Muzbot

Amazing what a difference 5 months makes...

2011-02-23T21:49:00.000+11:00

I continue to love life and grow. Operation is a thing of the past.
God only knows what I'm thinking here, but just taking a moment to check in, and say "Hi"

Well hello there...

2010-10-17T09:53:00.001+11:00

I'm taking a bit of a break from personal blogs at the moment. I'm very disappointed by the lack of inspiration that blogging is providing me of late.

I'm at that point where I'm tired of reading how bad some people think their lives are. Where mundane meets the ordinary. If I'm lucky 1 in 5 posts I read might just be positive.

There is one chance to make your life something to treasure. One chance to treasure what you have, not what you don't. And to read words from poisoned hearts does my heart no good. So therefore, I am stepping down for a moment. I'm putting more of my free time into my illustration blog and Tumblr and hoping to grow that along with my own creativity (having said that, I've hit a creativity block this week, D'oh!).

So, from me for now, take my big digital hug. I'll be back.

Muz xx

Tonight was one of those nights.

2010-10-08T23:37:00.000+11:00

And I can't even blog about it these days.

Woot! Going to see these guys Friday night...

2010-09-29T08:35:00.002+10:00

Sweeeeeeet. Love this tune.

Systems to return to normal...

2010-09-25T06:30:00.001+10:00

because yesterday was the last time I have to see the nurse. I was discharged with instructions on how to care for myself. The good news is that I can forget this slothful fat slobby lifestyle I've had for the past 8 weeks. Now, to be honest I've had a love/hate relationship with my couch and the food I've enjoyed on it, but the time has come to return myself to the fit "young" lad that I know and really love.

I also visited my surgeon yesterday for the final time and got a complete run down of the procedure and what happened. I had not realised exactly how big this procedure was, but I now have an explanation for the pain and a reason why this is taking so long to heal. If you want details then just ask, but for now I won't publish what I lost down there. I still have an open wound and I know it will take some time to be back to "normal".

So, to celebrate some return to normal life, this morning I awoke just before sunrise and went for a walk/jog. Oh yeah, I'm taking it easy. A minute jogging here and there, but it felt great to be outside in the fresh sea air. I know it's going to be hard work for me to break the lazy habits I've formed during my recovery period. Slow and steady is the advice from the nurse. And in another couple of weeks I'll be able to ride again. Now that day I will really celebrate!

I know I'm not blogging a lot...

2010-09-21T21:05:00.002+10:00

but:

<--

I
heart
Tumblr

It's been too long without a meme, so...

2010-09-13T12:43:00.000+10:00

Search these in your iTunes and write down the first song on the list from what comes up.
’~’ means no song. ‘?’ means IDK why iTunes returned this.

happy: "Lucky and Unhappy" - Air
sad: "Crusader" - Knightlife
love: "Love 2 Meet You (Bonus Track)" - Air
hate: "My Delirium (Chateau Marmont Remix)" - Ladyhawke
light: "So Light Is Her Footfall" - Air
dark: "Dark Messages" - Air
good: "She’s No Good (feat. Eli “Paperboy" Reed)" - Basement Jaxx
bad: "Bad Up Your Betterness" - Presets
hello: "Suntoucher" - Groove Armada
bye: "Suntoucher" - Groove Armada
up: "Once Upon A Time" - Air
down: "Hold On" - Angus & Julia Stone

Well, that was boring.

I'm picking up...

2010-09-10T12:53:00.002+10:00

And here I was not considering going to any festivals this coming festival season. However, with a line up which includes Faithless, Friendly Fires, Phoenix and Miike Snow how could I NOT go to this one! So, who's in?..

When you're smiling...

2010-09-08T15:51:00.000+10:00

the whole world smiles with you.

My nurse offered me a challenge today. It started with her remarking that I looked like a wild man who's been living in the bush for far too long. I said that I had thought about getting a hair cut and a beard tidy up soon. She then basically said I should get out and get it done today because my healing process has gone incredibly well and I should be up for a bit of an outing. I totally agreed. And don't I just scrub up well?!

The other challenge for me today was to get to know my new iPhone a little better. Now, I'm not a total novice, I've had an iPod Touch for many years. However, there is something very cool about this phone. I can use it in broad daylight - unlike my old Blackberry, that did not like sunlight and made the random and weird cursor movement seem normal. This phone is a total winner. This pic was taken with the very popular Hipstermatic app. I'm feeling great and really ready to get back into "normal" life.

First of all...

2010-09-06T15:43:00.002+10:00

a big thank you for all the well wishes I've been receiving. It means a lot to me to know that I have so many friends who are sending me the good vibes.

The other thing I've been grateful for is to have had Mark staying with me until today. It was great to not have to worry about being on my feet to organise many simple things like dinner. But from tomorrow I'll have to organise my own coffee in the morning.

Another thing Mark has done for me was to turn me into an urban farmer. Yes, I've finally had the horrible plants that were outside my front door for all this time replaced with something that I can actually enjoy and care for. On the right I now have tomatoes and on the left I have a variety of sugar-snap peas. Mark, being a horticulturalist, has set this up ready for me to take over from today. Who knows, I may not even kill these and see some fruit appear in the future.

So an update on how I'm traveling:
I saw my surgeon today and he confirmed that I am healing well. He also confirmed that this is something that can't be rushed so I'm still off work and receiving daily visits by the nurse to redo my dressing. This will continue for at least the next week. But, I'm on my feet and shuffling around a lot more. I seriously can not wait to be back on my feet totally. I feel like such a sloth at the moment. I've realised that it's incredibly hard for someone like me to just stay put! I need activity, fresh air and sunshine to be truly happy. This really has been difficult. I also realised that I eat when I'm bored.

So once again, thanks for all the digital love and know that it has made me smile.

No really, what's going on?..

2010-08-31T22:44:00.000+10:00

I've not been blogging a hell of a lot lately as you may have noticed. Mostly this is because I'm not a huge fan of too much whining or winging on blogs and frankly, I've hit a bit of a rough patch with my health so I've been a bit down about it. But, I've been through the worst of it now, so I can start to look forward again.

So if you want the details, by all means read on...

During my last holiday I was showering and noticed a lump where there shouldn't be a lump. It was close to my boy bits so I was a little concerned. Tried to make an appointment to see a doctor while I was away, but couldn't get in, so I just let it go. The lump was disappearing anyway.

Move forward two weeks and the lump had returned and doubled in size. Nice one. Saw doctor who immediately sent me to a specialist. Saw specialist and was sent for ultrasound. Told there was nothing to worry about. Cue out of the blue phone call a couple of days later from Specialist saying he needed to see me straight away. Specialist booked me into hospital in two weeks time for "lumpy" to be removed. More swelling, operation brought forward.

Look, I got to wear pretty socks. Actually, I hated these things. I know they are supposed to help, but I just wanted to rip them off because I hated them on my legs.

.. So, I'm in hospital, the dude comes to collect me and wheel me into theatre. I get there, and the "simple" op is explained to me and I'm told it should only take about half an hour. The last thing I remember is being told I may feel a little light headed... and I was out like a light.

Apparently 3 minutes into the operation my lungs decided they were not going to cooperate with the surgeon. They went into some form of spasming shock. A few moments later, my stomach decided it wanted some of that spasming action. Thus forcing the contents of my stomach (which was just water and bile) up and into my spasming lungs. I was drowning and I was sleeping through it. Cool huh?! Ummm, no!

Awakening. Coughing. Oh the coughing. Ow the pain.

