So many things to report, so little time! I'm currently rushing through a pile of work so I can make the pub for 12.30 ... and not come back (in true Ocker fashion!). I planned to have lots of sleep then a big breakfast to keep me going for today. That plan turned into being woken up every hour with texts or phone calls updatign me on the JJJ Hottest 100, which I didn't mind so much until I slept through my alarm due to being so overtired! (And I'd like to say - who fucking voted for Bernard Fanning to win the countdown anyway?!).
In other news
- Poms don't know what lamingtons are - OH MY GOD. I only just realised how much I wanted one when I realised they weren't available here.
- Ash refuses to eat Vegemite, as does everyone else.
- Wearing Australiana gear to work doesn't get you in as much shit as you'd think
- TOOL HAVE ANNOUNCED THEY ARE HEADLINING ROSKILDE (or so they say). So need to book tickets, like, right now.
Err.. too much else to think about at the moment. Off to the pub in 1.5 hours and counting down..
P.S. - It was so good to hear from everyone, albeit at 4am!! I can't believe I survived missing the huge annual bash.. but I'll be back for next years and will celebrating harder than ever! And Jarrod... get your arse over here already mate, and bring Nadia with you!!!
Cheers big ears!
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Oh and..
If anyone has heard the new Living End track Wake Up... tell me how good it is!! I won't get my CD for another couple of weeks damn it.
(and so help me if Australia Post/Royal Mail fuck up.. somehow a package I sent home two weeks ago still has not arrived... grrrr)
(and so help me if Australia Post/Royal Mail fuck up.. somehow a package I sent home two weeks ago still has not arrived... grrrr)
There's a TREE inside the pub?!
Current music: End of Fashion - Rough Diamonds
Yesterday started brilliantly. Got up around 8am (no, that's not a typo.. we did get up and out of the house by 9.30am on a SATURDAY). Vanessa, Dyl, Courtney and I were off to the Borough Markets (the ones Jamie Oliver is known to visit (name dropping moment #56)). They were excellent! (I rate them extremely highly as the sell Coopers... OH YES). It was awesome to know we were going to have FRESH fruit and veg to eat... the Sainsbury's crap which sits in a freezer for a year before being sold is utterly foul. (Note - people in Australia - be very thankful for fresh, seasonal, fruit!!). We came home with bagloads and have stuffed every fridge we have.
This was not the end of our shopping bonanza however. V and I decided a trip to Camden was in order. I was on the hunt for my Reel Big Fish ticket. After finding the Electric Ballroom (awesome looking venue from the inside, kind of like Heaven), I was informed that the record store I was to get my tickets from actually HASN'T EXISTED for the past three years... as if. We then somehow managed to waste 3 hours shopping - not hard to do. This would prove problematic however as it was nearing 3.30 and we were due in town.... an hour later.
After a mad dash home we ended up at Waxy O'Connors at 5.30 - a fair effort I reckon. This was a momentous occasion for me for I am no longer a central London rookie. (I am also no longer a sambucca (of the black AND white variety) rookie either.) This pub is definitely a sight to see. It has three floors with rooms going off in every direction. The main drawcard is the massive tree which stands in the middle of the pub going through every floor, an amazing thing to see in a pub - no it's not real, yes I asked if it was.
The music was brilliant.. Killers, RHCP, Strokes, loved it. Of course midnight came and they decided to call last drinks... what is wrong with this city?? It is the biggest most happening place on the planet and yet the whole city goes into shutdown around midnight - tubes included. It's the one thing I would complain about (apart from the weather of course, but I've been told to keep quiet about that). Anyhow, this didn't stop us staying out until 4am. We ended up at some underground club which was playing some mad stuff (Sweet Home Alabama was a CLASSIC end to the night). Then off for a kebab - WHICH THE KEBAB STORE RAN OUT OF (so disgusting other greasy food was somehow digested) then off to bed.. I've never been more glad to sleep - and sleep I did until 1 this afternoon. I surprisingly don't feel like shite, however my voice would suggest otherwise.. I sound like a two bit hooker (and probably look about as dodgy).
In other news.. I found out I actually get billed for texts home, so, sorry if you don't hear from me as often as before... I'm skint as, only realised today rent is due this week and have no money left from being paid Friday.. god I need to not be a temp. Well, off to find a pound store for some dodgy speakers for the pod then off home to cook up a storm with all our fresh produce.
Just now hearing The Holy Grail on the pod makes me realise that Australia Day is going to be way more emotional than I ever thought.
Yesterday started brilliantly. Got up around 8am (no, that's not a typo.. we did get up and out of the house by 9.30am on a SATURDAY). Vanessa, Dyl, Courtney and I were off to the Borough Markets (the ones Jamie Oliver is known to visit (name dropping moment #56)). They were excellent! (I rate them extremely highly as the sell Coopers... OH YES). It was awesome to know we were going to have FRESH fruit and veg to eat... the Sainsbury's crap which sits in a freezer for a year before being sold is utterly foul. (Note - people in Australia - be very thankful for fresh, seasonal, fruit!!). We came home with bagloads and have stuffed every fridge we have.
