Social drinks

Spent a great night out celebrating a friend's birthday yesterday. Many laughs, chats, joking and horsing around. Thought I'd take a break today and just 'hang' at home, taking it easy. Just watching the box. There's a few good shows on so I don't mind. Can't be propping up the bar every night, now can I?

Custom T-shirts

Most everyone likes to look cool or at least look good. And, the good news is that now you can with custom T-shirts. Check out the T-shirt printing from CustomYourShirt.com. Have a look for yourself.

Tense

Somewhat tense days, these weeks. I'm waiting to find out about a job application and it seems to take forever, making me be a bit on edge. Also, a bit of turmoil in the amorous regions of my strange life, ups and downs. I feel I could do with some good news, a spark of hope somewhere. I'll keep my eyes open for any promising omens. Luctor et emergo..

Domain

Yes, the old blogging thing, eh. I've been messing about with domain names again. I am trying to get a domain for this darn blog right here but so far it doesn't seem to be working properly. And there is not much support in place to deal with any queries. So, I'll just keep tinkering away in the vain hope that all will fall into place soon. Here's hoping..

Anzac Day

Went into town today to see the big Anzac Day parade. It was very moving to see the old veterans march by, some of them still stepping quite militarily and all very proud as far as I could see. It was also interesting to see the Vietnam veterans. In contrast to Britain, Australia was involved in that controversial conflict. The crowds had turned out in record numbers, including an awful lot of young people, which was heartening to see.

Scribbling

May have some transcribing work to do soon. Fingers crossed indeed. It has always been my dream to sustain myself my writing whether it be pure creative writing (ideally) or journalism or translating or proofreading. Perhaps I can do all of the above and earn a crust in the process? Now, that would be a fine thing, to be sure.

Meanwhile, I'm wondering if I should get myself an ergonomic mouse. I find that after a few hours' work on the 'puter I feel a strain in my wrist and lower arm. Don't want to end up an IT casualty, after all.

Also, I will be doing some project work for a friend who is slightly snowed under at the moment. Have to keep those grey cells ticking over, don't you know?

Jobs

Once more I find myself looking for a job. It's a bit disheartening but I'll just have to hang in there. I think my c.v. is alright enough and I'm willing to put in 'an honest day's work for an honest day's pay', so why shouldn't I find a job. Ideally, I'd work at home and try to make a living writing and translating but at the moment that type of endeavour emains a bit tentative and elusive. Oh well..

Slow and sleepy

The music festival this arvo was pretty good although the weather was a tad on the dodgy side. Saw a great folk-type band that played some Irish inspired music and also saw fit to launch the odd Serbian war cry. Not sure what that was all about. There was also a great Aboriginal singer/song writer Kerianne Cox who really connected well with the audience. She sang a lovely song about coming home that went down very well with yours truly. She has a powerful but very smooth voice and her songs were very well crafted.

Following her were a load of oafs and philistines from the Blue Mountains (their description); comical, off-beat a-capella band of blokes. By that time it started raining properly so we headed home for coffee. Enjoyable afternoon.

Music

Today, a Sunday in autumn, I am due to put in an appearance at a local music festival. All morning I've been seeing large trucks carrying portaloos and other festival paraphernalia towards Birchgrove Park where the annual festival is held. Unfortunately, it has also been raining with a vengeance and there is a strong wind. So, either I or my companion for this arvo may well cry off and 'give it a miss'. Would be a shame as it's supposed to be a good music festival and, moreover, it's free.

People around here really seem to love their music. There are pubs that have live music, there are the big venues for the big stars, and almost every gathering of some kind has some sort of musical entertainment thrown in. One thing I didn't realise before was how big country and western music is in Australia. I suppose it makes sense with the whole outback culture; the buckaroos, the stations and so on, but I just wasn't aware of it. Having grown up in Europe I tended to regard country music as a bit naff but recently I was at a friend's house and we had a few drinks after which she played a few old country albums. Vinyl, you know, and it was wonderful. White blues, I suppose. There were some immortal lyrics sung by strong crystal-clear voices. Just fantastic. So there you go. Never judge an lp by its cover.