So, a few extra hours later, I'm back in my hospital room and the pain downstairs was nothing compared to the pain I was feeling on my face and lungs after having tubes forced down my throat and having my stomach pumped. My jaw is still bruised.

The next day I could focus on the blood covered bed. WTF had they done to me?! Let's imagine that an "X" represents my anus, this "B" represents my balls and "-" can represent some cutting.

X-----B

Yes. That's right. Peel it open and remove that nasty lump.

The wound can not be stitched. It requires daily packing and dressing. I'm lucky now that I'm home to have a nurse visit me daily for this. It is an uncomfortable location to have to be packed with padding each day, and god, don't even ask me about going to the toilet.

So on that note, I hope you forgive me for not blogging a hell of a lot.

Wednesday haiku...

2010-08-25T17:04:00.000+10:00

I'm disconnected
The sun is shining
I'd like a cuddle

Tuesday haiku...

2010-08-17T12:57:00.000+10:00

Over it today.
Waiting for the admission.
My nuts hurt big time.

Apparently...

2010-08-12T14:07:00.015+10:00

The lead singer of aha

looks remarkably like Mary Gilmore on the Australian $10 note...

Thanks to Dave for pointing this out to me.

Here's my design in full for NYE...

2010-08-09T18:20:00.001+10:00

Unconscious Mutterings :: Week 393

2010-08-09T11:39:00.001+10:00

Coma :: overdose
Aristotle :: is a good name for a mouse
Pink eye :: teehee...
Expensive :: taste
Dancer :: in the dark
Lipstick :: stinks
Buffer :: exercise
Stilettos :: girlie
Booming :: sonic
Rap :: white boys can't...

Lazy post? Yep.

What is with out doubt...

2010-08-06T13:12:00.000+10:00

the fucking best live gig I have experienced, EVAH.

Miike Snow, I heart you three.

Write your own food biography: my life in 10 dishes...

2010-08-01T15:40:00.001+10:00

Dave told me about an article in the SMH and I thought I'd give my life in 10 dishes. After thinking about it for some time, I realised coming up with just 10 dishes was really hard. Food seemed to play a big part in what made me happy growing up. And looking at it, it's not a very exciting list of food. But I have incredibly strong memories of all these foods in my life. Here goes:

1. Rusks
Now, I can't remember eating these as an infant, but I do recall them being in the house when my two younger sisters were infants. Even at an older age I still enjoyed eating these teething biscuits.

2. Chinese Takeaway
A Friday night treat. As a family I think our typical order used to always contain some form of chow mein, a sweet and sour dish and Mum and Dad used to enjoy the very adult Honey King Prawns.

3. Sugar Easter Eggs
My mum was an absolute legend when it came to making easter eggs. It was always something that she would start well in advance of easter. I remember the wooden carved blocks that the rolled out flat sugar mixture was wrapped over to set. Mum's sugar easter eggs were simply fantastic. Full of flavour and never as hard, but just as fragile, as the store bought ones.

4. Trifle
This dish meant we were celebrating something. It was usually eaten at my Grandmother's house with the whole family gathered around her big dining room table. There was often one of those pavlovas that came out of those egg container things too. I wonder if they are still on sale these days.

5. Anything from the Woman's Weekly Recipe Card Series
Oh my god. What would 70's cooking be with out these! I can remember each week a new set became available at the supermarket and it was always exciting as kids to wonder at what Mum was creating based on these. I think this set of cards was one of the most used items in the house. The "confectionery" section always got a workout.

6. Crumpets with tomato and grilled cheese
A winter Saturday evening special. We'd be settled down after watching the Disney special, Dad was getting ready to watch a bit of Dave Allen and Mum would bring out a plate of these. What a treat they were too. In summer the hot crumpets were replaced with Jatz, tomato and Coon.

7. Fettucini with sour cream and chives sauce and smoked herring
This is a Uni meal. It just sounds foul now. It was soooo cheap to make and I just loved it. It was often a lunchtime meal for me on my days off Uni.

8. Thai Green Curry
I remember discovering this dish in the 80's. It was just when Australia was experimenting with different cuisine types and Thai and Indian Restaurants were popping up. It was one of those recipes that I could easily replicate at home and this meal got me though Uni too. Cheap to make, great with rice and the left-overs tasted better the next day.

9. Pad Thai
Still has to be my most popular dish to this day. I judge a Thai restaurant on the flavour of their Pad Thai. If it's crap, I don't go back. If it's good, then the rest of the menu must also be great. It's one of those dishes that I have NEVER been able to successfully recreate at home... even though apparently it's supposed to be quick and easy.

10. That meal I ate in France
While staying in Montparnasse with Judo, he got a tip on where to have a good traditional French meal and we were not disappointed. In fact, I still to this day put this down as the best meal I have ever eaten. Now, I'm sure you're all wondering what it was called... well, so am I. But basically, the main was 3 pieces of beef, served with 3 different sauces. To this day I can't name them. But the taste was true heaven. I've always thought one of the sauces was made with Marsala and now every time I see this on a menu I order it. It is one of my favourite flavours... However, there are so many meals that I've had overseas that I have loved and any one of them could have made it on this list.

So, what's your life in 10 dishes?

Sydney gets its gay on...

2010-07-29T13:55:00.000+10:00

with two different options on the one night: Scissor Sisters or Stephen Fry.

I opted for Scissor Sisters and am glad I did. The show was energy packed, however, it was not without it's flaws. The main problem I had with the night was the sound. And I guess that stems from the venue. Big Top at Luna Park is an ok venue for big parties or huge dinners, but as a concert venue it leaves a lot to be desired. The biggest desire is that of good sound. There were a number of occasions when a member of the Scissor Sisters was talking in between songs and it was virtually incomprehensible thanks to the acoustics of the venue. This I hate with a passion. When I go to see a live act I go to hear their music at a volume and quality I could never reproduce at home. I'm not a "performance" person. I really couldn't give a flying fig what the artists do on stage, it's the big sound and live renditions of their music I want to experience. So there is where my disappointment lies. I can only imagine it must be frustrating for the performers as well.

However, during two numbers I stood still and closed my eyes and just listened. The great thing was that I could hear every sound around me. I could hear the crowd singing along. I could hear the reverb from the back wall. I could feel the limited bass. I could feel the people moving around me. Their live renditions of their studio recordings were just fantastic and seem to take some of the tunes to a new level of intelligence.

So, the highlight for me was "Kiss You Off" and "Invisible Light". Both these songs showcased what fun, clever and innovative artists the Scissor Sisters really are.

Ummmm, I think the bear likes Kylie...

2010-07-20T14:46:00.000+10:00

Now let me bore you with holiday snaps...

2010-07-19T20:40:00.002+10:00

Yes, I've been on holiday. It was a well needed break too.