This was not the end of our shopping bonanza however. V and I decided a trip to Camden was in order. I was on the hunt for my Reel Big Fish ticket. After finding the Electric Ballroom (awesome looking venue from the inside, kind of like Heaven), I was informed that the record store I was to get my tickets from actually HASN'T EXISTED for the past three years... as if. We then somehow managed to waste 3 hours shopping - not hard to do. This would prove problematic however as it was nearing 3.30 and we were due in town.... an hour later.
After a mad dash home we ended up at Waxy O'Connors at 5.30 - a fair effort I reckon. This was a momentous occasion for me for I am no longer a central London rookie. (I am also no longer a sambucca (of the black AND white variety) rookie either.) This pub is definitely a sight to see. It has three floors with rooms going off in every direction. The main drawcard is the massive tree which stands in the middle of the pub going through every floor, an amazing thing to see in a pub - no it's not real, yes I asked if it was.
The music was brilliant.. Killers, RHCP, Strokes, loved it. Of course midnight came and they decided to call last drinks... what is wrong with this city?? It is the biggest most happening place on the planet and yet the whole city goes into shutdown around midnight - tubes included. It's the one thing I would complain about (apart from the weather of course, but I've been told to keep quiet about that). Anyhow, this didn't stop us staying out until 4am. We ended up at some underground club which was playing some mad stuff (Sweet Home Alabama was a CLASSIC end to the night). Then off for a kebab - WHICH THE KEBAB STORE RAN OUT OF (so disgusting other greasy food was somehow digested) then off to bed.. I've never been more glad to sleep - and sleep I did until 1 this afternoon. I surprisingly don't feel like shite, however my voice would suggest otherwise.. I sound like a two bit hooker (and probably look about as dodgy).
In other news.. I found out I actually get billed for texts home, so, sorry if you don't hear from me as often as before... I'm skint as, only realised today rent is due this week and have no money left from being paid Friday.. god I need to not be a temp. Well, off to find a pound store for some dodgy speakers for the pod then off home to cook up a storm with all our fresh produce.
Just now hearing The Holy Grail on the pod makes me realise that Australia Day is going to be way more emotional than I ever thought.
Friday, January 20, 2006
Comment of the year
It's a big call this early in the year but after seeing this on the TV screens upon entering our building after lunch, Jen, a chick I work for says
'Is it some kind of fucking "special needs" whale or what??'
Second only to Omar (American guy I work with) who asked me 'How do you say thanks in Australian?'. Until that point in time I never knew Australia had it's own language, how daft of me.
'Is it some kind of fucking "special needs" whale or what??'
Second only to Omar (American guy I work with) who asked me 'How do you say thanks in Australian?'. Until that point in time I never knew Australia had it's own language, how daft of me.
Doing my country proud
I truly believe in jinxes. If you ever tell yourself (or others) 'I'm not having a big one' you will jinx your night (and turn it into a ridiculous drinking binge).
Last night was one of those nights.
Why must everyone insist on going out during the week?! I am absolutely buggered. I forgot to set my alarm so bolted out of bed when I realised it was EIGHT THIRTY. Bollocks.
I did a very patriotic thing last night.. joined by another Aussie from work we sang Jet's Are You Gonna Be My Girl along with the karaoke machine downstairs at the local bar. We were brilliant (from what I remember). Not only was it momentous as we were singing an Australian classic, but, it was my very first attempt at karaoke. And I loved it!
Onto other Oz news... Reece, if you are reading this HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! I tried to ring you from the tube last night but my phone was having a spaz attack and not dialing out internationally. Perhaps it could have had something to do with being in underground tunnels... either way, I hope you got my pressie and had an awesome day, I'll try and ring you tonight when I get home... I will not be on the sauce tonight. (Do you think I just jinxed myself again??)
Last night was one of those nights.
Why must everyone insist on going out during the week?! I am absolutely buggered. I forgot to set my alarm so bolted out of bed when I realised it was EIGHT THIRTY. Bollocks.
I did a very patriotic thing last night.. joined by another Aussie from work we sang Jet's Are You Gonna Be My Girl along with the karaoke machine downstairs at the local bar. We were brilliant (from what I remember). Not only was it momentous as we were singing an Australian classic, but, it was my very first attempt at karaoke. And I loved it!
Onto other Oz news... Reece, if you are reading this HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! I tried to ring you from the tube last night but my phone was having a spaz attack and not dialing out internationally. Perhaps it could have had something to do with being in underground tunnels... either way, I hope you got my pressie and had an awesome day, I'll try and ring you tonight when I get home... I will not be on the sauce tonight. (Do you think I just jinxed myself again??)
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Oh Yeeeah! On and on and on and on and on and...
I'm in voting mode for the J's hottest 100.. I can't do it! I have no idea what is going on with Aussie music at the moment (I know it's based on 2005, of which I spent mostly in Australia). Below is my copyrighted list which has been sent in for the annual party at Danny's place - GOD DAMN I'll miss that badly. Drink lots and lots and LOTS of Coopers for me.
