to say hi and wish me a good show (so I guess thats at least one!).
As for pushing the envelope, I like to lead people up the garden path - Massive Attack leads to Jeff Buckley leads to Joy Division leads to The Cruel Sea.
As you can see (or hear) The Cruel Sea is more of your rock based blues than blues itself. I would argue that its being played in context of the other tracks - a theme has developed and needs to be explored.
Perhaps I'll finish on 'Hot for Teacher' , but only if its in context :)
But its always on occasions like these that you mess up and some 'offended' dude rings in the next day.
So let me tell you about the context of this show - its genre's are Jazz, Blues, Soul, Funk, Groove.
It is a pleasure to be able to play music from these classificatios and I always love to push the envelope!!
So far tonite I've spun; Money Mark, Mississippi John Hurt, Jeff Buckley, Sam and Dave, Brassey, Morphene and more. I've got this regular listener, he's another Kiwi from the Canberra area, who always rings to say hi and wish me a good show (so I guess thats at least one!).
As for pushing the envelope, I like to lead people up the garden path - Massive Attack leads to Jeff Buckley leads to Joy Division leads to The Cruel Sea.
As you can see (or hear) The Cruel Sea is more of your rock based blues than blues itself. I would argue that its being played in context of the other tracks - a theme has developed and needs to be explored.
Perhaps I'll finish on 'Hot for Teacher' , but only if its in context :)
Monday, July 23, 2007
Looking after My Da
Well its day one up here at the Blue Mountains and the first thing I can say is that it is warmer than Canberra.
Actually funny story from yesterday, I got a speeding ticket - for going 135kph along the highway. Thats my fault, I wasn't watching the speedo and had my head in the clouds. But the funny thing, I got busted doing 135kph going uphill.
And that is something I would never have credited my '79 F-100 to do.
When I do get around to selling her, that speeding ticket is going on the add!!
So day 1, well Ma and Da have got new carpet put down and all the furniture has been moved around. My first job (Dad's had breakfast, he's now having a shower) is to vacum up the off cuts from the carpet and return all the furniture to its original position.
After that I'll take Dad into the hospital for some physio, then lunch then Magnum PI!!
All full dance card!
Actually funny story from yesterday, I got a speeding ticket - for going 135kph along the highway. Thats my fault, I wasn't watching the speedo and had my head in the clouds. But the funny thing, I got busted doing 135kph going uphill.
And that is something I would never have credited my '79 F-100 to do.
When I do get around to selling her, that speeding ticket is going on the add!!
So day 1, well Ma and Da have got new carpet put down and all the furniture has been moved around. My first job (Dad's had breakfast, he's now having a shower) is to vacum up the off cuts from the carpet and return all the furniture to its original position.
After that I'll take Dad into the hospital for some physio, then lunch then Magnum PI!!
All full dance card!
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Some people have too much time on their hands
So tonite I'm recording a series of shorts (that I do each week) for the radio station called - Arts Diary. Part of this awesome responsibility is research, write, record, edit and publish 3 2 minute sound files that get played several times a day.
I love doing it. But I have noticed a pattern. Artists, by which I mean visual artists are terrible at writing copy. If the oft used maxim of "picture = a thousand word" applies these guys write the way they paint. All I need to know is 'why should we care?' and 'where can we see it?'.
What I get instead is pages et pages of crap about their life mission and places they've visited where the didn't have a job either.
How do these guys stay in business?
The bong budget alone has gotta run into the thousands?!?
And you would think these bums would include a picture or two...
I love doing it. But I have noticed a pattern. Artists, by which I mean visual artists are terrible at writing copy. If the oft used maxim of "picture = a thousand word" applies these guys write the way they paint. All I need to know is 'why should we care?' and 'where can we see it?'.
What I get instead is pages et pages of crap about their life mission and places they've visited where the didn't have a job either.
How do these guys stay in business?
The bong budget alone has gotta run into the thousands?!?
And you would think these bums would include a picture or two...
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
A while between blogs
Boy it has been a spell!
Quite a lot has happened, not all of which I'll post here. But suffice to say I've been busy with work and some lifestyle changes.
But mostly I've been freezing my arse off here. And tomorrow the forecast is for more snow.
Well next week I'll be up in the Blue Mountains looking after my Dad. He's had a knee operation so I figure I can return the looking after he's done for me. Dr Bubba's recipe for recovery - beer, nachos and Magnum PI.
Should be fun AND educational!!
Quite a lot has happened, not all of which I'll post here. But suffice to say I've been busy with work and some lifestyle changes.
But mostly I've been freezing my arse off here. And tomorrow the forecast is for more snow.
Well next week I'll be up in the Blue Mountains looking after my Dad. He's had a knee operation so I figure I can return the looking after he's done for me. Dr Bubba's recipe for recovery - beer, nachos and Magnum PI.
Should be fun AND educational!!
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Someone has to do it
Every now and again I get a phone call from a nice person who enquires after my welfare and asks if I'm happy working where I am.
One should always be courteous to headhunters, you never know when you might need one. However these poor buggers often have to fill roles for some really dud companies, I'm talking utterly charmless products or gormless services with a real small user community. Words like niche, select and professional creep in to cover was is essentially the worlds smallest 'me too' market space.
So it got me thinking about products and services that someone has to sell. Products for whom complex SWOT analysis have been conducted - so as to 'crush' the competition...
Toilet Paper - Based on the number of brands out there and the advertising dollars committed this strikes me as a fairly cut throat environment. Makes me wonder what the IR&D budget is... On the other hand we all use the stuff, so the market is universal. So whats your pitch? what is your products differentiator?
Scissors - Its a one trick pony. How do you value add to the scissor experience? Can you brand people as company X hard supporter's? Would you buy a pair of scissors with a laser point for a straighter cut?
(this is harder than I thought... okay here's one that is too esoteric for us mundanes;)
Embalming Fluid - How would like to be the territory rep for embalming fluids? You know they spend millions on improving the product, there's probably a catalogue produced each year. Get three of these guys sitting around the bar swapping 'war stories' about the time the customer wanted the XJ-57n but insisted it was the YG-47m, like Hello! If he wasn't the customer... etc
I try and take a moment each day to thank God for how lucky I am to have my job.
One should always be courteous to headhunters, you never know when you might need one. However these poor buggers often have to fill roles for some really dud companies, I'm talking utterly charmless products or gormless services with a real small user community. Words like niche, select and professional creep in to cover was is essentially the worlds smallest 'me too' market space.
So it got me thinking about products and services that someone has to sell. Products for whom complex SWOT analysis have been conducted - so as to 'crush' the competition...
Toilet Paper - Based on the number of brands out there and the advertising dollars committed this strikes me as a fairly cut throat environment. Makes me wonder what the IR&D budget is... On the other hand we all use the stuff, so the market is universal. So whats your pitch? what is your products differentiator?
Scissors - Its a one trick pony. How do you value add to the scissor experience? Can you brand people as company X hard supporter's? Would you buy a pair of scissors with a laser point for a straighter cut?
(this is harder than I thought... okay here's one that is too esoteric for us mundanes;)
Embalming Fluid - How would like to be the territory rep for embalming fluids? You know they spend millions on improving the product, there's probably a catalogue produced each year. Get three of these guys sitting around the bar swapping 'war stories' about the time the customer wanted the XJ-57n but insisted it was the YG-47m, like Hello! If he wasn't the customer... etc
I try and take a moment each day to thank God for how lucky I am to have my job.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Mind Worm
Y'know when you get a song stuck in your head... for some reason it just pops in there and is impossible to dislodge. Well it happened to me the other week, Boston's 'More than feeling' - a song about everything and nothing (mostly nothing) all at the same time.
Actually what got stuck in particular was the harmony part were the lead singer hits that rising note that melds with the wailing guitar (ie 'I hear that old song and it takes me away etc').
What I usually do in those circumstances is hit the old web for the guitar tabs. Then for the next couple of days I arse about getting the melody down at which point my interest begins to wane and I'm free of the darn mind worm.
However every now and again I find the right kind of harmonics and I'm off chasing a variation that can keep me happy for weeks!!
So its a good way to kill some Sunday afternoon time until things warm up enough to walk the dogs!!
Actually what got stuck in particular was the harmony part were the lead singer hits that rising note that melds with the wailing guitar (ie 'I hear that old song and it takes me away etc').
What I usually do in those circumstances is hit the old web for the guitar tabs. Then for the next couple of days I arse about getting the melody down at which point my interest begins to wane and I'm free of the darn mind worm.
However every now and again I find the right kind of harmonics and I'm off chasing a variation that can keep me happy for weeks!!
So its a good way to kill some Sunday afternoon time until things warm up enough to walk the dogs!!
Thursday, June 14, 2007
As if I needed more proof its Winter...
Today it was snowing just outside Canberra.
I mean real actual snow, check out this poor wee kangaroo...
This spot is about 20km's odd from my front door.
Stay warm little fella!!
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Why I will next buy a Mac
I'm sitting at home trying to enjoy the benefits of 'multimedia' on a Windows Machine.
Actually I'm doing this and trying to listen to the Human League via the good graces of YouTube.
And this gosh darn machine is running like a dog.
I know its trying to download some freakin updates from gosh darn MS. Why do those idiots keep trying to tie up my system resources with some shit useless patch I DON'T WANT?
But don't get me wrong I don't hate or dislike Bill Gates, in fact I admire the guy. He crushed all competion to his products - he won.
Its his products that give me the absolute shits.
Actually I'm doing this and trying to listen to the Human League via the good graces of YouTube.
And this gosh darn machine is running like a dog.
I know its trying to download some freakin updates from gosh darn MS. Why do those idiots keep trying to tie up my system resources with some shit useless patch I DON'T WANT?
But don't get me wrong I don't hate or dislike Bill Gates, in fact I admire the guy. He crushed all competion to his products - he won.
Its his products that give me the absolute shits.
You know its Winter when...
Boy Howdy Folks, I tell you whut...
Today was one freeze ass ice bound day. But I know what your thinking;
"Dude, Australia is one huge monkey loving desert. It ain't never cold there brother."
Well you're right there for the most part. I live in the one area of Australia that does get frost, that being the Snowy Mountains. And let me tell you - it gets cold.
Now having grown up in Lower Hutt and cold and damp valley in of itself, I believe I have a point of comparison. The main difference is the dryness, if that makes sense. Canberra is higher up than most of Australia, probably more like a pampas with very low humidity.
We actually get some fierce frosts during Winter, even snow occasionally.
So this morning I had to de-ice the truck and drive it into our mechanics to get (of all things) a heater installed. Here's what I learnt, after using water to melt the ice of your windscreen - dry the water or it remelts when your driving through fog at 80kms.
Thank goodness I remembered my gloves.
Today was one freeze ass ice bound day. But I know what your thinking;
"Dude, Australia is one huge monkey loving desert. It ain't never cold there brother."
Well you're right there for the most part. I live in the one area of Australia that does get frost, that being the Snowy Mountains. And let me tell you - it gets cold.
Now having grown up in Lower Hutt and cold and damp valley in of itself, I believe I have a point of comparison. The main difference is the dryness, if that makes sense. Canberra is higher up than most of Australia, probably more like a pampas with very low humidity.
We actually get some fierce frosts during Winter, even snow occasionally.
So this morning I had to de-ice the truck and drive it into our mechanics to get (of all things) a heater installed. Here's what I learnt, after using water to melt the ice of your windscreen - dry the water or it remelts when your driving through fog at 80kms.
Thank goodness I remembered my gloves.
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Funny Ass Trailer
I am a fool for a good movie trailer, I believe that a good trailer will sell a film.
The downside of course is a trailer will also show all the good bits and make you feel like a chump for spending $15 on 90mins of filler...
So with that in mind - Can't tell you what I think of the whole film, but this trailer is awesome...
LINK
The downside of course is a trailer will also show all the good bits and make you feel like a chump for spending $15 on 90mins of filler...
So with that in mind - Can't tell you what I think of the whole film, but this trailer is awesome...
LINK
Friday, May 25, 2007
Thoughts from the Competition and Ageing
I noticed that an earlier post bore a striking resemblance to the posts of my other team mates. So in the interest of diversity I'm posting some observations and memories;
- I was REALLY impressed with the way the team fell into place. Everybody pulled together to do the best job they could.
- The writing exercises that Seraph and I worked on coming into the competition really helped. It was great to see how quickly we could turn out a working script.