	It started out at the new Teneriffe Festival in Brisbane. The promise of good food and free live music was too much to pass by.
	The lads, Mark and Graeme, ordering a coffee to kick the morning off.
	Meeting the locals
	Watching Operator Please through a very sexy forearm. The other music highlight was Blue Juice. They were nuts, sounded great and very entertaining.
	So we move on to Far North Qld: Magnetic Island. We stayed here in a place called Bungalow Bay. The accommodation was basic but that was perfect. There was even a fridge in there to keep the milk cold for breakfast.
	This is the location of Bungalow Bay. It's called Horseshoe Bay. I loved it here and this was definitely the better side of the Island. It was quiet and more friendly here.
	What can I say?
	We had a few beaches all to ourselves at some time during our stay. The water was a beautiful 22 degrees and the daytime temps were about 27 out of the water. The good thing about this time of year is that there are very few, if any, stingers in the water.
	Oh geez Mark! Was that you? No, it was the smell of 2 or 3 day old coral spawn being washed up on the shores. It stunk!
	A highlight on the Thursday night was Coconut Bowls. The idea: You get two bowls of a coconut to knock down all the pins. Knock over the middle one to score a free beer. This is not as easy as it sounds. Coconuts rarely roll where you want them to. Even the crowd are warned about possible danger as they fly down towards the pins. Needless to say, out of the 86 bowlers that night, I tied first with one other. In the play off she beat me by two pins.
	Top of the world Ma!
	This is Shadow, the black cockatoo. He was a friendly old fellow and LOVED the camera.
	I love this pic of Mark and Shadow.
	You know you're not supposed to smile at these. This is Barbie. She was beautiful and surprisingly soft to touch. Her jaw was taped as, even at this size, her jaw is strong enough to rip your finger off with one clean bite... and I need my fingers for work.
	The coolest accessory on the island. A special scarf.
	Our local. After a full day of activities we would settle back and watch the sun set over the ocean. The bar manager here was great. One night we were watching a live band at Bungalow Bay and the Bar Manager turned up and spent the night chatting to us and letting us in on some of the Islands secrets. It was a great night and he even offered us a loan of his car for the day.
	Over on the mainland, in Townsville, we had a day of caching. While filling in time before the late night ferry we stopped in at one of the very few bars open. We were the only ones here apart from the staff. The music was, well, very gay... So I asked the barman if it was, and he seemed a little taken back and said "No", so I said "Oh, well I just wondered because of your music choice".
	This is an amazing piece of coral. I heart Coral.

View more on Flickr

Smash...

2010-07-02T07:47:00.000+10:00

Haircut thursday...

2010-06-30T19:09:00.002+10:00

and yes, I know it was only Wednesday. I have no idea why I kept thinking it was Thursday all day today. But I did, so there.

I went to get a hair cut today so that I would neat and tidy for my holiday. As usual I went to the same barber I've been going to for many years. He welcomed me into his dodgy looking shop with open arms. Now that's the kind of greeting you rarely find these days. I sat down and we had the weather to chat about. I know I've said this before, but my barber scares me. I have no idea what the hell he's saying most of the time. His accent is so strong. I nod and smile and occasionally make sense of a word and add my own few words back. Well, he was in for a chat today. I think it was all about the cold weather. "Ish cowld! Mumble mumble mumble..."

He kicked the heater around to face me and all was good. However, I was soon smelling a smell I have not smelt in a very long time... Burning hair. My burning hair! Clippings were rolling down onto the heater, crackling a little then burning up with that pungent stink.

Somehow he talked most of the haircut today. I managed to pick up on a couple of things he was saying:

- it was cheaper to have someone killed many years ago. These days it costs too much. You used to be able to organise a hit over in Glebe. Not these days, it's all family and restaurants.
- All the hookers around Redfern are black! No white women these days. You have to go out to Canterbury for a white woman.
- It was his 71st birthday yesterday and he celebrated by going to get new pills from the doctor. He did say what they were for, but I didn't catch that bit. I'll just assume they were not viagra because he didn't seem to impressed with the hookers nearby.
- he had views about Bondi, but I didn't catch them either. In fact I didn't even understand he was talking about Bondi until he mentioned the beach. He pronounced it "Bunda Bits".

Anyway he would sway and he would brace himself on the bench. I started to think he wasn't going to survive to the end of my haircut. Scary stuff.

The place still smelled of my burning hair, I paid up and wandered out to grab some lunch. While I was standing waiting for a sandwich someone at the counter gladly pointed out the blood behind my ear. Thanks for that. He had cut me. No surprise really. I grabbed a few paper towels and pressed them behind my ear and hoped to god that was the only cut.

And to think, years ago I was foolish enough to pay top dollar for a Tony & Guy hair cut. I love haircut Thursday.

Teehee...

2010-06-30T07:58:00.000+10:00

Here's another event poster I've been designing...

2010-06-29T19:55:00.000+10:00

Working with these colours has been fun and I'm particularly proud of the hibiscus.

One for Mark...

2010-06-28T07:53:00.000+10:00

Don't wanna walk away
I couldn't anyway
You fill my empty day
You know you make me stay

Cos you're fucken awesome

Mmm hmmm...

2010-06-22T08:07:00.000+10:00

Bit and pieces from the weekend...

2010-06-21T18:52:00.001+10:00






I was told a few times over the weekend that I looked very tired. To be honest, I didn't really like being told that. I know I looked like shit and I know I need a few good night's sleep. I can't wait for my holiday to come. Actually, I don't think I look THAT tired.

And just because...

2010-06-17T16:53:00.002+10:00

We went to a party on Sunday night...

2010-06-16T19:38:00.000+10:00

and I think the Scooby Gang have never looked hotter!

I'm Wild About Whales...

2010-06-16T12:49:00.000+10:00

Living on the coast I often wander up and down the beach looking out towards the horizon and hope to see a tale or fin slap. Occasionally, if I'm really lucky I might actually see a whale breach. But most of the time, I just see the horizon.

Now, with the help of my friend Twitter, I can be more confident at spotting a whale when I gaze out from my beach. I've just started following @WildAboutWhales. They send updates on Twitter of whale sightings along the coast of NSW. This is fantastic and I heart them.

Oh, and just in case you're still old school, and check webpages at random times, and you want to see where the whales are here is their website. It even includes a funky little map.

Good news everyone...

2010-06-15T18:46:00.000+10:00

My design for a New Year's festival poster has been selected as a finalist. I wasn't actually too confident when I submitted the design for a few reasons, including I just ran out of time to really polish it off. What you see above is only a small section of the design I submitted. I'm already stoked because being in the Top 5 I've won a free pass to the three day festival. Go me. The decision on the final design will be made at the end of July.

I have a new fave tune...

2010-06-15T11:51:00.000+10:00

LCD Soundsystem - I Can Change (Stereogamous Remix).
I danced my arse off to this track during the early hours of Monday morning. Lights flashing, smiling faces.

She was into French cuisine but I ain't no cordon bleu...

2010-06-08T21:02:00.000+10:00

I'm no good at chatting up and I always get rebuffed
Enough to drive a man to drink, I don't do no washing up
I always leave the stuff piled up, a-piled up in the sink

But you will always find him in the kitchen at parties

Food and wine...

2010-06-07T13:44:00.001+10:00

used to be friends of mine.

On the weekend the Manly Food and Wine festival took place. It's pretty much your local community type event where local restaurants showcase a dish or two and a local wine producing region is also highlighted.

The region this year, as with most years was the Hunter region. To be honest, while there are some great wines produced in this region it all became a bit same same. Looking for a red? Well, there was only two choices: your Cab Sav or Merlot. Then there was the blends of the above. This really was a shame as I like to try new things when I visit festivals, because really that's the point, isn't it? I wandered around the festival twice before any wine grabbed my attention*. The wandering was good, because the people of Manly are a good looking bunch, so eyecandy and people smiling and laughing was not in shortage.

Food options, well, there was a lot to choose from all for $12 a plate. Fantastic value, NOT! A spoon full of something for $12 just made me sigh. However, the sun was out and the atmosphere was worth the dosh to sit and watch the passes by and the waves crash onto the beach. What a great location for a festival.