1. Foo Fighters - Best Of You
2. End of Fashion - Oh Yeah
3. Wolfmother - Mind's Eye
4. Ben Lee - Catch My Disease
5. Coldplay - Fix You
6. Gorillaz - Dare
7. Franz Ferdinand - Do Ya Wanna
8. Green Day - Jesus of Suburbia
9. Kaiser Chiefs - I Predict A Riot
10. The White Stripes - Blue Orchid
And now to add insult to injury I can't actually vote cause I keep getting error reports! I want my vote for The Living End to count! (especially as this is the first year I haven't included them in my top ten).
2. End of Fashion - Oh Yeah
3. Wolfmother - Mind's Eye
4. Ben Lee - Catch My Disease
5. Coldplay - Fix You
6. Gorillaz - Dare
7. Franz Ferdinand - Do Ya Wanna
8. Green Day - Jesus of Suburbia
9. Kaiser Chiefs - I Predict A Riot
10. The White Stripes - Blue Orchid
And now to add insult to injury I can't actually vote cause I keep getting error reports! I want my vote for The Living End to count! (especially as this is the first year I haven't included them in my top ten).
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
A pound an hour... for what?!
I would just like to rant for one moment about internet hubs.
1. They are overpriced.
2. They are way too fucking hot... today was 12 degrees and yet it's like Northern Queensland in here.
3. I've had five unsuccessful tries at uploading a photo to the web - what's that about?
4. My connection is so slow I probably won't get to finish my list of why I hate these places SO MUCH
1. They are overpriced.
2. They are way too fucking hot... today was 12 degrees and yet it's like Northern Queensland in here.
3. I've had five unsuccessful tries at uploading a photo to the web - what's that about?
4. My connection is so slow I probably won't get to finish my list of why I hate these places SO MUCH
Monday, January 16, 2006
Memories
I haven't done one of these in FOREVER. So, thanks Renz, you got me addicted again!!
***
1. What time did you get up this morning?
6.25 (bleeegh) - which is approx 5.30pm Adelaide time! (p.s. not a good time to message me people!)
2. Diamonds or pearls?
We've all seen the pearl necklace answer many times before so I'll refrain.
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
My housies bought dodgy DVDs from the markets so have seen Memoirs of a Geisha and King Kong in the last two days. KK was rubbish. Going to see Brokeback Mountain on Thurs.
4. What is your favourite TV show?
EastEnders!!!!!
5. What do you usually have for breakfast?
Toast with Vegemite (yeah!! *punches air with Aussie pride*)
6. What is your favourite cuisine?
Mexican is always pretty damn good
7. What is your middle name?
I don't have one! :( I have been given a lot of nicknames here though... Ren, Renwa, Renatta etc
8. What food do you dislike?
Olives ('blegh' as my housemate Dylan would say)
9. What is your favourite CD at the moment?
Foo Fighters - One By One (as its the only one of 4 that I currently own!!)
10. What kind of car do you drive?
None... I had to sell the mini beast ;(((
11. Favourite sandwich?
Eat do a FABULOUS ciabatta with roast chicken and chutney with basil and spinach and garlic.. mmmmm
12. What characteristic do you despise?
Selfishness
13. Favourite item of clothing?
My new slinky red top which can double as workwear on a Friday so when I go out afterwards I can strut my stuff - yeah baby!
14. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would it be?
Don't ask me that.... it is a current conundrum of mine... we're spoilt for choice.
15. What colour is your bathroom?
Errr white with tiles I think??
16. Favourite brand of clothing?
Rez style
17. Where would you retire to?
Somewhere in Australia DEFINITELY. Probably Adelaide... sleepy and slow.. YAWN.
18. What was your most memorable birthday?
Can't go past my 21st last year... I want to go back!!
19. Favourite sport to watch?
AFL - of which I can't get any over here!
20. Furthest place you are sending this?
Australia *sniff*
21. Who do you least expect to send this back to you?
Errr people who have better things to do than to email me... which should be none of you!!
22. Person you expect to send it back first?
Above
24. When is your birthday?
19 May (and I live at 165 Fleetwood Rd, Willesden Green, London, NW101NP *cough*)
25. Are you a morning person or a night person?
A morning person here... although it's colder than dogs bollocks it's still easier dealing with the tubes in the morning than falling asleep on them at night.
26. What is your shoe size?
8 in the UK... woo!!!
27. Pets:
My little brother, who I couldn't get into cargo at Adelaide Airport.
28. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with us?
Errr I can officially ice skate without going arse up!!
29. What did you want to be when you were little?
Fire fighter. True - although I'm terribly frightened of fire!
30. How are you today?
NEXT!
31. What is your favourite candy/chocolate?
DON'T GO THERE. The machine in the kitchen gets frequent visits.
32. What is your favourite flower?
W.E.
33. What is a date on the calendar you are looking forward to?
January 26... it is going to be madness at the same time as really sucking (I can't believe I'm missing the J's countdown for the first time ever... and the sun.. and the barbies... and the BDO..)
34. Are you married?
Never been to vegas <--- AGREED!