- It was really funny to see myself on screen, I was surprised to see the facial expressions (even though I know how late in the day the shooting took place)
- I would not attempt to do this again without a Mac.
- The feeling of relaxation once Seraph handed me the Safety Copy for delivery to the 48 Hours HQ on the Sunday.
- Viv and myself drinking a beer, upstairs at the Bowls club getting a sales pitch from the grounds keeper as to the benefits of a social membership ($20 and you can bowl any time after 5pm on a week night).
- Despite the late time of my arrival in Wellington, being met by a half asleep Seraph
- Borrowing a guitar at one of the practice rooms at the school and jamming with one of the kids from the brass band competition.
Are YOU on message?
As the kind of guy who writes little of what he wants and much of what he has to; I suggest it is refreshing to reacquaint oneself with an excellent essay on the subject and a watch dog website whose humour is really quite tragic...
Or you could read this 'how not to' guide...
Or you could read this 'how not to' guide...
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Memories of Billy T
I had a couple of hours at Wellington Airport before my flight out.
So, as you do, I was browsing around the shops. Figured I should get myself a book to read or a DVD or something.
So I was looking around and found vol 1 of the Billy T James Show (you know the one that was on TV3 in the early '90's)(not generally regarded as his finest work). To be honest I thought I was buying a selection of his sketch comedy, didn't realise my mistake until I got to Sydney, oh well its still a bit of fun!
Thankfully You Tube has a great selection though...
So, as you do, I was browsing around the shops. Figured I should get myself a book to read or a DVD or something.
So I was looking around and found vol 1 of the Billy T James Show (you know the one that was on TV3 in the early '90's)(not generally regarded as his finest work). To be honest I thought I was buying a selection of his sketch comedy, didn't realise my mistake until I got to Sydney, oh well its still a bit of fun!
Thankfully You Tube has a great selection though...
Monday, May 21, 2007
48 Hours Later...
Just a quick note now I'm back in the country after my incredible weekend of 48 Hour film Madness!! It was always going to be a crazy time and it did not disappoint.
So there we were, Seraph and I, on Friday 6.59pm poised behind our laptops like dueling banjo's. At 7.00pm on the dot Viv and Conan call in with our theme and must haves;
Character; Jerry Reed - Hypochondriac
Line; "And what do you call that?"
Prop; Rope
Genre; Educational/Religious
To be honest the temptation to go after a religious theme was strong, but we just couldn't pitch any really solid ideas. Eventually we hit upon the idea of a marketing/sales training video for pharmacists based on the idea of Hypochondriacs as the ideal customer - a walking goldmine if you will. By that time Conan and Viv had returned and we had our production team in place.
From that point on it just flowed...
I'm just so glad I was able to join in this year. It always sounds like just a whole lot of crazy ass fun. And let me tell you know it was.
Thank you to everyone!!
So there we were, Seraph and I, on Friday 6.59pm poised behind our laptops like dueling banjo's. At 7.00pm on the dot Viv and Conan call in with our theme and must haves;
Character; Jerry Reed - Hypochondriac
Line; "And what do you call that?"
Prop; Rope
Genre; Educational/Religious
To be honest the temptation to go after a religious theme was strong, but we just couldn't pitch any really solid ideas. Eventually we hit upon the idea of a marketing/sales training video for pharmacists based on the idea of Hypochondriacs as the ideal customer - a walking goldmine if you will. By that time Conan and Viv had returned and we had our production team in place.
From that point on it just flowed...
Everyone was just incredible
Seraph - For taking the chance
Viv - For being a total battler and hanging in there with a full blown cold (and selective creative control)
Conan - For working like a demon the whole weekend, you are a legend dude!!
Jamie - Our wingman and graphics professional!
Angela - Set design is too poor a word for the hard work that transformed a small bland corner into a fully believable pharmacy.
Ryan - Sound and editing guru
Meredith - Runner, hand model and girl Friday extrodinaire
Danyl - For being a great sport to let us film him rubbing himself with loads of money (I think he actually liked it!)
Flick - For the awesome theme music
Maggie - Well this is one is a joint award for the donut as well
We had so much good luck and so many people helped us out in little ways. It was such a fun and positive environment. I could do it again next weekend!!
Viv - For being a total battler and hanging in there with a full blown cold (and selective creative control)
Conan - For working like a demon the whole weekend, you are a legend dude!!
Jamie - Our wingman and graphics professional!
Angela - Set design is too poor a word for the hard work that transformed a small bland corner into a fully believable pharmacy.
Ryan - Sound and editing guru
Meredith - Runner, hand model and girl Friday extrodinaire
Danyl - For being a great sport to let us film him rubbing himself with loads of money (I think he actually liked it!)
Flick - For the awesome theme music
Maggie - Well this is one is a joint award for the donut as well
We had so much good luck and so many people helped us out in little ways. It was such a fun and positive environment. I could do it again next weekend!!
I'm just so glad I was able to join in this year. It always sounds like just a whole lot of crazy ass fun. And let me tell you know it was.
Thank you to everyone!!
Zombie town Team Management Song
As long as we're talking about Zombies here... Thought y'all might like this one (thanks Seraph)
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
28 Weeks Later - a lousy film review
I call this a lousy film review, because I'm not in the least bit objective here. 28 Weeks Later is a scary sequel, I'd rate it as a worthy follow on from 28 Days Later (possibly even scarier!).
So how do I measure these claims?
All in all good 'clean' scary fun. It did its job well from that respect.
In terms of the franchise we get to see the speed with which the infection can spread and how a city could get taken down so quickly. Helps to give some background to the first movie (As an aside I think you could watch this one first or on its own without losing any major elements).
My recommendation; spend the money dude, its well worth it!
My niggles are below in super secret inviso-pen, don't read them if you actually want to see the movie...
Niggle 1 - What I do know of the Apache Helicopter Gunship is that the main cannon is linked to the gunners eye. There is no way he would miss.
Niggle 2 - Why was the wife left unattended?!? and why did the husband have unfetted access around the entire base?!?
So how do I measure these claims?
1) There were parts I actually hid my eyes from!!
2) I had dreams about the 'Infected' and was seriously wondering about the security of our house at 3am last night!!
3) Drove to work today wondering if Canberra could be quarantined off and how one might do that!!
2) I had dreams about the 'Infected' and was seriously wondering about the security of our house at 3am last night!!
3) Drove to work today wondering if Canberra could be quarantined off and how one might do that!!
All in all good 'clean' scary fun. It did its job well from that respect.
In terms of the franchise we get to see the speed with which the infection can spread and how a city could get taken down so quickly. Helps to give some background to the first movie (As an aside I think you could watch this one first or on its own without losing any major elements).
My recommendation; spend the money dude, its well worth it!
My niggles are below in super secret inviso-pen, don't read them if you actually want to see the movie...
Inviso-Pen ACTIVATE>>>>>>>
Niggle 1 - What I do know of the Apache Helicopter Gunship is that the main cannon is linked to the gunners eye. There is no way he would miss.
Niggle 2 - Why was the wife left unattended?!? and why did the husband have unfetted access around the entire base?!?
Monday, May 07, 2007
Time Management
Last Friday I drove to Sydney and back again. In between I had meetings and pitched by 3 year business plan for the business area. I'm not complaining, I got a lot done and it was well worth the effort.
You know I've been driving for about 6 or 7 years now. It is in fact one of the most fun things I can do with my time. The Canberra to Sydney drive is about 3 hours, give or take traffic, each way. And I have done it so many times its like a pleasant afternoon drive, no hurry - enjoy the sights.
Tomorrow I get to do it again, there is a training course up in Sydney I've been signed up for. The only problem from my end is its Karins birthday tomorrow.
I'm writing this from the radio station, I'm about to go on for 2 hours.
So tomorrow I will cook my lovelly wife a birthday breakfast in bed (bugger, forgot to get flowers - hmmm might check out the servo on the way home...(yeah if I want a divorce :)
There will be bacon eggs, pancakes with real Canadian maple syrup and whipped cream!!
It should be fantastic.
Every now and again though I feel like there isn't enough hours in the day. But I'm learning, that just means I need to move faster.
You know I've been driving for about 6 or 7 years now. It is in fact one of the most fun things I can do with my time. The Canberra to Sydney drive is about 3 hours, give or take traffic, each way. And I have done it so many times its like a pleasant afternoon drive, no hurry - enjoy the sights.
Tomorrow I get to do it again, there is a training course up in Sydney I've been signed up for. The only problem from my end is its Karins birthday tomorrow.
I'm writing this from the radio station, I'm about to go on for 2 hours.
So tomorrow I will cook my lovelly wife a birthday breakfast in bed (bugger, forgot to get flowers - hmmm might check out the servo on the way home...(yeah if I want a divorce :)
There will be bacon eggs, pancakes with real Canadian maple syrup and whipped cream!!
It should be fantastic.
Every now and again though I feel like there isn't enough hours in the day. But I'm learning, that just means I need to move faster.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
A wet Saturday
A wet Saturday, its like I deserve a do over. Though I shouldn't complain, we did have Wednesday off.
It was ANZAC day once again and once again I am amazed at the indifference of Australians to the NZ part. ANZAC to them just means Australian Army Corp. There is ZERO recognition of New Zealand, its all become proprietary.
And don't get me started on John Howard defining the term as more or less anyone who votes Liberal or watches channel 9. Check out the Wikipedia listings, see just how minimal the recognition is...
What frustrates me the most is trying to explain to Aussies that New Zealand has a very different view of the ANZAC spirit and Gallipoli. Its viewed by Kiwi's as a moment of nationhood, in much the same way as modern Turkey does. Not so the Australians.
Its the one and only time of the year that this country just pisses me off.
It was ANZAC day once again and once again I am amazed at the indifference of Australians to the NZ part. ANZAC to them just means Australian Army Corp. There is ZERO recognition of New Zealand, its all become proprietary.
And don't get me started on John Howard defining the term as more or less anyone who votes Liberal or watches channel 9. Check out the Wikipedia listings, see just how minimal the recognition is...
What frustrates me the most is trying to explain to Aussies that New Zealand has a very different view of the ANZAC spirit and Gallipoli. Its viewed by Kiwi's as a moment of nationhood, in much the same way as modern Turkey does. Not so the Australians.
Its the one and only time of the year that this country just pisses me off.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
A Good Kind of Hurting
Yesterday I played my first game of soccer for the new season.
(Mental note for next time, don't play soccer after working out on my legs at the gym!)
I forgot just how much fun it is to race around a field for an hour or two (and even score a GOAL!). Just to refresh people's memory, its two teams divided equally amongst whoever turns up into Red - The Spitfires and Blue - The Lightnings. There is no skill level to speak of, but a basic rule of thumb is good sportmanship and courtesy.
Which I think are excellent values for us all.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Made the mistake of wandering into JB HiFi afterward and walked out with amongst other things the latest Bowie best of, he seems to put one out every few years. This has some of newer stuff on it as well as the covers made popular by Nirvana et al.
Which is a good thing, I guess. My last best of got chewed by my shitty old CD player. Don't ask how, I assure you it is scratched to shit...
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
After soccer yesterday, cooked a seafood paella and chowder, just to experiment and because Karin asked. A bit of change for me, I'm not a seafood person per see, but it seemed to work out ok. This morning woke up with stiff and sore, all the way to the hips. But I still feel it's worth the fun of running around like kid for a spell!!
(Mental note for next time, don't play soccer after working out on my legs at the gym!)
I forgot just how much fun it is to race around a field for an hour or two (and even score a GOAL!). Just to refresh people's memory, its two teams divided equally amongst whoever turns up into Red - The Spitfires and Blue - The Lightnings. There is no skill level to speak of, but a basic rule of thumb is good sportmanship and courtesy.
Which I think are excellent values for us all.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Made the mistake of wandering into JB HiFi afterward and walked out with amongst other things the latest Bowie best of, he seems to put one out every few years. This has some of newer stuff on it as well as the covers made popular by Nirvana et al.
Which is a good thing, I guess. My last best of got chewed by my shitty old CD player. Don't ask how, I assure you it is scratched to shit...
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
After soccer yesterday, cooked a seafood paella and chowder, just to experiment and because Karin asked. A bit of change for me, I'm not a seafood person per see, but it seemed to work out ok. This morning woke up with stiff and sore, all the way to the hips. But I still feel it's worth the fun of running around like kid for a spell!!
Friday, April 20, 2007
Lets get serious!!
Have signed on with Seraph to the whole 48 Hour Film thing. I have no idea what I'm in for other than it should be a lot of FUN!!
