Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Na, na, na, naa, na, na ,na, naaaa READING
FINALLY. The post to outdo all posts. The 'OMIGOD I CAN'T BELIEVE IT'S OVER' Reading Festival reflection. I seriously can't believe that it was 3 and a half months ago that I saw Pearl Jam (aka the day I could die).
(EDIT: Photos to come... they're on my home pc)
I checked my phone a few weeks after Reading, as I remember crawling into my tent early on the Monday morning (as the post Pearl Jam high started fading..) and saving a few instant thoughts. It reads "Kaiser 4, Franz 4.5, Wolfm 4, Millen 3, RBF 5 - cover of Enter Sandman FUCKIN A, PJ 5, Betterman, alive, even flow, animal, why go. Placebo 2.5 - set short cos of power failure. Tent -9, smoke inhalation much? Dan and Nick more fucked than Carol n Leah together. Being fed skunk fudge..?? Yuk "
I'll start from the beginning...
We rocked up to Reading station bright eyed on Friday morning (after showering and last minute bathroom runs at home.. a luxury we'd soon appreciate) where Carol met us looking a little 'disheveled'. It seems the happy campers that graciously set up our tents the night before had no option but to entertain themselves with cider and camp stories. After hearing this, we do a quick cider stock up ourselves before heading to the grounds (4 cartons of strongbow + 1 of carling later..).
WHAT A SIGHT. We entered the camping entrance... it was like you would imagine a shanty town.. but times 1000. Tents are piled on one another. I began to quietly freak out in the quiet, clean and hygenic part of my mind. 'No Rez!' I tell myself, 'You are here for the music! Just like those that attended Woodstock and Glastonbury before you... you should be revelling in this opportunity!'. And that was before I'd even cracked a tinny.
We got banded up, avoided looking inside the tiny tents we were to call home and headed for the main arena - also avoiding smelling, let alone looking at the "toilets" we were to use for the weekend. SHUDDER.
Friday was to be a fairly quiet day laced with anticipation.. Panic! At The Disco were playing fairly early on and I was hyped to finally be seeing them, but, Franz Ferdinand were capping the day off and for over 3 years I've been taken by their poppy rock anthems. There was no other band that could top the days bill. Or was there?
Panic! began as I was running into the arena. (What? Rez arrives late for something? EVEN live music? Never!!) As it turns out my timing couldn't have been better.. just as they were cracking into their first song, some dickhead bottled the singer square in the forehead and he was out for six. After some TLC, he got to his feet, told the crowd to aim for the other side of his face and powered through a ripping set. Their cover of Karma Police made it that much sweeter. I am very muchly looking forward to seeing them at Brixton next month. (*** 1/2) (EDIT: Their Brixton gig was AMAZING!!)
I had nothing else highlighted on my schedule until The Vines hit the side stage 4 hours later. Back to camp for drinks and frivolity for a few hours. We managed to lose pretty much everyone, so it was up to Jarrod and myself to mission it through the packed tent for The Vines. I hadn't heard any of their new stuff, but was weary after hearing what a rough patch they had gone through of late. I wasn't too disappointed though as Craig Nicholls presence on stage was enough to placate my Aussie music craving. That coupled with the fact they played both 'Outtathaway!' and 'Get Free', I felt like I was back at the Grand for a Thursday session. Not a huge fan of the new, mellow stuff. Ease off the anti-D's Craig. (***)
On reflection, I give Kaiser Chiefs close to 5 stars. They were AMAZING. I never really appreciated their electronic Brit sound, but live... it radiated. Jarrod and I had a moment that hit home during 'Oh My God' (lyrics shouted again and again during the chorus - "OH MY GOD I CAN'T BELIEVE IT, I'VE NEVER BEEN THIS FAR AWAY FROM HOME"). This was made even more magical by a 10 minute extended version and rain falling in buckets. Predictably, 'I Predict A Riot' made the entire crowd dance like the drunken idiots they were. Spectacular. (**** 1/2)
Closing out the first night were Franz Ferdinand. I'm sorry, but I defy anyone to say they don't appreciate how FUN their music is. With this in mind, we were nowhere near close enough to the stage. Despite Jarrod's major jetlag issue, we missioned our way around and inside the D-Barrier. It was here we stood for over half an hour enduring intermittent rain, mass sing-alongs to Tenacious D's 'Tribute' (BE YOU ANGELS? NAY! WE ARE BUT MEN.... ROCK... OOOOOOOOOOON), and Jarvis Cocker's 'made for Reading' karaoke... (I have GOT to get his photo up asap)
DAY 2 - SATURDAY
Having made it through my first night in a tent, complete with a visit from Leah and Carol in a bit of a 'special state' for cuddles until the wee hours, I felt more than ready for day 2. The sun was absolutely beaming which was in complete contrast to the night before... lots of muddy patches today, definitely ditched the thongs for good old Doc Martens.
Today we had plenty going on. Unfortunately it was night of decisions... Muse, Raconteurs or Reel Big Fish... argh!! It was also a day for my inner punks head to rear up in excitement...
Firstly we saw Wolfmother take to the main stage mid-afternoon. Having seen them in London months earlier I was keen to see how they'd come across to the masses. Unfortunately not a lot of the crowd knew them, and what they did know seem constricted to one song (WOMAAAAAN!!). Token Aussies in the crowd got into it, I loved it, but I am biased. Smaller show was much better. (***)
The rest of the afternoon I believe was spent wandering around. Jet weren't on until 7:30pm and we had, once again, managed to lose everyone in the crowd. I seem to remember drinking a fair bit of Carling this day followed by hours of trawling through the crowds to find a toilet that worked. HAHAHAHA YEAH RIGHT. ahem.
So, Jet. I like Jet. Or should I say liked? I don't know. I haven't heard their new album, and you know what it's like, loving a band then seeing their new stuff live without knowing it... I was, unsure. Whatever I thought of it they reeled off a lot of good shit from the debut album and 10,000 odd dirty revellers singing Are You Gonna Be My Girl can't be that bad. (*** 1/2)
The next 4 hours were filled with resounding energy. We caught half (unfortunately we missed the start) of Millencolin, very tight set with some classic oldies chucked in. Mr Clean for fucksake!! (****). They were followed by Anti-Flag. This was some old school punk... I remember listening to them so long ago.. it was great to see them live. So energetic.. I've never seen a circle pit quite like it (except for Tool in Glasgow, but that's another story).
Finally we got to 10pm and the decision had to be made. My vote was with.... Reel Big Fish. It seemed insane at the time to pick them over Muse (we knew we'd be seeing Raconteurs in Oct... EDIT: fucking brilliant!!) but who were we kidding? Everyone wanted to see Muse, there was no way we'd get near the front and I wasn't quite sure of their new stuff. Plus, RBF playing at a festival as big as Reading? They were going to go fucking ape. Our gut instinct paid off.
They played an array of stuff (withholding Sell Out... a big call which didn't go down well with the crowd). We did however get a Metallica cover, Suburban Rhythm played in about 20 different styles and from memory a Gunners cover (but don't hold me to that). It went off and that's all that mattered. I was so, so happy that we got right in amongst it and skanked our little legs off (and punched and kicked..). To add to this... we caught RBF beach balls thrown out to the crowd... HELLO PILLOWS FOR OUR TENT!!! Winners are grinners. (**** 1/2)
FINAL DAY – SUNDAY
Today was all about the main arena. We stayed there all day (mostly to get a position for Pearl Jam, which, unfortunately we failed at due to some, errr, side tracking). Today was also about outsiders! Andy and Dan both joined our frivolity (I’m sure they are still wondering why). It was with great delight that we showed Andy the state of the “toilets” we were subjected to all weekend, needless to say, he was less than impressed.
After this, and a tour of tent-world, it was off to the main arena for some more silliness. I will never, ever drink another Carling again. Or cider for that matter.
As we watched Less Than Jake, Bullet For My Valentine, Slayer and My Chemical Romance (when I say ‘watched’ I mean looked up at occasionally during trips to the bar and neighbouring toilets) I unfortunately got a bit more carried away – Nick and Dan NOT helping the situation. To persuade Dan not to eat the skunk fudge (he’d already eaten the hash brownies which were revolting), I had to eat half a square of the crap. Sadly, he still went mental… it could have something to do with the double strength cider… all I can say is, he ended up with a black eye after Pearl Jam due to making the barrier. I’m stunned he made it out alive.
It started to get dark and working toilets became very scarce. I was afraid if I kept drinking I’d completely miss PJ due to lining up for one that did work. It was mission time. Placebo began…. And err, finished rather abruptly. From what I remember (yes, Carol and I did a MAJOR toilet mission to the other side of the arena during this set) they got about half way in and the speakers carked it… so, the following half an hour was everyone standing around wondering what had happened. Brilliant. (So needless to say I’d give Placebo about ** for their stint..)
We finally felt the excitement enough to surge towards the stage… Pearl Jam were within an hour of sweeping us off our feet. Arrrrh!! Most of the people we were with were either so trolleyed or so worn out from the weekends activities they, unbelievably, piked it before or a few songs into their set. UNBELIEVABLE. Towsty and I eventually perched ourselves on the D-Barrier gate and watched as Eddie drew everyone in. It was breathtaking! They played everything… Animal, World Wide Suicide, Dissident, Even Flow, Once, Jeremy (!!), Better Man.. they closed out the first Encore with Alive and played three more tracks before leaving the stage. I had goosebumps the whole way through and actually cried… Better Man took me back to being 10 years old and staying up really late to hear these cool new songs on the radio.. I didn’t know back then how that would shape my future but it all came about face on the last weekend in August!
So, that was it. We trudged slowly back to our tents. Andy was fortunate enough to be getting the train back to London that evening. I remember him telling me to stop smiling.. I must’ve looked delusional… but it was one of the best weekends of my life!
The next day, weary and slowly we packed away most of our stuff (no, my £8 Argos tent stayed put) hiked to the station and made our way home. I never remember a shower being SO good.
(EDIT: Photos to come... they're on my home pc)
I checked my phone a few weeks after Reading, as I remember crawling into my tent early on the Monday morning (as the post Pearl Jam high started fading..) and saving a few instant thoughts. It reads "Kaiser 4, Franz 4.5, Wolfm 4, Millen 3, RBF 5 - cover of Enter Sandman FUCKIN A, PJ 5, Betterman, alive, even flow, animal, why go. Placebo 2.5 - set short cos of power failure. Tent -9, smoke inhalation much? Dan and Nick more fucked than Carol n Leah together. Being fed skunk fudge..?? Yuk "
I'll start from the beginning...
We rocked up to Reading station bright eyed on Friday morning (after showering and last minute bathroom runs at home.. a luxury we'd soon appreciate) where Carol met us looking a little 'disheveled'. It seems the happy campers that graciously set up our tents the night before had no option but to entertain themselves with cider and camp stories. After hearing this, we do a quick cider stock up ourselves before heading to the grounds (4 cartons of strongbow + 1 of carling later..).
WHAT A SIGHT. We entered the camping entrance... it was like you would imagine a shanty town.. but times 1000. Tents are piled on one another. I began to quietly freak out in the quiet, clean and hygenic part of my mind. 'No Rez!' I tell myself, 'You are here for the music! Just like those that attended Woodstock and Glastonbury before you... you should be revelling in this opportunity!'. And that was before I'd even cracked a tinny.
We got banded up, avoided looking inside the tiny tents we were to call home and headed for the main arena - also avoiding smelling, let alone looking at the "toilets" we were to use for the weekend. SHUDDER.
Friday was to be a fairly quiet day laced with anticipation.. Panic! At The Disco were playing fairly early on and I was hyped to finally be seeing them, but, Franz Ferdinand were capping the day off and for over 3 years I've been taken by their poppy rock anthems. There was no other band that could top the days bill. Or was there?
Panic! began as I was running into the arena. (What? Rez arrives late for something? EVEN live music? Never!!) As it turns out my timing couldn't have been better.. just as they were cracking into their first song, some dickhead bottled the singer square in the forehead and he was out for six. After some TLC, he got to his feet, told the crowd to aim for the other side of his face and powered through a ripping set. Their cover of Karma Police made it that much sweeter. I am very muchly looking forward to seeing them at Brixton next month. (*** 1/2) (EDIT: Their Brixton gig was AMAZING!!)
I had nothing else highlighted on my schedule until The Vines hit the side stage 4 hours later. Back to camp for drinks and frivolity for a few hours. We managed to lose pretty much everyone, so it was up to Jarrod and myself to mission it through the packed tent for The Vines. I hadn't heard any of their new stuff, but was weary after hearing what a rough patch they had gone through of late. I wasn't too disappointed though as Craig Nicholls presence on stage was enough to placate my Aussie music craving. That coupled with the fact they played both 'Outtathaway!' and 'Get Free', I felt like I was back at the Grand for a Thursday session. Not a huge fan of the new, mellow stuff. Ease off the anti-D's Craig. (***)
On reflection, I give Kaiser Chiefs close to 5 stars. They were AMAZING. I never really appreciated their electronic Brit sound, but live... it radiated. Jarrod and I had a moment that hit home during 'Oh My God' (lyrics shouted again and again during the chorus - "OH MY GOD I CAN'T BELIEVE IT, I'VE NEVER BEEN THIS FAR AWAY FROM HOME"). This was made even more magical by a 10 minute extended version and rain falling in buckets. Predictably, 'I Predict A Riot' made the entire crowd dance like the drunken idiots they were. Spectacular. (**** 1/2)
Closing out the first night were Franz Ferdinand. I'm sorry, but I defy anyone to say they don't appreciate how FUN their music is. With this in mind, we were nowhere near close enough to the stage. Despite Jarrod's major jetlag issue, we missioned our way around and inside the D-Barrier. It was here we stood for over half an hour enduring intermittent rain, mass sing-alongs to Tenacious D's 'Tribute' (BE YOU ANGELS? NAY! WE ARE BUT MEN.... ROCK... OOOOOOOOOOON), and Jarvis Cocker's 'made for Reading' karaoke... (I have GOT to get his photo up asap)
DAY 2 - SATURDAY
Having made it through my first night in a tent, complete with a visit from Leah and Carol in a bit of a 'special state' for cuddles until the wee hours, I felt more than ready for day 2. The sun was absolutely beaming which was in complete contrast to the night before... lots of muddy patches today, definitely ditched the thongs for good old Doc Martens.
Today we had plenty going on. Unfortunately it was night of decisions... Muse, Raconteurs or Reel Big Fish... argh!! It was also a day for my inner punks head to rear up in excitement...
Firstly we saw Wolfmother take to the main stage mid-afternoon. Having seen them in London months earlier I was keen to see how they'd come across to the masses. Unfortunately not a lot of the crowd knew them, and what they did know seem constricted to one song (WOMAAAAAN!!). Token Aussies in the crowd got into it, I loved it, but I am biased. Smaller show was much better. (***)
The rest of the afternoon I believe was spent wandering around. Jet weren't on until 7:30pm and we had, once again, managed to lose everyone in the crowd. I seem to remember drinking a fair bit of Carling this day followed by hours of trawling through the crowds to find a toilet that worked. HAHAHAHA YEAH RIGHT. ahem.
So, Jet. I like Jet. Or should I say liked? I don't know. I haven't heard their new album, and you know what it's like, loving a band then seeing their new stuff live without knowing it... I was, unsure. Whatever I thought of it they reeled off a lot of good shit from the debut album and 10,000 odd dirty revellers singing Are You Gonna Be My Girl can't be that bad. (*** 1/2)
The next 4 hours were filled with resounding energy. We caught half (unfortunately we missed the start) of Millencolin, very tight set with some classic oldies chucked in. Mr Clean for fucksake!! (****). They were followed by Anti-Flag. This was some old school punk... I remember listening to them so long ago.. it was great to see them live. So energetic.. I've never seen a circle pit quite like it (except for Tool in Glasgow, but that's another story).
Finally we got to 10pm and the decision had to be made. My vote was with.... Reel Big Fish. It seemed insane at the time to pick them over Muse (we knew we'd be seeing Raconteurs in Oct... EDIT: fucking brilliant!!) but who were we kidding? Everyone wanted to see Muse, there was no way we'd get near the front and I wasn't quite sure of their new stuff. Plus, RBF playing at a festival as big as Reading? They were going to go fucking ape. Our gut instinct paid off.
They played an array of stuff (withholding Sell Out... a big call which didn't go down well with the crowd). We did however get a Metallica cover, Suburban Rhythm played in about 20 different styles and from memory a Gunners cover (but don't hold me to that). It went off and that's all that mattered. I was so, so happy that we got right in amongst it and skanked our little legs off (and punched and kicked..). To add to this... we caught RBF beach balls thrown out to the crowd... HELLO PILLOWS FOR OUR TENT!!! Winners are grinners. (**** 1/2)
FINAL DAY – SUNDAY
Today was all about the main arena. We stayed there all day (mostly to get a position for Pearl Jam, which, unfortunately we failed at due to some, errr, side tracking). Today was also about outsiders! Andy and Dan both joined our frivolity (I’m sure they are still wondering why). It was with great delight that we showed Andy the state of the “toilets” we were subjected to all weekend, needless to say, he was less than impressed.
After this, and a tour of tent-world, it was off to the main arena for some more silliness. I will never, ever drink another Carling again. Or cider for that matter.
As we watched Less Than Jake, Bullet For My Valentine, Slayer and My Chemical Romance (when I say ‘watched’ I mean looked up at occasionally during trips to the bar and neighbouring toilets) I unfortunately got a bit more carried away – Nick and Dan NOT helping the situation. To persuade Dan not to eat the skunk fudge (he’d already eaten the hash brownies which were revolting), I had to eat half a square of the crap. Sadly, he still went mental… it could have something to do with the double strength cider… all I can say is, he ended up with a black eye after Pearl Jam due to making the barrier. I’m stunned he made it out alive.
It started to get dark and working toilets became very scarce. I was afraid if I kept drinking I’d completely miss PJ due to lining up for one that did work. It was mission time. Placebo began…. And err, finished rather abruptly. From what I remember (yes, Carol and I did a MAJOR toilet mission to the other side of the arena during this set) they got about half way in and the speakers carked it… so, the following half an hour was everyone standing around wondering what had happened. Brilliant. (So needless to say I’d give Placebo about ** for their stint..)
We finally felt the excitement enough to surge towards the stage… Pearl Jam were within an hour of sweeping us off our feet. Arrrrh!! Most of the people we were with were either so trolleyed or so worn out from the weekends activities they, unbelievably, piked it before or a few songs into their set. UNBELIEVABLE. Towsty and I eventually perched ourselves on the D-Barrier gate and watched as Eddie drew everyone in. It was breathtaking! They played everything… Animal, World Wide Suicide, Dissident, Even Flow, Once, Jeremy (!!), Better Man.. they closed out the first Encore with Alive and played three more tracks before leaving the stage. I had goosebumps the whole way through and actually cried… Better Man took me back to being 10 years old and staying up really late to hear these cool new songs on the radio.. I didn’t know back then how that would shape my future but it all came about face on the last weekend in August!