35. Do you enjoy your job?
It provides me with the free internet access I require - all bar hotmail.. grr.
Oh... that's it! Well, enjoy!! X
***
1. What time did you get up this morning?
6.25 (bleeegh) - which is approx 5.30pm Adelaide time! (p.s. not a good time to message me people!)
2. Diamonds or pearls?
We've all seen the pearl necklace answer many times before so I'll refrain.
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
My housies bought dodgy DVDs from the markets so have seen Memoirs of a Geisha and King Kong in the last two days. KK was rubbish. Going to see Brokeback Mountain on Thurs.
4. What is your favourite TV show?
EastEnders!!!!!
5. What do you usually have for breakfast?
Toast with Vegemite (yeah!! *punches air with Aussie pride*)
6. What is your favourite cuisine?
Mexican is always pretty damn good
7. What is your middle name?
I don't have one! :( I have been given a lot of nicknames here though... Ren, Renwa, Renatta etc
8. What food do you dislike?
Olives ('blegh' as my housemate Dylan would say)
9. What is your favourite CD at the moment?
Foo Fighters - One By One (as its the only one of 4 that I currently own!!)
10. What kind of car do you drive?
None... I had to sell the mini beast ;(((
11. Favourite sandwich?
Eat do a FABULOUS ciabatta with roast chicken and chutney with basil and spinach and garlic.. mmmmm
12. What characteristic do you despise?
Selfishness
13. Favourite item of clothing?
My new slinky red top which can double as workwear on a Friday so when I go out afterwards I can strut my stuff - yeah baby!
14. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would it be?
Don't ask me that.... it is a current conundrum of mine... we're spoilt for choice.
15. What colour is your bathroom?
Errr white with tiles I think??
16. Favourite brand of clothing?
Rez style
17. Where would you retire to?
Somewhere in Australia DEFINITELY. Probably Adelaide... sleepy and slow.. YAWN.
18. What was your most memorable birthday?
Can't go past my 21st last year... I want to go back!!
19. Favourite sport to watch?
AFL - of which I can't get any over here!
20. Furthest place you are sending this?
Australia *sniff*
21. Who do you least expect to send this back to you?
Errr people who have better things to do than to email me... which should be none of you!!
22. Person you expect to send it back first?
Above
24. When is your birthday?
19 May (and I live at 165 Fleetwood Rd, Willesden Green, London, NW101NP *cough*)
25. Are you a morning person or a night person?
A morning person here... although it's colder than dogs bollocks it's still easier dealing with the tubes in the morning than falling asleep on them at night.
26. What is your shoe size?
8 in the UK... woo!!!
27. Pets:
My little brother, who I couldn't get into cargo at Adelaide Airport.
28. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with us?
Errr I can officially ice skate without going arse up!!
29. What did you want to be when you were little?
Fire fighter. True - although I'm terribly frightened of fire!
30. How are you today?
NEXT!
31. What is your favourite candy/chocolate?
DON'T GO THERE. The machine in the kitchen gets frequent visits.
32. What is your favourite flower?
W.E.
33. What is a date on the calendar you are looking forward to?
January 26... it is going to be madness at the same time as really sucking (I can't believe I'm missing the J's countdown for the first time ever... and the sun.. and the barbies... and the BDO..)
34. Are you married?
Never been to vegas <--- AGREED!
35. Do you enjoy your job?
It provides me with the free internet access I require - all bar hotmail.. grr.
Oh... that's it! Well, enjoy!! X
Sell out, with me OH YEAH!
I am one extremely happy little ska kid
BABY DONTCHA SIGN THAT PAPER TONIGHT SHE SAID, CAUSE I CANT WORK IN FAST FOOD ALL MY LIFE
BABY DONTCHA SIGN THAT PAPER TONIGHT SHE SAID, CAUSE I CANT WORK IN FAST FOOD ALL MY LIFE
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Borsch?? No I've never made Borsch!
Current music: The Living End - Modern Artillery
Well, what a weekend. Friday night, after leaving work early and making a mad dash home and back, made it to Towsty's in time enough to get to Ice Skating at Kew Gardens. The ice rink looked absolutely amazing. Lights everywhere, Christmas trees, beautiful gardens.... all of this atmosphere was still not hiding my sheer fear of taking to the ice. The last time I skated I was about 10.. and in Mount Thebarton Ice Arena (probably in the kiddie rink).
This time round I didn't have the naive fearlessness of being a kid. No, fear was definitely with me. This was heightened when, after moments of stepping onto the ice a pile of people came crashing down in front of us. DEAR GOD. I spent the first 15 minutes of the experience clutching to the edge of the rink gingerly making my way round whilst Towsty (a self proclaimed Torville or "no! whichever one isn't the chick!") went off like a madman. Eventually I got the hang of it, didn't go arse up and enjoyed it. Unfortunately, Rachel (Andy's housemates girlfriend) did come crashing down in a rather bad way - and she was the best skater among us - and took Scott with her. Her wrist was swollen and probably sprained, but she made it to the pub with the rest of us.. a true hero in my eyes.