Every year I hear these great stories from Seraph and I'm always like, Dude - you gotta hook me up and he's always like Dude - I keep forgetting or you're not serious or I thought you were dead...
I might've made those last ones up.
But we've begun, we're doing script writing exercises and soon we will be a finely oiled team.
Lets git it on!!!
Every year I hear these great stories from Seraph and I'm always like, Dude - you gotta hook me up and he's always like Dude - I keep forgetting or you're not serious or I thought you were dead...
I might've made those last ones up.
But we've begun, we're doing script writing exercises and soon we will be a finely oiled team.
Lets git it on!!!
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Dumb TV
I don't watch a lot of TV, well not in this country at least - US Cable is hard to beat.
Right now my beloved is glued to the 'Biggest Loser', fat people losing weight for money.
How that is entertainment is the true miracle of Easter.
Having said that, I'm busy watching episodes of the Venture Brothers on YouTube.
Right now my beloved is glued to the 'Biggest Loser', fat people losing weight for money.
How that is entertainment is the true miracle of Easter.
Having said that, I'm busy watching episodes of the Venture Brothers on YouTube.
Monday, April 09, 2007
This I must remember
So a couple of weeks ago I got a mountain bike. Principally for the pleasure of a Sunday afternoon bicycle ride. Which is a lot of fun, actually its more than that - its a lot of good old fashioned great fun!!
But I sometimes need to remind myself that I'm not Evel Knievel and should not attempt dirt jumps until I can land properly. Which to say, I'm a whiz at the jumping part, just haven't got the landing part squared away.
Still it is fun to have skinned my knees... Carpe Diem et al
But I sometimes need to remind myself that I'm not Evel Knievel and should not attempt dirt jumps until I can land properly. Which to say, I'm a whiz at the jumping part, just haven't got the landing part squared away.
Still it is fun to have skinned my knees... Carpe Diem et al
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Everything Changes
Happy Easter everyone!!
So I found myself wondering this morning, why do I still bother playing video games? As I've blogged before I'm not a techno or gadget boy, by any measure. Yet I enjoy having a computer game as a distraction.
I was prompted to think about this during the game 'God of War', it was while I was attempting to beat five colours of crap out of a giant mechanical minotaur. The game play is basic as to be absurd, run here - run there, bash this-mash that.
And yet I keep wasting my time on it...
I don't get it, I'm waiting for my epiphany. My moment of clarity. But I just keep pushing buttons to see what happens next - but its always more of the same...
Today is a lovely Autumn day, the sky is a perfect crushed powder blue. The season is changing the cold from the night is stretching longer and longer into the morning. Soon it will be the whole day. There is so much to see and do OUT THERE.
Why do I keep this stupid machine...
No wait I remember - SingStar
So I found myself wondering this morning, why do I still bother playing video games? As I've blogged before I'm not a techno or gadget boy, by any measure. Yet I enjoy having a computer game as a distraction.
I was prompted to think about this during the game 'God of War', it was while I was attempting to beat five colours of crap out of a giant mechanical minotaur. The game play is basic as to be absurd, run here - run there, bash this-mash that.
And yet I keep wasting my time on it...
I don't get it, I'm waiting for my epiphany. My moment of clarity. But I just keep pushing buttons to see what happens next - but its always more of the same...
Today is a lovely Autumn day, the sky is a perfect crushed powder blue. The season is changing the cold from the night is stretching longer and longer into the morning. Soon it will be the whole day. There is so much to see and do OUT THERE.
Why do I keep this stupid machine...
No wait I remember - SingStar
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Scary Sequal
Hey gang!! Its scary movie time again!!!I love zombie movies and although 28 Days Later wasn't specifically an undead movie, as such...
Anyway, no time for symantics. Its shotgun-a-grabbin' time and holein'-up-in-a-bunker time once more.
28 Weeks Later is the sequal!!
I haven't bothered with too much of the plot details. At a guess I'd say, things seem to go well at first, then they don't, small team of survivours, a few get picked off, darkest before the dawn, then the conclusion.
But I propose an awesome plot twist - England is WAY TOO infected for repopulation. It will always remain a threat - solution nuke the fucker!!
What do you think? Too obvious!?! - It will make for a shorter film though - which means less zombie/infected scenes... its a trade off.
Check out the trailer HERE
Radio in my brain
Boy howdy, I tell you whut! All this work and no play makes for a dull, but profitable life.
Y'know how sometimes you'll wake up and have a song in your head? Well I did my regular radio spot last night an hour long world music show (and yes I did play a mandetory accordian track). One of the songs was by a Basque group and it was fantastic!! In the first instance; Wow what good fortune to have been able to find them and secondly now get the feck out of my head.
Y'know how sometimes you'll wake up and have a song in your head? Well I did my regular radio spot last night an hour long world music show (and yes I did play a mandetory accordian track). One of the songs was by a Basque group and it was fantastic!! In the first instance; Wow what good fortune to have been able to find them and secondly now get the feck out of my head.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
To do List, Upon Taking Office First Draft
This is a list of things I intend to do, should by accident or design I become Emperor of the World;
- Install Death Metal music around auto-tellers to motivate 'old people' to get their shit done FASTER (a recent trial at Redfern station produced similar results with young people and classical music).
- An immediate moratorium on Queen's ' Bohemian Rhapsody' - No commercial radio station shall be allowed to play THAT song for at least a period of 18 months between rotation. Fuck you Wayne's World; it was ready to die at last and now they play it still EVERY FUCKING DAY!!
- Jihad on Jamie Oliver
- Customer admisitered therapy to motivate the attitude of surly young people who work in retail
- Hand portable car batteries and nipple clamps for responisble adults while retail shopping.
- Fast Food chain restaurants will be obliged not to serve fat people, for their own good.
More rules to follow...
Saturday, March 17, 2007
City Report - Sydney
This one is a long time in coming.
I thought I'd add a report on the probably the most famous city in Australia largely because its so far been a glaring omission. Actually what has prompted me to write this one up is just having spent a week up on North Sydney for work.
I can't live there myself. The crowds piss me off, I hate driving through the city - it takes forever to get anywhere. No one reads books - everyone reads magazines...
Like I said, for me at least, a great place to visit.
I thought I'd add a report on the probably the most famous city in Australia largely because its so far been a glaring omission. Actually what has prompted me to write this one up is just having spent a week up on North Sydney for work.
+++++++++++++++++++++
Transport - Usually good, although on Wednesday the entire metropolitan rail network was shut down due an accident involving a motorcycle and a van on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. God help you if Dick Chenney is in town...
It was the 75th anniversary of the Harbour Bridge this weekend.
Travel Times - Typically any Sydney sider who does not work in the suburb in which they live can expect to commute for up to 1 1/2 to 2 hours covering any distance from 20 Kms to 100+ Kms. This time in transit is regardless of the mode (bus, ferry, train, car). It is actually about the same amount of time to drive to Sydney from Canberra as it is to fly.
Cost of Living - Sydney has as a rule, has highest cost of living of any city in Australia. In recent times Perth has crept up to challenge this title - which frankly boggles the mind as to what you could possible be blowing your money on in Perth?!? it largely boils down to the revenue raising tactics of the State Govt of NSW. There are plenty of taxes that a Sydney Sider will pay twice (or three times if the local council is involved).
Housing - There are two types of houses in Sydney, the one you own and the one you wish you owned. Everyone in this city wants to be on the up and up. Get the right kind of house, get to the right kind of suburb, enjoy all the trappings that come with that kind of postcode. Whatever that may be. As a rule of thumb people settle in one ghetto of Sydney and never move out or at least never from long. Whether its the Eastern Suburbs (but only as far South as Bronte), the Inner West (Glebe to Leichhardt) the West (Parramatta and beyond) as examples.
As a result its best to think of Sydney as a series of small townships.
Entertainment - There are 2 things to do in Sydney on the weekend, go pubbing or go clubbing. And you can be assured that regular conversation is impossible in either situation.
Beaches - Wonderful! Sydney has the best beaches of any Capital City in Australia. Unfortunately in order to get out to them, you rely on public transport as there is never any parking and your car is liable to be broken into while your there.
Sport - Sydney will leap on the bandwagon of ANY local team, as long as it is doing well. The Sydney Swans are a prime example, ticket sales go through the roof if they are on a winning streak and drop like a stone if they are on a losing one.
Celebrations - Sydney is a party city and will show off at the drop of a hat. That said the events are always spectacular (largely due the harbour) and well attended. Its no surprise to me that the Sydney Olympics went off as well as they did.
People - As a rule the people of Sydney are friendly and always have the time for a chat. But this, as a rule, can be applied to most Australians. Its in their character to have a good old yarn with a complete stranger it is certainly one of the first things I noticed about them.
Sydney, in my opinion, is a city thats at its best when visited. Its a great holiday destination, its bright, shinny and you can view 2 of the worlds most recognisble landmarks from any spot on the harbour.It was the 75th anniversary of the Harbour Bridge this weekend.
Travel Times - Typically any Sydney sider who does not work in the suburb in which they live can expect to commute for up to 1 1/2 to 2 hours covering any distance from 20 Kms to 100+ Kms. This time in transit is regardless of the mode (bus, ferry, train, car). It is actually about the same amount of time to drive to Sydney from Canberra as it is to fly.
Cost of Living - Sydney has as a rule, has highest cost of living of any city in Australia. In recent times Perth has crept up to challenge this title - which frankly boggles the mind as to what you could possible be blowing your money on in Perth?!? it largely boils down to the revenue raising tactics of the State Govt of NSW. There are plenty of taxes that a Sydney Sider will pay twice (or three times if the local council is involved).
Housing - There are two types of houses in Sydney, the one you own and the one you wish you owned. Everyone in this city wants to be on the up and up. Get the right kind of house, get to the right kind of suburb, enjoy all the trappings that come with that kind of postcode. Whatever that may be. As a rule of thumb people settle in one ghetto of Sydney and never move out or at least never from long. Whether its the Eastern Suburbs (but only as far South as Bronte), the Inner West (Glebe to Leichhardt) the West (Parramatta and beyond) as examples.
As a result its best to think of Sydney as a series of small townships.
Entertainment - There are 2 things to do in Sydney on the weekend, go pubbing or go clubbing. And you can be assured that regular conversation is impossible in either situation.
Beaches - Wonderful! Sydney has the best beaches of any Capital City in Australia. Unfortunately in order to get out to them, you rely on public transport as there is never any parking and your car is liable to be broken into while your there.
Sport - Sydney will leap on the bandwagon of ANY local team, as long as it is doing well. The Sydney Swans are a prime example, ticket sales go through the roof if they are on a winning streak and drop like a stone if they are on a losing one.
Celebrations - Sydney is a party city and will show off at the drop of a hat. That said the events are always spectacular (largely due the harbour) and well attended. Its no surprise to me that the Sydney Olympics went off as well as they did.
People - As a rule the people of Sydney are friendly and always have the time for a chat. But this, as a rule, can be applied to most Australians. Its in their character to have a good old yarn with a complete stranger it is certainly one of the first things I noticed about them.
+++++++++++++++++++++
I can't live there myself. The crowds piss me off, I hate driving through the city - it takes forever to get anywhere. No one reads books - everyone reads magazines...
Like I said, for me at least, a great place to visit.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
What I did before I got a proper job
Hey Y'all,
You are in for a treat amigos' I have the pleasure of showing you a picture of my TOTALLY AWESOME F-100 and of me getting ready to go fishing up at Lake Eucambene.
It was a great day. I managed to convince my usual partner in crime Ando to join me and together we proceeded to catch no fish at all.
Which is good news for the fishing industry.
Believe it or not where the truck is parked is an area of the lake catchment called the Pan Handle. Its usually under water, if you can see the tree line in the background - thats where the lake would be at full capacity.
Its currently holding 8.5%.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Unemployed
Yes indeed friends, I'm unemployed until Thursday.
I have a few days in between jobs, so I guess that makes me unemployed. Which in turn makes me wonder what do the unemployed do? I tried feeling sorry for myself and blaming society - but my heart wasn't in it. Then I thought I could use this time to improve myself and read a book or two - but seemed to go against the Bogan 'Esprit de Corp'.
Finally I hit on it - unflattering facial hair.
Today I started my goatee.
I have a few days in between jobs, so I guess that makes me unemployed. Which in turn makes me wonder what do the unemployed do? I tried feeling sorry for myself and blaming society - but my heart wasn't in it. Then I thought I could use this time to improve myself and read a book or two - but seemed to go against the Bogan 'Esprit de Corp'.