So, that was it. We trudged slowly back to our tents. Andy was fortunate enough to be getting the train back to London that evening. I remember him telling me to stop smiling.. I must’ve looked delusional… but it was one of the best weekends of my life!
The next day, weary and slowly we packed away most of our stuff (no, my £8 Argos tent stayed put) hiked to the station and made our way home. I never remember a shower being SO good.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Random #45u9
1. I have tickets to see Muse open Wembley Stadium June next year (ARRRR MYYY GAAAWD)
2. This photo is to prove that Jarrod and I really did live in the same city together at some stage (yes, London)
3. Andy - you send me another photo from home purposely shot to make me feel like shit, and I swear I'll break your legs when I see you next!
4. Random antipodean houseparties always make you feel like part of some extended family you never knew existed.
5. 38 days til the big flight. Why can't it be now...?
6. Adios Jarrodizness!! You will be back here for summer and Reading, I know. No sucker misses winter here just to come back for another winter. That's just crazy talk.
7. Never, EVER, go down Regent St during Christmas shopping
8. Karma 0, Rez 1. I offered to help a girl get her (fucking heavy) suitcase down 3 flights of stairs at Piccadilly Circus today.
2. This photo is to prove that Jarrod and I really did live in the same city together at some stage (yes, London)
3. Andy - you send me another photo from home purposely shot to make me feel like shit, and I swear I'll break your legs when I see you next!
4. Random antipodean houseparties always make you feel like part of some extended family you never knew existed.
5. 38 days til the big flight. Why can't it be now...?
6. Adios Jarrodizness!! You will be back here for summer and Reading, I know. No sucker misses winter here just to come back for another winter. That's just crazy talk.
7. Never, EVER, go down Regent St during Christmas shopping
8. Karma 0, Rez 1. I offered to help a girl get her (fucking heavy) suitcase down 3 flights of stairs at Piccadilly Circus today.
Friday, December 01, 2006
DUN, DA, DAAAAAAAAAAA!!
Happy Anniversary to us
Happy Anniversary to us
Haaappy Anniversaaaaryyy to meeee and Vvvvv
Happy Anniversary to us!
Yes my enthralled readers... it has been one whole entire year since we left Oz's friendly and sunny shores. There have been many ups and downs. Moves, jobs, departures, arrivals, gigs, travels, hairdos, hairdonts, tears, laughter... all that you'd expect from Aussie's on the run!
The best parts of this year have been..
Travelling (*deep breath in* Belfast, Bath, Paris, Barcelona, Istanbul, Gallipoli, Glasgow, Derby, Birmingham, Reading, Worksop, Sardinia, Munich, Glasgow, Nottingham)
Meeting some of the best people I know (and getting to live with them!)
Did somebody say Tool??? 7 shows in 5 months, unbelievably lucky... (AND coming soooo close to Adam Jones outside SECC last week...arrrr!!)
Flaming bars in Istanbul.
Reading. I am still blogging on this... there's really no way to describe that weekend easily!
30 degree beaches in Barcelona.
Hamish's weekly blog comments. (I have no idea about your most recent one Dutchy... you've been drinking far too much Green Death!)
80's Birthday at the Roller Rink and having (mostly) everyone balls it up to wear fluro in public - it will be popular again!
+++
V and I spent last night gossiping about home, reminicsing of the old days and talking about the future (arrrhhh where will be in 2008?!?!). When I get photos from last night I'll post a before and after shot... the things London air/water does to you...!
LEAVE ME MESSAGES OF LOVE MIS AMIGOS!
Happy Anniversary to us
Haaappy Anniversaaaaryyy to meeee and Vvvvv
Happy Anniversary to us!
Yes my enthralled readers... it has been one whole entire year since we left Oz's friendly and sunny shores. There have been many ups and downs. Moves, jobs, departures, arrivals, gigs, travels, hairdos, hairdonts, tears, laughter... all that you'd expect from Aussie's on the run!
The best parts of this year have been..
Travelling (*deep breath in* Belfast, Bath, Paris, Barcelona, Istanbul, Gallipoli, Glasgow, Derby, Birmingham, Reading, Worksop, Sardinia, Munich, Glasgow, Nottingham)
Meeting some of the best people I know (and getting to live with them!)
Did somebody say Tool??? 7 shows in 5 months, unbelievably lucky... (AND coming soooo close to Adam Jones outside SECC last week...arrrr!!)
Flaming bars in Istanbul.
Reading. I am still blogging on this... there's really no way to describe that weekend easily!
30 degree beaches in Barcelona.
Hamish's weekly blog comments. (I have no idea about your most recent one Dutchy... you've been drinking far too much Green Death!)
80's Birthday at the Roller Rink and having (mostly) everyone balls it up to wear fluro in public - it will be popular again!
+++
V and I spent last night gossiping about home, reminicsing of the old days and talking about the future (arrrhhh where will be in 2008?!?!). When I get photos from last night I'll post a before and after shot... the things London air/water does to you...!
LEAVE ME MESSAGES OF LOVE MIS AMIGOS!
Friday, November 24, 2006
Friday, November 17, 2006
Shorter?? Nooooo thanks
Well, my trip to the Vidal Sassoon Hairdressing Academy didn't end in tears... for ONCE someone in London did something right and listened to the customer! (I must point out that most of the students were from Japan, Korea, Spain... basically anywhere BUT the UK).
After arriving at the Academy in Bond St and waiting around for a bit we all lined up to tell this guy briefly what we wanted. I could hear "Trim", "nothing drastic", "Bob cut"... all these people got a tag and directed to the academy in the street over. I stepped up and said something to the effect "I want to keep the length but do something a bit different". As the words left my mouth I instantly had thoughts of ending up in an advanced cutting classroom with shards of my hair everywhere complete with blue streaks. "I mean..! Not TOO different!" I said, thinking I had saved myself. "Sit over there please" the guy gave me a piece of paper (I could make out the words 'Comps' and 'Kbridge'" and sat with about 6 others. I finally figured out that kbridge was Knightsbridge. This made me feel a little more at ease. Knightsbridge is quite an upper class part of town.. hopefully I was one of a lucky few off to be modelled by some professionals! No, it was not to be, still students, but in a small boutique of Vidal Sassoon with a very cool and helpful teacher at hand. I had a friendly Japanese chick start playing with my hair deciding I should indeed keep the length (Thank GOD!) but should add some volume and funk. I liked what I heard and said they could go nuts. She got in there and chopped up a storm and as she dried it I was a little disappointed thinking she'd just cut a regular two-layer do (boooooring), then she grabbed the mirror... not what I expected, but I was very pleased! For 4 quid 50, this is undoubtedly the best hair cut I've had! (See below for yourselves)
Russell Brand seemed to be her inspiration with "messy" being the word most used in two hours
After arriving at the Academy in Bond St and waiting around for a bit we all lined up to tell this guy briefly what we wanted. I could hear "Trim", "nothing drastic", "Bob cut"... all these people got a tag and directed to the academy in the street over. I stepped up and said something to the effect "I want to keep the length but do something a bit different". As the words left my mouth I instantly had thoughts of ending up in an advanced cutting classroom with shards of my hair everywhere complete with blue streaks. "I mean..! Not TOO different!" I said, thinking I had saved myself. "Sit over there please" the guy gave me a piece of paper (I could make out the words 'Comps' and 'Kbridge'" and sat with about 6 others. I finally figured out that kbridge was Knightsbridge. This made me feel a little more at ease. Knightsbridge is quite an upper class part of town.. hopefully I was one of a lucky few off to be modelled by some professionals! No, it was not to be, still students, but in a small boutique of Vidal Sassoon with a very cool and helpful teacher at hand. I had a friendly Japanese chick start playing with my hair deciding I should indeed keep the length (Thank GOD!) but should add some volume and funk. I liked what I heard and said they could go nuts. She got in there and chopped up a storm and as she dried it I was a little disappointed thinking she'd just cut a regular two-layer do (boooooring), then she grabbed the mirror... not what I expected, but I was very pleased! For 4 quid 50, this is undoubtedly the best hair cut I've had! (See below for yourselves)
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Me gusta tapas noches!
Yes, Carol and I graced the Spanish and English students with our presence Tuesday night at a quaint tapas bar just off Bond St... Don't we look simply enthralled??
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Rant Pt.2
It all started this morning when I got a reply to my email sent to Ticketmaster yesterday. Here's the story so far..
July-Sept Booked tickets online. When booking, you can ONLY pick the delivery by Royal Mail option (for an extra £5 thank you very much). Tickets will be sent to card'sbillingg address.
Sept - Moved from Willesden Green to Hammersmith
Sept 7 - Sent email through Ticketmaster website (as they encourage emails rather than phone calls), advising I had changed address and ALL my current bookings would need to be updated. Changed the billing address on all my cards.
Sept 7 - Got a reply saying that one booking had been changed and that I'd need to send back the booking references for all others to be changed. I replied to the return address and thought nothing more.
Oct 2 - Afterreceivingg a pile of mail from Willesden Green (randomly, as Cazza happened to be up there) including a 'We've missed you' card from Royal Mail, I had to trek out to Harlesden (after they couldn't tell me what was waiting and who it was from over the phone). Lo and behold... it was my Raconteur tickets (for the concert on the 19/10). The tickets had been there for 3 weeks...
Oct 4 - I emailed Ticketmaster "customer service" (HAHAHAHAHA), asking why the address hadn't been changed and to see if someone could check that the rest of the bookings had been updated (seeing as though quite a few were before the end of the year).
November 13 - One week until flying to Glasgow to see Tool and no sign of tickets. A friend hadreceivedd his Wembley ones and I had not heard a peep. Ticketmaster strike again. Once again, I send an email to "customer service" asking where my tickets were and that they'd better be going to Hammersmith.
November 14 - Ireceivee a reply saying 'Your Glasgow tickets are currently being dispatched to WILLESDEN GREEN. Your Wembley tickets are going to your new address'. Now. How can any sane person look at what they just typed - especially in response to my email - and not question the fact that one set of tickets was going to my OLD address and the other ones to my new address.
I promptly tried calling. 4 different numbers. 4 automated services. 30 minutes later I finally got to speak to someone. After ascertaining that it was 'my fault' that I hadn't updated my address (Why, I thought I was sending that initial email to Santa, so he knew where to find me on Dec 24) it was too late to get the Glasgow tickets sent elsewhere as Royal Mail had them. Oh and - she just had to point out - anyone at that address could sign for them, without ID. 'So,' I put it to her 'Although I'm telling you that I don't live there and don't know who lives there now, DESPITE telling you 2 months ago I had moved, my tickets will still be delivered to someone who, regardless of whether they know me or not, can sign for them??'. 'Yes', apparently. Also, APPARENTLY, you can't change your address online. 'So', I asked, 'why did the first person who replied saying 'I've changed your address, please send me the other reference numbers', not tell me that in fact, they couldn't change my address online. Conflicting stories much? We then spent 25 minutes changing the addresses on 6 other orders I had waiting...
She said she'd call me back after hunting down a tracking number from Royal Mail. After 4 hours I was calling them back as I had not heard back. This time Glen was on hand to see if he could unravel this seemingly difficult to understand issue. Again, it was explained to me it was too late to get the tickets back from Royal Mail. 'That's fine', I explained to him, 'I'll deal with that issue later. Right now, I want to speak to someone about why my original request was never dealt with - that is, getting my address changed so THIS WOULDN'T HAPPEN. I also want to know why the lady from this morning never got back to me'. He seemed perplexed and flustered... only adding to my rising urge to kill. He, again, took my number promising to get a tracking number for me (the least of my worries) and I took his name.
He called me back, unable to track down a number yet saying he'd have to call tomorrow. When I asked to speak to someone above him he again said there was nothing they could do about the tickets being delivered to Willesden. I AGAIN explained... this was NOT my problem. I want to know why my original request was never dealt with.
After much to-ing and fro-ing he got back to me saying he had followed up my original emails and found that they neverreceivedd my reply listing all dates, reference numbers and card numbers. How convenient.
___
* "Delivering customer service begins with understanding what customers want". This is not an isolated case. I think the whole of the UK "customer service sector" needs to do a unit of Business Studies at TAFE. That'll fucking teach them
July-Sept Booked tickets online. When booking, you can ONLY pick the delivery by Royal Mail option (for an extra £5 thank you very much). Tickets will be sent to card'sbillingg address.
Sept - Moved from Willesden Green to Hammersmith
Sept 7 - Sent email through Ticketmaster website (as they encourage emails rather than phone calls), advising I had changed address and ALL my current bookings would need to be updated. Changed the billing address on all my cards.
Sept 7 - Got a reply saying that one booking had been changed and that I'd need to send back the booking references for all others to be changed. I replied to the return address and thought nothing more.
Oct 2 - Afterreceivingg a pile of mail from Willesden Green (randomly, as Cazza happened to be up there) including a 'We've missed you' card from Royal Mail, I had to trek out to Harlesden (after they couldn't tell me what was waiting and who it was from over the phone). Lo and behold... it was my Raconteur tickets (for the concert on the 19/10). The tickets had been there for 3 weeks...
Oct 4 - I emailed Ticketmaster "customer service" (HAHAHAHAHA), asking why the address hadn't been changed and to see if someone could check that the rest of the bookings had been updated (seeing as though quite a few were before the end of the year).
November 13 - One week until flying to Glasgow to see Tool and no sign of tickets. A friend hadreceivedd his Wembley ones and I had not heard a peep. Ticketmaster strike again. Once again, I send an email to "customer service" asking where my tickets were and that they'd better be going to Hammersmith.
November 14 - Ireceivee a reply saying 'Your Glasgow tickets are currently being dispatched to WILLESDEN GREEN. Your Wembley tickets are going to your new address'. Now. How can any sane person look at what they just typed - especially in response to my email - and not question the fact that one set of tickets was going to my OLD address and the other ones to my new address.
I promptly tried calling. 4 different numbers. 4 automated services. 30 minutes later I finally got to speak to someone. After ascertaining that it was 'my fault' that I hadn't updated my address (Why, I thought I was sending that initial email to Santa, so he knew where to find me on Dec 24) it was too late to get the Glasgow tickets sent elsewhere as Royal Mail had them. Oh and - she just had to point out - anyone at that address could sign for them, without ID. 'So,' I put it to her 'Although I'm telling you that I don't live there and don't know who lives there now, DESPITE telling you 2 months ago I had moved, my tickets will still be delivered to someone who, regardless of whether they know me or not, can sign for them??'. 'Yes', apparently. Also, APPARENTLY, you can't change your address online. 'So', I asked, 'why did the first person who replied saying 'I've changed your address, please send me the other reference numbers', not tell me that in fact, they couldn't change my address online. Conflicting stories much? We then spent 25 minutes changing the addresses on 6 other orders I had waiting...
She said she'd call me back after hunting down a tracking number from Royal Mail. After 4 hours I was calling them back as I had not heard back. This time Glen was on hand to see if he could unravel this seemingly difficult to understand issue. Again, it was explained to me it was too late to get the tickets back from Royal Mail. 'That's fine', I explained to him, 'I'll deal with that issue later. Right now, I want to speak to someone about why my original request was never dealt with - that is, getting my address changed so THIS WOULDN'T HAPPEN. I also want to know why the lady from this morning never got back to me'. He seemed perplexed and flustered... only adding to my rising urge to kill. He, again, took my number promising to get a tracking number for me (the least of my worries) and I took his name.
He called me back, unable to track down a number yet saying he'd have to call tomorrow. When I asked to speak to someone above him he again said there was nothing they could do about the tickets being delivered to Willesden. I AGAIN explained... this was NOT my problem. I want to know why my original request was never dealt with.
After much to-ing and fro-ing he got back to me saying he had followed up my original emails and found that they neverreceivedd my reply listing all dates, reference numbers and card numbers. How convenient.
___
* "Delivering customer service begins with understanding what customers want". This is not an isolated case. I think the whole of the UK "customer service sector" needs to do a unit of Business Studies at TAFE. That'll fucking teach them
What to feed an Ipod
It seems that, despite Towsty's nagging and disapproving looks, looking after one's Ipod does nothing to save it from fucking up. My brand new Ipod, after only 4 months of use, is slowly dying. Somehow many tracks have become unfit to play (although can sometime be played in Itunes) and when I try to download them from the hard drive it throws error after error at me.. hence I stand to lose a hell of a lot of music. I am more than annoyed.
So far the Ipod bug has chewed at A Perfect Circle, The Living End, Foo Fighters, Raconteurs, Tool, The Black Keys, Alanis, Metallica... at least it has good taste.
++++++
In other news, I've had one of the most sober weeks on record for a while. It all started after the Citigroup party 2 November... they were the first of many banks to throw a Christmas party for their clients, and as such, much champagne was consumed (complete with it being held at Oxo Tower - overlooking the Thames and St Paul's.. photo's to follow). 2 magnums of champers later and this little troll had to be put in a taxi by one of her work elders. Coming into work the next day was like entering a battlefield... wounded and weak people lie slumped over their desks... bags of toast and bacon sanga's everywhere... the smell of hangovers was in the air. I'm not quite sure how I made it through Friday but, finally, the weekend came around. Saturday was Guy Fawkes celebrations... despite STILL feeling like shit, I proceeded to eat my triumphant sambuca jelly (and got everyone else addicted at the same time). BIG mistake. Hours later we ended up in the back yard drinking Stella and theorising about what great people we were and why we deserved better jobs/lives...
Thus came another Sunday in bed, for the entire day. The past two weekends had shaped up like this and I was sick of it! I was wasting the mere 5 hours of sunlight I was given to enjoy and I wasn't having anymore of it!
I've started back on serious point counting and the hitting the gym hard. Last Friday I did a 2 hour session then headed home for a wholesome night of mucking around with housemates and sleeping long hours. How refreshing was it to wake up on Saturday without a hangover?! And at 8:30am!! Saturday was jam-packed... I joined the Shebu library (and as such loaded up on books to fill in the time), we ALMOST bought a goldfish from the markets, Argos'd a house phone and a few things for my room and hit Morrisons up for some much needed roasting accessories. After rushing home it was off to the Natural History Museum with Ro to check out the Shell Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards (muy bien!) then back home to waste away a cold winters night with Jarrod, the tv and a glass of wine (ONE! ... and maybe one or two very sneaky glasses of scotch. But thats it!!).