A designers market was tacked on to the festival along the beach promenade.On Saturday I wandered through here, spied a couple of cool t-shirts and some fantastic home made nougat. I bought a nougat sample pack and it didn't last the whole weekend. Was gone in a flash. I now firmly believe cranberries in nougat is a total winner!

So here were the downers:
- price of food
- wandering around by myself
- lack of real variety in wine choices

On the bright side:
- Beautiful location
- Happy people
- Showcase of why I love this suburb the best

So, next year, if you're not doing anything, come along with me.

*Good thing, in these days of limited alcohol intake for me, that sampling a wine or two was the equivalent of maybe one glass. Luckily there were heaps of non-alcoholic options and plenty of water around.

Well that was a wonderful dream...

2010-06-05T08:42:00.001+10:00

and I'm going to share.

I was charged with coming up with the concept art work for a new kid's cartoon. The style was the classic Hanna-Barber's "Josie and the Pussycats", But had a modern twist.

It stared Britney Spears as Britney Spears and she had a square robot as a side-kick. Naturally, and most unimaginatively it was called "Spears in Space".

Each Episode had her singing one of her hits, so I had to Wikipedia her because I could only think of one song, "Toxic".

Sorry, you know how much I think sharing dreams is boring, but I decided not to disguise it as a good idea.

Late nights ahoy...

2010-06-03T17:47:00.002+10:00

Dave and I look like we've got some fun late nights ahead.
We've got tix to see:
Scissor Sisters
The Skins - Scissor Sisters by shiftdc2

The Ting Tings
The Ting Tings We Walk by radiomasternet

And I absolutely LOVE this last track. It may leave you thinking to yourself: WTF?!
Miike Snow

However, this track is my fave Miike Snow track:
Miike Snow - Billie Holiday by Shahram

I'm loving this right now...

2010-06-02T13:13:00.000+10:00

I'm guessing it's a tribute to this song:

from this...

2010-05-27T16:24:00.001+10:00

my post-it note sketch:

to this... finished art.

Aren't kids just great...

2010-05-27T10:46:00.000+10:00

Wow, let's stop the nation, bring out the prime minister, sound the drums and trumpets, have a nation wide party for these kids and their follies.

I wonder if I'm being a bit harsh here. These kids actually did achieve something rather remarkable and they did it on their own, or so the marketing has led you to believe.

I have no idea how much money was spent on Jessica's return to Sydney after her solo journey. It must have been a lot. Roads were closed, scheduled broadcasts were stopped, there was helicopters flying around and around, extra police and services were in place. So much money spent for what? Really. What? Oh, yeah, that's right, these people are supposed to be inspirational. They've given up so much to achieve their goal. A goal that was purely self motivated and self centered. Well, here... go and read this.

Daily life has its challenges and there are so many people who actually really deserve so much more - because they give so much more. Please, keep it real.

It's cold and grey...

2010-05-24T12:20:00.000+10:00

This morning I was approaching the ferry dock to catch my harbour chariot to work and I saw the usual line of people standing there. The closer I walked the heavier my feet became and my pace slowed. My chest tightened and before I knew it I had stopped moving all together. I was one foot away from where solid concrete became the wood of the wharf. Without so much as a pause I turned and walked in the opposite direction.

An hour later I'm now sitting on the ferry writing this wondering where the fuck my head is at.

I had walked away and settled in a cafe, ordered a large coffee and stared out the window down the street. I was in no hurry to join the masses of people in the city. I was in no hurry for anything. I just wanted my own company. It's something I've been wanting more and more. As I sat there I realised that I had never before gone and sat in a cafe to enjoy a coffee BEFORE making the journey to work. Usually I get up, shower and ready myself for work, close the door behind me and head straight for the ferry. I wait until I get to work to have a coffee, but today I didn't. I sat in the window of the cafe, looked out at the grey streets and just let my mind wander.

Where is my head at?

Self portrait: a rainy day...

2010-05-22T20:01:00.000+10:00

Chatty women in Coles...

2010-05-21T09:58:00.001+10:00

Usually when I hit Coles it's after work and I'm just popping in to pick up something for dinner. Rarely is it on a Friday morning.

There's a different breed of shopper who visit Coles on a weekday morning. They are usually women and they are weird. Not weird in a loopy way, weird in a friendly flirty way. Actually, no, maybe it is a loopy way...

woman1: MMmmm, don't these potatoes look good.
Me: (thinking: Ummm, they're just potatoes) Yeah, they'll go good with my lamb shanks tonight.
woman1: You know, you look just like my science teacher
Me: (thinking, "you look older than my Mum!") thanks, I think.

2 aisles later:
woman2: It's hard to choose isn't it?
Me: (looking for a certain type of Jelly-baby, thanks to Mark reminding me how good they tasted): Hehe yeah. I just want some Jelly Babies and can't find any.
woman2: I'm sure we can find you some babies...
(creepy)

Checkout, as I pour the contents of my basket onto the conveyer:
woman3: (pointing to my 2l bottle of water) What are you buying that for?
Me: Ummm, excuse me?
woman3: Bottled water. What's wrong with the stuff that comes out of the tap?
Me: Oh, I drink from the tap all the time. I just lean over the sink and go for it. This is for my fish.
woman3: (stunned silence)

I think I'll avoid Coles on a weekday in future.

Yes. I'm sure.

2010-05-17T12:28:00.001+10:00

Today I say goodbye to Facebook, and probably a lot of "friends" too.

While traveling to work this morning this thought hit me: Would my life change in any way if I didn't have a Facebook account?

So, will it? This is my social experiment. Time to see what being "social" is all about. Does Facebook make a difference? Somehow I doubted it. Sure I enjoyed sharing links to YouTube, seeing what others were up to, reading witty status updates and getting invited to parties BUT why? These people are supposed to be my "friends" aren't they? Shouldn't this stuff happen with out Facebook? So when it comes down to it I wondered if I had lazy friends or indeed if these people really are friends or just people I can say "Hi" to if I see them out and about.

I looked through the pages I had favourited or "liked" and realise I delete most of the msgs from these bands or people because they were just revised messages from Twitter. I was getting updates twice. In fact I was usually getting the updates on Twitter before Facebook. Facebook became a little annoying (I shall give my thoughts on Twitter in another blog post).

So far the response has been "Oh, were you worried about your privacy?" And frankly, no I'm not. I would not share anything on Facebook that I didn't want to. And if the CIA or ASIO really wanted to know that I like quoting the Simpson's then good for them.

So let's just see...

Unconcious mutterings :: Week 380

2010-05-14T11:17:00.000+10:00

Rock n Roll :: sex n drugs
Be with you :: I wanna
Richard :: the third
Hair :: piece
Police :: chase
Experience :: life
Father figure :: George Michael
Nice :: arse
Switch :: blade
Appearance :: neat

Nom nom nom...

2010-05-12T10:46:00.000+10:00

Oh the cruelty.

What you see above is the result of Ita getting a little too close to Blanket. She's become breakfast. I wish I could have stayed at home today to actually see if Blanket swallowed her whole. I now am sure this is what happened to Brian.

Does premium sake give you NO HANGOVER?..

2010-05-07T19:04:00.001+10:00

I'll let you know tomorrow...

Unconscious Mutterings :: Week 379

2010-05-07T10:23:00.001+10:00

Creepy ::That Channel 10 weather guy
Links :: cuff
Sane :: in
Bun :: cream
Visual :: concept
Remote :: server
Freaking :: cold
Curly :: wurley
Saga :: for ever
Different :: strokes

I'm really enjoying my hobby...