Saturday started with a major pain in my arse. No, not like THAT. Leaving Andy's to get home and then out again (I'm such a social butterfly), I realised that not only were the District and Piccadilly lines down (GRRR), but I could have easily caught the bus to Ealing Broadway in a quarter of the time it took the tubes to fuck around and get there. Eventually I did get to Trafalgar Square (for the first time I might add) to take part in the Russian Winter Festival (to celebrate Russian New Year). What a sight. The square is huge in its own right but there were people EVERYWHERE. I was culturally adventurous and had Borsch, a quirky little national dish.. of beetroot soup. It was actually quite good. I of course then had to further oblige and try some of their beer. Good stuff! Fake snow ensured that the faux countdown was very magical and Red Square like and seeing the Kremlin Guard (who have never performed anywhere outside of Russia before) was something quite special.
Decided to have an early one after that, was absolutely buggered and still haven't shaken the cold I've had since New Years, damn weather.
So, today promises to be one full of aimless wandering and probably too much spending (particularly after I had to dish out another £140 outstanding on rent AND visited Virgin Megastore to buy 4 CDs for 30 quid... whoops).
Here's to mulled wine. Cheers.
X
Well, what a weekend. Friday night, after leaving work early and making a mad dash home and back, made it to Towsty's in time enough to get to Ice Skating at Kew Gardens. The ice rink looked absolutely amazing. Lights everywhere, Christmas trees, beautiful gardens.... all of this atmosphere was still not hiding my sheer fear of taking to the ice. The last time I skated I was about 10.. and in Mount Thebarton Ice Arena (probably in the kiddie rink).
This time round I didn't have the naive fearlessness of being a kid. No, fear was definitely with me. This was heightened when, after moments of stepping onto the ice a pile of people came crashing down in front of us. DEAR GOD. I spent the first 15 minutes of the experience clutching to the edge of the rink gingerly making my way round whilst Towsty (a self proclaimed Torville or "no! whichever one isn't the chick!") went off like a madman. Eventually I got the hang of it, didn't go arse up and enjoyed it. Unfortunately, Rachel (Andy's housemates girlfriend) did come crashing down in a rather bad way - and she was the best skater among us - and took Scott with her. Her wrist was swollen and probably sprained, but she made it to the pub with the rest of us.. a true hero in my eyes.
Saturday started with a major pain in my arse. No, not like THAT. Leaving Andy's to get home and then out again (I'm such a social butterfly), I realised that not only were the District and Piccadilly lines down (GRRR), but I could have easily caught the bus to Ealing Broadway in a quarter of the time it took the tubes to fuck around and get there. Eventually I did get to Trafalgar Square (for the first time I might add) to take part in the Russian Winter Festival (to celebrate Russian New Year). What a sight. The square is huge in its own right but there were people EVERYWHERE. I was culturally adventurous and had Borsch, a quirky little national dish.. of beetroot soup. It was actually quite good. I of course then had to further oblige and try some of their beer. Good stuff! Fake snow ensured that the faux countdown was very magical and Red Square like and seeing the Kremlin Guard (who have never performed anywhere outside of Russia before) was something quite special.
Decided to have an early one after that, was absolutely buggered and still haven't shaken the cold I've had since New Years, damn weather.
So, today promises to be one full of aimless wandering and probably too much spending (particularly after I had to dish out another £140 outstanding on rent AND visited Virgin Megastore to buy 4 CDs for 30 quid... whoops).
Here's to mulled wine. Cheers.
X
Friday, January 13, 2006
In your honour I would die tonight
It's lunch and being all nigel decided to spend it reading Kerrang. Unfortunately I came across an article all about the Foo playing Earls court last month... which Towsty and I were supposed to go to. ARGH it sounds like the worlds best gig.
Needless to say my lunch had been suitably soured... until Matt and Megs called me in a drunken state singing SClub tunes down the phone! Wonderful to hear from them, hard though - being in my office didn't allow me to say much back and having an overwhelming homesickness moment ensured that even if I did speak, waterworks would have not been far behind. Back to work then..
Needless to say my lunch had been suitably soured... until Matt and Megs called me in a drunken state singing SClub tunes down the phone! Wonderful to hear from them, hard though - being in my office didn't allow me to say much back and having an overwhelming homesickness moment ensured that even if I did speak, waterworks would have not been far behind. Back to work then..
Drinking in the sun
Thanks for the email Matt, you reminded me that this weekend is Schutzenfest.... the second best beer festival EVER!!! And here I sit after trudging in through 3 degree weather BRRR (and currently sipping on my mandatory morning 'brew' - I'm an expert at making tea now). I definitely have not forgotten about Munich in October.. you and Nikki better pull your fingers out and get over here!!
Am probably going ice skating tonight... can you imagine (Disney presents 'Prats on Ice'). Although it will provide a nights entertainment WITHOUT drinking. Ugh. Saying that, I got home and Dylan handed me a glass of white while asking 'and how are you feeling today??' before bursting into a fit of laughter... apparently I was quite a sideshow Wednesday night (not surprising really).
For once there is nothing interesting to report except for the usual - will try and access my hotmail tonight, will upload more photos, will call home soon etc etc.