I awoke on Sunday feeling pretty good... early too! Called home and still had time to hit the High Rd for more supplies and join Jarrod up to the Hamm library (NEEEEERDS INCORPORATED). We discovered the giant Tesco's hidden in between our two main roads (oh my god!!!!) then wasted the arvo watching Justin host some music awards... ohhhh it was worth it.. ;)
So, I learnt a valuable lesson. This weekend I plan to do much the same thing. Mostly forced by my bank account to do so, but also, it felt so good being able to do all these things I'd talked about for so long (pet store, library, pc supplies etc) simply cause I wasn't stuck in bed feeling like shit! As my mum pointed out 'See Renee, as you get older, you just can't drink as much as you used to!'. I beg to differ with that, but at least I'm now learning from the disasterous hangovers. (Only 18 days til our Christmas dinner, where I can kiss sobriety goodbye...)
So far the Ipod bug has chewed at A Perfect Circle, The Living End, Foo Fighters, Raconteurs, Tool, The Black Keys, Alanis, Metallica... at least it has good taste.
++++++
In other news, I've had one of the most sober weeks on record for a while. It all started after the Citigroup party 2 November... they were the first of many banks to throw a Christmas party for their clients, and as such, much champagne was consumed (complete with it being held at Oxo Tower - overlooking the Thames and St Paul's.. photo's to follow). 2 magnums of champers later and this little troll had to be put in a taxi by one of her work elders. Coming into work the next day was like entering a battlefield... wounded and weak people lie slumped over their desks... bags of toast and bacon sanga's everywhere... the smell of hangovers was in the air. I'm not quite sure how I made it through Friday but, finally, the weekend came around. Saturday was Guy Fawkes celebrations... despite STILL feeling like shit, I proceeded to eat my triumphant sambuca jelly (and got everyone else addicted at the same time). BIG mistake. Hours later we ended up in the back yard drinking Stella and theorising about what great people we were and why we deserved better jobs/lives...
Thus came another Sunday in bed, for the entire day. The past two weekends had shaped up like this and I was sick of it! I was wasting the mere 5 hours of sunlight I was given to enjoy and I wasn't having anymore of it!
I've started back on serious point counting and the hitting the gym hard. Last Friday I did a 2 hour session then headed home for a wholesome night of mucking around with housemates and sleeping long hours. How refreshing was it to wake up on Saturday without a hangover?! And at 8:30am!! Saturday was jam-packed... I joined the Shebu library (and as such loaded up on books to fill in the time), we ALMOST bought a goldfish from the markets, Argos'd a house phone and a few things for my room and hit Morrisons up for some much needed roasting accessories. After rushing home it was off to the Natural History Museum with Ro to check out the Shell Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards (muy bien!) then back home to waste away a cold winters night with Jarrod, the tv and a glass of wine (ONE! ... and maybe one or two very sneaky glasses of scotch. But thats it!!).
I awoke on Sunday feeling pretty good... early too! Called home and still had time to hit the High Rd for more supplies and join Jarrod up to the Hamm library (NEEEEERDS INCORPORATED). We discovered the giant Tesco's hidden in between our two main roads (oh my god!!!!) then wasted the arvo watching Justin host some music awards... ohhhh it was worth it.. ;)
So, I learnt a valuable lesson. This weekend I plan to do much the same thing. Mostly forced by my bank account to do so, but also, it felt so good being able to do all these things I'd talked about for so long (pet store, library, pc supplies etc) simply cause I wasn't stuck in bed feeling like shit! As my mum pointed out 'See Renee, as you get older, you just can't drink as much as you used to!'. I beg to differ with that, but at least I'm now learning from the disasterous hangovers. (Only 18 days til our Christmas dinner, where I can kiss sobriety goodbye...)
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
PHYSICAL CHALLENGE!
17 days with no money in the bank... what do you do? WHAT DO YOU DO??
You attempt to live off the free water at work whlist rummaging through your housemates food left in the fridge late at night. Yes kids, it's come to the ultimate moment where I become the skintest person on earth. After getting into the red this month (Read: DEBT IS BAD) I have no other choice - no, my Australian credit card is NOT the answer - but to lay extremely low for the next 3 weeks. Challenge accepted! (and did I mention I'll be popping into ASDA to do my grocery shopping this week?? *shudder*).
Wish me well.
You attempt to live off the free water at work whlist rummaging through your housemates food left in the fridge late at night. Yes kids, it's come to the ultimate moment where I become the skintest person on earth. After getting into the red this month (Read: DEBT IS BAD) I have no other choice - no, my Australian credit card is NOT the answer - but to lay extremely low for the next 3 weeks. Challenge accepted! (and did I mention I'll be popping into ASDA to do my grocery shopping this week?? *shudder*).
Wish me well.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
She's freaky... and I like it!
This little duck has tickets to Justin's gig in July 07 re-opening the Millenium Dome... ahhhh guilty pleasures!!
Friday, November 03, 2006
Sweet Home Alab... Adelaide
A guy I used to work for is visiting Oz over Christmas and happens to be going to a wedding in Adelaide. Here's a transcript of the emails going back and forth yesterday... made me think how much I actually love my little city..!
Dave: Renee, Unfortunately i can't go to Michael's bash. This is because i will be tucking into a 4+20 Meat Pie (the taste that made Australia great) in or around your home town and am thus unavailable for black pudding treats in London around this time... Dave
Me: Bugger the 4 n 20's.. tuck into a Balfours pie (with dead 'orse), Coopers Pale Ale, yiros (with LOADS of garlic sauce) and have an Farmers Union Iced Coffee. When in Adelaide....
Dave: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pie_floater
This lead to me spending the whole of yesterday look at South Australia related articles on Wikipedia (haha... The Old Gum Tree and the O-Bahn??) and harping on to everyone about how good Yiros's are.
A list of what I want to do when I'm home:
- Sunday session at the Grand!
- Cook a barbie (while it's actually hot) and have everything with barbecue sauce. (They don't have it here... they have "brown sauce"??!)
- Knock back some super chilled Pale's (and grab a jug of Pale at the Austral when they have em for $8)
- Sit in Elder Park
- Drive along King William Street (now realising how tiny it is!) up over North Terrace and past Adelaide Oval
- Watch a footy match at Noarlunga Oval (Go you Panthers!! (or "YOU LITTLE BEAUTY!!" as Robert Pyman put it so eloquently to me)
- Visit Dan at Charlesworth nuts for free samples. THE BEST NUTS IN THE WORLD.
- Eat a yiros from Rundle Street... and one from Jetty Road (and not smear the garlic sauce all over my arm and the table... oh dear)
- Marion shopping centre. (I miss shopping centres so much!!)
- Get a yogy from Central Markets!! MOCHA YOGY!!!!
- Shop for Bonds undies and trackies, Berlei bras and JeansWest jeans
- Drive up to Hahndorf/Murray Bridge.. I love the Hysen Tunnels!
- Walk down the Glenelg jetty (mmmm sea air)
- Visit DECS and the newly refurbished Wakey (I don't care if it's name has been changed.. it'll ALWAYS be the Wakey)
- Day trip to Victor (complete with Hairy Lemon soundtrack)
- Get a picture of me holding a koala at Cleland... just so I can bring it back and show everyone my 'pet' Koala.
Any other suggestions?
Dave: Renee, Unfortunately i can't go to Michael's bash. This is because i will be tucking into a 4+20 Meat Pie (the taste that made Australia great) in or around your home town and am thus unavailable for black pudding treats in London around this time... Dave
Me: Bugger the 4 n 20's.. tuck into a Balfours pie (with dead 'orse), Coopers Pale Ale, yiros (with LOADS of garlic sauce) and have an Farmers Union Iced Coffee. When in Adelaide....
Dave: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pie_floater
This lead to me spending the whole of yesterday look at South Australia related articles on Wikipedia (haha... The Old Gum Tree and the O-Bahn??) and harping on to everyone about how good Yiros's are.
A list of what I want to do when I'm home:
- Sunday session at the Grand!
- Cook a barbie (while it's actually hot) and have everything with barbecue sauce. (They don't have it here... they have "brown sauce"??!)
- Knock back some super chilled Pale's (and grab a jug of Pale at the Austral when they have em for $8)
- Sit in Elder Park
- Drive along King William Street (now realising how tiny it is!) up over North Terrace and past Adelaide Oval
- Watch a footy match at Noarlunga Oval (Go you Panthers!! (or "YOU LITTLE BEAUTY!!" as Robert Pyman put it so eloquently to me)
- Visit Dan at Charlesworth nuts for free samples. THE BEST NUTS IN THE WORLD.
- Eat a yiros from Rundle Street... and one from Jetty Road (and not smear the garlic sauce all over my arm and the table... oh dear)
- Marion shopping centre. (I miss shopping centres so much!!)
- Get a yogy from Central Markets!! MOCHA YOGY!!!!
- Shop for Bonds undies and trackies, Berlei bras and JeansWest jeans
- Drive up to Hahndorf/Murray Bridge.. I love the Hysen Tunnels!
- Walk down the Glenelg jetty (mmmm sea air)
- Visit DECS and the newly refurbished Wakey (I don't care if it's name has been changed.. it'll ALWAYS be the Wakey)
- Day trip to Victor (complete with Hairy Lemon soundtrack)
- Get a picture of me holding a koala at Cleland... just so I can bring it back and show everyone my 'pet' Koala.
Any other suggestions?
Thursday, November 02, 2006
And now kids, a story
(told to Dylan in a moment of despair (aka BOREDOM)
"... There was once was a girl called Rez. She wanted to make sure she was suitably drunk for the fireworks she hated ever so. But she was conflicted.. "I don't want to drink anymore calories!" huffed and puffed Rez.
"Aha!" she thought... "Vodka jelly! Jelly has no calories at all! AND! I'll substitute vodka for sambuca because it's ever so tasty".
Pleased with herself for thinking of such a brilliant idea, Rez trotted off to Tesco's. "What's this??? NO JELLY??". Dismayed, she left, empty-handed.
Never fear though, Rez cancelled her next lunch date in order to set upon Liverpool Street to get her mischevious hands on what she needed most....."
TO BE CONTINUED....
(EDIT: Part Two..)
"...As little Rez braved the cold, she and her friend Hayley skipped through the back alleys of Brick Lane. In and out of "offie's" they ducked, trying in vain to track down the jelly Rez so desired.
On just their second attempt Hayley cried out "I think I've found some!".
"Hooray!!" shouted Rez (forgetting her indoor voice for a moment) ... she was confronted with packets and packets of both orange AND strawberry jelly.
Rez's day had been made knowing there will be alcohol desserts for all."
"... There was once was a girl called Rez. She wanted to make sure she was suitably drunk for the fireworks she hated ever so. But she was conflicted.. "I don't want to drink anymore calories!" huffed and puffed Rez.
"Aha!" she thought... "Vodka jelly! Jelly has no calories at all! AND! I'll substitute vodka for sambuca because it's ever so tasty".
Pleased with herself for thinking of such a brilliant idea, Rez trotted off to Tesco's. "What's this??? NO JELLY??". Dismayed, she left, empty-handed.
Never fear though, Rez cancelled her next lunch date in order to set upon Liverpool Street to get her mischevious hands on what she needed most....."
TO BE CONTINUED....
(EDIT: Part Two..)
"...As little Rez braved the cold, she and her friend Hayley skipped through the back alleys of Brick Lane. In and out of "offie's" they ducked, trying in vain to track down the jelly Rez so desired.
On just their second attempt Hayley cried out "I think I've found some!".
"Hooray!!" shouted Rez (forgetting her indoor voice for a moment) ... she was confronted with packets and packets of both orange AND strawberry jelly.
Rez's day had been made knowing there will be alcohol desserts for all."
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Random
I literally haven't had time to write up Glasgow, Munich or Sardinia but for now wanted to jot down some memorable moments which keep coming up in stories being told..
- After talking non-stop about Kath and Kim on the flight to Alghero, Leah proceeds to buzz the steward only to order '2 CARDONNAYS' ("the aitch is soilent, Mrs Doi"), without realising. Fucking gold.
- Whilst lining up to get on the plane home from Friedrichshafen the German guy in front of us found it quite amusing when I shouted 'SCHNELL! SCHNELL!!' when they finally opened the gates (yes, we flew Ryanair, but it's no reason to be herded around for nearly 50 minutes..)
- At Carol's birthday last weekend, Leah (under many influences) thought she was Jake (the fuckin') Muss... "CHER CHER BRO. JUST BACK THE FUCK DOWN. GIRL. I'M JAKE THE MUSS!' Complete with arm and head movements. 24 carat as.
- In the cab from Oktoberfest to our hotel (with my two new American friends) the completely German cab driver couldn't understand why I started yelling.... it was SexyBack! And we had no volume!
- So far I've had to run for three planes because for some reason we didn't hear the boarding call. The closest was our measley flight from Manchester to Glasgow. We were set up at the bar when we noticed our flight should've been called, starting yo worry we proceed through to the gates.... "Will passengers Hawkett and Towsty PLEASE make their way to the boarding area now as the gates are now closing"... after the obligatory cacking of ones self, we piss bolted and JUST made the gate. And thank christ, cause Tool was only 4 hours away on the other end.
- Since Rodda left his bag behind at the car rental office in Alghero (containing his and Carol's stuff), we needed to go clothes shopping on our first day in Sardinia. We found a clothing outlet (Bernardi's).. which, on closer inspection was like a tarted up Primark. Us girls went digging through handbags and any other bargain bins and Carol eventually rustles up some underwear. What does Rodda come back to the car with? "A lined and fitted Italian suit! For only 39 Euro! That's like 20 quid man!!". That night at dinner Carol got fucked over on ordering fish which eventually rang up at a whopping 49 Euro's. Rodda couldn't help but point out "You can buy an Italian suit for that!"
- Meeting Warrick Capper's psycho lookalike at the AFL exhibition match. Somewhere there's a photo of him taking a speccy over my shoulder after screaming at him for a photo (OH DEAR).
- Being told that Worksop is actually pronounced 'WORKsop' not 'WARsop' like I was told by some old fogey working at Nottingham station. Christ sake! Will someone get it right please!!
I must write up those holidays in full before I forget all the classics.. come to think of it, but maybe it's better that way?
***
Oh, and p.s. - HAPPY 11 MONTH ANNIVERSARY TO ME AND V!! 11 FRICKING MONTHS!!!
- After talking non-stop about Kath and Kim on the flight to Alghero, Leah proceeds to buzz the steward only to order '2 CARDONNAYS' ("the aitch is soilent, Mrs Doi"), without realising. Fucking gold.
- Whilst lining up to get on the plane home from Friedrichshafen the German guy in front of us found it quite amusing when I shouted 'SCHNELL! SCHNELL!!' when they finally opened the gates (yes, we flew Ryanair, but it's no reason to be herded around for nearly 50 minutes..)
- At Carol's birthday last weekend, Leah (under many influences) thought she was Jake (the fuckin') Muss... "CHER CHER BRO. JUST BACK THE FUCK DOWN. GIRL. I'M JAKE THE MUSS!' Complete with arm and head movements. 24 carat as.
- In the cab from Oktoberfest to our hotel (with my two new American friends) the completely German cab driver couldn't understand why I started yelling.... it was SexyBack! And we had no volume!
- So far I've had to run for three planes because for some reason we didn't hear the boarding call. The closest was our measley flight from Manchester to Glasgow. We were set up at the bar when we noticed our flight should've been called, starting yo worry we proceed through to the gates.... "Will passengers Hawkett and Towsty PLEASE make their way to the boarding area now as the gates are now closing"... after the obligatory cacking of ones self, we piss bolted and JUST made the gate. And thank christ, cause Tool was only 4 hours away on the other end.
- Since Rodda left his bag behind at the car rental office in Alghero (containing his and Carol's stuff), we needed to go clothes shopping on our first day in Sardinia. We found a clothing outlet (Bernardi's).. which, on closer inspection was like a tarted up Primark. Us girls went digging through handbags and any other bargain bins and Carol eventually rustles up some underwear. What does Rodda come back to the car with? "A lined and fitted Italian suit! For only 39 Euro! That's like 20 quid man!!". That night at dinner Carol got fucked over on ordering fish which eventually rang up at a whopping 49 Euro's. Rodda couldn't help but point out "You can buy an Italian suit for that!"
- Meeting Warrick Capper's psycho lookalike at the AFL exhibition match. Somewhere there's a photo of him taking a speccy over my shoulder after screaming at him for a photo (OH DEAR).
- Being told that Worksop is actually pronounced 'WORKsop' not 'WARsop' like I was told by some old fogey working at Nottingham station. Christ sake! Will someone get it right please!!
I must write up those holidays in full before I forget all the classics.. come to think of it, but maybe it's better that way?
***
Oh, and p.s. - HAPPY 11 MONTH ANNIVERSARY TO ME AND V!! 11 FRICKING MONTHS!!!
I was working in the lab, late one night
Cobweb covered pubs, fake bats, face painted adults and drinking shots from test tubes. Yep. Last night was definitely Halloween! (p.s. HAPPY BIRTHDAY CAZZA AND BEC!! X)
To follow this tradition (which I will be bringing back to Oz with me) comes Guy Fawkes this weekend. (Remember, remember, the 5th of November...) the skys will be ablaze. Far from being enthusiastic about the fireworks, I'm being dragged to Battersea Park to see what it's all about (HOORAY IT'S GOING TO BE ABOUT 7 DEGREES!) All I can say is... I better be under the influence of something.
To follow this tradition (which I will be bringing back to Oz with me) comes Guy Fawkes this weekend. (Remember, remember, the 5th of November...) the skys will be ablaze. Far from being enthusiastic about the fireworks, I'm being dragged to Battersea Park to see what it's all about (HOORAY IT'S GOING TO BE ABOUT 7 DEGREES!) All I can say is... I better be under the influence of something.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Daylight savings
I love daylight savings switch overs... this morning I got up and it was 9:40am. I got up to get my ipod which was connected to my laptop and noticed the time was 8:40.. so I got to do two 9:40am's... love it!
Sunday, October 22, 2006
The boys are back in town
Yesterday we saw Port take on Geelong at Brit Oval ("where we took back the Ashes" ... excuse me while I vomit on myself). Luckily it didn't rain and we had a good view of the ground. Unluckily, Port lost by a few goals but we at least got some live footy action (which has been sorely missed)
Brit Oval
Which reads "In affectionate rememberance of Australian Cricket which died at the oval on 12th September, 2005. Hugely celebrated by a large circle of laughing Englishmen & women. RIP The body will be cremated and the ashes will forever be displayed at Lord's and never be taken to Australia". HAR HAR HAR...
The ground. 20,000 capacity, a lot smaller than I thought.
Leah and I just having a few quiet Saturday evening beverages amongst friends at the Walkabout.
Oh, and who do we have here?? Why it's Chaddles! (a.k.a Capt Hotstuff), fancy that.