Finally I hit on it - unflattering facial hair.
Today I started my goatee.
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Some Saturday Funk
Seraph has been posting a Hierarchy of Geekdom, its a lot of fun to read and I look forward to more posts. So far I can claim no association with the groups named to date. That said, I am something of a music nerd (by which I mean, I have a vast store of useless trivia about a whole range of music - and everything in the top 40 these days pisses me off)
So in the spirit of solidarity with my hygene challenged indoors types, I present a video by Money Mark. You get one Nerd Point for knowing who he is, you get a second Nerd Point for knowing the significance of the keyboard featured in the track and you get Uber Nerd Points if you can name the guys in the animal suits!!!
So in the spirit of solidarity with my hygene challenged indoors types, I present a video by Money Mark. You get one Nerd Point for knowing who he is, you get a second Nerd Point for knowing the significance of the keyboard featured in the track and you get Uber Nerd Points if you can name the guys in the animal suits!!!
Friday, March 02, 2007
A cute wee video
Just love this video!!
What a great line "Do you feel like a chain store - Practically ignored"
I decided to swap the video out for a link so people could load the page faster!!
What a great line "Do you feel like a chain store - Practically ignored"
I decided to swap the video out for a link so people could load the page faster!!
Good Eating Part 3
I Hate Jamie Oliver, he's like a Silkie Terrier - small, annoying, yappy, unhelpful and loved by women in their 40's.
I like Antonio Carluccio, he's like a regular human being - he gets his passion across in a simple and infectious way. His recipes inspire, they beg for creativity and variances on the theme. His teaching method is simple, he never patronises his guests - he honours them.
The difference between these two are in my mind - I want to punch one repeatedly for being an annoying patronising git, while the other inspires me to cook. Good Eating is as much about ingredients as they are about technique and recipe.
But most of all it should be about having fun.
Have a look at this LINK to a story from Kiwiland about a book to teach kids the love of cooking!!
I like Antonio Carluccio, he's like a regular human being - he gets his passion across in a simple and infectious way. His recipes inspire, they beg for creativity and variances on the theme. His teaching method is simple, he never patronises his guests - he honours them.
The difference between these two are in my mind - I want to punch one repeatedly for being an annoying patronising git, while the other inspires me to cook. Good Eating is as much about ingredients as they are about technique and recipe.
But most of all it should be about having fun.
Have a look at this LINK to a story from Kiwiland about a book to teach kids the love of cooking!!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Madness from the Skies
This awesome shot was taken (by someone else!) on Tuesday night in Civic (the CBD of Canberra). A storm similar to the type that hit out palce on New Year's strode through the northern suburbs of Canberra.
Flash Floods and severe hail damage was the order of the day. Even at 6am yesterday I could still see lightning to the north as I walked Bishy.
The storm hit Canberra about 9.30pm.
That white stuff on the ground is a half metre of hail.
The location is Northborne Ave looking toward Sydney.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
OMG Look whose on Blogger!!
I wonder if this actually is Pete Townsend?
How awesome though, this is the benefit of the internet
Click HERE for Pete Townsends' Blog!!
How awesome though, this is the benefit of the internet
Click HERE for Pete Townsends' Blog!!
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Good Eating Part 2
In this part we'll look at people you need to know to start eating better in your neighbourhood.
Next time I'll discuss the Food Pyramid and its similarity to bullshit.
Influential People YOU Need to Know
- Your local Butcher - This guy you need to visit when ever you can. He'll have good quality meat, he can help you choose what you need and can even dice up stuff for stir fries and curries. Take the time to say hi and tell him about what you need. Local Butchers are being squeezed out by faceless supermarkets, staffed by bored teenagers. This guy will work to keep you coming back and cares that your a satisfied customer.
If you shop around you can even find Butchers that specialise in organic (hormone free) meats. Thats some tasty eating right there bubba.
- Your local Green Grocer - For much the same reasons as above. This guy is local, he sources the best fruit and vegeies he can find. They always let you try before you buy (have you ever gone past one of those places and not been asked to try an apple or orange!!) and its a great place to try stuff out of your comfort zone!!
- Your Local Community College - These guys will run cooking courses in the evening. ENROLL NOW. They are a lot of fun, you'll learn new ways to cook , make some new friends and have a ball.
Put yourself out there, you've got nothing to lose - plus you get eat what you've cooked!!
Next time I'll discuss the Food Pyramid and its similarity to bullshit.
Good Eating Part 1
Whenever I hear someone talking (or blogging) about good eating or diet, I always have some advice.
So in the spirit of know-it-all-itis (Al Gore syndrome) I thought I start an occasional series on good eating.Perhaps you can learn something and share the results?
1. Stop eating Crap - Sounds like simple, plain advice - but people do find it convenient to resort to prepackaged food. No I'm not talking just about the Macca's and KFC, I'm talking about 2 minute noodles, soups in a can, TV dinners. The whole range of packaged 'heat and serve' gunk out there.
Its all crap and its lazy eating.
Motto;- I've you've got time to boil water or microwave plastic for 5 minutes - You've got time eat properly
2. Eating well won't make you thinner - This is a big point to grasp, if you eat well you will become healthy, not fit. You will process food better, you'll have more energy during the day, your skin will be less oily, you'll actually start to smell better. Believe me, if you eat well you'll get sick less often and for shorter periods. But you won't lose weight per see.
If you want to lose weight, actually lets cut the crap on that dog whistle - its not about losing weight its about changing your body's shape. If you want to do that, just exercise regularly.
Motto;- Healthy is the fuel you put in your body. Fitness is how well your body runs.
3. Time Makes the Wine - Believe it or not changing your diet, eating smarter and better takes about 6 weeks to show visible effects on your body. But the sooner you start the sooner you can see results, it won't happen overnight. Don't get impatient, have some humility. You mind might be super fast, but your body is the same model we've all be using for the last 10,000 years. If you try and put the effort in to cook, use good ingredients and eat what your body is going to use. It will all start to come together.
Motto;- A watched kettle will never boil (especially if isn't plugged in!!)
Okay people love sound bites and the above 3 bullets are that in spades. But the message should be clear, good eating starts with smart choices, taking time to exercise and an understanding of the body's clock. You work with those variables and you can start getting healthy today.
So in the spirit of know-it-all-itis (Al Gore syndrome) I thought I start an occasional series on good eating.Perhaps you can learn something and share the results?
1. Stop eating Crap - Sounds like simple, plain advice - but people do find it convenient to resort to prepackaged food. No I'm not talking just about the Macca's and KFC, I'm talking about 2 minute noodles, soups in a can, TV dinners. The whole range of packaged 'heat and serve' gunk out there.
Its all crap and its lazy eating.
Motto;- I've you've got time to boil water or microwave plastic for 5 minutes - You've got time eat properly
2. Eating well won't make you thinner - This is a big point to grasp, if you eat well you will become healthy, not fit. You will process food better, you'll have more energy during the day, your skin will be less oily, you'll actually start to smell better. Believe me, if you eat well you'll get sick less often and for shorter periods. But you won't lose weight per see.
If you want to lose weight, actually lets cut the crap on that dog whistle - its not about losing weight its about changing your body's shape. If you want to do that, just exercise regularly.
Motto;- Healthy is the fuel you put in your body. Fitness is how well your body runs.
3. Time Makes the Wine - Believe it or not changing your diet, eating smarter and better takes about 6 weeks to show visible effects on your body. But the sooner you start the sooner you can see results, it won't happen overnight. Don't get impatient, have some humility. You mind might be super fast, but your body is the same model we've all be using for the last 10,000 years. If you try and put the effort in to cook, use good ingredients and eat what your body is going to use. It will all start to come together.
Motto;- A watched kettle will never boil (especially if isn't plugged in!!)
Okay people love sound bites and the above 3 bullets are that in spades. But the message should be clear, good eating starts with smart choices, taking time to exercise and an understanding of the body's clock. You work with those variables and you can start getting healthy today.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Gaze into the face of Crazy!!
Lately we've been having big storms in the evenings around Canberra. They build up during the day and usually break around 4pm.
Sometines they last a few minutes, sometimes they stay over a specific location and sometimes thay'll last longer and spread over a whole area.
But as always they set Calvin off his head. The little bastard can't wait for the first roll of thunder. He's off and out into the back yard screaming his head off, telling Thor to keep the fuck out his yard (or what his tiny wee mind imagines). Wild eyed, full of joy and excitment, like a child hopped up on red cordial and coffee the night before Christmas. He'll keep this up for as long as the storm wants to go and he has never yet given up first.
Even with my hands around his throat.
And last night he kept it going until 3am.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Another City Report - Wellington
This is another in my city reports. I was asked recently for some insight into the city of my birth (actually the city of my birth is Lower Hutt, but if you have trouble finding Wellington...). The below brief city notes have been submitted to the CIA Fact Book, we can all rest better for my exhaustive research.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Local Weather - There are three states of weather in Wellington;
1. Just about to rain, 2. Raining, 3. Just finished raining.
It is always windy.
Local Sport - Rugby. Seriously its all anybody will want to talk about. Details below to help you acclimatise quicker;
Local Arts Scene - Vibrant. There are more theatres and galleries per head of population than anywhere else in the Southern Hemisphere (if you don't believe me, just ask someone - they will tell you, again and again and again....) Usually produced to a very high standard of quality.
+++
Local TV - Very Good. Well it has to be, everyone stays inside out of the rain.
+++
Transport - Get a car or get used to public transport. The other very viable alternative is to walk everywhere. Don't waste your money on the cable car. Parking in the city is hit and miss.
+++
Topography - Hills are what the locals refer to the charming sheer cliffs surrounding the city. Most of them are taller the Snowy Mountains. All of them have houses on.
+++
Cuba Street - Once the dangerous alternative haunt of the Wellington Underground scene. Its now a thriving shopping precinct. Walk to the far end for the Real Groovey Records store and kiss your paycheck good bye.
+++
Cuisine - Kebabs and fish 'n' chips. There are actual restaurants, but kebabs and the old FNC are foodgroups in themselves. They bring the family together.
+++
Beer - Tui and Waikato are good North Island brands. Speight's is the South Island's gift to the country. Don't drink it unless you actually own a 500,000 hectare sheep station - otherwise you're just a poser.
+++
Earthquakes - Will happen regularly. There will be at least 1x 5.5+ Richter Scale shake per year. Locals will lower there voices when they talk of the impending 'Big One'. Smile and nod, sip your beer and have a deep thoughtful bite of your kebab.
+++
No one knows when it will strike, but you can assume you have plenty of time to catch the bus home, put your feet up and watch your latest DVD from Real Groovey records.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Local Weather - There are three states of weather in Wellington;
1. Just about to rain, 2. Raining, 3. Just finished raining.
It is always windy.
Local Sport - Rugby. Seriously its all anybody will want to talk about. Details below to help you acclimatise quicker;
- National Team - All Blacks (cruelly robbed of many victories by the evil referee/Wallibies/Springbocks/Frence/Global Warming etc. Be prepared to answer questions or criticism of past matches regardless of whether or not you care or even saw the game. This applies even if you are from Victoria.)
- Super 14 Team - The Hurricanes, lost the final last year to an unusual display of black magic by the Crusaders (they cloaked the entire pitch in a thick mist, then scored a record number of tries when no one was looking)(cheating bastards)
- Regional Team - The Lions, you won't care enough to watch them so don't worry.
Local Arts Scene - Vibrant. There are more theatres and galleries per head of population than anywhere else in the Southern Hemisphere (if you don't believe me, just ask someone - they will tell you, again and again and again....) Usually produced to a very high standard of quality.
+++
Local TV - Very Good. Well it has to be, everyone stays inside out of the rain.
+++
Transport - Get a car or get used to public transport. The other very viable alternative is to walk everywhere. Don't waste your money on the cable car. Parking in the city is hit and miss.
+++
Topography - Hills are what the locals refer to the charming sheer cliffs surrounding the city. Most of them are taller the Snowy Mountains. All of them have houses on.
+++
Cuba Street - Once the dangerous alternative haunt of the Wellington Underground scene. Its now a thriving shopping precinct. Walk to the far end for the Real Groovey Records store and kiss your paycheck good bye.
+++
Cuisine - Kebabs and fish 'n' chips. There are actual restaurants, but kebabs and the old FNC are foodgroups in themselves. They bring the family together.