2010-05-01T20:26:00.003+10:00

and that actually really sounds weird coming from these lips. I feel like I'm creating a little, weird, living alien world in my bedroom. I'm fascinated by it. It's the new "TV". So with that, let's have a look at soe of these alien creatures:

This is Ita. She is the new kid on the block. Very shy. But wow, that yellow colour on her is stunning. These fish are shy in nature. I think she was wrongly identified in the aquarium. They said Copper Striped Butterfly. However, I believe she definately not one of them, but I don't know what she is. She is a juvenile so it'll be cool if I can get her to grow to maturity.

And so on to some of the other alien creatures. Don't even ask me to identify these. They are the flowers in my world.

Check it out! I LOVE this piece pf coral. I took many photos on many settings to try and capture this in true colour. This is taken with only ultra-violet and filtered daylight. How freakin' cool is this! It's tiny too. So very very small. The whole rock that this is on is only just bigger than a fist.

Another crazily coloured creature. This one moving in the current is very cool. I recently bought a power-head to create a stronger current in the tank. Like that of a tide change. So in doing this I'm giving these corals a go. I've not had huge success in my life looking after coral. So this is a challenge, but every piece of coral looks incredibly healthy... and really weird.

Another photo taken under UV and filtered daylight. This one is so alien. It is mesmerizing to watch in the current. It's a deep burgundy colour with little fluorescent tips. After I feed them this one's tips are a little longer.

This thing is beautiful. Fluorescent lime green centres, browny flesh and a purple base. This one is the most sensitive of the lot of them it seems. It's not out on show all the time. But occasionally, I've seen the whole rock covered in these flowers and it looks so much like an alien flower bed.

I did the numerous water quality tests today and it was perfect. I have to say I am very happy with myself. The "boys" have even laid a new batch of eggs. I may actually think about trying to save one lot soon.

This little world is very cool and it fascinates me. As I said, it's the new TV.

Still the object of my desire...

2010-05-01T11:02:00.000+10:00

and today I sat on one. So good between the legs.

A new addition to my wallet...

2010-04-30T13:14:00.001+10:00

is this snazzy Manly Fast Ferry multi-trip card.

Lately I've been leaving work late. When I leave late, all I want to do is get home so I've been heading to this wharf (pictured) to catch the Fast Ferry home. It's fast because it's only about a 16-18 minutes journey instead of the 35 minute Manly Ferry. And the views... The eastern side of Circular Quay presents people with some of the most amazing views of this city, and then we zoom away from it.

But, there's more to the Fast Ferry than just a quick tip home. You can enjoy a glass of wine or a beer out on the deck in the open air and cruise the harbour every night. Every now and then you may even be offered free champagne. And that is what I call great customer service. It seems every one who works on the ferry is enjoying their time too.

Last night when I boarded the announcement went something like this: "Good evening ladies and gentlemen. Welcome aboard and thanks for choosing Manly Fast Ferries. It's a beautiful night and we'll be cruising at sea level and, for those on the top deck, at an altitude of about 14ft with an expected arrival time at Manly of approximately 16 minutes from now. We'd like to welcome back our ferry frequent fliers and offer a special welcome to those passengers traveling with us for the first time. The bar is open, the week is nearly over, so sit back and enjoy your ride home."

It's only 20c more than the single ticket on the big slow ferry! But shhhhh, we don't want this little secret gem to become too popular...

Five signs you've had a top night...

2010-04-26T15:04:00.000+10:00

A friend wipes the blood from your forehead.
You say "Blood? Am I really bleeding."
You get in a cab, then some time later projectile vom out the door, not sure if the cab is moving or stopped.
You wake up, throbbing head, smile and say "So where am I?"
You shared the whole night with lads whose company you really love.

Something today made me happy...

2010-04-24T22:57:00.000+10:00

I caught up with someone I admire and who keeps me real.

And - to just hang out for lunch together was really good.

Big ups, as they say, to him...

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

oh what's "Big ups"? Time for a modern slang lesson:
*taaa daaa*
"Big ups" means "Massive props to someone you respek.. dawg."
(you know I'm doing weird gansta hand signals while I type that...)

Fry update...

2010-04-22T18:25:00.000+10:00

Ok, still hard to photograph, but look, they all have eyes now. So maybe tonight they will hatch out and get gobbled up by the other fish in the tank.

cheese or chocolate?

2010-04-21T14:27:00.001+10:00

Give me a bit of tasty cheese and some water crackers over chocolate. Although, I'm now partial to a Fry's Turkish Delight and a coffee at the moment.

Ask me anything

It's just as amazing as a volcano erupting...

2010-04-21T11:20:00.001+10:00

my "boys" have laid eggs. Yes, I'm totally in shock.

This is very unexpected. Yesterday morning #2 was being very protective of the rock that Blanket is on. As I looked closer I saw him tending to a clutch of eggs. They were not easy to photograph as Blanket is covering them so please forgive this not so clear shot. In clownfish the male is the smaller of the two: making #2 the male and Sandy the female.

This morning I watched the eggs a little more and realised small fry had already formed in the eggs and look close to actually hatching. They must have been laid about 6 days ago. Now, don't go expecting me to have any of these little fry survive. They will be gobbled up in no time by my other fish in the tank.

I'm very fascinated with my tank at the moment. Each morning I sit in front of it and get lost watching the amazing little invertebrates and critters that inhabit my tank.

Roller derby

2010-04-19T18:50:00.001+10:00

is a lot of fun as a spectator sport.

Saturday night Mark and I went to the roller derby at the Brisbane Convention Centre. The bout was put on by the Northern Brisbane Rollers and was the name of the two teams were: Love Rockettes vs The Diner Might Dolls. But first, let’s talk about the crowd...

Hot. This is very much a crowd I do not feel uncomfortable with. I shall describe them as the subculture hipsters and rockabilly crowd. Sexy tattoos on people everywhere. Awkward teenagers who don’t fit in at school were there as well as kids. Yes, fun for the whole family. The crowd was huge too. Is this sport growing popularity or what!

Now, the teams. You have to have a roller derby name to play this game. Here are some of my faves from the night: Love Rockettes: Chastity BeltHer, Dreadly Diva, Thumpalina. And on the Diner Might Dolls: Dead Meat, Smackerina, Queen Slander. Mark and I decided we needed roller derby names too. Mark was Mark 'Em Down and I was The Muzzle.

On to the game. Don’t know the rules? Well, the teams gave a Roller Derby 101 quick lesson before the game started. You could watch the movie “Whip It” or here is a clip that will explain it to you:

The night was licensed and the cue for beer or food was long, but they moved quickly. Seating was a premium and you had to get there way early to bag a seat. You could stand at the back of the seating or sit on the floor in the suicide area. This area was reserved for 18+ and you had to be prepared to get run over by the players if they were pushed in your direction. There were no ringside barriers. This was where we sat.

My one gripe for the night was I was feeling very under the weather with my head cold and my patience was a little short. I would have loved to have been able to get into it a lot more. I felt better during the second half when I was at the back of the crowd, with a little more space. But all in all it was such a fun night.

what is your email?

2010-04-19T09:56:00.001+10:00

My email is one of the methods I use to communicate electronically.

Ask me anything

Unconscious Mutterings :: Week 376

2010-04-15T17:02:00.000+10:00

Habit :: needs to be broken
Relaunch :: rework
Mondays :: sleepy
Bootstrap :: tight
Funk :: What's that...
Appreciate :: stuff
Yay! :: for everything
Life :: and love
Sheets :: 3
Date night :: the ad for it is on every ad break.