And his mate, Tredders (what a highly attractive unbuttoned shirt.. WKW! (Blerch)). He was actually one of the nicer guys.. he asked me how long I was planning to stay in London.. I said if Port make the finals I'd be home in a flash ;)
More to follow...
Which reads "In affectionate rememberance of Australian Cricket which died at the oval on 12th September, 2005. Hugely celebrated by a large circle of laughing Englishmen & women. RIP The body will be cremated and the ashes will forever be displayed at Lord's and never be taken to Australia". HAR HAR HAR...
The ground. 20,000 capacity, a lot smaller than I thought.
Leah and I just having a few quiet Saturday evening beverages amongst friends at the Walkabout.
Oh, and who do we have here?? Why it's Chaddles! (a.k.a Capt Hotstuff), fancy that.
And his mate, Tredders (what a highly attractive unbuttoned shirt.. WKW! (Blerch)). He was actually one of the nicer guys.. he asked me how long I was planning to stay in London.. I said if Port make the finals I'd be home in a flash ;)More to follow...
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Not the best
... weather or flattering photo, but here is just part of Sardina's coastline. We were lucky.. it was probably around 24/25 degrees this day and the water was relatively warm. We didn't care, the sea air smell was too inviting and we knew it would be too long before we had this chance again!
And here's a sunnier looking Sardinia. A richer looking part also. Ahhh to live the life..
And the mongrel patrol... (once again I have the knack of cocking up a potentially nice photo)
(Me, Leah, Jess, Carol & Rodda)
And here's a sunnier looking Sardinia. A richer looking part also. Ahhh to live the life..
And the mongrel patrol... (once again I have the knack of cocking up a potentially nice photo)
Monday, October 16, 2006
Tool, The Killers, Muse, Eskimo Joe...
Yes kids, it is my dream come true!! Big Day Out, bigger and better than ever *sigh*
In other news, I got back from Sardinia last night a little worse for wear.. what a trip! I think there's a reason Leah, Carol and I don't travel together! Disasters aside I still really enjoyed being near the ocean. I was never a huge beach person back home, but there was something so calming and right about standing on the sand as the waves crashed in... bring on Glenelg any day! Pictures and tales of calamity soon.
P.S. Can anyone think of a way for me to get out of my job here? I am day by day losing patience...
Yes kids, it is my dream come true!! Big Day Out, bigger and better than ever *sigh*
In other news, I got back from Sardinia last night a little worse for wear.. what a trip! I think there's a reason Leah, Carol and I don't travel together! Disasters aside I still really enjoyed being near the ocean. I was never a huge beach person back home, but there was something so calming and right about standing on the sand as the waves crashed in... bring on Glenelg any day! Pictures and tales of calamity soon.
P.S. Can anyone think of a way for me to get out of my job here? I am day by day losing patience...
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
I've become... comfortably/numb
Running (well, sort of 'running') on the treadmill yesterday I plugged my headphones into the gym's system (hooked up to four screens showing different things) and switched to the music channel just as No Doubt appeared. I realised.. I love Gwen Stefani. She is exactly what I who I would like to be like. Her style, her sound.. she's fantastic!
This was followed by Rogue Traders - which made me feel terribly homesick for a second as it gave me flashbacks of Sea and Vines last year - oh dear.
Then came Scissor Sisters. Now, I'm no faghag, but that Jake Shears is damn fine. I've never felt SO happy simply by hearing someone's voice and watching them move (except Maynard live, of course). Something in their new video sparked me into happy mode. I love their new album and hadn't seen any promo for it, but god damn it made me want to jump off the treadmill and start dancing right there and then. I need to go to a disco!!!
This was followed by Rogue Traders - which made me feel terribly homesick for a second as it gave me flashbacks of Sea and Vines last year - oh dear.
Then came Scissor Sisters. Now, I'm no faghag, but that Jake Shears is damn fine. I've never felt SO happy simply by hearing someone's voice and watching them move (except Maynard live, of course). Something in their new video sparked me into happy mode. I love their new album and hadn't seen any promo for it, but god damn it made me want to jump off the treadmill and start dancing right there and then. I need to go to a disco!!!
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Worksop (a stones throw from Sheriff of Nottingham's place)
Pronounced 'Warsop' not 'Warksop' (as some might say. not me of course.)
4 hours from London and I was living it up with Kazza in her hometown. Unfortunately, I only had about 5 hours there, so we got straight to business and headed for the nearest pub. It was very surreal physically being with someone from home.. and my second mum of all people! We, unfortunately, spent a lot of our time talking about Matt (no nasty, we weren't blowing sunshine up your arse) and how I will be missed at Christmas dinner (apparently the Johnny Walker 'incident' from '04 has not been forgotten).
Since Kazza is not good at goodbye's I lightened the mood by opening the doors after I got on the train and shouting down the platform "See you in Adelaide Kazza!! And don't forget my potato bake!!!" (which she PROMISED would be ready and waiting). I'm counting down the days.
4 hours from London and I was living it up with Kazza in her hometown. Unfortunately, I only had about 5 hours there, so we got straight to business and headed for the nearest pub. It was very surreal physically being with someone from home.. and my second mum of all people! We, unfortunately, spent a lot of our time talking about Matt (no nasty, we weren't blowing sunshine up your arse) and how I will be missed at Christmas dinner (apparently the Johnny Walker 'incident' from '04 has not been forgotten).
Since Kazza is not good at goodbye's I lightened the mood by opening the doors after I got on the train and shouting down the platform "See you in Adelaide Kazza!! And don't forget my potato bake!!!" (which she PROMISED would be ready and waiting). I'm counting down the days.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Oleeeeee, ole, ole, oleeeee!!
It started with catching a TINY plane from Heathrow to Brussels - occupied by less than 50 people, half of which were part of a football team on their end of season trip. How I wished I was drinking with them. Our connecting flight from Brussels was delayed due to heavy rain. (Please note: Brussels is the worlds largest and most confusing airport EVER - after much frustration and laughter, we had to acquire a map of the airport to find check in and then to find the bar!!). Once on the plane (already 8 hours in transit) bottles of Johnny were ordered for all. We finally arrived around 10pm.... as we stepped outside I was hit with a feeling I hadn't felt in a long time... natural warmth!! It was 24 degrees - fantastic.
After finding our accommodation (We walked in just in time to hear our neighbours going for it. Welcome to Espanol!!) we hit Las Ramblas for a late night stroll. It was around 11pm, still about 23 degrees and there were people everywhere. The main drag was lined with human statues (freaky ones that yelled every once in a while. NOT funny) and, well, just people everywhere! As we made our way up the Ramblas, our attention was drawn to a hideous sight... "Hogan's", an 'Aussie' pub right there on the main street (and selling Fosters, no less). Ugh!!
The next day, Sunday, we woke up to a scorcher (and couldn't be happier). We ditched our shoes for thongs and hit the pavement. We made our way towards Port Vell where sitting overlooking the ocean made me feel homesick. It reminded me of home during the summertime.. fantastically sunny, steam beating off the pavement, smell of the ocean... waaah!! ;(
It was then we decided to head for the Sagrada Familia. As we popped out of the subway it loomed large behind us. Spinning around, I had to crane as far back as possible to see it in full. Before fully approaching it, it was time for.... gelati!! As we grabbed our icecream and headed for the park I got a call from Matt (saaafe!) - you always seem to call while I'm sightseeing!
After musing over this amazing structure (hard to call it a church as the inside is absolutely gutted and the roof is uncompleted!) it was off to bask in the 31 degree heat at the beach near the Olympic Port (sorry Matt, didn't quite get to the Olympic pool. But trust me, I WILL be returning!!). We finished the day off with another stroll of Las Ramblas then dinner with many jugs of sangria. Perfect!
Monday (28 degrees) saw us have breakfast on Las Ramblas and generally take in the sun. It was a special day and we were in no rush (yes, Tool were in town... I could feel it in my bones). Pre-Tool came a holiday tradition... Hard Rock Cafe. To our utter disappointment the bar was under construction and boarded up, but that didn't stop us from stopping in for dinner on our night of nights. I had just been given my cerveza when who but Wolfmother appear on the video screens... awesome! (Seems the Spaniards dig em too).
We finally found the Razzmataazz (an AWESOME little venue.. literally holds about 500 people MAX). Next. The ticket 'issue'. If you haven't been filled in on the pain we suffered at the hands of FUCKWIT COURIERS AT UPS I'm not going into it here. But, basically, after talking into a tiny window for ticket pickups and much loud talking and hand gestures a highly irritated Towsty came back with two tickets to paradise. We were well scared we'd never get in. Next came Andy's idea to thwart the security guards despite numerous warnings of what happens to those bring cameras into the venue. As I walked a step ahead of him he got literally pulled aside and there were Spanish comments a plenty (we had NO idea, but they were pissed). Andy was adamant that I go inside and wait... he was led up some dark staircase and I waited, and waited, and waited.... eventually he managed to dodge his way back down in the foyer and off we want. I had my fingers crossed nothing else would disrupt this evening!
The place was filling up quickly, it was SO hot and the stage was very small. Intimate, but when you're squashed in with hundreds, not so. 2 hours late they took the stage and my first live Tool experience was in full swing! I was mesmerised (I'm sorry, for non-OGT's, this part of the entry will mean nothing) I expected some grandiose show, but it was simple, pure and fucking awesome. Old tracks, new tracks and, the pinnacle, Lateralus. None of the crowd spoke english at all except 'SPIRAL OUT, KEEEEEP GOING'. The people next to us were literally singing guitar riffs due to lack of English skills... and they thought we were rad because we knew every word. To entice them out for an encore they started the mad soccer chant ("Olleeee, olleeeee, oleeee"!!), clapping madly. And I can't talk about this show without mentioning Maynard. He is god. He took the stage in hipster jeans and a cowboy hat, SO not what I expected. He spent most of the night gyrating and dancing oddly... absolutely brilliant! After a few tears (and another 30 minutes wait while Andy went to retrieve his confiscated camera) we retreated home, tired, SWEATY and fulfilled. Although I am conflicted on the quality of the show, it was still my first and one I'll never, ever forget.
The next day (a little overcast and cool), we dreadfully made our way back to the airport and off to London. I achieved my thong tan success - sock it to ya Leah!! And stupidly wore shorts home. As we descended the Captain announced that the curretn temperature at Gatwick was a lovely.... 11 degrees. Fanfuckingtastic.
After finding our accommodation (We walked in just in time to hear our neighbours going for it. Welcome to Espanol!!) we hit Las Ramblas for a late night stroll. It was around 11pm, still about 23 degrees and there were people everywhere. The main drag was lined with human statues (freaky ones that yelled every once in a while. NOT funny) and, well, just people everywhere! As we made our way up the Ramblas, our attention was drawn to a hideous sight... "Hogan's", an 'Aussie' pub right there on the main street (and selling Fosters, no less). Ugh!!
The next day, Sunday, we woke up to a scorcher (and couldn't be happier). We ditched our shoes for thongs and hit the pavement. We made our way towards Port Vell where sitting overlooking the ocean made me feel homesick. It reminded me of home during the summertime.. fantastically sunny, steam beating off the pavement, smell of the ocean... waaah!! ;(
It was then we decided to head for the Sagrada Familia. As we popped out of the subway it loomed large behind us. Spinning around, I had to crane as far back as possible to see it in full. Before fully approaching it, it was time for.... gelati!! As we grabbed our icecream and headed for the park I got a call from Matt (saaafe!) - you always seem to call while I'm sightseeing!
After musing over this amazing structure (hard to call it a church as the inside is absolutely gutted and the roof is uncompleted!) it was off to bask in the 31 degree heat at the beach near the Olympic Port (sorry Matt, didn't quite get to the Olympic pool. But trust me, I WILL be returning!!). We finished the day off with another stroll of Las Ramblas then dinner with many jugs of sangria. Perfect!
Monday (28 degrees) saw us have breakfast on Las Ramblas and generally take in the sun. It was a special day and we were in no rush (yes, Tool were in town... I could feel it in my bones). Pre-Tool came a holiday tradition... Hard Rock Cafe. To our utter disappointment the bar was under construction and boarded up, but that didn't stop us from stopping in for dinner on our night of nights. I had just been given my cerveza when who but Wolfmother appear on the video screens... awesome! (Seems the Spaniards dig em too).
We finally found the Razzmataazz (an AWESOME little venue.. literally holds about 500 people MAX). Next. The ticket 'issue'. If you haven't been filled in on the pain we suffered at the hands of FUCKWIT COURIERS AT UPS I'm not going into it here. But, basically, after talking into a tiny window for ticket pickups and much loud talking and hand gestures a highly irritated Towsty came back with two tickets to paradise. We were well scared we'd never get in. Next came Andy's idea to thwart the security guards despite numerous warnings of what happens to those bring cameras into the venue. As I walked a step ahead of him he got literally pulled aside and there were Spanish comments a plenty (we had NO idea, but they were pissed). Andy was adamant that I go inside and wait... he was led up some dark staircase and I waited, and waited, and waited.... eventually he managed to dodge his way back down in the foyer and off we want. I had my fingers crossed nothing else would disrupt this evening!
The place was filling up quickly, it was SO hot and the stage was very small. Intimate, but when you're squashed in with hundreds, not so. 2 hours late they took the stage and my first live Tool experience was in full swing! I was mesmerised (I'm sorry, for non-OGT's, this part of the entry will mean nothing) I expected some grandiose show, but it was simple, pure and fucking awesome. Old tracks, new tracks and, the pinnacle, Lateralus. None of the crowd spoke english at all except 'SPIRAL OUT, KEEEEEP GOING'. The people next to us were literally singing guitar riffs due to lack of English skills... and they thought we were rad because we knew every word. To entice them out for an encore they started the mad soccer chant ("Olleeee, olleeeee, oleeee"!!), clapping madly. And I can't talk about this show without mentioning Maynard. He is god. He took the stage in hipster jeans and a cowboy hat, SO not what I expected. He spent most of the night gyrating and dancing oddly... absolutely brilliant! After a few tears (and another 30 minutes wait while Andy went to retrieve his confiscated camera) we retreated home, tired, SWEATY and fulfilled. Although I am conflicted on the quality of the show, it was still my first and one I'll never, ever forget.
The next day (a little overcast and cool), we dreadfully made our way back to the airport and off to London. I achieved my thong tan success - sock it to ya Leah!! And stupidly wore shorts home. As we descended the Captain announced that the curretn temperature at Gatwick was a lovely.... 11 degrees. Fanfuckingtastic.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Oh happy days
Today (and it's only 2:30pm), I've already had three moments that made me smile.Now, you may not think this is worth blogging about, but I for one am making a stand. The other night I caught the tube (after the usual delays) and I stopped to listen to the things in my head.... continual bitching, moaning, complaining.... no wonder I don't crack a smile on the tube. Surely there is more to life than this!). So I made it a point of watching out for the good things day to day rather than the negatives.
Todays Top 3
- A lady at work (who, I don't even know her name, but she ALWAYS talks to me... perhaps I introduced myself in a drunken state one Friday night drinks sesssion?) stopped me in the lift to comment on my shoes "they're so unusally cute!". I had no choice but to reply "Just like me!". It's the little things.
- Matt ringing me to talk about getting to London at some stage. It will happen. I know it will. It has to!!
- Cazza emailing me about tonight "Lets meet at oxford circus at 6? Then we can go hummus and be at the place (perhaps with a drink in between (champagne only one point, and surely hummus is good for you?)". I love when people respect what you do for yourself and make an effort to include that in their plans.
- Oh, and I just thought of a fourth hehehe.... Andy FINALLY realising what I had him listed in my address book as. Hahaha!
Ok, back to the grind... only 2.5 hours then it's hummus and Blair live on stage. Ahh!!
Todays Top 3
- A lady at work (who, I don't even know her name, but she ALWAYS talks to me... perhaps I introduced myself in a drunken state one Friday night drinks sesssion?) stopped me in the lift to comment on my shoes "they're so unusally cute!". I had no choice but to reply "Just like me!". It's the little things.
- Matt ringing me to talk about getting to London at some stage. It will happen. I know it will. It has to!!
- Cazza emailing me about tonight "Lets meet at oxford circus at 6? Then we can go hummus and be at the place (perhaps with a drink in between (champagne only one point, and surely hummus is good for you?)". I love when people respect what you do for yourself and make an effort to include that in their plans.
- Oh, and I just thought of a fourth hehehe.... Andy FINALLY realising what I had him listed in my address book as. Hahaha!
Ok, back to the grind... only 2.5 hours then it's hummus and Blair live on stage. Ahh!!
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Am currently churning through Reading and Munich posts as well as the whole moving house experience, our housewarming and, oh, I found a half finished Barcelona review. Then there was Glasgow for Tool, the last time I called in sick thanks to the Reddy, Meg's leaving, AFLness and Matt and Nikki coming to stay.
Phew. Better get writing.
Phew. Better get writing.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
One more round and it's steins to the ground
(A.k.a the best day of my life)
Looking good
Still looking good
Hmmmm...
Yep, getting there
We're outside?? We went on a rollercoaster??
How many fingers am I holding up? What the HELL happened to my hair? And why are there no more photos after six?...
Looking good
Still looking good
Hmmmm...
Yep, getting there
We're outside?? We went on a rollercoaster??
How many fingers am I holding up? What the HELL happened to my hair? And why are there no more photos after six?... Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Nadia's stolen alphabuzizzle survizzle, mah nizzle's
[A is for age] Twenty two. Old hag. Yep, I'm on the shelf.
[B is for booze of choice] WHY DON'T THEY SELL JOHNNY WALKER IN LONDON??
[C is for career:] Singer/drummer
[D is for your drug of choice] Codiene
[E is for one essential item you use everyday] Hair straightener (Oh my GOD I'm such a BIMBO)
[F is for favorite song at the moment:] I'm bringin sexy back!!
[G is for favorite game:] Twister ("Oops I ACCIDENTLY fell on you")
[H is for Hometown:] The big A to the DEL-AIDE. (Or, to be technical, Brisvegas)
[I is for instruments you play:] Drums, clarinet and I can yell really loudly.
[J is for favorite juice?:] Anything but pineapple. Malibu ruined it for me.
[K is for kids?:] Kids? Where?? Oh god they're on me!!
[L is for last hug:] the US Army guy.. aka 'Kansas City'
[M is for marriage:] M is for Murderessness
[N is for nickname:] Rez, Renni, Renatta, Renwa, Mongrel
[O is for overnight hospital stays:] I had a 5 hour wait in a UK A&E when I fractured my foot. That was nice.
[P is for phobias:] Fireworks and very bright lightening.
[Q is for quote:] "It don't mean butt if it ain't got that jut"
[R is for biggest regret:] Having that wine at lunch. Urggggh.
[S is for singing:] Eeeiiin prosit, eiiiin prosit, deeeer Gemutlichkeit!!