Making money

Money makes the world go round. Indeed, that is the age old adage, isn’t it? Certainly, we all need money as we all have bills to pay, that much is certain. For most people earning money will take the form of a nine to five job, pursuing some type of career in some field of endeavour or other. Barring that, playing the lottery may be a remote hope of earning enough money in one fell swoop that it would enable one to achieve financial independence.

If you happen to be looking for a system to make money then you may well want to check out the excellent Maverick Money Makers Elite Coaching Club where you will find a truly great money making system.

This is a sponsored post. P

View from a tower

View from the building on Williams Street where I used to work until recently. You can see Darlinghurst stretching away there nicely. Haven't explored the area in any great detail yet but I think Oxford Street may have more of a buzz going on. Ah well. Time moves on and takes no prisoners, that much we all know. Tempus fugit and all that, eh? Still, never mind. Don't sweat the small stuff, isn't that the trusted advice?

Puppy nonsense

Of course, everything remotely connected to US president Obama is being lapped up so I shouldn't be surprised at the recent media frenzy over the new White House doggy. The puns were a-plenty in the reports from the various news outlets. They couldn't get enough of it. Puppy dog story, Obama, family pictures; sheer national bliss for the Americans. They certainly like their schmaltz, that much is certain.

Still, it makes for better PR than Bush's many moronic gaffes and Cheney's homodical hunting tendencies. Read the puppy's lips: Many more chunks!

Politics

I am not big on politics but my friends here seem obsessed with it. Personally, I don't have many illusions regarding the trustworthiness or lack thereof of politicians in general. I prefer to focus the mind on arts and spiritual matters although I realise that you can't do without politics entirely. Down here, corruption on the political stage seems to be a very popular talking point. Pfff...politics..who needs it?

Lovely dumplings...

Enjoyed some lovely, beautiful, gorgeous, bliss-inducing, intoxicating Dim Sum yesterday. Found this little restaurant near Broadway (in Sydney, that is) and went there last night after seeing Slumdog Millionaire. The atmos was nice, the staff knowledgeable and friendly and the bill was not at all prohibitive. 'I vill be back!'

Bikie wars

The various biker gangs here in Sydney are embroiled in a turf war or some sort of conflict over something. There have been bombings, drive-by shootings and the other day a gang member was bludgeoned to death with a bollard in broad daylight at Sydney airport. It seems to be a real problem in this country. Some pundits say that the bikes are just an after-though and these groups should really be considered to be criminal gangs first and foremost.

I remember a similar thing happening in the town where I grew up. There was a large building, an old warehouse, where a gang called 'The Black Harleys' had their headquarters. All manner of untoward activities went on here but the police were too scared and intimidated to interfere in any substantial way. Certainly, when you would come across a gang member in the town you would make sure you kept out of the way. I sort of associate gang membership with hapless and sometimes deprived youths. But when you see these bikie gang members a lot of them are not that young, really. Old enough to know better? Still, nice mopeds..

4WD tyres in Australia

Living in Australia I have grown accustomed to seeing an endless variety of 4WD vehicles. Obviously, the rugged terrain in many country areas over here would warrant using a sturdy and powerful terrain vehicle. Even where I live, in inner city Sydney, I see people driving their much loved 4WD cars all the time. Every now and then I leave the confines of the metropolis with a friend with such a car and we visit the Blue Mountains on a day’s outing.

It’s always great to go off road for a bit and forget all about the city. I just came across a great site with a 4wd Wheels & Tyres Buying Guide. You should really check out this site if you need tyres for your 4WD. Buy 4wd Tyres are based in all the major Australian cities. Their site is very handy with a buying guide, tips and advice and much more.

This is a sponsored post. P

Feeling groovy

Had a nice day at work and I'm feeling quite good. Need to start exercising a bit more, though, so there is room for improvement, which is not a bad state in which to find one's self. Nobody's perfect, after all. But, I'm not too shabby at the moment and I am enjoying my life right now. That's quite something, isn't it?