I wanna do this...

2010-04-13T17:06:00.000+10:00

The Savannah Way.

It's a road trip. But not just ANY road trip, it's a road trip to the XTREAM! I'd go this way: Cairns to Broome. This trip would have to be one of the greatest continental coast to coast drives in the world and it passes through some of the most spectacular scenery and wonders that this country has to offer. And it's all in an area I have yet to explore: The Top End.

The Savannah Way is a reasonably new drive. It was officially launched in 2004 as a joint adventure tourism effort from the two States and one Territory of the Top End: Qld, WA and NT. I've been told that depending on the season that it may be drivable in a 2WD, but is inadvisable, and many of the tracks are designated 4WD only. Sounds like fun to me.

Just check out some of these landscapes.

So c'mon, who's with me? We'll hire a Britz 4WD camper that seats 4, hit the dusty, muddy, dry and wet roads and have an adventure.

Meet Benny...

2010-04-11T14:58:00.001+10:00

the blenny. Isn't he a happy chap. Look at the smile! He's one of the new additions to my bedroom. I had initially thought I would not see much of this fella because he's a small dude, only about 4cm in length, but he's curious and I see quite a bit of him. I think he loves his new home. There's lot's of little holes and crevices for him to play in. And now meet Carol the coral:

This is a bit ambitious of me, but I'm giving some live coral a go. I'm really going to have to pay very close attention to the water and the nutrients to keep her alive.

Hanging off Carol are Tim, Toby and Taylor the tubeworms. They came along for the ride. They are very shy and very sensitive to movement and light.

So, this is kind of how things are looking at the moment. Carol is off to the right of pic, Snuggie at the back behind Carol. The boys are happy and even little Veruca (top purple/blue blur) have all settled in well.

Unconscious Mutterings :: Week 375

2010-04-08T14:30:00.000+10:00

Philanthropy :: Google it
Said :: sayings
Blanks :: fired
Tapas :: expensive
Orgasm :: yay!
Movement :: down there
Detention :: punishment
Restaurant :: new food choices
Weird :: science
Sniffle :: cold

It's coming...

2010-04-07T10:57:00.000+10:00

OMG OMG OMG! Yes, I'm a little excited.
2010 MotoGP season starts this weekend.
*deep breath, deep breath*

Zipping up my boots...

2010-04-04T11:34:00.000+10:00

goin' back to my roots. Getting back to my roots of the past few years and sitting on the edge. I like the edge.

I live close to Nth Head. It's a short walk from my place to these beautiful cliff faces. It's easy to get to as there are paths through the bush leading to some lookouts. But, paths are for pussies! I felt like getting close to the rock and with my trusty 510 bouldering shoes (that rarely see the light of day these days) I went on an adventure.

It had to be early as it's illegal to climb Nth Head. On most of the climbing websites they say that if the rangers catch you here they will slap a fine on you and confiscate your climbing gear. Well, I'm not that hardcore, so I was just doing short walls so no climbing gear was required. My destination was:

There are paths to each of the ledges, so it's easy to walk to a wall and climb up to the next ledge for a breather. Here's a closer look at where I plan on sitting for a few quiet moments:

Upon reaching my goal this is the view down over the edge:

I have to say I was being super cautious. We've had some rain over the past few days and there was a lot of loose sandstone, but the rain had also washed a lot of the smaller sand away making the rock feel sticky to grip. A very good feeling. Above my resting point was another small wall. This one was an easy climb to the very top. This view is looking down the final wall:

I would encourage anyone to come and visit this spot. Bring a bottle of wine, some cheese and crackers and it's beautiful to sit and watch evening approach. It truly is one of my fave spots in the world. The view from up here is spectacular:

I love just sitting and being quiet. I don't really think about much, my mind is usually clear and I just experience the moment. Nature provided me with all the thought I need. The updraft, the sound of the waves crashing way below, the sun on my face and my head is clear.
See how satisfied I look:

It was a good Friday...

2010-04-02T18:09:00.000+11:00

Unconscious Mutterings :: Week 374

2010-04-01T10:55:00.000+11:00

Bow out ::PAAARTY!
Relationships :: bless them
Facebook :: big time waster that I like.
Items :: list
Ours :: and yours
Sting :: in the tail
Hangover :: cure
Contacts :: business
Lonely :: only the
Seven days :: in one week

Time out...

2010-03-29T18:56:00.000+11:00

I had a weekend away in Brisneyland with some friends. As always, it was good to get away. This trip, even though I had my work mobile with me, I chose to ignore it. I really felt like I needed to do that. This was an amazing trip for me. Somehow, God only knows how this is possible, but I felt even more close to my family than ever. Especially my big sister. I wish we had more wine and more time to chat about stuff...

So, here's some pics from a day trip. I think pictures speak heaps. You can make your own story up here:

Then finally to be back in Sydney, on the ferry and heading for home...

Unconscious Mutterings :: Week 373

2010-03-25T11:34:00.000+11:00

Burrito ::YUM!
Spike ::my drink, please.
Tougher :: than you.
Mock :: your efforts.
Slurp :: lick
Knock :: on wood
Conference ::Yay!, Time of work!
Madness :: Baggy Trousers
Minds :: Simple
Connection :: lost

Beating myself up...

2010-03-22T20:12:00.010+11:00

It's something I do well. Lately I've not been treating myself the best. I've been a little down. It's weird how these feelings tend to feed on themselves.

If you've ever dealt with depression yourself, you'll know how hard you can be on yourself when you're down. I am my own worst enemy.But I hide it well.

And I'm disappointed. I'm an angry man right now. Some of this stems from isolation. Now, frankly, I don't live too far away from my mates. Surely a visit every now and then would be ok. But sometimes I feel like I might as well live in another state. I live in a wonderful place. There is so much here. The ocean, the cliffs, the nature walks, the bays, the food and drink. It's an amazing place. The walks around the harbour from The Spit to Manly are world class. So, then I think it's me. Maybe I'm not super company. I beat myself up.

I know that's not true. But that's just the thing. I know I'm beating myself up.

Other times, you know, if you plan to do something simple, like just go to the gym, you feel tired, feel work stressed, thinking about stuff going on in your family, and you think "I just want to go home and stop". When I don't go to the gym... I beat myself up. I look in the mirror, and I'm not there. I don't like what I see. I'm a fucking grown man and yet I have hang-ups that hold me back.

Little things... they get to you. I beat myself up. But anyway...

I feel like this every now and then. For me, that's my depression. I'm aware of it. I'm VERY aware when it's enveloping me. I wake up on the floor after numbing myself. But, it's not some dark cloud. It's not some weird fog. It's just anger, disappointment and loneliness. These days I have high expectations of myself... When I don't achieve, I beat myself up. But I hide it well. We all feel these things. Don't we?

But, I have this blog. It allows me to say what I'm feeling. I don't share my inner feelings too often. I'm not the sort of man who would share this with his mates, yet, I will share it here. Depression is insidious. If you don't suffer from it, then I would never expect you to understand the spiral. Sometimes, every now and then, that spiral is fast and dives deep. It's dangerous. It can be very dangerous.

This post is one of those that I would usually never publish. But here goes...

An easy one: What would you do if you won lotto?

2010-03-19T14:15:00.001+11:00

1) Buy Mum and Dad a retirement property on the Gold Coast. 2) Go and climb The Alps for a few months

Ask me anything

What would be the best thing about being a vampire?

2010-03-19T13:45:00.001+11:00

Scaring the shit out of people.

Ask me anything

Caption this...