Send me more emails people.. I need to feel the love in preparation for Australia Day.. we just can't get the concept into the Britons heads. Which reminds me.. I finished my first jar of Vegemite this morning.. what a milestone!! (Yes, I'm clutching at straws for news here).
Am probably going ice skating tonight... can you imagine (Disney presents 'Prats on Ice'). Although it will provide a nights entertainment WITHOUT drinking. Ugh. Saying that, I got home and Dylan handed me a glass of white while asking 'and how are you feeling today??' before bursting into a fit of laughter... apparently I was quite a sideshow Wednesday night (not surprising really).
For once there is nothing interesting to report except for the usual - will try and access my hotmail tonight, will upload more photos, will call home soon etc etc.
Send me more emails people.. I need to feel the love in preparation for Australia Day.. we just can't get the concept into the Britons heads. Which reminds me.. I finished my first jar of Vegemite this morning.. what a milestone!! (Yes, I'm clutching at straws for news here).
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Dan Fast Fact Update #487
"Oh and it was William the Conqueror who invaded from France in 1066 that built the tower. He was a Norman (the french were called that in old days) FACT!"
Never EVER again
"MAGGOTTED!!!!!
Was taxi home ok??? Did you yak?
Good night, lots of music chat and tat showing!
You did win the most drunk person in England award last night! hahahaha! What a day today's gonna be"
No matter how many free drinks are promised I am never ever going to another Threadneedle do again. My god I am in so much pain right now, I think I'm still drunk.. and being taunted by coworkers does not help.
On a related note, Global Careerlink have invited all their clients to drinks on the 31st which, coincidentally, are situated right near my work. It would be downright rude to decline. (Ugh. Why do they insist on doing these things on school nights??)
Was taxi home ok??? Did you yak?
Good night, lots of music chat and tat showing!
You did win the most drunk person in England award last night! hahahaha! What a day today's gonna be"
No matter how many free drinks are promised I am never ever going to another Threadneedle do again. My god I am in so much pain right now, I think I'm still drunk.. and being taunted by coworkers does not help.
On a related note, Global Careerlink have invited all their clients to drinks on the 31st which, coincidentally, are situated right near my work. It would be downright rude to decline. (Ugh. Why do they insist on doing these things on school nights??)
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
It's happy snap time!
Go here to see much awaited photos!
I'm going through lots now and will post when I can.
I'm going through lots now and will post when I can.
Monday, January 09, 2006
What's worse than looking like a tourist?
Todays lunch break was more than the usual ducking down to Boots then back to the lunchroom for a quick bite then back to work. Dan and I went sightseeing! Normally I don't like looking touristy, but when travelling with a local I make it my duty to embarrass the hell out of them. Arriving at the Tower of London was no acception. It was the hugest thing I've ever seen. And the bridge is just amazing. Apparently (as Dan the tour guide pointed out many facts whilst showing me around), the Tower of London was the first stone castle ever built in England (by Norman the conquerer) - in case you're ever asked.
The Tower Bridge is amazing, absolutely huge with two little castles on the top of the two posts in the middle of the bridge (which you can walk over) where people (rich people, not commoners like us) have parties.. madness! Looking across the Thames we saw the HMS Belfast to which I stupidly exclaimed 'I've heard of that! ..... wait, I've been there!!' SIGH.
Saw Tower 42 on the way back to work, the second tallest skyscraper in London, I think. And The Gherkin which is just next to my work. There's only one curved piece of glass in it (the domed roof) apparently, which is odd cause standing looking up at it, it looks oddly, well, gherkin shaped.
Other interesting thing we saw was the Monument to the Great Fire of London. It's about 60m tall and if you laid it down the tip would reach Pudding Lane, where the fire began - I love the history this place has as opposed to Australia, there's a story in almost every building here! (The building Dan used to work in around the corner - which has a WICKED old goth look to it - was where part of 101 Dalmations was filmed! hehe). I think his email 'I loved your comment "Why horses?" Err why not? "Well why not money?" good point.' sums me up. Show me something apparently signifigant and I won't accept it, I'll ask stupid questions instead.
Anyway, thats enough of a history lesson for today.
Currently have a shitty cold which I can't get rid of but staying in on the weekend ensured that it didn't get any worse. Am researching European destinations to decide where our next trip will be. I'm liking the idea of Amsterdam, but I think it's more about the people you go with rather than the actual place. Would consider Munich, Paris, Rome or Prague. I think it'd just be too cold to do Scandinavia just yet and I'd rather leave Spain until summer.. party time! Oh well... it's exciting just thinking about travelling again.. London is sort of doom and gloom at the moment with its SHITE weather, having a trip to look forward to makes it seem worthwhile.
Until then!
P.S. Missed out on Strokes tickets GRRR... only ones left are for February at the Apollo... fucking 99 quid. YEAH RIGHT.
The Tower Bridge is amazing, absolutely huge with two little castles on the top of the two posts in the middle of the bridge (which you can walk over) where people (rich people, not commoners like us) have parties.. madness! Looking across the Thames we saw the HMS Belfast to which I stupidly exclaimed 'I've heard of that! ..... wait, I've been there!!' SIGH.