Chinese yum

Tonight, a friend and I shall be partaking in a nice meal at our local Chinese restaurant. Inevitably, I shall be ordering some nice dumplings for starters, followed by a choice from their excellent menu. A nice bottle of red will be part of the evening and no doubt some nice conversation. It's not such a bad life, all things considered. Onwards und upwards, okay?

Culture fix

Bit of a lovely poncey cultural day today with watching ABC's or rather the BBC's The Art of Spain, simply wonderful. Then there was a short doco about the abbey at Maria Laach in Germany. I spent a few summers camping at the nearby lakeside but never got round to visiting the abbey myself. And now, there is a programme on about antiquities and the dodgy trade therein. Lovely stuff..

Niche com

Just watched an American sitcom that featured exclusively Mexican people in it. It was called George Lopez, I think. It was sort of mildly amusing in that American way where just as you start enjoying a few of the gags the mood changes and the moralistic lesson and a dose of schmaltz sets in which ruins it completely.

Good day at work

Did two hearings today and I think that both went well. Luckily, they were only short ones so I had time to tidy up my log notes. Perhaps I should mention that I work as a court monitor. That might make more sense. Today, there were some robust union guys in the court and one of them was quite chatty and funny. The job so far is really good fun and I am learning a lot about the legal system. Watch this space!

Hot autumn

If I'm right, and I may well be, then today is the first day of Autumn here in Oz. I have to say it feels just as warm, really. Friends tell me that I won't notice any real difference in the temperature yet so that must be right. Oh well. Another trip down to the pool may be in order soon. I won't be going swimming in the ocean or the harbour, though. The reports on shark attacks are coming in quick and fast. Almost every week someone else gets nibbled or bitten in half. Apparently, there are more fish around the shores and these draw in the sharks looking to feed. A nice touch was last week's programming on telly of the film shocker Jaws. You have to admire the programming genius responsible for that one..

Shopping day

Got up early, quick as a flash. Got myself down to the local caff for a quick spot of breakkie and then headed into the city to buy myself a suit. A suit for work. If the suit fits, right? Truth is I have been coasting along in my newish job in a shirt and tie (and some trousers) but I really do need a good suit. So, I got one at a major department store for a pretty good price. Of course, the trouser legs were too long, what am I? A sartorial giraffe? Honestly..But a nice abruptish Asian lady pinned up the hem and next Tuesday I will be able to collect my altered suit trousers. Hooray! So, all in all it was a favourable shopping day. Shopping...phew...

The best golfing experience

Golf if one of the noblest sporting pursuits, that goes without saying. I have only once experienced the pleasure and joy of a great game of golf. I remember being on a lovely golf course, breathing in the clean, fresh air and getting to grips with the basics of this fabulous sport. I do like a good game of golf or some other sports and it is always good to get outdoors and get out and about doing what you like.

I heard about some great ancient golf courses up in Scotland but have never seen any in real life. I would love to see St. Andrews, for instance, the home of this old beautiful game. Perhaps one day I will get to see it for myself. I am sure it would be wonderful to actually be there.

However, did you know that there is a fabulous way to enjoy a golfing holiday or Golf Reisen
in beautiful Germany. This golf club can offer you everything and more to do with the golf sport. This great German golf portal can arrange all your needs with the sport of golf. Check out this great golfing site and you will see what I mean.

This golf website offers golf courses from children through to more advanced levels and wonderful options for a Golfurlaub, a golfing holiday. The golf shop carries all the major brands so you will be spoilt for choice for sure.

. I have always loved the mountains and scenery of Germany. Lovely hills and mountainous terrain, wooded areas, pure clean air and everywhere you look you will find an amazing view to delight you. A golf course in this wonderful German location must be really something special. What better way to enjoy yourself than to spend some quality time on Golfreisen , a golf trip, I ask you? Seems to me like a great thing to do, for sure.