2010-03-19T10:55:00.002+11:00

Go on, give me you're best caption for this pic...

Treasure trails...

2010-03-18T20:44:00.005+11:00

I love them.

Recently I had the absolute privilege of spending a few hours wandering around The Rocks with one of this country's leading archeologists and historians. He told me so many stories about the people and places that made Australian's who we are. It was an intimate insight that I know I'm very lucky to have had his knowledge shared with me.

While wandering around, standing on seemingly innocuous patches of bitumen or paved land, the stories of the land beneath my feet became more than pages in a long lost school history book. They became real. Very real. Men became more than characters in history, they became real men. Some of the stories of these early settlers even had a connection to my home town of Ipswich. We talked about the artifacts that had been excavated. Most of which helped build a picture of a very different day to day life than today.

This just added to my recent found love of Australian history. I've been dreaming of finding a connection to the past... Dreaming of being a treasure hunter.

I know where to look too. It's not where many other people have looked before. I know this because it's off the coast. There is a spot off the coast I've had my eye on for a few years. I know there is something there. I know this because I've been diving there and I've found things there before. I've brought these things to this historian and he's told me about the life that these objects had before ending up on the sea floor... even how they may have got there.

I've just ordered a new underwater housing for my camera and I so want to go and find something more. I know where to look. I've found a couple of broken items there before. I know it may take a couple of dives to try and find the exact location again.

I know the dangers of diving by myself. But, I'm bloody keen. Stupid brain and stupid sense of adventure. I know I need this. C'mon, you know me, you know I like stuff like this. Something takes over and I just follow the desire. But, I've put the call out for a like minded dive buddy, but so far no luck. Sydney divers aren't interested in this sort of dive. It's all "let's keep moving", pretty fishes or nothing to most of them. This dive would involve being in one spot and searching.

There are men like me out there... I know it. There has to be.

Unconscious Mutterings :: week 372

2010-03-17T15:41:00.001+11:00

Children :: noise
Saddlebags :: fat ass
Restraint :: fun
Awake :: from the dead
Blood :: on your hands
Shutter :: speed
Posted :: yesterday
Corn cob :: yum
Flagrant :: disregard
Fart :: protein

The 80's...

2010-03-15T10:07:00.006+11:00

are back.

Got a few hours spare in Sydney? Then head on to The Powerhouse Museum for their exhibition featuring the 80's. It was fascinating, and anyone who really grew up in the 80's would appreciate this exhibit. It was fun. Ok, the children in the "Rave" section who were all shouting along to Salt N Pepa's "Push It" were a little annoying, but the whole exhibition made me realise I grew up in a very important decade. It really did pave the way for a lot of what many people take for granted these days and there were many lessons learnt... Like certain fashion should NEVER be revived.

So, if you were a child of the 80's "do yourself a favour" and go and check it out.

Unconscious Mutterings :: week 371

2010-03-11T16:22:00.001+11:00

Detective :: story
Bangs :: she-
Consultant :: time waster
Puzzle :: piece
Learn :: to play
Necklace :: design
184 :: 13
Stimulation :: buzz
Layered :: Photoshop file
Police :: radio

This is possibly THE GREATEST TV SHOW EVER!

2010-03-10T10:19:00.008+11:00

It's a travel show, and it's about booze from all over the world! It combines two of my most favourite things. Why oh why have I not heard of this show before?!

The premise: The host, Zane, travels the world sampling the local drinks and associated culture that go with them. And he gets drunk. And that's one thing I really like about this show. They don't edit that bit out. Each episode often ends with the morning after and Zane sampling a local hangover cure. Last night's show about Croatia was fantastic.

The other thing I like about this show is that it has its own drinking game. And during the show you are encouraged to play along. It's not some lame internet game, it's actually promoted as part of the show. Here are some of the main rules:

(I think this is the most important one) When Zane takes a drink, you take a drink.
There is a stuffed monkey named Pleepleus (Zane's drinking buddy) that might appear on the screen. When it does the first person to spot it takes a drink.
When someone burps you all must give the "good burp" sign. The last person to do this has to take a drink.
If Zane mentions his mate Steve everyone takes a drink.

There are more rules, but these are the 4 main ones.

Oh, and there's even a movement called "Sheet It Forward" where when you see a fellow 'Three Sheets' fan sporting 'Three Sheets' or Pleepleus merchandise, you simply buy him or her a drink... A way to be kind to your fellow man and sheets fan.

I heart this tv show. I think I'll buy the DVD so I can watch it over and over and over again. Bottoms up!

I'm not a fan

2010-03-09T13:31:00.002+11:00

and don't think I ever will be.
Fat people love JetStar and young mums with babies love JetStar, but Muzbot doesn't... but at last minute I had to get a flight and JetStar gave me the best price. I hope I don't have to travel last minute too often.

I'm loving this right now...

2010-03-05T08:07:00.002+11:00

Kasper Bjørke: Efficient Machine

Unconscious Mutterings :: week 370

2010-03-04T16:30:00.004+11:00

Harm :: self
If :: only
On my own :: I'll make it
She said :: He said
Illegal :: fun
Broke :: but wealthy
It’s a :: war!
Chatting :: wasting time
Cottege :: ?
Podcast :: work

Everybody loves a parade...

2010-03-02T10:49:00.005+11:00

right?

I find the Mardi Gras parade cringe worthy. I hear from people "It's moved on. It's no longer a protest, it's a celebration!" A celebration of what? What the hell are we celebrating here? Oh, we've come so far. Yes, but I think the right to wear Lycra, sequins and feathers while wandering up the street behind a corporate logo somehow puts the parade in the bastardization category. There were community and support groups in the parade, but I think they were the ones squashed between the Virgin and Foxtel floats... and then we have the cliche groups. None of whom I really identify with. But I'm supposed to aren't I? I'm one of them, quick, pop me into that box.

Years ago, and really I'm not talking too long ago, the parade had satire and wit. It had fun. If you were watching on the sidewalk, standing on your plastic milk crate, you would crane your neck to see what the people down the street just let out a laugh and cheer for. What was coming next and who were they having a dig at? Who was going to cop a ribbing as the community made their point? The "We've got something to say!" has gone.

Maybe I'm becoming a cynical man. But can anybody tell me what the Mardi Gras parade was about this year? No, not the "theme", but what it was REALLY all about? I doubt it. Oh, hang on, someone over there in the corner just shouted out "it's about the dollar, and we've sold out to anyone who'll toss us a coin".

Now, before I come across as a bitter man, I have to say that I think Mardi Gras is a fantastic festival - as a whole... and I don't want to rain on the parade of those who got into it. I guess put simply, the parade, well, it's just not my thing... I don't think the parade represents me... Maybe next year I'll put together a float for men and women who would just like to wear a pair of shorts and a t-shirt, not get naked and not be identifiable as a subculture. We could carry a couple of signs that say "Hey look, we are not freaks, we actually are your daughters, sons, sisters and brothers. We are not a separate cliche. We aren't a mob of sexual deviants. We just are."

But then, even "The Gays" like to discriminate if you don't belong to a group so I doubt a float like mine would ever be permitted to march... oh, unless we had a major sponsor.

Interesting...

2010-03-01T09:31:00.001+11:00

I don't really talk much about work here on my blog. It's something that I kind of keep separate, but recently I've been mixing it up a bit and got involved in a new project.