+++
Beer - Tui and Waikato are good North Island brands. Speight's is the South Island's gift to the country. Don't drink it unless you actually own a 500,000 hectare sheep station - otherwise you're just a poser.
+++
Earthquakes - Will happen regularly. There will be at least 1x 5.5+ Richter Scale shake per year. Locals will lower there voices when they talk of the impending 'Big One'. Smile and nod, sip your beer and have a deep thoughtful bite of your kebab.
+++
No one knows when it will strike, but you can assume you have plenty of time to catch the bus home, put your feet up and watch your latest DVD from Real Groovey records.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Hearing my own Voice
As you all know, I volunteer at a community radio station ArtSound FM.
Well I finally got to hear myself today. The station has a regular promo/announcement called 'Arts Diary' and I've volunteered to be one of the voices who writes, records and edits the promo.
I spent 4 hours on Sunday working to get 3 promo's sounding just right (approx 7 minutes of air time total) and I think I pulled it off.
To be honest I had my cringe factor turned up to 11 when my promo started... But it actually sounded pretty good. I mean I could hear all the little mistakes and some slightly sloppy editing, but all in all - not a bad effort.
You can judge for yourselves soon, the station website will be posting my next one in a weeks time.
Well I finally got to hear myself today. The station has a regular promo/announcement called 'Arts Diary' and I've volunteered to be one of the voices who writes, records and edits the promo.
I spent 4 hours on Sunday working to get 3 promo's sounding just right (approx 7 minutes of air time total) and I think I pulled it off.
To be honest I had my cringe factor turned up to 11 when my promo started... But it actually sounded pretty good. I mean I could hear all the little mistakes and some slightly sloppy editing, but all in all - not a bad effort.
You can judge for yourselves soon, the station website will be posting my next one in a weeks time.
Friday, February 09, 2007
More Zombie Stuff!!
Saturday, February 03, 2007
ATHF IS THE BOMB!
If you've been living under a digital rock {for your face} lately, you may not of heard about the City of Boston Def Con One response to a Stealth Marketing campaign for the upcoming Aqua Team Hunger Force movie [Which I promise you Seraph, will be better than 'Snakes on a Plane'].
Well the web is pretty much alive with talk about the over reaction. Thank goodness there is an election next year - over there.
But my little chickadees, you may want to know more or better yet even view an episode or two.
Visit here and enjoy [LINK]
I also recommend Robot Chicken.
Well the web is pretty much alive with talk about the over reaction. Thank goodness there is an election next year - over there.
But my little chickadees, you may want to know more or better yet even view an episode or two.
Visit here and enjoy [LINK]
I also recommend Robot Chicken.
Can't Sleep...
Its true, I can't sleep right now (its 4am). Just a little too excited - I got a new job yesterday!!
Actually this is a lot like jet lag, when I'm in the States I find my mind is too overstimulated. A combination of sugar, beer and 75 channels of 'there must be something on..'
So currently I'm wide awake about an hour an half earlier than I usually get up. I'm sitting here wondering if any of this will make sense in the daylight, listening to Durran Durran (or maybe I am dreaming...)
Did my regular radio gig last night and found a crazy arse Haitian Voodoo Rite to play. It was only about 2 minutes, but when you see something like that - you have to do that shit!!!
Had to get my truck towed to the garage, it just died in the arse. I'm not mad though, she's off getting fixed for whatever mystery beset her (Durran Durran was a fairly base heavy outfit... just noticed that. Sorry had to stop this line to comment on 'Wild Boys').
So anyway, tuck nackered and should be sorted in a week or so - its not the repair work so much as the parts. Its still awesome.
Feeling a little more sleepy - I won't bother editing this. Lets see how it reads in a couple of hours!!
Actually this is a lot like jet lag, when I'm in the States I find my mind is too overstimulated. A combination of sugar, beer and 75 channels of 'there must be something on..'
So currently I'm wide awake about an hour an half earlier than I usually get up. I'm sitting here wondering if any of this will make sense in the daylight, listening to Durran Durran (or maybe I am dreaming...)
Did my regular radio gig last night and found a crazy arse Haitian Voodoo Rite to play. It was only about 2 minutes, but when you see something like that - you have to do that shit!!!
Had to get my truck towed to the garage, it just died in the arse. I'm not mad though, she's off getting fixed for whatever mystery beset her (Durran Durran was a fairly base heavy outfit... just noticed that. Sorry had to stop this line to comment on 'Wild Boys').
So anyway, tuck nackered and should be sorted in a week or so - its not the repair work so much as the parts. Its still awesome.
Feeling a little more sleepy - I won't bother editing this. Lets see how it reads in a couple of hours!!
Monday, January 29, 2007
Its Still More Fun than Work
!!!HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY EVERYONE!!!
This weekend just past was the Australia Day Long Weekend. Which is good because, well obviously everyone loves a long weekend (provided you are getting paid for it...).
So from Thrusday afternoon until this morning I had a fantastic time - 3 days of barbie's, the odd beer or two, snags, truck driving and radio shows!!
On Friday a work colleauge of Karin's held an Aussie Day/Housewarming pool party (in Australia it's illegal to have an Australia Day party without either a pool or a game of backyard cricket). Which was lovelly and about 6.30pm I ducked off to the Radio Station to do my regular gig, then it was back to party!! I was a great day and we had a rare late night (in bed by 11.30...)
Saturday was another BBQ, this time at our house. By now our new French Doors looked really good - after mucho trouble in getting them in the first place. It was another late night, but this time it was Singstar's fault!!
Sunday was the quiet day, I had a 2 hour shift on the radio. It was a mixed bag of music and I hadn't really prepared for it - SO IT WAS FLY BY PANTS TIME!!
Thankfully it was also community radio, so I didn't sound too bad
So from Thrusday afternoon until this morning I had a fantastic time - 3 days of barbie's, the odd beer or two, snags, truck driving and radio shows!!
On Friday a work colleauge of Karin's held an Aussie Day/Housewarming pool party (in Australia it's illegal to have an Australia Day party without either a pool or a game of backyard cricket). Which was lovelly and about 6.30pm I ducked off to the Radio Station to do my regular gig, then it was back to party!! I was a great day and we had a rare late night (in bed by 11.30...)
Saturday was another BBQ, this time at our house. By now our new French Doors looked really good - after mucho trouble in getting them in the first place. It was another late night, but this time it was Singstar's fault!!
Sunday was the quiet day, I had a 2 hour shift on the radio. It was a mixed bag of music and I hadn't really prepared for it - SO IT WAS FLY BY PANTS TIME!!
Thankfully it was also community radio, so I didn't sound too bad
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Fire in the Sky
Last Saturday while standing on my driveway, en route to my neighbours BBQ I spied in the heavens the Great Comet of 2007.
Otherwise known as the McNaught Comet, named after a local astronomer Robert McNaught 'who observed the comet near Coonabarabran in 2006' (thanks ABC).
This photo was taken over Wamboin, but on Saturday over my place it looked just as spectacular
The tail was amazing - fanning away like a feather! Its getting fainter now in the heavens and I'm told will be gone by early Feburary. But this truely does shit on Halley's comet.
Probably because this is an Aussie comet!!
Here is the link to Wiki page if you would like to know more - LINK
Sunday, January 07, 2007
New Years Resolutions
This year I've decided to actually have some goals, other than try and not get fired.
I actually got a lot done last year so it has inspired me to set some projects and see how I do over the next 12 months.
Goals;
1; Do a French Cooking Course - One of my favourite cook books is 'The French Kitchen' by Joanne Harris. Great recipes, a fun layout, awesome pictures of little corners of France. A really charming book and one of my favourite inspirations when I'm cooking. So I figure why not actually do a French cooking course?!? I figure someone around here must run one...
2; Improve a language - For this one I'm tossing up between Italian and French. Italian because I flunked it so badly the last time I tried and I have an Italian brother in law. So I figure it'll be good fun should I ever get the chance to do a cooking tour of northern Italy. The French because I actually enough to be dangerous, but not enough to be competent. Added to which, it might be good for my job prospects...
3; Get a regular radio gig - Already started with this one. Having done my radio course I still haven't followed through with any regular air time. Have to fix that, I love doing it!! So I've volunteered for a one hour fortnightly spot on Fridays hosting the World Vibe show.
My plan is to see how my schedule goes and get another gig as well.
It will be fun to see how I track to these goals and I'm sure I'll add a few extra ones as the year progresses. I always in believe in being flexible to your circumstances.
I actually got a lot done last year so it has inspired me to set some projects and see how I do over the next 12 months.
Goals;
1; Do a French Cooking Course - One of my favourite cook books is 'The French Kitchen' by Joanne Harris. Great recipes, a fun layout, awesome pictures of little corners of France. A really charming book and one of my favourite inspirations when I'm cooking. So I figure why not actually do a French cooking course?!? I figure someone around here must run one...
2; Improve a language - For this one I'm tossing up between Italian and French. Italian because I flunked it so badly the last time I tried and I have an Italian brother in law. So I figure it'll be good fun should I ever get the chance to do a cooking tour of northern Italy. The French because I actually enough to be dangerous, but not enough to be competent. Added to which, it might be good for my job prospects...
3; Get a regular radio gig - Already started with this one. Having done my radio course I still haven't followed through with any regular air time. Have to fix that, I love doing it!! So I've volunteered for a one hour fortnightly spot on Fridays hosting the World Vibe show.
My plan is to see how my schedule goes and get another gig as well.
It will be fun to see how I track to these goals and I'm sure I'll add a few extra ones as the year progresses. I always in believe in being flexible to your circumstances.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Christmas Hols must end Soon!
I've been somewhat lazy (I am somewhat lazy...) with my postings as of late. This is what 3 weeks of holidays will do to a man.
Well to be honest I can't actually say 3 weeks of actual holidays, the first week I was almost driven insane by the absence of work and was living in dreaded excitement of the pending arrival of my 1979 Ford F-100. Then my truck arrived, by which time Karin was on holiday - which meant my life had purpose and order (or more precisely Karin told me to do things.)
Then we had Christmas itself, which was a grand affair with most of Karin's family coming down from Brisbane to join us. Then they went home, then I relaxed for a day, then it was the New Years storm. Finally Karin has gone back to work and I can go fishing to my hearts content.
I go back to work on Monday.
Highlights!!!
- Had a lovely day with my nieces before Christmas so their Mum (Karin's Sister Ness) could wrap presents. One of the rare occasions after which I have not wanted a vasectomy.
- Got my Truck (full description to follow with pictures, set Thrill Rating to HIGH!!)
- Australia got the Ashes, after humiliating England (The best way to win)
- Warnie the cheating, lying, bogan genius has retired.
- Was nearly electrocuted by lightning while trying to clear a clogged drain
- My Brother Ben and his wife Rhonnie had a wee baby girl (Alexandra Jane Rossiter)
- Finally got to clean the garage out
If there is more to tell, I can't think what it would be.
Best wishes to you all for a fantastic 007
Well to be honest I can't actually say 3 weeks of actual holidays, the first week I was almost driven insane by the absence of work and was living in dreaded excitement of the pending arrival of my 1979 Ford F-100. Then my truck arrived, by which time Karin was on holiday - which meant my life had purpose and order (or more precisely Karin told me to do things.)
Then we had Christmas itself, which was a grand affair with most of Karin's family coming down from Brisbane to join us. Then they went home, then I relaxed for a day, then it was the New Years storm. Finally Karin has gone back to work and I can go fishing to my hearts content.
I go back to work on Monday.
Highlights!!!
- Had a lovely day with my nieces before Christmas so their Mum (Karin's Sister Ness) could wrap presents. One of the rare occasions after which I have not wanted a vasectomy.
- Got my Truck (full description to follow with pictures, set Thrill Rating to HIGH!!)
- Australia got the Ashes, after humiliating England (The best way to win)
- Warnie the cheating, lying, bogan genius has retired.
- Was nearly electrocuted by lightning while trying to clear a clogged drain
- My Brother Ben and his wife Rhonnie had a wee baby girl (Alexandra Jane Rossiter)
- Finally got to clean the garage out
If there is more to tell, I can't think what it would be.
Best wishes to you all for a fantastic 007
This weather is making me thristy...
As if the weather couldn't get any more weirder!?!
On New Years Eve we had a torrential downpour complete with Thunder, Lightning and about a metre worth of hail!!