This is a sponsored post. PP

Markets

There are quite a few different markets here in Sydney. There are arty-farty markets where you can spend your money on overpriced crafty-dafty trinketry, there are fun markets with lots of old furniture and quaint curiosa. There is a huge fresh fruit and vegetables market. That's one thing we didn't really have in Bristol; a really good market where it's fun to just wander around and have a browse. So, there you go; a brief report on markets.

Radio

There are some fine radio stations here in Australia but it's hard not to admit that I do miss BBC radio. I used to love listening to Radio Five Live or BBC 6 or Radio 4 on my digital portable radio. I was truly amazed to find that you cannot buy a digital radio in Australia. All you can get by way of a personal radio is AM/FM. I was looking around several major electronics shops in the CBD and found that you just cannot get a digital radio. Sure, you can listen to digital radio online but digital radio as in an appliance you can switch on just has not been introduced yet. Apparently, in May of this year they will introduce a DAB platform, which will, of course, differ from the UK/European one so my trusted little DAB won't work here. But that's okay. We'll get there..I do like the Aussie station Tripje J and there are a few good obscure ones as well.

Hot

Hot summer weather this weekend. It's not to bad up here in Sydney but it's another story in Victoria where bushfires are causing havoc. There have been a number of deaths and lots of properties have been lost.

I don't understand how people can live in rural areas with the risk of bushfires every summer. I think I'll stick to the coast..

Dreaming

I dreamt a strange dream last night. I will spare you the details, dear readers, as I know full well that there are few things more tedious than to have to hear someone else tell you about their dream. It's a bit like someone telling you all about a film they've seen, with a scene by scene run down of what happened. The horror.

Meanwhile, it's a bright warm day. Summer is in the land and then some. Had a nice steak dinner last night at Dick's Hotel, a local pub with a nice outdoor dining area. Had a lovely meal and a few glasses of Golden Ale, life could be worse, that's for sure.

Golfing at Platzreife

Once you have played a round of golf there is a very good chance that you will be hooked. It is, indeed, a noble leisure pursuit and a very enjoyable sport. A game of golf can really make your day a pleasant one. It is a chance to get together with your friends or family or even your business contacts and socialise in a lovely environment while at the same time enjoying some light exercise. I would say, give it a try if you have never played golf. You will probably become an instant golf convert. I know I was when I was first invited to play a few rounds at our local public golf course.

If you happen to be in Germany at any time then you should check out the great golfing at Platzreife, as you will be amazed at what you will find there. Check out the website for details about their great golf shop, golf course and even, yes, even golf trips. Go on and enjoy a golfing holiday or Golfurlaub.

They offer golfing trips to for instance San Lorenzo in the beautiful Portuguese Algarve. Of course, the Algarve is a jewel in the south of Europe and a golfing vacation in that location is certain to impress, I wager.

What I like about the wonderful game of golf is the peace and tranquillity that is invariably an important part of it. At least, for me it is key to not only try to win a game but also to relax and unwind after a busy day or working week. It stands to reason that it helps that most golf courses are located in very nice countryside. Just to go for a game and breathe in some fresh air in green surroundings is, after all, a treat to one and all, I think you will agree. Platzreife is a great Golfkurs or golf course that I feel certain you will appreciate.

This is a sponsored post. PP

Scorching in Victoria

Apparently, the state of Victoria is in for a heatwave with temperatures running into the 40s. Blimey! Adelaide also has similar hot weather at the moment. We, in Sydney are okay for now with a balmy 36is or thereabouts.

Personally, I love the warm weather but there is a limit, granted. And so far I haven't yet had to work in these temperatures. Once I become a working stiff once again, things may not be that 'cool' anymore..

A great paid blogging site

I love blogging. There, I’ve said it. I just love to write and express my thoughts and ideas to a wide public. The internet certainly has changed things for me as a writer. It is such a resource for authors and there are many ways of finding your own public.