Saw Tower 42 on the way back to work, the second tallest skyscraper in London, I think. And The Gherkin which is just next to my work. There's only one curved piece of glass in it (the domed roof) apparently, which is odd cause standing looking up at it, it looks oddly, well, gherkin shaped.
Other interesting thing we saw was the Monument to the Great Fire of London. It's about 60m tall and if you laid it down the tip would reach Pudding Lane, where the fire began - I love the history this place has as opposed to Australia, there's a story in almost every building here! (The building Dan used to work in around the corner - which has a WICKED old goth look to it - was where part of 101 Dalmations was filmed! hehe). I think his email 'I loved your comment "Why horses?" Err why not? "Well why not money?" good point.' sums me up. Show me something apparently signifigant and I won't accept it, I'll ask stupid questions instead.
Anyway, thats enough of a history lesson for today.
Currently have a shitty cold which I can't get rid of but staying in on the weekend ensured that it didn't get any worse. Am researching European destinations to decide where our next trip will be. I'm liking the idea of Amsterdam, but I think it's more about the people you go with rather than the actual place. Would consider Munich, Paris, Rome or Prague. I think it'd just be too cold to do Scandinavia just yet and I'd rather leave Spain until summer.. party time! Oh well... it's exciting just thinking about travelling again.. London is sort of doom and gloom at the moment with its SHITE weather, having a trip to look forward to makes it seem worthwhile.
Until then!
P.S. Missed out on Strokes tickets GRRR... only ones left are for February at the Apollo... fucking 99 quid. YEAH RIGHT.
Friday, January 06, 2006
I love the Brits
"Poppet - can you make sure that the SCRT Schedule is up to date with all dec and jan meetings at some point this morning, please?
thankyou very much
.ash
Ashley Shaw
"Throw some shrimps on the barbie"
Threadneedle Asset Management"
a) Who, but the British, use the term Poppet??
b) He gives me the most shit out of everyone (a shrimp on the barbie?! nice originality), but we entertain each other so well!
thankyou very much
.ash
Ashley Shaw
"Throw some shrimps on the barbie"
Threadneedle Asset Management"
a) Who, but the British, use the term Poppet??
b) He gives me the most shit out of everyone (a shrimp on the barbie?! nice originality), but we entertain each other so well!
Thursday, January 05, 2006
And god said, let there be email
Renee.Hawkett@Threadneedle.co.uk
Will get onto my hotmail tonight but if you're too damn impatient to wait that long to speak to me (it's ok, I understand) flick me an email at work.
Now, if only I could get my god damned camera to work here I'd be set!!!
Will get onto my hotmail tonight but if you're too damn impatient to wait that long to speak to me (it's ok, I understand) flick me an email at work.
Now, if only I could get my god damned camera to work here I'd be set!!!
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Finally!
You always hope to become friends with someone who shares the same passions as you. My passion is music and I've been hanging to find more people with the same musical tastes.
"Very bizarre, I love music chat - we must have talked about it. In fact what on earth were we talking about??
My favourites are Pearl Jam, RATM, Chillis, Green Day, Foo Fighters, Soundgarden, Alice in Chains, STP, Muse, Nirvana, Metallica etc etc etc
But also like indie stuff too, Oasis, Idlewild, some coldplay. In fact I like everything. Got a guitar for Xmas too!
And no there was no tattoo showing (I don't have any but would have loved to see yours!)"
It's always the ones you shouldn't be friends with! Damn it!!
"Very bizarre, I love music chat - we must have talked about it. In fact what on earth were we talking about??
My favourites are Pearl Jam, RATM, Chillis, Green Day, Foo Fighters, Soundgarden, Alice in Chains, STP, Muse, Nirvana, Metallica etc etc etc
But also like indie stuff too, Oasis, Idlewild, some coldplay. In fact I like everything. Got a guitar for Xmas too!
And no there was no tattoo showing (I don't have any but would have loved to see yours!)"
It's always the ones you shouldn't be friends with! Damn it!!
If you want to kiss the sky, better learn how to kneel
How quickly three days can go by! After being frisked (it was more groping action than I got on New Years Eve), it was down to the wire to run through the airport and be three of the last people on our flight back to Luton. It felt like we had never actually gotten off the plane. I can't believe it's been over a month since doing the 25 hour haul. Now any flight seems pleasant.
Now, back to the story at hand... Belfast! Not sure what I expected. I think I the ideas of Ireland that I had in mind were more of Dublin. Belfast was a little grim looking (particularly with the crap weather). However the place was very much alive on New Years Eve night. Our trip all began with Pete and his cousin Mick (an Irish local) picking us up... I shit you not, he was listening to U2 the whole way home... it was so cool in an overly cheesy way (and it was not the last time we would be hearing them).