Thank goodness we were home, hard core party animals that we are. Dude I was out there in my gumboots shovelling hail and water out of blocked drains as fast as I could (nearly got hit by lightning). The storm lasted for 2 hours and thats a lot of water that hit our part of Canberra.
We got off lightly with only minimal damage to our kitchen ceiling (but my Porsche and Karin's expensive collection of Baroque art works were destroyed (should the insurance people ask))
So it was a cleansing start to the new year with all the old dust washed away!
On New Years Eve we had a torrential downpour complete with Thunder, Lightning and about a metre worth of hail!!
Thank goodness we were home, hard core party animals that we are. Dude I was out there in my gumboots shovelling hail and water out of blocked drains as fast as I could (nearly got hit by lightning). The storm lasted for 2 hours and thats a lot of water that hit our part of Canberra.
We got off lightly with only minimal damage to our kitchen ceiling (but my Porsche and Karin's expensive collection of Baroque art works were destroyed (should the insurance people ask))
So it was a cleansing start to the new year with all the old dust washed away!
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Xmas Hols
Being on holiday is a lot like being in prison, if you can make it through the first 3 days - you have a fighting chance.
I hung in there baby, I tell you what. Yesterday I was so bored I almost watched day time television. It was my low point.
Today was much better, slept in, went fishing in the morning, had lunch, almost finished Ratchet and Clank, did Chrissy shopping (got a 2 for 1 deal on some Viz annuals and found a Great Uncle Bulgaria Womble doll for my 'any day now' nephew/niece (Ben and Rhonnie's first)
Never thought it would be so hard trying to actually relax?!?
I hung in there baby, I tell you what. Yesterday I was so bored I almost watched day time television. It was my low point.
Today was much better, slept in, went fishing in the morning, had lunch, almost finished Ratchet and Clank, did Chrissy shopping (got a 2 for 1 deal on some Viz annuals and found a Great Uncle Bulgaria Womble doll for my 'any day now' nephew/niece (Ben and Rhonnie's first)
Never thought it would be so hard trying to actually relax?!?
Thursday, December 14, 2006
A Bad Dog
So this morning at 5.30am I got up as usual and took our Wolfhound out for her morning walk. I take her out first as she needs a longer stroll than the other two (she's a big ole girl, clipping the scales at just under 50kg).
Well Bish and I headed out on our usual route, down the end of the street out over to the school field. We've being doing this for a couple of years now and have it down to a regular routine. Once we get to the school field, I let my girl off the lead for a couple of minutes so she can streach her legs.
But the proviso has been, she learns to come when I call her and we work on our command structure (ie I'm in charge and do what I say).
All had been going well until this morning. Bish was fooling around in a silly mood (not unusual) when her ears went up and I saw just on the ridge of the field 2 kangaroo's. Well I knew this meant trouble, I started to call her back and she took off like a rocket to chase the Roo's...
I ran like a bastard and got the top of the ridge in time to see Bish collapse in a heap after loosing her footing.
She got up and watched the roo's hopping away at a fast rate. She turned back and saw the mountain of fury that was holding her lead.
She lowered her head and put her tail down and trotted back like a true penitent to sit at my side.
We went home in disgrace with a kick to the bum.
We were very quiet on the short walk home.
I'd like to think she has learnt a lesson, but it'll be a while before I'll let her off the lead again.
Well Bish and I headed out on our usual route, down the end of the street out over to the school field. We've being doing this for a couple of years now and have it down to a regular routine. Once we get to the school field, I let my girl off the lead for a couple of minutes so she can streach her legs.
But the proviso has been, she learns to come when I call her and we work on our command structure (ie I'm in charge and do what I say).
All had been going well until this morning. Bish was fooling around in a silly mood (not unusual) when her ears went up and I saw just on the ridge of the field 2 kangaroo's. Well I knew this meant trouble, I started to call her back and she took off like a rocket to chase the Roo's...
I ran like a bastard and got the top of the ridge in time to see Bish collapse in a heap after loosing her footing.
She got up and watched the roo's hopping away at a fast rate. She turned back and saw the mountain of fury that was holding her lead.
She lowered her head and put her tail down and trotted back like a true penitent to sit at my side.
We went home in disgrace with a kick to the bum.
We were very quiet on the short walk home.
I'd like to think she has learnt a lesson, but it'll be a while before I'll let her off the lead again.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Eucambene River, Wind, Trout and Platypus
Dude!!!!!
Had my fly fishing field trip this weekend and didn't catch a damm thing. But as you should know, thats not the point of getting out there amongst some beautiful scenery. Its all about having fun.
And have fun I did!
The Eucambene River is now dammed to form the Eucambene lake, but the 'Big Dry' (now in its 7th year of drought) has evapourated a good 76% of the dam's capacity. So the head of the river is pretty much back to its original state, although with about 3 foot less water than I would have liked.
But it was chock full of trout and thats a fact.
I got down there about 8.30am on Saturday (The Eucambene is about 30 mins west of Cooma - so about south 2 hours odd from Canberra). And the class headed off from there, about 12 all up. The thing about fly fishing is the weight of the line is what allows you to cast not the fly, unlike lure casting.
And the thing about trout fishing is you have to cast up stream from behind the trout (Trout face the direction of the current - its where the food is coming from). So when the wind is blowing down stream and your trying to cast up stream... it ain't gonna happen baby!!
So Saturday was a wash as far productivity was concerned. But I did learn a lot and I got some practical feild experience and covered a fair bit of the river. So from a recon perspective, very successful indeed.
On Sunday, I got up super early and headed off just as the sun was rising to beat the wind. It was while I was checking out a pool ahead of me that I saw the platypus!!! He (I guess) was have a swim with some trout just minding his own business. I stood up to get a better look and he he turned to look at me... just drifted by with the slow current and checked me out.
Amazingly cool stuff.
So no fish, by I do have the lay of the land and will return the fabulos Eucambene very soon and hopefully catch a fish on my fly rod!!
Had my fly fishing field trip this weekend and didn't catch a damm thing. But as you should know, thats not the point of getting out there amongst some beautiful scenery. Its all about having fun.
And have fun I did!
The Eucambene River is now dammed to form the Eucambene lake, but the 'Big Dry' (now in its 7th year of drought) has evapourated a good 76% of the dam's capacity. So the head of the river is pretty much back to its original state, although with about 3 foot less water than I would have liked.
But it was chock full of trout and thats a fact.
I got down there about 8.30am on Saturday (The Eucambene is about 30 mins west of Cooma - so about south 2 hours odd from Canberra). And the class headed off from there, about 12 all up. The thing about fly fishing is the weight of the line is what allows you to cast not the fly, unlike lure casting.
And the thing about trout fishing is you have to cast up stream from behind the trout (Trout face the direction of the current - its where the food is coming from). So when the wind is blowing down stream and your trying to cast up stream... it ain't gonna happen baby!!
So Saturday was a wash as far productivity was concerned. But I did learn a lot and I got some practical feild experience and covered a fair bit of the river. So from a recon perspective, very successful indeed.
On Sunday, I got up super early and headed off just as the sun was rising to beat the wind. It was while I was checking out a pool ahead of me that I saw the platypus!!! He (I guess) was have a swim with some trout just minding his own business. I stood up to get a better look and he he turned to look at me... just drifted by with the slow current and checked me out.
Amazingly cool stuff.
So no fish, by I do have the lay of the land and will return the fabulos Eucambene very soon and hopefully catch a fish on my fly rod!!
Friday, December 08, 2006
A candidate for SingStar
This song is brilliant! Its a fantastic little number, a duet between Marc Almond (yes THAT Marc Almond) and Gene Pitney (no, the other Gene Pitney).
The song is a ripper, a really great powerful belter.
But watch and listen for the 2 styles. Mr Almond has a lovelly velvet sound, really rich and smooth. He has a great range for this number, listen how he adds a bit of menace to his voice in the first verse!!
Now Mr Pitney (who sadly, passed away this year) is renowed for his pitch and vibrato and OWNS this song. But again, listen for how professionally he harmonises with Mr Almond in the third verse. Its effortless, they crank the power up to 11 - then release it suddenly!!
What a great duet, I'd love to see this number on a future SingStar... who knows?
[LINK]
The song is a ripper, a really great powerful belter.
But watch and listen for the 2 styles. Mr Almond has a lovelly velvet sound, really rich and smooth. He has a great range for this number, listen how he adds a bit of menace to his voice in the first verse!!
Now Mr Pitney (who sadly, passed away this year) is renowed for his pitch and vibrato and OWNS this song. But again, listen for how professionally he harmonises with Mr Almond in the third verse. Its effortless, they crank the power up to 11 - then release it suddenly!!
What a great duet, I'd love to see this number on a future SingStar... who knows?
[LINK]
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
BuffMan
Thought I'd give y'all an update on my gym goings on.
I've be hitting the weights for about 10 months now (usually 3 times a week at lunch time) and I have to say its been a great thing to do.
The whole going to the gym started from a back injury I gave myself last Christmas. I had been drinking like a fish and eating like a pig (which is not imply that pigs are no less renowned for their drinking than fish - but you get the point). According to the bathroom scales I was clipping 80kg and had a stomach, that was well fat.
Anyhow, I figured one morning I should do something about it all and began doing push ups and sit ups. Then I fucked my back up.
Added to all this my wife had begun her health kick and was looking fantastic!! I really needed to pick my game up.
With my back fucked up my posture was going to shit and I had less and less energy, but I was still eating the same crap. So I was gaining more weight because I was doing less, because I had less energy, because I was carrying so much surplus weight.
I made the decision to go to the gym and it has been a good decision.
But it hasn't just been about the gym, at the same time I radically changed my diet. Bread, potatoes and heavily fried food - OUT. Good quality vegetables, gluten free stuff and sensible sized serves - IN.
So in other words - regular exercise and a balanced diet = a fit and healthy BubbaJay.
I would make the point to differentiate between 'fitness' and 'healthy'. In so far as you don't get both from doing only one of them. Dropping potatoes and bread where a hard thing to do, but I tell you what, I was carrying a lot of bloat that cleared up after a couple of weeks.
Try it for yourself, if you don't believe me.
Anyway, this is not just the rambling of a fit and healthy man, science types also agree [LINK]
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Sooo near to the Holidays
Dammit!!! Is it Christmas yet ?!?
Well I know it isn't but I have 2 weeks left on the farm before I can skip away for 3 weeks of holidays and Dude - I have totally checked out.
Which is not to say I don't have stuff to do... Its the, 'can I be fucked to start anything with only a few days left before the silly season truely kicks in' attitude.
I guess I'm just tired, this week is a rare week - one without travel. So I'm just trying to avoid starting any work that might hang over my holidays.
Boy this reminds me of school, the holidays are never going to get here!!
Well I know it isn't but I have 2 weeks left on the farm before I can skip away for 3 weeks of holidays and Dude - I have totally checked out.
Which is not to say I don't have stuff to do... Its the, 'can I be fucked to start anything with only a few days left before the silly season truely kicks in' attitude.
I guess I'm just tired, this week is a rare week - one without travel. So I'm just trying to avoid starting any work that might hang over my holidays.
Boy this reminds me of school, the holidays are never going to get here!!
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Firefox vs Explorer
I'm not a technologist.
For example I have a 10 year old tv, an even older stereo system and few other mod cons (except a second hand PS2 upon which much Singstar, KillZone and Rogue Trooper is played)(and only those games because I've seen other people play them).
But when I come across something good, I like to share it with others. This morning my Microsoft Internet Explorer automatically began to download version 7 of itself. I find IE to be frustrating and limiting and slow, but the thing that pisses me off the most is the bloody updates that change files and registry entries BUT NEVER explain just what the fuck they doing.
So anyway, v.7 downloads and I begin again to submit to the hassle of installing it (its been available for a couple of weeks but I just did not want to load the fucker (most everytime I do, I lose my settings or the bastards arses around with the rest of the computer, chews up clock time and generally fats around eating chippies and watching old episodes of Red Dwarf while hogging the brown couch of valuble ROM)
I was not surprised when the Microsoft installation screen began asking me to update and change a whole bunch of my settings, in other words devote time and energy to critical decisions with little or no explanation of the choices not shown or the nature of the consequences.
I decided fuck that and did something I should have done a long time ago.
I downloaded and installed Mozilla's Firefox browser.
I will never go back.
Things work faster and run far more economically than the old fat and bloated application. I had 3 screens to click through for installation and my favourites folder was automatically imported.
If you have not yet tried Firefox, I strongly urge you to. It is the Pepsi Taste Test of the internet, you can decide for yourself.