[T is for time you woke up:] 7:45am... a sleep in cause I flew in so late last night... and still made work by 9:15. Booyah.
[U is for underwear:] Disco undies!!
[V is for vegetable you love:] Pumpkin. MmmmmMmmMm. It's appauling how many people I live with have a pumpkin phobia.
[W is for worst habit:] Idle hands.
[X is for x-rays you've got:] Ankle, nose, chest x 2, bladder, teeth x a billion, elbow, foot. I'm a clumsy kid.
[Y is for yummy food you make:] I am so Jamie Oliver. Whenever I have 'mini pizza night' everyone goes weak at the knees.
[Z is for zodiac sign:] As stubbirn as they come, Taurus.
[B is for booze of choice] WHY DON'T THEY SELL JOHNNY WALKER IN LONDON??
[C is for career:] Singer/drummer
[D is for your drug of choice] Codiene
[E is for one essential item you use everyday] Hair straightener (Oh my GOD I'm such a BIMBO)
[F is for favorite song at the moment:] I'm bringin sexy back!!
[G is for favorite game:] Twister ("Oops I ACCIDENTLY fell on you")
[H is for Hometown:] The big A to the DEL-AIDE. (Or, to be technical, Brisvegas)
[I is for instruments you play:] Drums, clarinet and I can yell really loudly.
[J is for favorite juice?:] Anything but pineapple. Malibu ruined it for me.
[K is for kids?:] Kids? Where?? Oh god they're on me!!
[L is for last hug:] the US Army guy.. aka 'Kansas City'
[M is for marriage:] M is for Murderessness
[N is for nickname:] Rez, Renni, Renatta, Renwa, Mongrel
[O is for overnight hospital stays:] I had a 5 hour wait in a UK A&E when I fractured my foot. That was nice.
[P is for phobias:] Fireworks and very bright lightening.
[Q is for quote:] "It don't mean butt if it ain't got that jut"
[R is for biggest regret:] Having that wine at lunch. Urggggh.
[S is for singing:] Eeeiiin prosit, eiiiin prosit, deeeer Gemutlichkeit!!
[T is for time you woke up:] 7:45am... a sleep in cause I flew in so late last night... and still made work by 9:15. Booyah.
[U is for underwear:] Disco undies!!
[V is for vegetable you love:] Pumpkin. MmmmmMmmMm. It's appauling how many people I live with have a pumpkin phobia.
[W is for worst habit:] Idle hands.
[X is for x-rays you've got:] Ankle, nose, chest x 2, bladder, teeth x a billion, elbow, foot. I'm a clumsy kid.
[Y is for yummy food you make:] I am so Jamie Oliver. Whenever I have 'mini pizza night' everyone goes weak at the knees.
[Z is for zodiac sign:] As stubbirn as they come, Taurus.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Guten Abend!
The day has arrived!! In 42 minutes I fly out of the doors of Threadneedle and don't come back til next Wed. Equipped with my Rough Guide to Germany, I'll board the Tube tonight and be immersed in a land of flowery fields, castles, beer and funny hats. Still, I can't help but think of Homer's "Land of Chocolate" everytime time I contemplate stepping off that plane. Oh yes, I am going to be the ambassador to Germany Australia always wanted. (This is where Carol and Jarrod step in and hold me down). OKTOBERFEST HERE WE COME!!
Prost!!
Friday, September 08, 2006
Sunshine here we come!!
Today on a whim, instead of booking my flights to Norway, Cazza talked me into a trip to Sardinia. Ok, ok... so she didn't really twist my arm as much as send me an email with pictures of the beautiful island.. I was coaxed dammit - never give me visual aids!!
So Carol, Rodda, Jess and I are off to get the last rays of sun and stretches of beach we can find until summer back home. Sounds good to me as it's been FAR too long since I've left the UK (until this time next week!!) and I could do with some hardcore relaxation.
***
In other, sadder news, it pains me to have received yet another morning's worth of distressed emails and messages... I can't believe Brocky's gone. And since things come in three's, I'm refusing to turn my phone on next week.
***
To end this post on a happy note... I look forward to all the little people we will soon be welcoming into the world. Woodsy, your photo's are amazing darl... I can't believe there's a little person in there! And furthermore, can't wait to catch up.. everyone's seriously growing up while I'm away.. what is with that?!
(Oh and p.s. to anyone that has sent emails to my hotmail.. I have limited if any net connection at home since I've moved, hopefully I'll be back on track next week sometime. Send emails to my work (Renee.Hawkett@threadneedle.co.uk) if you miss me THAT much).
Ciaoooooo
So Carol, Rodda, Jess and I are off to get the last rays of sun and stretches of beach we can find until summer back home. Sounds good to me as it's been FAR too long since I've left the UK (until this time next week!!) and I could do with some hardcore relaxation.
***
In other, sadder news, it pains me to have received yet another morning's worth of distressed emails and messages... I can't believe Brocky's gone. And since things come in three's, I'm refusing to turn my phone on next week.
***
To end this post on a happy note... I look forward to all the little people we will soon be welcoming into the world. Woodsy, your photo's are amazing darl... I can't believe there's a little person in there! And furthermore, can't wait to catch up.. everyone's seriously growing up while I'm away.. what is with that?!
(Oh and p.s. to anyone that has sent emails to my hotmail.. I have limited if any net connection at home since I've moved, hopefully I'll be back on track next week sometime. Send emails to my work (Renee.Hawkett@threadneedle.co.uk) if you miss me THAT much).
Ciaoooooo
Monday, September 04, 2006
R.I.P
For the second time this year, I am writing to express my fond farewell to yet another Aussie legend. First it was Big Kev and now... Steve Irwin. WHY GOD?? WHY??
STEVE IRWIN
1962-2002
(5/9/06 - Edit - At Corey's request we had memorial drinks for Steve last night at the walkabout.. there were several Aussies in attendance all wearing black armbands. As much as he was an annoyance at times, he was still a bloody good Aussie ambassador.)
1962-2002
(5/9/06 - Edit - At Corey's request we had memorial drinks for Steve last night at the walkabout.. there were several Aussies in attendance all wearing black armbands. As much as he was an annoyance at times, he was still a bloody good Aussie ambassador.)
Friday, September 01, 2006
Errrr... what?
Proving that you don't need a mathematical mind to work in the financial sector I announce that today, is in fact, my 9 month anniversary.... not a month ago as I so excitedly wrote about ("Happy 9 month anniversary!!"). So, push rewind and relive those celebrations again in my honour.
NB: This time I actually GET champagne... as well as running amok in our big, empty, loveshack... that's right, tonight we walk away from 165 for the last time. We'll miss you Willy G ;(
[I will be writing up Reading stories and the MAJORNESS that was the last week of my life shortly... will be without net access at home for a few weeks but should bounce back after we settle in our new place. FYI - 2 Portland Villa, Benbow Rd, Hammersmith, W6 0AT. As always, forward gifts of love and lust to said address. Keep the used underwear to yourself.]
OH MY GOD EDDIE VEDDER MADE ME CRY.
NB: This time I actually GET champagne... as well as running amok in our big, empty, loveshack... that's right, tonight we walk away from 165 for the last time. We'll miss you Willy G ;(
[I will be writing up Reading stories and the MAJORNESS that was the last week of my life shortly... will be without net access at home for a few weeks but should bounce back after we settle in our new place. FYI - 2 Portland Villa, Benbow Rd, Hammersmith, W6 0AT. As always, forward gifts of love and lust to said address. Keep the used underwear to yourself.]
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Arrrrgggghhhhh
I've made the ultimate decision..... Saturday night I have chosen Reel Big Fish over Muse. I've made my decision, and I stand by it.
You know you've been in London too long..
... when people important to you start moving home.
This morning Megs packed up the very last of her things (I potted her gravy mix and Special K.. yes!) and left Willy G forever. I was quite upset but didn't do the whole 'let's cry on the person leaving, thus making it harder for them to leave' thing.
I only started realising over the last few weeks how much she had been there for me and how close we actually were (without living in each other's pockets). I will miss her, and her quirks, a lot. She'll be returning to Denny (hello country Victoria!) eventually and god knows how long she'll stay, in my opinion, probably not long. We've decided she should fly over to Adelaide when I'm home and I can show her 'the sights' (should that be singular?), which will be very surreal. For now, the rest of us are left to pack up what's left of my only known residence in London ;(
On the complete other hand, I picked up Jarrod from Heathrow yesterday... what a spin out. He didn't really have a clue what was going on and clearly was buggered from enduring the 25 hour transit. After a near impossible 1.5hr journey home we got him showered and free of baggage and it was off to Sainsbo's for beers and food.. hurrah. I think J met pretty much everyone immediate to me within an hour or so and probably zoned out when we all started talking on top of each other - as we so often do.
Being the ever so-good host, I took Cazza's bed and left Jarrod to make his way to sleepy land upstairs. Tucking myself into Carol's bed, trying to sleep to the tune of Coldplay, I'm not sure whether it was the msg consumed at dinner or the Asashi's (which washed down said MSG), but I had dreams of shacking up with John Mayer....?! I was a little startled waking up, to find myself alone and sharing a room with Maree .. and, sadly, a bit disappointed. Haha oh jesus. I also had a dream a few nights ago that I met Kylie Minogue in a rather non-hyped mad fan rush. What is my mind telling me??
So, off the beaten track for a minute there, let's steer it back.... good luck getting home Megs... despite what we told you, we will miss you!!! xxx
This morning Megs packed up the very last of her things (I potted her gravy mix and Special K.. yes!) and left Willy G forever. I was quite upset but didn't do the whole 'let's cry on the person leaving, thus making it harder for them to leave' thing.
I only started realising over the last few weeks how much she had been there for me and how close we actually were (without living in each other's pockets). I will miss her, and her quirks, a lot. She'll be returning to Denny (hello country Victoria!) eventually and god knows how long she'll stay, in my opinion, probably not long. We've decided she should fly over to Adelaide when I'm home and I can show her 'the sights' (should that be singular?), which will be very surreal. For now, the rest of us are left to pack up what's left of my only known residence in London ;(
On the complete other hand, I picked up Jarrod from Heathrow yesterday... what a spin out. He didn't really have a clue what was going on and clearly was buggered from enduring the 25 hour transit. After a near impossible 1.5hr journey home we got him showered and free of baggage and it was off to Sainsbo's for beers and food.. hurrah. I think J met pretty much everyone immediate to me within an hour or so and probably zoned out when we all started talking on top of each other - as we so often do.
Being the ever so-good host, I took Cazza's bed and left Jarrod to make his way to sleepy land upstairs. Tucking myself into Carol's bed, trying to sleep to the tune of Coldplay, I'm not sure whether it was the msg consumed at dinner or the Asashi's (which washed down said MSG), but I had dreams of shacking up with John Mayer....?! I was a little startled waking up, to find myself alone and sharing a room with Maree .. and, sadly, a bit disappointed. Haha oh jesus. I also had a dream a few nights ago that I met Kylie Minogue in a rather non-hyped mad fan rush. What is my mind telling me??
So, off the beaten track for a minute there, let's steer it back.... good luck getting home Megs... despite what we told you, we will miss you!!! xxx
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Girls on film (pronounced "fil-um")
Mostly for the attention of my olds, may I present, my house in film form.
And don't message me saying how boring this is, I never hyped it (Matt, this means keep your piehole closed).
p.s. Hi Mum and Dad! Leave a comment for the nice people ploiiise.
And don't message me saying how boring this is, I never hyped it (Matt, this means keep your piehole closed).
p.s. Hi Mum and Dad! Leave a comment for the nice people ploiiise.
One more thing to tick off the list
So, last night - after a day of recovery from Meg's last stand at the Reddy (but I'll write about that later... pics and all muahaha!) - Carol, Maree and I found ourselves at the London Kabbalah Centre sitting in on an introductory seminar.
Now. We are by no means religious (and for the record, Kabbalah is not a religion), nor were we seeking spiritual enlightenment. The flyer read 'A free seminar on positive thinking!'. 'What the hell!' we thought... after Carol eventually told me where it was being held we both twigged that this could perhaps be a sales pitch. (Were we ever right!) Our better judgement aside we thought, bugger it, let's see what this is all about.
1 hour later the 'gates' in our minds were opening... we knew we were ready to 'receive the light and energy from all the sources around us'..... if only I could've banished Papa Don't Preach and thoughts of Madge from my mind so I could hear the Teacher speak.
***
Seriously though, our introduction to this spiritual path was quite interesting. The only things I had heard about Kabbalah previously were thanks to the media and it's articles on Madonna or any other celebrity of the moment. Some interesting reading folks.
Now. We are by no means religious (and for the record, Kabbalah is not a religion), nor were we seeking spiritual enlightenment. The flyer read 'A free seminar on positive thinking!'. 'What the hell!' we thought... after Carol eventually told me where it was being held we both twigged that this could perhaps be a sales pitch. (Were we ever right!) Our better judgement aside we thought, bugger it, let's see what this is all about.
1 hour later the 'gates' in our minds were opening... we knew we were ready to 'receive the light and energy from all the sources around us'..... if only I could've banished Papa Don't Preach and thoughts of Madge from my mind so I could hear the Teacher speak.
***
Seriously though, our introduction to this spiritual path was quite interesting. The only things I had heard about Kabbalah previously were thanks to the media and it's articles on Madonna or any other celebrity of the moment. Some interesting reading folks.
Friday, August 18, 2006
Ashamed
Last night, for the second time in a fortnight there were severe delays to my tube line (and a few connecting others) "Due to: A person under the train".
Instead of thinking "Oh my god... that's horrible..." the only thing I could do was stand there huffing and puffing (Carol style) about how late my train was and how heavy my bags full of supplies for dinner were getting. "Typical f*%king tubes..grr..".
I'm turning into a Londoner and I hate it.
Instead of thinking "Oh my god... that's horrible..." the only thing I could do was stand there huffing and puffing (Carol style) about how late my train was and how heavy my bags full of supplies for dinner were getting. "Typical f*%king tubes..grr..".
I'm turning into a Londoner and I hate it.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Destination nowhere (Pt. 2)
Well. We knew it was a possibility, but when it became actual fact the disappointment set in. Friday night, after three hours of sitting on the cold concrete that is the upper carpark at Heathrow, we found our flight to Amsterdam had been cancelled. Gutted doesn't even begin to describe how we were feeling. For weeks all I had wanted to do was to get out of London and visit Europe again. It was not to be. It seems, for now, I'll have to make do with memories of last weekend's fleeting visit to Birmingham.
In brighter news, Reading is only 10 DAYS AWAY. I can't believe how close it is.. I can smell the muddy fields from here. I'm still trying to acquire a tent (hello Ebay. I was caught up in a bidding frenzy this morning... some deviant outbid me with 3 seconds left. Little do they know a better tent (with accessories.. HA!) is now up for only 99p. Get in.). We've pre-ordered our cases of cold Carling to help us settle in on day one. Only thing left to do is buy some gumboots and we've got ourselves a festival people.
The next 10 days are actually event filled in themselves. I've got a lunch on for one of my friends who is getting married, we're putting down the final deposit on our new place and we're off to the Reddy this weekend for Megs' farewell. Next Tuesday, there'll be tears and beers as we have a final dinner with our head honcho Megsy. Jarrod arrives on Wednesday, bright eyed and bushy-tailed (haha, I'm optimistic! no ipod and no laptop make Jarrod, something-something. Damn terrorists). Thursday as we wave goodbye to Megs we'll have a day to deal before packing up our minimalist backpacks and trudge through the mud puddles for the best weekend ever!!!
Ok... now back down to earth to continue counting down the hours until my next auction... 9 hours, 23 mins....
In brighter news, Reading is only 10 DAYS AWAY. I can't believe how close it is.. I can smell the muddy fields from here. I'm still trying to acquire a tent (hello Ebay. I was caught up in a bidding frenzy this morning... some deviant outbid me with 3 seconds left. Little do they know a better tent (with accessories.. HA!) is now up for only 99p. Get in.). We've pre-ordered our cases of cold Carling to help us settle in on day one. Only thing left to do is buy some gumboots and we've got ourselves a festival people.
The next 10 days are actually event filled in themselves. I've got a lunch on for one of my friends who is getting married, we're putting down the final deposit on our new place and we're off to the Reddy this weekend for Megs' farewell. Next Tuesday, there'll be tears and beers as we have a final dinner with our head honcho Megsy. Jarrod arrives on Wednesday, bright eyed and bushy-tailed (haha, I'm optimistic! no ipod and no laptop make Jarrod, something-something. Damn terrorists). Thursday as we wave goodbye to Megs we'll have a day to deal before packing up our minimalist backpacks and trudge through the mud puddles for the best weekend ever!!!
Ok... now back down to earth to continue counting down the hours until my next auction... 9 hours, 23 mins....
Monday, August 14, 2006
The meaning of... well, me.
Rez -- [noun]: A person of questionable sanity who starts their own cult 'How will you be defined in the dictionary?' at QuizGalaxy.com |
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Destination nowhere
I go to Turkey, my credit card gets stolen the day before. I go to Barcelona, I leave my Australian Passport behind. I go to Amsterdam, terrorists decide to try and blow up 10 planes and Heathrow goes into shutdown mode!!!
Well, that's a little dramatic, and I'm sure we'll get there, it's just concerning when you're watching live feeds from Heathrow where the (already long and hideously treated) lines are snaking around the departures lounge and right back through security.
As of now all European short haul flights to and from Heathrow are suspended until 3pm this afternoon. No hand luggage is allowed on board (except absolute essentials such as passports, medication, wallets) which must be carried in plastic bags given out by the airlines. Everything else must be checked in (say goodbye to the idea of self-check in grrr) and everyone must be hand-searched and x-rayed. For fucksake!!
I'm by no means psychic (and you can leave the jokes out about being psycho), but I forsee long, looooong waits tomorrow night. Exactly what I need after a week of no sleep and long days at work. Ahhhh.
Well, that's a little dramatic, and I'm sure we'll get there, it's just concerning when you're watching live feeds from Heathrow where the (already long and hideously treated) lines are snaking around the departures lounge and right back through security.
As of now all European short haul flights to and from Heathrow are suspended until 3pm this afternoon. No hand luggage is allowed on board (except absolute essentials such as passports, medication, wallets) which must be carried in plastic bags given out by the airlines. Everything else must be checked in (say goodbye to the idea of self-check in grrr) and everyone must be hand-searched and x-rayed. For fucksake!!
I'm by no means psychic (and you can leave the jokes out about being psycho), but I forsee long, looooong waits tomorrow night. Exactly what I need after a week of no sleep and long days at work. Ahhhh.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Hear YE Hear YE
I call to arms anyone who dare join the Monopoly Board challenge.
These geniuses derived a plan to complete a pub crawl around London hitting up every spot on the Monopoly Board in one day.. FANTASTIC!!