There is one thing I love more than blogging and that, quite honestly is getting paid to blog. Writing what I think is an entertaining post or penning a good review of a product or service that may be of use to my readership and getting paid in the process is just fantastic. It does make a difference to the pleasure I derive from writing and maintaining my blogs.

A great place to get paid to blog is Paying Post. They accepted two of my blogs and informed me of that decision with hardly any delay. Paying Post seems to have a good attitude to customer service and is willing to treat their bloggers in just the right way.

I am sure that for advertisers it is a great place to advertise on blogs where they will make an impact on the blogosphere.

Paying Post’s new interface is fresh and attractive and appeals to bloggers and advertisers alike. The website is easy to navigate around and speaking as a blogger in the system I like the fact that I can quickly see what opportunities are available when I check in.

It is very easy to register as a blogger with Paying Post. All you have to do is fill out a quick online form and submit it. Before you know it you will hear back from Paying Post. Give it a go whether you are a blogger or an advertiser looking for a vibrant blogging market place.

I am very glad I found Paying Post as I believe it to be a great place for bloggers and advertisers to connect and make it happen.

Bush fires

It's full on summer here in Australia and so the concomitant bush fire season has started as well. There have been fires raging in the Southern Highlands and in north Sydney as well. It's a scary thing and a phenomenon I don't really understand. I don't get how people can live in semi-rural or rural bushland areas and have to deal with their lives and their property being at risk year in year out. How do these people deal with that recurring potential nightmare?

Another thing that strikes me as very odd is how some of these terrible fires are deliberately started by people who should know better. What sort of mindset would light a fire in this dry country, knowing how dangerous these fires can be? The mind boggles.

Pavement traffic

This morning, on my way to the supermarket, I found once again how intolerant I can be with regards to other people getting in my way. It also depends on what mood I am in at the time. But it's something to do with people being inconsiderate or what I perceive as people lacking good grace and simple manners. It vexes me when people take up the whole of the pavement with their menagerie and don't make an effort to let other pass through. Or women in shops is a good one, too.

Don't ever get in between an ample woman and something shiny on the shop's shelves. You may well be crushed to a pulp before you know it.

I sometimes think I must be growing into a grumpy old bastard, and perhaps I am. But deep within I know full well that I am right. Why can't other people see that? Honestly..

Solomon Islands

Just watched a programme on telly about an Australian policeman working in the Solomon Islands and his challenges in dealing with the local culture. Some of these islands surrounding Australia do seem to have their share of unrest and troubles. I remember reading regularly about coups d'etats in places like Fiji and other island nations.

I'd love to see some of those places, though. The lure of the South Pacific is strong. When I was a wee nipper I was in Tahiti but I have no memories of that visit. I'd love to go back and see for myself what it's like.

The Harbour

View across the harbour to the Bridge. Just an image taken around Sydney, my new stomping ground. Life is pretty good here, I've no complaints. I love the easy-going character of the people, the sunshine, the cafe culture. Oh, and the pubs aren't bad, either..

Opera House

Like conquistadors' helmets they rise, the shells of the Opera House..

Poem

Saltish

Wept hours for lost kisses
Dreamt of life, love regained
Churned within, raged without
What remained
Of me
Afterwards.

The War of the Sexes

A diagram showing the different reactions from men and women to the question: "Shall we go for a drink?"

Job interview

I've got another job interview this week. Hope this one will work out. I have been having lots of leisure time and have generally been enjoying myself but it would be good to get to work again. After all, bills need to be paid, don't you know?

But also from a social point of view it would be good to start building up some sort of structure to the day. Meanwhile, I won't worry too much about things and I may even go for a nice swim this arvo. It's another scorcher of a day. Summer at last?

Bint on Dave

Emma Thomson on Dave Letterman. What an annoying woman she can be. A real luvvie as they say. I like some of her roles in a few films so fair go but I think I'd go mad if I had to spend any time in her company. But perhaps she was trying to be 'cooky' and 'wacky' in-between plugging her current film project. Ah well.