But in my opinion Firefox is a welcome guest who is courteous and well mannered on your computer.
[Link]
For example I have a 10 year old tv, an even older stereo system and few other mod cons (except a second hand PS2 upon which much Singstar, KillZone and Rogue Trooper is played)(and only those games because I've seen other people play them).
But when I come across something good, I like to share it with others. This morning my Microsoft Internet Explorer automatically began to download version 7 of itself. I find IE to be frustrating and limiting and slow, but the thing that pisses me off the most is the bloody updates that change files and registry entries BUT NEVER explain just what the fuck they doing.
So anyway, v.7 downloads and I begin again to submit to the hassle of installing it (its been available for a couple of weeks but I just did not want to load the fucker (most everytime I do, I lose my settings or the bastards arses around with the rest of the computer, chews up clock time and generally fats around eating chippies and watching old episodes of Red Dwarf while hogging the brown couch of valuble ROM)
I was not surprised when the Microsoft installation screen began asking me to update and change a whole bunch of my settings, in other words devote time and energy to critical decisions with little or no explanation of the choices not shown or the nature of the consequences.
I decided fuck that and did something I should have done a long time ago.
I downloaded and installed Mozilla's Firefox browser.
I will never go back.
Things work faster and run far more economically than the old fat and bloated application. I had 3 screens to click through for installation and my favourites folder was automatically imported.
If you have not yet tried Firefox, I strongly urge you to. It is the Pepsi Taste Test of the internet, you can decide for yourself.
But in my opinion Firefox is a welcome guest who is courteous and well mannered on your computer.
[Link]
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Day of the Tradies
Had to take today off, which meant I was 'working from home'.
The reason for this well needed break was the installation of our new air conditioning system (two wall mounted split cycle systems). And as long as we're doing that karin and I scheduled in a whole bunch more stuff to get delivered or fixed.
So I had a plumber come by and fix our toilets and a few taps, got a skip delivered so I could finally empty the crap out of the garage (something very stisfying about flinging rubbish HARD into the back of a skip and watching it SMASH TO PEICES (the exact same way as if the Hulk had done it).
But with out a doubt the best thing we got delivered today was our new mattress. I don't know much about mattress technology, I have slept on a lot of mattress's, so I do have experience in determining what is good, better or best. So let me tell you friend with confidence when I say this mattress is The SHIT!!
I just put my head down for 5 minutes, I slept for 1.5 hours... and I did not want to get up!
There are a lot of reasons to want to go to bed ( I can think of 2) but this mattres is a whole book of reasons by itself.
The reason for this well needed break was the installation of our new air conditioning system (two wall mounted split cycle systems). And as long as we're doing that karin and I scheduled in a whole bunch more stuff to get delivered or fixed.
So I had a plumber come by and fix our toilets and a few taps, got a skip delivered so I could finally empty the crap out of the garage (something very stisfying about flinging rubbish HARD into the back of a skip and watching it SMASH TO PEICES (the exact same way as if the Hulk had done it).
But with out a doubt the best thing we got delivered today was our new mattress. I don't know much about mattress technology, I have slept on a lot of mattress's, so I do have experience in determining what is good, better or best. So let me tell you friend with confidence when I say this mattress is The SHIT!!
I just put my head down for 5 minutes, I slept for 1.5 hours... and I did not want to get up!
There are a lot of reasons to want to go to bed ( I can think of 2) but this mattres is a whole book of reasons by itself.
Keeping Busy
Well last Friday was my day on air at the radio station for the radiothon. Our goal was to raise $30k for a new transmitter over 10 days. By the time I got there it was day 8 and we had raised $17k (I'm glad to say by the end of Friday that had crept up to $20k).
I've been so busy with work and travel lately that I've not had the time to devote to Artsound FM, but I decided that I should take a day off and go in and help. Reporting for duty at 10am I was on air at 10.01am and co-hosted a 2 hour shift.
Then there was a 2 hour break manning the phones then back on for 2 more hours and rounded off my shift with more time manning the phones.
The good news is that by Sunday 6pm we had raised the $30k!!! So I feel happy that my small contribution helped.
I've been so busy with work and travel lately that I've not had the time to devote to Artsound FM, but I decided that I should take a day off and go in and help. Reporting for duty at 10am I was on air at 10.01am and co-hosted a 2 hour shift.
Then there was a 2 hour break manning the phones then back on for 2 more hours and rounded off my shift with more time manning the phones.
The good news is that by Sunday 6pm we had raised the $30k!!! So I feel happy that my small contribution helped.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Crazy Discount Weather!!!
ITS ALL GOT TO GO!!!!!!!!!!
You would not believe it partner, last Wednesday it snowed on Canberra. In fact it snowed on a great deal on the East Coast, from Hobart up to the Blue Mountains.
Please bear in mind this is November (or more accurately Movember!!) and therefore late Spring early Summer. Did I also mention this was Australia?!?
And today its 34C+ with bush fires raging from one end of the coast to the other. You would be hard pressed to believe me I know!
A lot of people may want to point to global warming in much the same way our ancestors may have pointed to witches in order to ascribe blame for all the ills of our weather. I'd suggest it was more a case of a very cold snap coming off the Antartic at an unusual time.
Or witchcraft....
There's a strong case for both, really.
You would not believe it partner, last Wednesday it snowed on Canberra. In fact it snowed on a great deal on the East Coast, from Hobart up to the Blue Mountains.
Please bear in mind this is November (or more accurately Movember!!) and therefore late Spring early Summer. Did I also mention this was Australia?!?
And today its 34C+ with bush fires raging from one end of the coast to the other. You would be hard pressed to believe me I know!
A lot of people may want to point to global warming in much the same way our ancestors may have pointed to witches in order to ascribe blame for all the ills of our weather. I'd suggest it was more a case of a very cold snap coming off the Antartic at an unusual time.
Or witchcraft....
There's a strong case for both, really.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Corny Arnie
Do you remember 'Last Action Hero'?
I do, but only because there was a great AC/DC single on the soundtrack - Big Gun. The version on the soundtrack (yes I bought it from the bargin basement bin) was a studio take, you can even hear the sound engineers at the end going 'that was awesome!'
It is definetly a classic AC/DC track and thanks to YouTube we can now watch the video including Arnie fooling around as Angus!!! (ho-ho now we larf!!)
Just classsic!
[LINK]
I do, but only because there was a great AC/DC single on the soundtrack - Big Gun. The version on the soundtrack (yes I bought it from the bargin basement bin) was a studio take, you can even hear the sound engineers at the end going 'that was awesome!'
It is definetly a classic AC/DC track and thanks to YouTube we can now watch the video including Arnie fooling around as Angus!!! (ho-ho now we larf!!)
Just classsic!
[LINK]
Now I Fly Fish
Got my fly rod yesterday and man it is sweet!!
For those who care its a Sage LE series 5 weight (even comes with its own case, which is handy). I'll spool on the line tonight and get some practice casting in for class next week.
I have to say that I've veiwed fly fishing as something of a goal from the moment I started this great hobby about 3 years ago. To be honest it is not as hard as it looks to cast, if you have ever held a tennis raquet and hit a ball - you can fly cast.
The great thing about the course I'm on is that at the end of it we go on a fishing trip!!!
Very good chance I'll catch a fish on one of those!!
For those who care its a Sage LE series 5 weight (even comes with its own case, which is handy). I'll spool on the line tonight and get some practice casting in for class next week.
I have to say that I've veiwed fly fishing as something of a goal from the moment I started this great hobby about 3 years ago. To be honest it is not as hard as it looks to cast, if you have ever held a tennis raquet and hit a ball - you can fly cast.
The great thing about the course I'm on is that at the end of it we go on a fishing trip!!!
Very good chance I'll catch a fish on one of those!!
Thursday, November 16, 2006
A good use of your time
You have to wonder, who gets up in the morning and thinks to them selves - 'I reckon I'll teach some dolphins how to sing the Batman theme.'
And they still get paid, gotta love the science industry
[LINK]
And they still get paid, gotta love the science industry
[LINK]
Friday, November 10, 2006
Monday, November 06, 2006
Notes from Adelaide cont'd
Now I'm back at my desk (for today at least, I'm off again tomorrow for a week) I thought I would finish off my previous post about Adelaide.
I'm not feeling too inspired to write elegant prose, so in no particular order;
ADELAIDE HIGHLIGHTS
Had a cab driver who knew Damien Martin personally (showed me photos of the pair of them together) and claimed he had at one time or another transported most of the Aussie cricket squad around town. He was a cheerful enough chap but his B.O. was blinding.
On the Saturday after climbing out of my hangover, I hired a bike by the River Torrens and had great fun going for a bike ride to the beach. Didn't get there in the end as my work colleague called me (he had just climbed out of his hangover) and I convinced him to join me on the bikes. What jolly good fun we had, up hill and down dale and going a bit off road here and there... An afternoon of total regressive fun!!
Adelaide has one main drag whose opposite ends are as chalk and cheese. The northern end (Rundell St) has many cafes and restaurants, quite a classy district. While the southern (Hindley St) end is the red light district with quite a lot of seedy bars and strip joints.
There is a LOT of heroin on the streets.
On our last night in town I wanted to get away from the city (had enough of underage drunks, heroin addicts and seedy pubs - this is what happens when you travel with a Marine!). So we headed past the Gabba and the statue of the Don and found this neat little pub that had great music and atmosphere. Food was awesome, folks were friendly and on Mondays they host 'Pub Cinema' - on the bill for next week was 'Return of the Jedi' and Rocky'.
Overall impressions;
Adelaide has some great buildings and they've done a great job with public art. The food is wonderful, but I would expect nothing less from a city so close to the Barossa Valley. It was a fair bit cooler for me that week, but this is the changing of the seasons. Very easy to get around the city and the city is close to the airport.
Final conclusions - Could I live there... I would say yes I could, but I prefer where I am.
Honourable Mention
Another cartoon from Weebl and Bob, this time with a name drop of someone we should all know... [Link]
Friday, November 03, 2006
Sick Daze
I got back from Sydney on Tuesday night, just in time to make it to my Fly Fishing course I started this week.
But I woke up on Wednesday with a brand new passenger in my gut. It hit me about 10am at work and kept up a steady flow of house cleaning for 2 days, I lost 3 kilos. Today being Friday I managed my first solids, toast and marmite.
I know I'm feeling better when the first thing I want to do around the house is clean. But not having eaten anything for 2 days my energy level is low.
Now I actually have a legitmate excuse for my Playstation, but I feel guilty about 'wasting a day off'...
I don't think I'm quite right in the head yet.
But I woke up on Wednesday with a brand new passenger in my gut. It hit me about 10am at work and kept up a steady flow of house cleaning for 2 days, I lost 3 kilos. Today being Friday I managed my first solids, toast and marmite.
I know I'm feeling better when the first thing I want to do around the house is clean. But not having eaten anything for 2 days my energy level is low.
Now I actually have a legitmate excuse for my Playstation, but I feel guilty about 'wasting a day off'...
I don't think I'm quite right in the head yet.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Freakin Stenches Man!!
Everyone has a Zombie plan
Mine invloves hiding out at a mall (not original I know, but practical) then wait for winter to freeze those suckers and get out there with a hammer... SMACK DOWN time baby.
Then I decleare myself supreme ruler etc Institute a 'No John Denver' music policy with brutal consequences for those who disobey, print loads of 'Jez is Tops' t-shirts - that must be worn on my birthday and no bogans. Period.
Mine invloves hiding out at a mall (not original I know, but practical) then wait for winter to freeze those suckers and get out there with a hammer... SMACK DOWN time baby.
Then I decleare myself supreme ruler etc Institute a 'No John Denver' music policy with brutal consequences for those who disobey, print loads of 'Jez is Tops' t-shirts - that must be worn on my birthday and no bogans. Period.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
First time in Adelaide
Hi y'all, I'm in the South of Australia today - listening to Johnny Cash sing Big River (the 1958 version from the Johnny Cash Show).
Something of an associated here in this town as the Murray River flows close by. Actually Adelaide is on about the same longatude as Sydney, so it ain't all that far south as you would think (Melbourne is further South by far)(Some say not far enough).
I haven't seen too much of the city yet, only flew in last night, but it looks pretty nice. Lots of colonial era buildings about with some medium sized hills off to the west.
Will go for a walk later today and report.