P.S. Gonna have a gooood time toniiiight.. rock and roll music gonna play all night!! Yes, the time to see Barnesy has arrived.... we are happy little vegemites us *rock hand*
These geniuses derived a plan to complete a pub crawl around London hitting up every spot on the Monopoly Board in one day.. FANTASTIC!!
P.S. Gonna have a gooood time toniiiight.. rock and roll music gonna play all night!! Yes, the time to see Barnesy has arrived.... we are happy little vegemites us *rock hand*
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Happy 9 month anniversary!
As Vanessa so eloquently summed it up "If we got preggas when we left we would now be parents.."
And so on this glorious ocassion (well, 3 days late, but hey). I announce the following..
You purchased 2 tickets to:
Tool - Standing
Nottingham Arena, Nottingham, UK
Friday, 01 December, 2006 7:30 pm
You purchased 2 tickets to:
Tool - Standing
SECC, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, UK
Saturday, 25 November, 2006 7:00 pm
You purchased 2 tickets to:
Tool - Standing
Wembley Arena, Middlesex, UK
Monday, 27 November, 2006 7:30 pm
OH MY FUCKING GOD
And so on this glorious ocassion (well, 3 days late, but hey). I announce the following..
You purchased 2 tickets to:
Tool - Standing
Nottingham Arena, Nottingham, UK
Friday, 01 December, 2006 7:30 pm
You purchased 2 tickets to:
Tool - Standing
SECC, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, UK
Saturday, 25 November, 2006 7:00 pm
You purchased 2 tickets to:
Tool - Standing
Wembley Arena, Middlesex, UK
Monday, 27 November, 2006 7:30 pm
OH MY FUCKING GOD
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Adelaide.. how I love thee
(I got this forwarded to me the other day, apart from reminding me why I love Adelaide it reminded me why I don't annoy you with group emails)
++++++
I'm sick of all these emails flying around from the travellers overseas, so I reckon we send this one back...
Hi Everyone!!!
Just a quick email to let you all know what a great time we're having!!!!
Adelaide is just awesome - there's so much to do!!!! The people are friendly and the sights are great but I don't know if I could live here.
Yesterday we went to the famous silver balls and they're so much bigger than I expected!! It was really freaky to see all the landmarks you've seen in films your whole life - the renaissance tower, the rundle arcade and of course the pigs. We did soooooo much shopping and I can't believe the variety of shops in the Myer Centre!!! Shops like Wacko, Billy Baxters and Bras & Things had us shopping for minutes on end....
On Monday, we went to the Barossa Valley which was soooo romantic. We tasted wine and then....tasted some more wine - it was great!! It was such a great atmosphere!!!!!!
On the weekend we hit the bustling nightlife in the city. Things got pretty scary cos the city is sooooooo packed and there are people everywhere!!! We went to this massive club called church and I swear there was over 30 people in there!!!! (LOL.. my favourite bit) I had to leave early cos it was just tooooooo packed but I had a great time. We then went to this place called the Alberton Hotel. That was HARDCORE. It was a really exclusive club and the dress code was very strict. They almost didn't let me in with my kappa trackies and thongs, but luckily after I
realised that there was no bouncer we managed to get in.
On the Sunday I was so hung over I just stayed home and relaxed and I think everyone in Adelaide did the same cos I heard there was no one around - man, this city knows how to party!!!
Tomorrow, we're going to the big one - that's right, the statue of Colonel Light. I can't believe the day has finally come when I'm going to see it and I'm definitely going to do the touristy thing and stand next to it pointing. (HAHAHA)
Well I've got to let you all go cos we're off to the Ice Arena and maybe on to the brewery to look at Vulcan, but I don't know - I don't know if we're gonna have Enough time....
See ya all in a few weeks and I can't wait to show you both the photos.
Luv ya
Anth
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
+++++
Gold.
++++++
I'm sick of all these emails flying around from the travellers overseas, so I reckon we send this one back...
Hi Everyone!!!
Just a quick email to let you all know what a great time we're having!!!!
Adelaide is just awesome - there's so much to do!!!! The people are friendly and the sights are great but I don't know if I could live here.
Yesterday we went to the famous silver balls and they're so much bigger than I expected!! It was really freaky to see all the landmarks you've seen in films your whole life - the renaissance tower, the rundle arcade and of course the pigs. We did soooooo much shopping and I can't believe the variety of shops in the Myer Centre!!! Shops like Wacko, Billy Baxters and Bras & Things had us shopping for minutes on end....
On Monday, we went to the Barossa Valley which was soooo romantic. We tasted wine and then....tasted some more wine - it was great!! It was such a great atmosphere!!!!!!
On the weekend we hit the bustling nightlife in the city. Things got pretty scary cos the city is sooooooo packed and there are people everywhere!!! We went to this massive club called church and I swear there was over 30 people in there!!!! (LOL.. my favourite bit) I had to leave early cos it was just tooooooo packed but I had a great time. We then went to this place called the Alberton Hotel. That was HARDCORE. It was a really exclusive club and the dress code was very strict. They almost didn't let me in with my kappa trackies and thongs, but luckily after I
realised that there was no bouncer we managed to get in.
On the Sunday I was so hung over I just stayed home and relaxed and I think everyone in Adelaide did the same cos I heard there was no one around - man, this city knows how to party!!!
Tomorrow, we're going to the big one - that's right, the statue of Colonel Light. I can't believe the day has finally come when I'm going to see it and I'm definitely going to do the touristy thing and stand next to it pointing. (HAHAHA)
Well I've got to let you all go cos we're off to the Ice Arena and maybe on to the brewery to look at Vulcan, but I don't know - I don't know if we're gonna have Enough time....
See ya all in a few weeks and I can't wait to show you both the photos.
Luv ya
Anth
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
+++++
Gold.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Oh........my..........GOD
Homebake
Saturday 2 December
(Note - Line-up not finalised)
silverchair
Eskimo Joe, Hilltop Hoods, Scribe (NZ), Gotye, You Am I, Youth Group, Bjorn Again, The Butterfly Effect, The Presets, The Models, Bob Evans, Toni Collette & the Finish, Little Birdy, Infusion, Midnight Juggernauts, Kid Kenobi & MC Shureshock, Parkway Drive, Augie March, Angus & Julia Stone
Domain, Sydney, NSW, $75 (+ bf), Tickets on sale: 21 August, all ages
HOLY FUCKING SHIT.
Saturday 2 December
(Note - Line-up not finalised)
silverchair
Eskimo Joe, Hilltop Hoods, Scribe (NZ), Gotye, You Am I, Youth Group, Bjorn Again, The Butterfly Effect, The Presets, The Models, Bob Evans, Toni Collette & the Finish, Little Birdy, Infusion, Midnight Juggernauts, Kid Kenobi & MC Shureshock, Parkway Drive, Augie March, Angus & Julia Stone
Domain, Sydney, NSW, $75 (+ bf), Tickets on sale: 21 August, all ages
HOLY FUCKING SHIT.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
A hot tip...
How bloody fantastic are bagels??!
Well they are!
(Note to self. Think of better page filler for follow-up blog to post 100... and add more bagels to shopping list.)
Well they are!
(Note to self. Think of better page filler for follow-up blog to post 100... and add more bagels to shopping list.)
Monday, July 17, 2006
Haaaail the conquering herooooes
Blow the whistles, hit the tin cans... yes it's my 100th post!! Some would say that's a little over the top in just 8 months, but I like to think of it as dedication to the reporting of non-events. In fact, I should get some kind of persistance prize.
What better way to celebrate this post with a write up of 'Toast', the NZ/Aussie food and wine festival. We were never going to pay to attend as it was £35 merely to enter (ok, so you got £10 food voucher included), but wine was £4 a glass as was beer. So that leaves £25 to pay Roy and HG to make a few brief appearances on stage followed by a long and arduous set by Paul Kelly. No thanks.
So, when Leah and I were offered 6 free tickets we were all over them. Arriving in Regents Park around lunchtime we were in our prime, it was about 30 degrees, people everywhere and we were all cashed up. Being the Aussie battlers we are, we didn't bother with sunscreen (Pah! This English "sun" can't hurt me!! (Note: IT CAN)) and headed straight for the wine tents. As the Tasmanian Jansz began to take over our bloodstream we decided buying loads of beer (yes, Coopers was in attendance!!), Samboys and olives was a good idea. We then planted ourselves in front of the stage and kicked back for the arvo.
Plenty of amber gold later and we decided to cause havoc in the beer tent. "Hmm, I like the looks of that Coopers sign" says Rez. "Here, let me get that for you" says Leah. As I purchased some more beer Leah 'discreetly' (read: rips down with gusto) removes the sign as we leave the tent 'in an orderly fashion' (read:piss bolt out of there with beer spilling all over the place'). So, we made off back into the crowd, happy with our signs and plenty of fluids to keep the afternoon flowing.
V had a few dilemmas that afternoon and as such her and Jules could only make it as the bars were winding down.... "No! I won't have this!" I thought, and whisked them straight into the tents as the girl who had served us all afternoon treated us to a few sneaky champers after closing. Fantastic.
Afterwards we headed to the Walkabout (and when I say we, I mean me and Leah, being the only ones stupid enough to continue on in our sunburnt and drunk state) and, to be fair, I had consumed a few pints (and when I saw 'few' I mean 'my bodyweight in'). Pumping through the usual tracks... the Loveshack, Land Down Under, Faith etc, what should my ears behold but that tearjerking theme .... to Baywatch. I stood stunned for a brief moment before putting my Snakey down (a first) and running, slo-mo, around the bar with my other dickhead mates. (Whilst shouting down the phone at my poor little bro.. who, at that time of the morning could only be wondering "Has someone I know been transported back to the early 90's??")
Thankfully I had the good sense (at around 11:30) that the day should finally come to an end as I stumbled my way to the tube station and off home. The same couldn't be said for Andy (haha, dobbing you in for once!!) who was getting rather smashed on the other side of town... his shameful texts shall remain saved in my phone for blackmail down the line.
*******
What else can I add to this fantastical event... oh yes.. I have booked the following...
- Kylie's Homecoming Tour 2007 @ Wembley Jan 6th, Jan 8th.... and Jan 9th! (Matt in his pissed state has decided that he is flying over for one of these shows... lets see what the reality of harsh soberness brings to this idea!)
- Jimmy Barnes @ Carling Acadmey, Aug 7
- Flights/trains to Oktoberfest, Sept 15-19
- Trains to Reading, Aug 25-28
- Tickets to Port v Geelong in the AFL exhibition match, Oct 21
- Tickets to the Film Festival in Greenwich Park this weekend (Kill Bill/Ferris Bueller!)
- Panic! At The Disco, Brixton Academy, Oct 24
I'M SO FUCKING BIG KEV ABOUT ALL THIS RIGHT NOW!!! (I need half a white valium and a lie down).
*****
P.S. My horoscope today...
Here is your horoscope for Friday, July 21:
Some hectic astrological influences mean today shapes up to be a tad more hectic than you originally thought. No matter. Be flexible. Use a pencil instead of a pen, and buy an extra-big eraser -- just in case.
(In case I didn't point out, I spent the first 3 hours of today trying to book Kylie tickets... and give back those that I don't want anymore!)
What better way to celebrate this post with a write up of 'Toast', the NZ/Aussie food and wine festival. We were never going to pay to attend as it was £35 merely to enter (ok, so you got £10 food voucher included), but wine was £4 a glass as was beer. So that leaves £25 to pay Roy and HG to make a few brief appearances on stage followed by a long and arduous set by Paul Kelly. No thanks.
So, when Leah and I were offered 6 free tickets we were all over them. Arriving in Regents Park around lunchtime we were in our prime, it was about 30 degrees, people everywhere and we were all cashed up. Being the Aussie battlers we are, we didn't bother with sunscreen (Pah! This English "sun" can't hurt me!! (Note: IT CAN)) and headed straight for the wine tents. As the Tasmanian Jansz began to take over our bloodstream we decided buying loads of beer (yes, Coopers was in attendance!!), Samboys and olives was a good idea. We then planted ourselves in front of the stage and kicked back for the arvo.
Plenty of amber gold later and we decided to cause havoc in the beer tent. "Hmm, I like the looks of that Coopers sign" says Rez. "Here, let me get that for you" says Leah. As I purchased some more beer Leah 'discreetly' (read: rips down with gusto) removes the sign as we leave the tent 'in an orderly fashion' (read:piss bolt out of there with beer spilling all over the place'). So, we made off back into the crowd, happy with our signs and plenty of fluids to keep the afternoon flowing.
V had a few dilemmas that afternoon and as such her and Jules could only make it as the bars were winding down.... "No! I won't have this!" I thought, and whisked them straight into the tents as the girl who had served us all afternoon treated us to a few sneaky champers after closing. Fantastic.
Afterwards we headed to the Walkabout (and when I say we, I mean me and Leah, being the only ones stupid enough to continue on in our sunburnt and drunk state) and, to be fair, I had consumed a few pints (and when I saw 'few' I mean 'my bodyweight in'). Pumping through the usual tracks... the Loveshack, Land Down Under, Faith etc, what should my ears behold but that tearjerking theme .... to Baywatch. I stood stunned for a brief moment before putting my Snakey down (a first) and running, slo-mo, around the bar with my other dickhead mates. (Whilst shouting down the phone at my poor little bro.. who, at that time of the morning could only be wondering "Has someone I know been transported back to the early 90's??")
Thankfully I had the good sense (at around 11:30) that the day should finally come to an end as I stumbled my way to the tube station and off home. The same couldn't be said for Andy (haha, dobbing you in for once!!) who was getting rather smashed on the other side of town... his shameful texts shall remain saved in my phone for blackmail down the line.
*******
What else can I add to this fantastical event... oh yes.. I have booked the following...
- Kylie's Homecoming Tour 2007 @ Wembley Jan 6th, Jan 8th.... and Jan 9th! (Matt in his pissed state has decided that he is flying over for one of these shows... lets see what the reality of harsh soberness brings to this idea!)
- Jimmy Barnes @ Carling Acadmey, Aug 7
- Flights/trains to Oktoberfest, Sept 15-19
- Trains to Reading, Aug 25-28
- Tickets to Port v Geelong in the AFL exhibition match, Oct 21
- Tickets to the Film Festival in Greenwich Park this weekend (Kill Bill/Ferris Bueller!)
- Panic! At The Disco, Brixton Academy, Oct 24
I'M SO FUCKING BIG KEV ABOUT ALL THIS RIGHT NOW!!! (I need half a white valium and a lie down).
*****
P.S. My horoscope today...
Here is your horoscope for Friday, July 21:
Some hectic astrological influences mean today shapes up to be a tad more hectic than you originally thought. No matter. Be flexible. Use a pencil instead of a pen, and buy an extra-big eraser -- just in case.
(In case I didn't point out, I spent the first 3 hours of today trying to book Kylie tickets... and give back those that I don't want anymore!)
Monday, July 10, 2006
Baaaby, baaaaby, baaaaaaaaaaabyyyyyy
YOU ARE MY VOODOO CHILD, MY VOODOO CHILD
You heard it here first folks, we're off to see Izzy and the Traders tomorrow night at the Empire!!! I got back from lunch to receive some very good news....
"Congratulations. You have won two tickets to see the Rogue Traders at the Shepherd's Bush Empire tomorrow night. Your name (plus one) will be on the SJM guestlist at the box office
Regards,
Alison"
Now to make my "Izzy we <3 you" sign.
You heard it here first folks, we're off to see Izzy and the Traders tomorrow night at the Empire!!! I got back from lunch to receive some very good news....
"Congratulations. You have won two tickets to see the Rogue Traders at the Shepherd's Bush Empire tomorrow night. Your name (plus one) will be on the SJM guestlist at the box office
Regards,
Alison"
Now to make my "Izzy we <3 you" sign.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Well she's runnin to the hills again
Ok, so it's midnight, I am being FORCED out of bed at 7.30 to watch All Black v Aus before heading to work 3 hours at the gym followed by a 12 hour stint in the Clubhouse so all I can say at this point is WOLFMOTHER FUCKING ROCK MY WORLD. If I hadn't seen Tool this year I would've said best concert in 2006 hands down.
\m/
\m/
Friday, June 30, 2006
Some photos my mama sent me...
..from our last lunch together (+ V!) the day before we left Adelaide... ahh the Vic, how I miss thee!
Aww.. I swear this is one of only a rare few family photos that exists. Thank god it was taken during the reign of "Skinny Rez"!
Me being a twat. Hey, we never see these kinds of photos!
One of the very last times I tasted champagne :(
(Oh, except that whole drunken week in Canberra...)
Me being a twat. Hey, we never see these kinds of photos!
One of the very last times I tasted champagne :((Oh, except that whole drunken week in Canberra...)
Random #2
How much will this fucking rule... I <3 the Coreys
After *finally* succumbing to Leah's plea's, I watched Dirty Dancing Tuesday night. I think this sums it up perfectly.
Also, recently (as in tonight where I am so overtired I am surfing the net for references like "stupid inventions" and "white ninja cartoons") I found a staggering number of Australian written blogs urging Aussies to get behind a bid to get Nikki (from UK's BB06) into the Australian Big Brother house. Why? .... SWEET JESUS WHY???
I need a lie down and a cup of Jarrah.
After *finally* succumbing to Leah's plea's, I watched Dirty Dancing Tuesday night. I think this sums it up perfectly.
Also, recently (as in tonight where I am so overtired I am surfing the net for references like "stupid inventions" and "white ninja cartoons") I found a staggering number of Australian written blogs urging Aussies to get behind a bid to get Nikki (from UK's BB06) into the Australian Big Brother house. Why? .... SWEET JESUS WHY???
I need a lie down and a cup of Jarrah.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Time goes by.... so slowly
Who knew a week off work could suck SO much. I've been stuck in this house for almost a week now and it, of course, has to be the quietest week this house has seen in ages. Almost noone is home these days and when they do get home I grab their attention for as long as possible! It really sucks cause I'm totally fine apart from the fact that I can't actually go anywhere. Everyone is off to Wimbledon tomorrow ;(
I'm starting to walk more fluently now but after about 5 minutes on my feet I need to rest as my knee starts throbbing any longer than that. This is so frusrtating!!!
I'm starting to walk more fluently now but after about 5 minutes on my feet I need to rest as my knee starts throbbing any longer than that. This is so frusrtating!!!
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Evidence
Does this look like someone who was so out of control they would go flailing over a back door step?? Judge for yourselves!! (and if you're wondering why it looks so light, yes, it was 6:45am)
Michaela, Leah and my good self
Me and Matty James.. he dared me into a drinking contest.. he should've known better
NB: These were recovered only last night as they were never known to exist..
Me and Matty James.. he dared me into a drinking contest.. he should've known betterNB: These were recovered only last night as they were never known to exist..