The pub we celebrated at was called The Botanic Inn (or 'The Bot' for locals). It was in the centre of Belfast and by the nights end was ridiculously packed. We had an absolute ball, mostly Irish people are bloody friendly people just up for a laugh. I talked to many people at that bar all wanting to know about Oz. One extemely friendly, no wait, DRUNK, Irish lad decided to burst into the ladies loo line and go the pash. What the hell I thought... maybe that's how the locals say hello.
For all you drink enthusiasts wanting to try an Irish delicacy, try mixing up a 'Fat Frog'. Mix equal parts of Smirnoff black, Bacardi Breezer (orange flavoured) and WKD Vodka (blue). If WKD is not available any blue mixer will do (try blue caracao!!).
After doing almost nothing on Sunday (apart from visiting Antrim Area Hospital to diagnose what was making V so sick), we ventured into Belfast once more on Monday just prior to making our flight (or, as mentioned, very nearly missing it). The only thing we really wanted photos of was the Europa. It is the worlds most bombed hotel. I don't get why!
I am now back in good old London... I had a sense of disappointment landing, like I always get after arriving home after a holiday. Until I realised... I'm still not 'home home'. I'm starting to experience a weird sense of deciding whether I belong or not. Hmmm.
Upon arrival at work today I sorted through the emails and came across one from Dan inviting me to The Church on Australia Day weekend. (NB: The Church is on Sunday afternoons. 12-4pm, free barbie, heaps of cheap drinks, Aussie's galore. Apparently it gets very messy - imagine a B&S indoors). If his mates are anything like him it'd be a great laugh and I can't get anyone else to go along so why not!? I have a feeling I won't be drinking again until Australia Day. No money, ill feelings and well, no money means I'll be a little skint for a while.
Well, fingers crossed I can convince Andy to let us download and share our photos and I should have them up in no time (depending on whether the censors let some of the NYE photos through without an R rating).
***
P.S. - Cheers to everyone who sent New Years and Chrissy messages. I'm trying to keep up with them all, although running out of credit and coverage is not helping!! I'll lose all phone access for a couple of days this week while I switch carriers, then I'll have a reliable service! It was good to actually speak to a few of you after Christmas... I can see myself buying quite a few more phone cards.
Ohhh and in exciting Australian news I've just pre-ordered the new Living End album with limited edition DVD. I will unfortunately have to wait for it to be sent over and will have to cross my fingers about getting to view the DVD here, but screw it!!
Now, back to the story at hand... Belfast! Not sure what I expected. I think I the ideas of Ireland that I had in mind were more of Dublin. Belfast was a little grim looking (particularly with the crap weather). However the place was very much alive on New Years Eve night. Our trip all began with Pete and his cousin Mick (an Irish local) picking us up... I shit you not, he was listening to U2 the whole way home... it was so cool in an overly cheesy way (and it was not the last time we would be hearing them).
The pub we celebrated at was called The Botanic Inn (or 'The Bot' for locals). It was in the centre of Belfast and by the nights end was ridiculously packed. We had an absolute ball, mostly Irish people are bloody friendly people just up for a laugh. I talked to many people at that bar all wanting to know about Oz. One extemely friendly, no wait, DRUNK, Irish lad decided to burst into the ladies loo line and go the pash. What the hell I thought... maybe that's how the locals say hello.
For all you drink enthusiasts wanting to try an Irish delicacy, try mixing up a 'Fat Frog'. Mix equal parts of Smirnoff black, Bacardi Breezer (orange flavoured) and WKD Vodka (blue). If WKD is not available any blue mixer will do (try blue caracao!!).
After doing almost nothing on Sunday (apart from visiting Antrim Area Hospital to diagnose what was making V so sick), we ventured into Belfast once more on Monday just prior to making our flight (or, as mentioned, very nearly missing it). The only thing we really wanted photos of was the Europa. It is the worlds most bombed hotel. I don't get why!
I am now back in good old London... I had a sense of disappointment landing, like I always get after arriving home after a holiday. Until I realised... I'm still not 'home home'. I'm starting to experience a weird sense of deciding whether I belong or not. Hmmm.
Upon arrival at work today I sorted through the emails and came across one from Dan inviting me to The Church on Australia Day weekend. (NB: The Church is on Sunday afternoons. 12-4pm, free barbie, heaps of cheap drinks, Aussie's galore. Apparently it gets very messy - imagine a B&S indoors). If his mates are anything like him it'd be a great laugh and I can't get anyone else to go along so why not!? I have a feeling I won't be drinking again until Australia Day. No money, ill feelings and well, no money means I'll be a little skint for a while.
Well, fingers crossed I can convince Andy to let us download and share our photos and I should have them up in no time (depending on whether the censors let some of the NYE photos through without an R rating).
***
P.S. - Cheers to everyone who sent New Years and Chrissy messages. I'm trying to keep up with them all, although running out of credit and coverage is not helping!! I'll lose all phone access for a couple of days this week while I switch carriers, then I'll have a reliable service! It was good to actually speak to a few of you after Christmas... I can see myself buying quite a few more phone cards.
Ohhh and in exciting Australian news I've just pre-ordered the new Living End album with limited edition DVD. I will unfortunately have to wait for it to be sent over and will have to cross my fingers about getting to view the DVD here, but screw it!!
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