Something of an associated here in this town as the Murray River flows close by. Actually Adelaide is on about the same longatude as Sydney, so it ain't all that far south as you would think (Melbourne is further South by far)(Some say not far enough).
I haven't seen too much of the city yet, only flew in last night, but it looks pretty nice. Lots of colonial era buildings about with some medium sized hills off to the west.
Will go for a walk later today and report.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Songs you'll never hear from SingStar
I do enjoy SingStar, probably the best use of technology for those too lazy to muck about with UltraStar code. Having reviewed the track listings for the new Anthems game coming out, I was struck by the fact that the only Pet Shop Boys song they could find was an Elvis cover.
Which got me thinking, how do they cull their playlists? 2 Jimmy Barnes songs is pretty bad (especially since one of them isn't Khe Shan...) and why Black Sabbaths Paranoid (why not Iron Man or War Pigs...).
Songs I'd like to see on Jeremy's SingStarRocks;
- I Wanna Rock - Twisted Sister
- Jump - Van Halen
- Legs - ZZ TOP
- MOFO on a MotorCycle - Machine Gun Fellatio
- Whip It - Devo
- I Love Rock and Roll - Joan Jett
- I Was Made for Loving you - KISS
- Mama Said Knock you out - LL Cool J
- God Save the Queen - Sex Pistols
- Killed by Death - Motorhead
- Back in Black - AC/DC
- Wild Hearted Son - The Cult
- Jane Said - Jane's Addicition
- Dancing With Myself - Billy Idol
- Welcome to the Jungle - Guns 'n' Roses
- Enter Sandman - Mettalica
- Dude loked like a lady - Aerosmith
- Stairway to Heaven - Led Zepplin
- Highway to the DangerZone - Kenny Loggins
- Rollercoaster - Red Hot Chilli Peppers
- Burden in My Hand - Soundgarden
- Greg the Stop Sign - TISM
- Candy - Iggy Pop
- Closer - Nine Inch Nails (but with this video)
- Schools out - Alice Cooper
- Binkini Girls - The Cramps
- Louie Louie - The Kingsmen
- Underdog - The DirtBombs
- Peace Frog - The Doors
- 911 is a Joke - Public Enemy
- The Number of the Beast - Iron Maiden
Monday, October 09, 2006
This years must have stocking filler!!
SingStar has a new game coming out for release in time for Christmas (Baby Jesus would approve!). They are calling it SingStar - Legends, and it looks a whole lot better than the disappointing Anthems.
Track list for Australia/NZ release below;
Aretha Franklin - Respect
Jimmy Barnes -No Second Prize
Black Sabbath - Paranoid
Jimmy Barnes - Working Class Man
David Bowie - Life On Mars?
John Farnham - You're The Voice
Dusty Springfield - Son Of A Preacher Man
John Paul Young - Love Is In The Air
Elton John - Rocket Man
Elvis Presley - Blue Suede Shoes
Jackie Wilson - Reet Petite (The Finest Girl You Ever Want To Meet)
John Lennon - Imagine
Johnny Cash - Ring Of Fire
Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama
Madonna - Papa Don't Preach
Marvin Gaye - I Heard It Through The Grapevine
Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit
Midnight Oil - Beds Are Burning
Pet Shop Boys - Always On My Mind
Silverchair - Tomorrow
Sam Cooke - What A Wonderful World
The Jackson 5 - I Want You Back
The Monkees - Daydream Believer
The Police - Roxanne
The Righteous Brothers - Unchained Melody
The Angels - No Secrets
The Easybeats - Friday On My Mind
Tina Turner - What's Love Got To Do With It?
U2 - Vertigo
Whitney Houston - Greatest Love Of All
Track list for Australia/NZ release below;
Aretha Franklin - Respect
Jimmy Barnes -No Second Prize
Black Sabbath - Paranoid
Jimmy Barnes - Working Class Man
David Bowie - Life On Mars?
John Farnham - You're The Voice
Dusty Springfield - Son Of A Preacher Man
John Paul Young - Love Is In The Air
Elton John - Rocket Man
Elvis Presley - Blue Suede Shoes
Jackie Wilson - Reet Petite (The Finest Girl You Ever Want To Meet)
John Lennon - Imagine
Johnny Cash - Ring Of Fire
Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama
Madonna - Papa Don't Preach
Marvin Gaye - I Heard It Through The Grapevine
Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit
Midnight Oil - Beds Are Burning
Pet Shop Boys - Always On My Mind
Silverchair - Tomorrow
Sam Cooke - What A Wonderful World
The Jackson 5 - I Want You Back
The Monkees - Daydream Believer
The Police - Roxanne
The Righteous Brothers - Unchained Melody
The Angels - No Secrets
The Easybeats - Friday On My Mind
Tina Turner - What's Love Got To Do With It?
U2 - Vertigo
Whitney Houston - Greatest Love Of All
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Notes from San Diego Airport
I very rarely have time to catch up with myself when I'm travelling - But this time I decided to make some notes.
San Diego is about 40 minutes odd south from Carlsbad (where I usually stay) and is a pretty easy drive along the freeway (so called because the speed limit posted serves as a 'suggested minimum' to most drivers). So I left early to beat the security rush and because I hate waiting in the security line, or any line for that matter.
Things I can tell you about San Diego airport;
- Its a lot like Perth, minus the international flights. It has the same small departure lounge with one or two concession stands selling overpriced water [There was a recent relaxing of the liquid no fly rules, provided you buy the liquid INSIDE the terminal - Fuckers].
- People covet the electrical outlets so as to charge phones or in my case watch dvd's. Actually I missed my spot and wound up reading a local newspaper cover to cover. Did you know Encinitas celebrated its 20th anniversary as an incorporated borough of San Diego last weekend?!? Really, you didn't - how sad for you. Then you probably also didn't know about the Viking Festival they held - kind of like a medieval fair, if Panterra organised it (I guess, I mean what do you do at a Viking festival "Hey man, Beowulf is the shit!!", "Oh yeah Bro, you totally got that right.", "So dude you wanna drink some larger and ravish some hot chicks?", "Yes I do my long haired Viking friend, Yes I do...").
- I discovered that it is now possible to get $1 coins in the States and that these $1 coins are rejected by every vending machine I could find.
- In San Diego, Mexican food is the equivalent of Chinese food in Australia, only with a higher level of sanitation - but a lot less flavour (oh yeah, I went there).
I was also touched by a young girl and her parents, she had to have been around 12yrs old for sure. She looked happy and quite unremarkable except for this wonderful pair of Gold Mickey Mouse ears. She wore that hat with all the pride of a Marine - you go girl!!
Besides all that, it was an airport terminal. My only glitch was with the ticketing machine, it was self serve. I hate technology, I hate it with a vengeance - and no wise arse remarks about this Blog. I'm talking about the kind of technology Geeky MacFreaky comes up with "To make your life easier" or in this case to fuck with your mind AGAIN as you try and comprehend how get your boarding pass. I despise with cold hatred those sorts of innovations - I want someone behind that counter, I never want to have to think for myself while I book in. That is not my job.
I'm looking at my hastily rearranged flight itinerary (so I can get out to Baltimore for 4 days of training). The gosh darn machine wants my booking number, what they hell does my booking number look like!?!?! I try another menu option, now it wants my frequent flyer card - but won't read the damm thing. Option 3 tells me to pick up the phone and it will connect me with an operator - FUCK YOU!!! I am not talking to chimp-stuffing-olive-munching-cheese-cracking-goat-loving-somabitch!!!!
Then the baggage handler guy with minimal English and a nice smile presses the buttons for me and I work out how to upgrade myself....
I feel small and ungrateful, I slink away toward the security check point - ashamed and dishonoured.
Latter as I relax in a seat with more legroom watching my dvd a buddy 'gave' me, I think to myself, "Maybe I don't hate technology, maybe I'm just getting old."
On the plus side, at my age I can buy all the cool stuff I want when I want (if my wife will let me!)
San Diego is about 40 minutes odd south from Carlsbad (where I usually stay) and is a pretty easy drive along the freeway (so called because the speed limit posted serves as a 'suggested minimum' to most drivers). So I left early to beat the security rush and because I hate waiting in the security line, or any line for that matter.
Things I can tell you about San Diego airport;
- Its a lot like Perth, minus the international flights. It has the same small departure lounge with one or two concession stands selling overpriced water [There was a recent relaxing of the liquid no fly rules, provided you buy the liquid INSIDE the terminal - Fuckers].
- People covet the electrical outlets so as to charge phones or in my case watch dvd's. Actually I missed my spot and wound up reading a local newspaper cover to cover. Did you know Encinitas celebrated its 20th anniversary as an incorporated borough of San Diego last weekend?!? Really, you didn't - how sad for you. Then you probably also didn't know about the Viking Festival they held - kind of like a medieval fair, if Panterra organised it (I guess, I mean what do you do at a Viking festival "Hey man, Beowulf is the shit!!", "Oh yeah Bro, you totally got that right.", "So dude you wanna drink some larger and ravish some hot chicks?", "Yes I do my long haired Viking friend, Yes I do...").
- I discovered that it is now possible to get $1 coins in the States and that these $1 coins are rejected by every vending machine I could find.
- In San Diego, Mexican food is the equivalent of Chinese food in Australia, only with a higher level of sanitation - but a lot less flavour (oh yeah, I went there).
I was also touched by a young girl and her parents, she had to have been around 12yrs old for sure. She looked happy and quite unremarkable except for this wonderful pair of Gold Mickey Mouse ears. She wore that hat with all the pride of a Marine - you go girl!!
Besides all that, it was an airport terminal. My only glitch was with the ticketing machine, it was self serve. I hate technology, I hate it with a vengeance - and no wise arse remarks about this Blog. I'm talking about the kind of technology Geeky MacFreaky comes up with "To make your life easier" or in this case to fuck with your mind AGAIN as you try and comprehend how get your boarding pass. I despise with cold hatred those sorts of innovations - I want someone behind that counter, I never want to have to think for myself while I book in. That is not my job.
I'm looking at my hastily rearranged flight itinerary (so I can get out to Baltimore for 4 days of training). The gosh darn machine wants my booking number, what they hell does my booking number look like!?!?! I try another menu option, now it wants my frequent flyer card - but won't read the damm thing. Option 3 tells me to pick up the phone and it will connect me with an operator - FUCK YOU!!! I am not talking to chimp-stuffing-olive-munching-cheese-cracking-goat-loving-somabitch!!!!
Then the baggage handler guy with minimal English and a nice smile presses the buttons for me and I work out how to upgrade myself....
I feel small and ungrateful, I slink away toward the security check point - ashamed and dishonoured.
Latter as I relax in a seat with more legroom watching my dvd a buddy 'gave' me, I think to myself, "Maybe I don't hate technology, maybe I'm just getting old."
On the plus side, at my age I can buy all the cool stuff I want when I want (if my wife will let me!)
Far from the maddening crowd
I write this on sunny Monday morning in Baltimore a place I can almost find my way around in the dark. Which is what you need when you fly in from Chicago at 10.30pm local, having started at 10.30am in San Diego. Which is where I have been for the last week. But 10.30pm ET is only 7.30pm WT and about lunch time in Canberra, but only 8.30pm central...
Anyway, I'm awake and fully functioning sitting at a spare desk of my companies Baltimore office and I thought I'd post a note. All going well I'll be home this Saturday in time to play my regular morning soccer game!!
This month is just going to fly by, I have this Saturday to myself and every other waking hour is spoken for. But that is not to say it's not going to be fun October holds the following, an intensive radio presenters course, a week in Brisbane (for work), an all day fitness assesment, cleaning and polishing the deck, fishing and most importantly Halloween!! Which doesn't get much of run here in Australia - sadly.
Somewhere in the next month I hope to set up our first Halloween party, we'll have scary stories, bobbing for apples and budgies (have been watching Bottom series 3 on the planes)
Anyway, I'm awake and fully functioning sitting at a spare desk of my companies Baltimore office and I thought I'd post a note. All going well I'll be home this Saturday in time to play my regular morning soccer game!!
This month is just going to fly by, I have this Saturday to myself and every other waking hour is spoken for. But that is not to say it's not going to be fun October holds the following, an intensive radio presenters course, a week in Brisbane (for work), an all day fitness assesment, cleaning and polishing the deck, fishing and most importantly Halloween!! Which doesn't get much of run here in Australia - sadly.
Somewhere in the next month I hope to set up our first Halloween party, we'll have scary stories, bobbing for apples and budgies (have been watching Bottom series 3 on the planes)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)