Monday, June 26, 2006
Can't sit down, can't stand up...
.... cause if I do I know I'm gonna break
Yes, the inevitable has finally happened. Whilst at a houseparty on Saturday night (well, Sunday morning), I tripped on a step onto wooden floors and injured myself. After walking - well, shuffling - home (it was about 40 houses down from us and I screamed the entire way) I dosed up on mersyndol and passed out until about 4pm Sunday afternoon.
After waking up feeling a bit sore and not remembering the fall, I got out of bed and proceeded to fall down, again. Thankfully Ange and Megs were home and helped me get to the bathroom. After the tears subsided Ange, our resident nurse, gave me some painkillers and put ice on my foot. She had today off and decided we'd go to A&E first thing as it's a known fact you can wait up to 4 hours for treatment. And wait we did...
After 5 hours, 3 consults and 1 x-ray it was discovered that I had badly sprained the medialcollateral ligament in my left knee and fractured the 5th metatarsel in my right foot. So, if you hadn't already figured, this meant that neither of my legs were quite suitable to walk on. Hobbling home with some dodgy bandages and crutches I am now confined to bed for a few days. Whats worse is that my new work contract began today. I am known for making good first impressions....
Yes, the inevitable has finally happened. Whilst at a houseparty on Saturday night (well, Sunday morning), I tripped on a step onto wooden floors and injured myself. After walking - well, shuffling - home (it was about 40 houses down from us and I screamed the entire way) I dosed up on mersyndol and passed out until about 4pm Sunday afternoon.
After waking up feeling a bit sore and not remembering the fall, I got out of bed and proceeded to fall down, again. Thankfully Ange and Megs were home and helped me get to the bathroom. After the tears subsided Ange, our resident nurse, gave me some painkillers and put ice on my foot. She had today off and decided we'd go to A&E first thing as it's a known fact you can wait up to 4 hours for treatment. And wait we did...
After 5 hours, 3 consults and 1 x-ray it was discovered that I had badly sprained the medialcollateral ligament in my left knee and fractured the 5th metatarsel in my right foot. So, if you hadn't already figured, this meant that neither of my legs were quite suitable to walk on. Hobbling home with some dodgy bandages and crutches I am now confined to bed for a few days. Whats worse is that my new work contract began today. I am known for making good first impressions....
Monday, June 19, 2006
What have we become.. will you comfort me?
Last night was one I'll remember for quite sometime (despite the copious amounts of snakebites that were consumed). It has been a massive week for me and gigs and in the post-Foo Fighters aftermath we were gearing up for Australia v Brazil followed by Shihad at the Shebu Empire. The atmosphere was fantastic. A room chockas with Aussies and Kiwis (and unfortunately, a few stinking Brazilians), for just one of thousands of places showing the soccer, the noise we were making was fantastic! Unfortunately the boys didn't come through with the goods, but put up a damn good fight and we will be in force on Thursday when it comes down to do or die.
Anyhow, enough patriotism for now.
Before Shihad there was to be an AC/DC coverband, I'm quite partial to a bit of Acca Dacca myself so no worries there, to our surprise the 'had were actually the band, fronted by a different singer.. brilliant! Who on earth supports themselves?!
When Shihad finally came out (to thunderous applause) they fucking rocked the house down for a good 90 minutes. I had forgotten how brilliant they were live. Not two songs in and Jon Toogood disappeared from the stage.... he emerged 2 minutes.. on the balcony above our heads, straddled the ledge and continued to rock.. what a legend.
(Not the best photos, but hey, there were snakebites involved people!!)
And as for the Foo Saturday... what an adventure! We set down to Hyde Park around 1.30, met up witht he rugby girls for a birthday bash in the park and drank to our hearts content. It was a fantastic day to be in the park - about 28, there were people EVERYWHERE, even those not attending and the atmosphere was excellent (London really does come alive when the weather is worth being outside for). We pressed on in to the grounds around 5pm (as QOTSA geared up - also blowing a speaker in the throws, rock on \m/) - I cohersed the guards not to look in my bag by giving him a homemade roll.. we scored the Aussies a few brownie points that day.
After wading through 80,000 people we found a posi and began wondering how the hell we were going to hold on to all the beer previously consumed as we looked at the lines for the toilets. Festivals here just have not seemed to have caught onto the idea of having more than 5 toilets in one queue. Even in Aus our "tiny" 30,000 strong festivals have expanded their facilities in previous years as they have learnt from their mistakes! (ahem, rant over). Needless to say, there were a few 'peeing behind blankets' incidents (not naming any names, Trudi).
Foo's burst onto the stage around 9pm, just as I was making my way back through the crowd - thankfully running into both Andy and Dan, hence not being completely alone for this one-off experience. Unfortunately, I didn't see a lot of the set.. we were an excitable bunch and spent a lot of time talking and, well, being morons in general (What?! I hear you cry in disbelief). Sadly the sound on our side of the ground was dampened by the loss of the speaker earlier in the day, but they still put on a damn good show and it will be just another one of a miriad of stories I will be telling for a few more years.
Here's to rocking on to many more bands in the near future (but maybe not sharing that experience with 80,000+ people..)
P.S. Wanting to write a post Tool reflection... I'm still recovering from PTDS at the moment, it may take a while.
Anyhow, enough patriotism for now.
Before Shihad there was to be an AC/DC coverband, I'm quite partial to a bit of Acca Dacca myself so no worries there, to our surprise the 'had were actually the band, fronted by a different singer.. brilliant! Who on earth supports themselves?!
When Shihad finally came out (to thunderous applause) they fucking rocked the house down for a good 90 minutes. I had forgotten how brilliant they were live. Not two songs in and Jon Toogood disappeared from the stage.... he emerged 2 minutes.. on the balcony above our heads, straddled the ledge and continued to rock.. what a legend.
(Not the best photos, but hey, there were snakebites involved people!!)
And as for the Foo Saturday... what an adventure! We set down to Hyde Park around 1.30, met up witht he rugby girls for a birthday bash in the park and drank to our hearts content. It was a fantastic day to be in the park - about 28, there were people EVERYWHERE, even those not attending and the atmosphere was excellent (London really does come alive when the weather is worth being outside for). We pressed on in to the grounds around 5pm (as QOTSA geared up - also blowing a speaker in the throws, rock on \m/) - I cohersed the guards not to look in my bag by giving him a homemade roll.. we scored the Aussies a few brownie points that day.
After wading through 80,000 people we found a posi and began wondering how the hell we were going to hold on to all the beer previously consumed as we looked at the lines for the toilets. Festivals here just have not seemed to have caught onto the idea of having more than 5 toilets in one queue. Even in Aus our "tiny" 30,000 strong festivals have expanded their facilities in previous years as they have learnt from their mistakes! (ahem, rant over). Needless to say, there were a few 'peeing behind blankets' incidents (not naming any names, Trudi).
Foo's burst onto the stage around 9pm, just as I was making my way back through the crowd - thankfully running into both Andy and Dan, hence not being completely alone for this one-off experience. Unfortunately, I didn't see a lot of the set.. we were an excitable bunch and spent a lot of time talking and, well, being morons in general (What?! I hear you cry in disbelief). Sadly the sound on our side of the ground was dampened by the loss of the speaker earlier in the day, but they still put on a damn good show and it will be just another one of a miriad of stories I will be telling for a few more years.
Here's to rocking on to many more bands in the near future (but maybe not sharing that experience with 80,000+ people..)
P.S. Wanting to write a post Tool reflection... I'm still recovering from PTDS at the moment, it may take a while.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Slipping back into the gap again
Well... it's all over. After 3 months of waiting, our Tool odyssey finished last night in fine style (not without its ups and downs...)
4 x shows (Barcelona RZZ, Glasgow Academy, Hammersmith Apollo x 2)
4 x tshirts/2 x posters/1 x stolen security poster/1 x bottle of holy water!!!
1,220 Pounds spent all up ($3050.00 - shudder)
18 hours and 20 minutes travelling
Approx 3000km
8 days
1 missed train
1 final call
10,000,000 dreams of MJK wearing that cowboy hat .... what?!
I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.
Maynard made the HUGE mistake of remarking 'Hopefully we'll see you in November'. After we settle debts incurred this time round it'll be time to rack up a whoooole lot more.
Now what do I do?
Ok, so, he is WITHOUT cowboy hat/gun belt buckle... but he's still nice to look at
4 x shows (Barcelona RZZ, Glasgow Academy, Hammersmith Apollo x 2)
4 x tshirts/2 x posters/1 x stolen security poster/1 x bottle of holy water!!!
1,220 Pounds spent all up ($3050.00 - shudder)
18 hours and 20 minutes travelling
Approx 3000km
8 days
1 missed train
1 final call
10,000,000 dreams of MJK wearing that cowboy hat .... what?!
I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.
Maynard made the HUGE mistake of remarking 'Hopefully we'll see you in November'. After we settle debts incurred this time round it'll be time to rack up a whoooole lot more.
Now what do I do?
Ok, so, he is WITHOUT cowboy hat/gun belt buckle... but he's still nice to look at
Monday, June 12, 2006
How on EARTH
.. do they think that these bands are plausible replacements???
"READING & LEEDS LINE-UP LATEST
Alas, Audioslave are out but Dashboard Confessional, Towers of London, Aiden, Fields and Duels are in!"
Towers of fucking London FFS??!
What-the fuck-ever Reading.
"READING & LEEDS LINE-UP LATEST
Alas, Audioslave are out but Dashboard Confessional, Towers of London, Aiden, Fields and Duels are in!"
Towers of fucking London FFS??!
What-the fuck-ever Reading.
DOWNLOAD 2006
Well, needless to say the weekend just passed was one of the best of my life. I am still trying to work out how far we travelled and how many connections we missed (hehe - don't blame me Towsty.. my hair has to be done!!!). Despite a few ups and downs it was a fucking awesome weekend.
To be brief the highlights were Metallica capping a day at Download - an OUTSTANDING two hour set (I find myself becoming a fan more and more everyday). They decided to mark their 20 year (OMG) anniversary of Master of Puppets by playing the ENTIRE ALBUM from start to finish. To top that off they played all the classics after (which involved fireworks during One and Sandman... NOT amused Tallica).
This was followed by TooL in Glasgow the next night. We lined up for an hour to get in then stood for another hour before the show started - it couldn't have been more worth it - second row, that close to the front you could make eye contact with all of the band (I SWEAR Maynard and I had a moment!). I'll write more later but lets say when Andy caught the bottle of water Justin threw into the crowd we were transformed into screaming teenage girls (AT especially).
The only downside to the whole weekend - and it was a huge disappointment - was Korn's Jon Davis was unable to attend due to being admitted to hospital for something quite serious, apparently (well, I checked it out today and it does sound quite bad). Anyhow, the rest of the band came out, apologised, then played half an hour of Korn Karaoke with singers of other supporting bands lending a hand, but it just didn't cut the mustard. Korn are nothing without him.
More later... I'm stil recovering from the sunburn (yes, it "soared" to 28!!) and mental/emotional draining.
Jarrod I will find a way to call from the Apollo tomorrow night - promise!
***
Oh and Carls welcome to the blog world... now I'm advertising for you, you HAVE to post!
To be brief the highlights were Metallica capping a day at Download - an OUTSTANDING two hour set (I find myself becoming a fan more and more everyday). They decided to mark their 20 year (OMG) anniversary of Master of Puppets by playing the ENTIRE ALBUM from start to finish. To top that off they played all the classics after (which involved fireworks during One and Sandman... NOT amused Tallica).
This was followed by TooL in Glasgow the next night. We lined up for an hour to get in then stood for another hour before the show started - it couldn't have been more worth it - second row, that close to the front you could make eye contact with all of the band (I SWEAR Maynard and I had a moment!). I'll write more later but lets say when Andy caught the bottle of water Justin threw into the crowd we were transformed into screaming teenage girls (AT especially).
The only downside to the whole weekend - and it was a huge disappointment - was Korn's Jon Davis was unable to attend due to being admitted to hospital for something quite serious, apparently (well, I checked it out today and it does sound quite bad). Anyhow, the rest of the band came out, apologised, then played half an hour of Korn Karaoke with singers of other supporting bands lending a hand, but it just didn't cut the mustard. Korn are nothing without him.
More later... I'm stil recovering from the sunburn (yes, it "soared" to 28!!) and mental/emotional draining.
Jarrod I will find a way to call from the Apollo tomorrow night - promise!
***
Oh and Carls welcome to the blog world... now I'm advertising for you, you HAVE to post!
Friday, June 09, 2006
21 hours and counting
Mmmm bring on the metal goodness.
Main Stage
20:15-22:30 METALLICA
18:30-19:45 KORN
17:20-18:10 TRIVIUM
16:10-17:00 AVENGED SEVENFOLD
15:10-15:50 STONE SOUR
14:10-14:50 ALICE IN CHAINS
Snickers Stage
20:00-21:00 ALTERBRIDGE
19:00-19:40 OPETH
18:05-18:40 WITHIN TEMPTATION
17:10-17:45 SECRET MACHINES
16:20-16:50 BILLY TALENT
15:30-16:00 WICKED WISDOM
13:50-15:20 HENRY ROLLINS
And to make matters even BETTER, it's supposed to be 31 tomorrow. Oh happy days.
Main Stage
20:15-22:30 METALLICA
18:30-19:45 KORN
17:20-18:10 TRIVIUM
16:10-17:00 AVENGED SEVENFOLD
15:10-15:50 STONE SOUR
14:10-14:50 ALICE IN CHAINS
Snickers Stage
20:00-21:00 ALTERBRIDGE
19:00-19:40 OPETH
18:05-18:40 WITHIN TEMPTATION
17:10-17:45 SECRET MACHINES
16:20-16:50 BILLY TALENT
15:30-16:00 WICKED WISDOM
13:50-15:20 HENRY ROLLINS
And to make matters even BETTER, it's supposed to be 31 tomorrow. Oh happy days.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Passing time, all your addictions are so sublime
Went and saw Pete Murray at the Shepherds Bush Empire last night... fucking superb. I hadn't really listened to his music until a few years ago and recently got my hands on his second album - haven't stopped listening to them since.
From the opening band (from ADELAIDE!! - yes I was one of the only people to yell out when they announced this) to Pete's last song we were treated to some brilliant Aussie sounds. The acoustics in the place were fantastic (as it was an old theatre it made the perfect place for his set to go off).
Half way through he played "Ten ft Tall", which I always loved but never really listened to the lyrics. He told the story of how the song came to be - I was nearly in tears throughout the entire song ;(
He left Lines and Bail Me Out til the end - and his tiny son ran out just as he finished up. The crowd wouldn't let that be that though and he came out to play three more songs. He finally played So Beautiful - just him, the guitar and some very soft mood lighting. At one point he went completely a cappella and it was us and him... I've got goosebumps just writing about it. God I love live music. (And Pete Murray <3)
***
So now, we sit back and wait for Saturday to roll round when we'll be train-ing it to Donington for part of the Download Festival - Deftones, AIC, KoRN and Metallica!! followed by Glasgow the next day for the second of four TooL shows (OMG).
THEN, next week TooL x 2 (@ the Apollo), Foo Fighters in Hyde Park Saturday and rock on Shebu Empire next Sunday - Shihad followed by Brazil v Aus on the big screens... fuck London is handy for the finer things in life.
X
From the opening band (from ADELAIDE!! - yes I was one of the only people to yell out when they announced this) to Pete's last song we were treated to some brilliant Aussie sounds. The acoustics in the place were fantastic (as it was an old theatre it made the perfect place for his set to go off).
Half way through he played "Ten ft Tall", which I always loved but never really listened to the lyrics. He told the story of how the song came to be - I was nearly in tears throughout the entire song ;(
He left Lines and Bail Me Out til the end - and his tiny son ran out just as he finished up. The crowd wouldn't let that be that though and he came out to play three more songs. He finally played So Beautiful - just him, the guitar and some very soft mood lighting. At one point he went completely a cappella and it was us and him... I've got goosebumps just writing about it. God I love live music. (And Pete Murray <3)
***
So now, we sit back and wait for Saturday to roll round when we'll be train-ing it to Donington for part of the Download Festival - Deftones, AIC, KoRN and Metallica!! followed by Glasgow the next day for the second of four TooL shows (OMG).
THEN, next week TooL x 2 (@ the Apollo), Foo Fighters in Hyde Park Saturday and rock on Shebu Empire next Sunday - Shihad followed by Brazil v Aus on the big screens... fuck London is handy for the finer things in life.
X
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Thanks sis!
My BSB sent me a survey which gave me a bit of a chuckle. (Note: for survey purposes I have given myself a middle name.. the name I always wanted to be called, god knows why).
YOUR EIGHT ALIASES
8 fake names that reflect your personality
1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: (first pet and current street name)
Cookie Fleetwood
2. YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME: (grandfather/grandmother last name on your mom's side, your favorite candy)
George Chico (haha IT'S CHICO TIME)
3. YOUR "FLY GIRL/GUY" NAME: (first initial of first name, first two or three letters of your middle name)
Rbre (Huh?)
4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal)
Orange Squirrel
5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born)
Breanna Brisbane (I am SO immediately changing my name)
6. YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (first 3 letters of your last name, last 3 letters of mother's (or father's in this case) maiden name, first 3 letters of your pet's name)
Hawebbzim
7. JEDI NAME: (middle name spelled backwards, your mom's (dad's) maiden name spelled backwards)
Annaerbbbew
8. SUPERHERO NAME: ("The", your favorite color, the automobile you drive/want)
The orange datto ("She never fails to stall just when you need rescuing")
8 fake names that reflect your personality
1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: (first pet and current street name)
Cookie Fleetwood
2. YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME: (grandfather/grandmother last name on your mom's side, your favorite candy)
George Chico (haha IT'S CHICO TIME)
3. YOUR "FLY GIRL/GUY" NAME: (first initial of first name, first two or three letters of your middle name)
Rbre (Huh?)
4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal)
Orange Squirrel
5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born)
Breanna Brisbane (I am SO immediately changing my name)
6. YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (first 3 letters of your last name, last 3 letters of mother's (or father's in this case) maiden name, first 3 letters of your pet's name)
Hawebbzim
7. JEDI NAME: (middle name spelled backwards, your mom's (dad's) maiden name spelled backwards)
Annaerbbbew
8. SUPERHERO NAME: ("The", your favorite color, the automobile you drive/want)
The orange datto ("She never fails to stall just when you need rescuing")
R.I.P. (June 2004 - 6 June 2006)
She was a good friend, a faithful partner and gave me the TLC I needed. She will be sorely missed. *sniff*
(Time of death, 7:36am)
Monday, June 05, 2006
Zig Heil!
Ok, so I finished reading my Aussie World Cup guide on the train to work this morning. I've also rearranged my visit to the Reddy (booo!) to coincide with Australia taking on Brazil (thinking a nice British pub would be best so we can rub it in their faces). I get to work and they've started a sweepstakes, so, with my fingers crossed and fiver in the jar I reach in (hoping for Australia in a miracle coincidence) and pull out.... Germany (who happen to be 9:1 just below England (pffft) and Brazil).
As I said in my email... my heart says Australia but my wallet says Zig Heil!
As I said in my email... my heart says Australia but my wallet says Zig Heil!
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Our first...
Summer barbecue (the last one doesn't count cause it wasn't this bloody fantastic, weather wise)
Friday, June 02, 2006
Nothin sounds finer than an 8-0-8
Tonight I'm off to see http://www.bfi.org.uk/incinemas/nft/film/6539
(And after a night in it's down to Borough Markets and Camden tomorrow).
It's times like these I am glad to be living in London.
(Edit: This doco is rockin... if it comes to a cinema near you, check it out - even if you're not a fan)
(And after a night in it's down to Borough Markets and Camden tomorrow).
It's times like these I am glad to be living in London.
(Edit: This doco is rockin... if it comes to a cinema near you, check it out - even if you're not a fan)
Thursday, June 01, 2006
I could never, wear that sweater
Someone send me a copy of the new Joe album... I didn't even know they had released one. I can't lose touch with the Aussie music scene now!!
It's a biggun
Well, today is our 6 month anniversary of living in London. God time flies when you get old. And where is my travel whore?? In bloody Sicily.
So, to celebrate, here is a photo Vanessa hates so much...
So, to celebrate, here is a photo Vanessa hates so much...
Thank god we outgrew getting that drunk a long time ago.
Hahaha... kidding!
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Keebap! Keebap! Keebap! (Post-dated, April 28)
Next stop: Turkey
Destination: Istanbul-Gallipoli-Istanbul-London
But before I get to that, in the space of 48 hours before leaving I had my bankcard stolen so ran home to cancel it, got Carol to dye my hair (a completely unnatural colour), played netball in the ANZAC Weekend Cup (on a most brilliant 22 degree day (yes, celcius, thanks Dad) where we were subsequently sunburnt, drank Coopers on the tube on the way home - hurrah, then as I was packing, realised my credit card had also been nicked. What a start to the weekend. (NB - As it currently stands 3 transactions have been made to the tune of over $600 and now I have Westpac and the bloody UK police involved. Argh.)
Now, back to the story.
So we depart Heathrow after a hellish journey to get there (an hour and a half at 5.30am is just not cricket) only to find that we could have arrived at a more leisurely pace because we weren't checking in any luggage and Luhftansa now have express self-check ins. So angry! Anyway, we stopped over in Frankfurt for an hour (god I love the German language). Then a 3 hour flight to Istanbul.. who said 9 hours of travelling wasn't good for you?!
We arrived to a highly baron and confusing airport. Once we got our visa's we tried to get directions for the metro - no dice, although the Turks speak a fair amount of broken English we discovered they mostly can't understand us. Even with OTT gestures. So, it was off to test out the cab rank. (NOTE TO SELF - never catch a cab that looks like your Mum's old beat up Datsun painted yellow). We baggsed a taxi with some Canadian chick, sat in seats with no seatbelts and held on for dear life. The next 20 minutes were the longest of my life. The only thing I remember is seeing tons of Turkish flags and people crossing the road in front of our cab... and the driver not wanting to stop. He actually nudged a woman out of the way!! Enough was enough and thank god 15 Lira later we were outta there.
Our "hotel" was the next obstacle. We looked like we were in some dodgy movie setting.. there were stone streets and mangy cats EVERYWHERE. The guys in the lobby were nice enough, spoke fairly good English.. warned us of the dangers of men and pointed out the local Police station with armed guards out the front. Ahh, I felt comfortable.
We had unfortunately missed our tours dinner that night so we were on our own. After briefly walking up the road to find food, it only took three separate occasions of men shouting 'Ladies!! Ladies!!' at us for Megs and I to look at each other and walk straight back to where we staying via the dodgy supermarket for a feast of beers and chip sandwiches.
Next morning we were up at 7am, ventured to the breakfast room to get a squiz at just who was on our tour - interesting bunch.. a few lookers.. we were set! 8.45, all aboard the On The Go bus to head to the Bosphorus river for a cruise - nice, but the weather wasn't forgiving so most of us enjoyed the views from inside the cabin. We still hadn't really spoken to anyone at this point and wondered if it was just going to be us two for the entire weekend. We were wrong. During the 5 hour bus ride from the river to the shores of Gallipoli people around us starting piping up (with a little help from Efes beer - the beer of Turks).
The majority of the bus were in their early twenties and everyone was up for a laugh. The guy sat in front of us (Dean - commonly referred to as "Cockhead" - a kiwi, clearly) made quite an impression the night before - got quite pissed, tried the moves on a fellow tour goer and stumbled home. He became a legend, letting everyone dump on him in his hungover state. For once, it wasn't me.
By the time we arrived at ANZAC Cove (around 6.30/7pm) we were buggered, but after hiking up to the shores we were to sleep on and gazing at the scenery which surrounded us it didn't seem to bother us anymore. It was really emotional just being there. The ground which we slept (When I say slept I mean, closed my eyes for a few hours and tried not to freeze to death - BIG UP TO BONDS EXPLORER SOCKS) was looking right down onto the sea and all night huge screens next to us replayed footage, reenactments and interviews of those involved in the war. I finally began to really understand the importance of coming to this ground and paying my respects.
Come 5.30am Megs had to literally snap me out of the deep sleep I had finally found (let it be said that Ipods do not go astray on this journey). We were surrounded by bleary eyed Antipodeans tired yet eager to to be part of the Dawn Service. Despite having had no sleep at all the service captured everyone's attention. It was quite emotional, the Governer General made a speech, the Ode was read ("at the going down of the sun and in the morning.."), the last post was played and the National Anthem sung (*tears*). After this it was off up the coast to walk the mighty 1.5km rugged track up to Lone Pine for the Aussie memorial (and when I say 1.5k add one very full backpack, a sleeping bag, a winter coat and 25 degree heat together). Again, the same kinds of respects were paid - including a very rousing version of Advance Australia Fair - then it was off to the Kiwi memorial at Chunuk Bair. This time we endured a 3km walk up an even bigger hill (albeit paved). As we walked we passed the Turkish celebrations... those guys know how to do it - flags EVERYWHERE, full military guard and we passed about 200 Turkish kids all eager to test their English 'Hello!!! hello!! ANZAC!!!'. During the hike we stopped off at some trenches from the original war - untouched, they were still riddled with bulletholes and were surrounded by some very old barbed wire. It was truly surreal to stand in them (about 1 m deep), thinking of those who used them to hide in during battle. Scary.
After finally reaching the peak, we found that it was well worth it. The view was spectacular to say the least. On one side you could see the coastline spanning out for kilometres and on the other was green hills rolling on forever. It was the end to a good day.
After enduring another 6 hour or so bus ride back to Istanbul - an hour of it slept away, the other 5 drinking... - we arrived back to our hotel with a 50/50 mood about going out on the town. Despite being tired as buggery, how could we not. About 10 of us headed for the Aussie quarters of town (for that weekend anyway), to the TINY 'Just Bar'. It was bloody small but the vodka's were 5 Lira...and they don't use measures here. The bartenders, obvious locals taken in by our, err 'charm', decided to mark the occasion by playing My Happiness (and other Aussie tracks) thinking they would go down a treat, and weren't they right. The whole bar was absolutely heaving and the patriotism whilst singing such anthems could bring tears to the toughest Aussie's eye. (This was of course all forgotten once they launched into Living On A Prayer - FUCK YEAH).
The bar tenders had of course made the big mistake of getting us all rather trolleyed and gee'd up. It was around 5am when they tried to get rid of us. Nah, don't think so. At this point there were only four of us left (Megs had thrown in the towel a few hours earlier - how I wished I had followed her lead). I was left with Dean (aka Cockhead), Neil (aka Cockhead's apprentice) and Mel - the only other Adelaidean I have met since getting abroad!! In what seemed like a rather over the top, yet fucking cool, way of saying goodnight, the tenders poured alcohol on the bar and lit it. I am still trying to track down photos of this as it was one of the coolest things I have ever seen!
The next day was bloody horrible. Megs basically had to beat me out of a comatose "sleep" to pack and get out of the hotel (FYI - I left a shirt, some medication and a brush behind). After being harrassed by the hoteliers for apparently waking up all our neighbours by "getting jiggy jiggy" (THEIR WORDS, NOT MINE) we were on our way to hit the town (about 26 degrees... fabulous if you aren't hungover). It was off to the Main Street Maccas - where some sampled the 'McKebab' (I fucking shit you not) then to the Bazaar markets. This marketplace made Reynella Markets look like a joke!! Every alley you turned down would present another 5 to turn down, I wish I could have spent a whole day there. We ended up buying little fez hats anyhow - and proceeded to wear them around town. We also bought some evil eye braccelets, which, I'm not sure how authentic they are to Turkey - but they apparently protect the wearer from evil spirits by warding them off. Very cool little things.
We had juuuust enough time to swing past the blue Mosque in the centre of town. It was HUGE. Before entering we had to cover our shoulders and knees and remove our shoes. The outside of this place was impressive, but the inside was spectacular. I'm not a huge church buff or religious by any stretch, but I could've spent a lot more time looking around here.
At this point it was a mad dash for all of us to pile into a bus taxi and catch our miriad of planes home. Megs and I were the last few to leave - we kept Trevor company as he sat around waiting to see if he could get an earlier flight. (Last we hear he camped out at the airport and finished a shitload of Sudoku's.)
The plane ride home was unbearable.. we had to retrace our steps with a flight from Istanbul to Frankfurt, then Frankfurt to Heathrow (all in all about 6 hours of transfers). As we boarded the final flight home we were rather delirious and the poor guy next to us had to put up with us cacking ourselves over really shit jokes. "What's red and looks like a bucket? A red bucket..... What's blue and looks like a red bucket? A red bucket holding it's breath".
We finally hit the ground around 10.30pm and landed in bed around 1am.. got to love budget flying and cramming in as much activity into one weekend as possible. Now I have a 3 month visa in my passport I'm really hoping I can get back to Turkey to use it (any excuse really).
Destination: Istanbul-Gallipoli-Istanbul-London
But before I get to that, in the space of 48 hours before leaving I had my bankcard stolen so ran home to cancel it, got Carol to dye my hair (a completely unnatural colour), played netball in the ANZAC Weekend Cup (on a most brilliant 22 degree day (yes, celcius, thanks Dad) where we were subsequently sunburnt, drank Coopers on the tube on the way home - hurrah, then as I was packing, realised my credit card had also been nicked. What a start to the weekend. (NB - As it currently stands 3 transactions have been made to the tune of over $600 and now I have Westpac and the bloody UK police involved. Argh.)
Now, back to the story.
So we depart Heathrow after a hellish journey to get there (an hour and a half at 5.30am is just not cricket) only to find that we could have arrived at a more leisurely pace because we weren't checking in any luggage and Luhftansa now have express self-check ins. So angry! Anyway, we stopped over in Frankfurt for an hour (god I love the German language). Then a 3 hour flight to Istanbul.. who said 9 hours of travelling wasn't good for you?!
We arrived to a highly baron and confusing airport. Once we got our visa's we tried to get directions for the metro - no dice, although the Turks speak a fair amount of broken English we discovered they mostly can't understand us. Even with OTT gestures. So, it was off to test out the cab rank. (NOTE TO SELF - never catch a cab that looks like your Mum's old beat up Datsun painted yellow). We baggsed a taxi with some Canadian chick, sat in seats with no seatbelts and held on for dear life. The next 20 minutes were the longest of my life. The only thing I remember is seeing tons of Turkish flags and people crossing the road in front of our cab... and the driver not wanting to stop. He actually nudged a woman out of the way!! Enough was enough and thank god 15 Lira later we were outta there.
Our "hotel" was the next obstacle. We looked like we were in some dodgy movie setting.. there were stone streets and mangy cats EVERYWHERE. The guys in the lobby were nice enough, spoke fairly good English.. warned us of the dangers of men and pointed out the local Police station with armed guards out the front. Ahh, I felt comfortable.
We had unfortunately missed our tours dinner that night so we were on our own. After briefly walking up the road to find food, it only took three separate occasions of men shouting 'Ladies!! Ladies!!' at us for Megs and I to look at each other and walk straight back to where we staying via the dodgy supermarket for a feast of beers and chip sandwiches.
Next morning we were up at 7am, ventured to the breakfast room to get a squiz at just who was on our tour - interesting bunch.. a few lookers.. we were set! 8.45, all aboard the On The Go bus to head to the Bosphorus river for a cruise - nice, but the weather wasn't forgiving so most of us enjoyed the views from inside the cabin. We still hadn't really spoken to anyone at this point and wondered if it was just going to be us two for the entire weekend. We were wrong. During the 5 hour bus ride from the river to the shores of Gallipoli people around us starting piping up (with a little help from Efes beer - the beer of Turks).
The majority of the bus were in their early twenties and everyone was up for a laugh. The guy sat in front of us (Dean - commonly referred to as "Cockhead" - a kiwi, clearly) made quite an impression the night before - got quite pissed, tried the moves on a fellow tour goer and stumbled home. He became a legend, letting everyone dump on him in his hungover state. For once, it wasn't me.
By the time we arrived at ANZAC Cove (around 6.30/7pm) we were buggered, but after hiking up to the shores we were to sleep on and gazing at the scenery which surrounded us it didn't seem to bother us anymore. It was really emotional just being there. The ground which we slept (When I say slept I mean, closed my eyes for a few hours and tried not to freeze to death - BIG UP TO BONDS EXPLORER SOCKS) was looking right down onto the sea and all night huge screens next to us replayed footage, reenactments and interviews of those involved in the war. I finally began to really understand the importance of coming to this ground and paying my respects.
Come 5.30am Megs had to literally snap me out of the deep sleep I had finally found (let it be said that Ipods do not go astray on this journey). We were surrounded by bleary eyed Antipodeans tired yet eager to to be part of the Dawn Service. Despite having had no sleep at all the service captured everyone's attention. It was quite emotional, the Governer General made a speech, the Ode was read ("at the going down of the sun and in the morning.."), the last post was played and the National Anthem sung (*tears*). After this it was off up the coast to walk the mighty 1.5km rugged track up to Lone Pine for the Aussie memorial (and when I say 1.5k add one very full backpack, a sleeping bag, a winter coat and 25 degree heat together). Again, the same kinds of respects were paid - including a very rousing version of Advance Australia Fair - then it was off to the Kiwi memorial at Chunuk Bair. This time we endured a 3km walk up an even bigger hill (albeit paved). As we walked we passed the Turkish celebrations... those guys know how to do it - flags EVERYWHERE, full military guard and we passed about 200 Turkish kids all eager to test their English 'Hello!!! hello!! ANZAC!!!'. During the hike we stopped off at some trenches from the original war - untouched, they were still riddled with bulletholes and were surrounded by some very old barbed wire. It was truly surreal to stand in them (about 1 m deep), thinking of those who used them to hide in during battle. Scary.
After finally reaching the peak, we found that it was well worth it. The view was spectacular to say the least. On one side you could see the coastline spanning out for kilometres and on the other was green hills rolling on forever. It was the end to a good day.
After enduring another 6 hour or so bus ride back to Istanbul - an hour of it slept away, the other 5 drinking... - we arrived back to our hotel with a 50/50 mood about going out on the town. Despite being tired as buggery, how could we not. About 10 of us headed for the Aussie quarters of town (for that weekend anyway), to the TINY 'Just Bar'. It was bloody small but the vodka's were 5 Lira...and they don't use measures here. The bartenders, obvious locals taken in by our, err 'charm', decided to mark the occasion by playing My Happiness (and other Aussie tracks) thinking they would go down a treat, and weren't they right. The whole bar was absolutely heaving and the patriotism whilst singing such anthems could bring tears to the toughest Aussie's eye. (This was of course all forgotten once they launched into Living On A Prayer - FUCK YEAH).
The bar tenders had of course made the big mistake of getting us all rather trolleyed and gee'd up. It was around 5am when they tried to get rid of us. Nah, don't think so. At this point there were only four of us left (Megs had thrown in the towel a few hours earlier - how I wished I had followed her lead). I was left with Dean (aka Cockhead), Neil (aka Cockhead's apprentice) and Mel - the only other Adelaidean I have met since getting abroad!! In what seemed like a rather over the top, yet fucking cool, way of saying goodnight, the tenders poured alcohol on the bar and lit it. I am still trying to track down photos of this as it was one of the coolest things I have ever seen!
The next day was bloody horrible. Megs basically had to beat me out of a comatose "sleep" to pack and get out of the hotel (FYI - I left a shirt, some medication and a brush behind). After being harrassed by the hoteliers for apparently waking up all our neighbours by "getting jiggy jiggy" (THEIR WORDS, NOT MINE) we were on our way to hit the town (about 26 degrees... fabulous if you aren't hungover). It was off to the Main Street Maccas - where some sampled the 'McKebab' (I fucking shit you not) then to the Bazaar markets. This marketplace made Reynella Markets look like a joke!! Every alley you turned down would present another 5 to turn down, I wish I could have spent a whole day there. We ended up buying little fez hats anyhow - and proceeded to wear them around town. We also bought some evil eye braccelets, which, I'm not sure how authentic they are to Turkey - but they apparently protect the wearer from evil spirits by warding them off. Very cool little things.
We had juuuust enough time to swing past the blue Mosque in the centre of town. It was HUGE. Before entering we had to cover our shoulders and knees and remove our shoes. The outside of this place was impressive, but the inside was spectacular. I'm not a huge church buff or religious by any stretch, but I could've spent a lot more time looking around here.
At this point it was a mad dash for all of us to pile into a bus taxi and catch our miriad of planes home. Megs and I were the last few to leave - we kept Trevor company as he sat around waiting to see if he could get an earlier flight. (Last we hear he camped out at the airport and finished a shitload of Sudoku's.)
The plane ride home was unbearable.. we had to retrace our steps with a flight from Istanbul to Frankfurt, then Frankfurt to Heathrow (all in all about 6 hours of transfers). As we boarded the final flight home we were rather delirious and the poor guy next to us had to put up with us cacking ourselves over really shit jokes. "What's red and looks like a bucket? A red bucket..... What's blue and looks like a red bucket? A red bucket holding it's breath".
We finally hit the ground around 10.30pm and landed in bed around 1am.. got to love budget flying and cramming in as much activity into one weekend as possible. Now I have a 3 month visa in my passport I'm really hoping I can get back to Turkey to use it (any excuse really).
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