I've started producing the weekly podcast we like to call "Talks on The Rocks". It's a series of lunchtime talks held each Friday in our museum. Each week we have a guest speaker who comes in and gives a short talk on an aspect of Sydney. Usually, the talk is based on an aspect of culture or history of Australia, Sydney and The Rocks. They are truly fascinating.

I've learnt some interesting facts. For example, did you know that in 1806 alone 41,000 seal furs were shipped from the inner harbour shores. Forty one thousand! Now, on those rare occasions I see a seal in the harbour, and it does happen once or twice a year, I will appreciate the sight just a little more.

But, if you're interested in cultural diversity and history then feel free to pop on to iTunes and have a listen.

Yeah - it really is 3D...

2010-02-25T16:53:00.000+11:00

you need red/blue glasses.

Your partner disconnected.

2010-02-24T20:33:00.005+11:00

Press "Next" to find a new person!
Have you played "Chatroulette" yet? It's just the biggest time waster on the net ever. And it can actually be a bit of fun. Especially when you get people who are in for a chat and a laugh too. Here's some others from tonight:

Row 1 L to R:

Dude was too cool to talk to me.
This guy was so funny. Good sense of humor.
ZZZZzzzz

Row 2 L to R:

Bunny man. Didn't say much, just ate a carrot.
Ahhhhchooooo
"I'll just shake my head like a loon"

Row 3 L to R:

Hello. Ummmm, say something will you.
The man in the orange mask was funny... in the head I think.
Oh, sorry, did I wake you?

But by far the best chat was with a guy who had just come in from dance rehearsals. He was intelligent, incredibly good looking (in a dancer "hot body" way, and no I didn't capture his picture) and was actually up for a chat... unlike most people on it who see you and click "next". Maybe I shouldn't wear a singlet next time. Most of the guys who chatted to me asked me if I beat up my wife because I wore a wife beater. WTF?

Yeah, there is sleaze if you want it. Even if you don't want it then be prepared for it. The "next" button can be your friend too.

**Updated
There are so many drinking games you can come up with for Chatroulette.
I'd like to do this with a couple of mates and give it a go. Here's a couple of idea's for challenges:

See who can actually get a conversation started.
Last longer than 1minute.
The person with the longest conversation should win.
If you make your connected partner laugh then take a drink

Who wants to come and have a late night in Manly and play one night?

Two for tuesday...

2010-02-23T14:59:00.002+11:00

Currently on high rotation:

Unconscious Mutterings :: Week 369

2010-02-21T16:40:00.005+11:00

Teeth :: beer
Sweeten :: beer
Demons :: beer
Pizza :: beer
Protector :: beer
Smooth :: beer
Coat :: beer
Pebbles :: beer
Pregnant :: beer
Sing :: Vodka lime and soda yeeeaaaahhh.

Its complicated, it always is
That’s just the way it goes
Feels like I've waited so long for this
I wonder if it shows?

And under water now i can breath
It never felt so good
Cause i can feel it coming over me
I wouldn’t stop it if i could

Chorus:
Vodka lime and soda yeaaah
You know you can’t deny
Vodka lime and soda yeaaah
‘Cause you know it's good on ice

I'm picking up...

2010-02-16T09:55:00.006+11:00

Good Vibrations (festival 2010).

It's no secret I like a live gig every now and then. Saturday in Sydney I had the opportunity to see a whole heap of it all smashed together into Centennial Park. Mark was along for this ride and this was his first taste of a festival done Sydney style.

First impressions: Wow, they are so many (sniffer) dogs! The police presence here was once again very highly visible. It was almost more entertaining watching the numerous people being pulled aside to be searched just after they had walked through the main entry.
Second impression: Holy crap there are sooooo many meat-heads in Sydney. This is definitely not a complaint. This is an observation and I was actually very impressed at the friendly nature of all these incredibly young, fired up, solid fit looking men. The amount of quality ink on show by these lads was also mighty impressive.

We were in early and first off on the main stage were Cassette Kids. A local band who won the Triple J Unearthed competition in 2008. Didn't know much about this band until today and I'm glad I saw them live. Time for a wander...
There were other stages around the park, but I really enjoyed "The Laundry". It was well set up and looked amazing. It was a DJ stage. The above mobile pic does not do it any justice.

My festival highlight would have to be Art Vs Science. These dudes were part of the reason I was here. I enjoy these guys live, more than their recorded stuff. The crowd went off and it was truly a fun afternoon. Then came...

Yep, Salt N Pepa. These two old ladies seemed to be really enjoying themselves. I kind of got the impression from them that they are more well received here in Oz than they are in their home town. They rapped out all the hits and threw in some covers. Spinderella cut it up with a small minute DJ set of "sing-along" tracks including "We are Family, Ice Ice Baby, I will Survive etc" which hearing many thousands of people sing along full voiced was actually a pretty magical moment. However, overall I was a little disappointed with Salt-n-Pepa. They were late onstage and ended a little early. Highlight, was when they acknowledged all the fans through out their career. Well done ladies.

Then the heavens opened up and down came the rain. A total blessing, releasing the inner hippie in everyone as we all partied in the rain and didn't care to run for cover.

Other highlights in brief:
Standing in line for drinks chatting away to the guy in front of us, conversation going like this:
Guy: Yeah, having a good time, but I needed to get some air. I'm clostrophobic.
Mark: Yeah, we're homophobic too.
Guy: Oh, yeah yeah, I'm that too! But, I work in Myer, so I don't mind so much. You know, the gay's like to shop. Actually I know a gay guy...
- - - -
Guy: What's with the crazy knitting lady on the hill?
Me: It's Lady Gaga
Guy: What?
Mark: Yeah, it's Lady Gaga doing her knitting.
Guy: No way...
Another guy in the line: Yeah, mate, it was Lady Gaga on the hill doing her knitting...
- - - -

I love the friendly vibes at these events. Most people are up for a chat.

Random guy: Hey!!! You're the dudes from the ferry this morning. Way to go Brother!

Another random guy to me as I dance away to some cool tunes on the main stage: Oh man, you're on fire!

Random chick: (throws her arm around me) Oh wow, did you work out before you came here? I did (and she flexes her bicep for me. This I believe was a truly random moment, as I'm not built and there were thousands of sexy, fit muscly dudes all around. Maybe this was her atempt at a pick-up line.)

I have no idea how many photos I will be in as Mark and I photo-bombed at every opportunity we could. Not that Mark needed to photo-bomb, he was asked to be in random photos by random strangers. We met so many people and many of whom I just wanted to bundle up together to come home with us.

Who's that crack?

Why sir, you've got a HUGE clock...

2010-02-11T12:00:00.002+11:00

I forgot to mention, this was my 40th birthday present from my friends and family. It's that watch I've had my eye on. I love it.

Hell on earth...

2010-02-11T10:03:00.002+11:00

that is all.

So these thoughts have been on my mind...

2010-02-10T06:58:00.005+11:00

this week.

Fact: The earth's tides act as friction on the earth's rotation and slow it down.
So I've been thinking: During the ice ages day and night must have been quicker. If we still orbited the sun at the same speed then there must have been more days in a year. I wonder how long a year was?

Fact: The moon continues to spin away from the earth at a rate of just over an inch each year.
So I've been thinking: Millions of year's ago, the moon's pull on the tides must have been greater and the tides would have been monster! This would have been heaven for the creatures who lived in the intertidal zone. But does that also mean that the moon's effect on the tides is weakening and eventually the oceans will become big flat lakes? And will there be more days in the year because of the lack of friction on the earth's rotation like during the ice ages?

This is more a theory that I've come up with:
Most scientific models that I've seen on the expansion of the universe show it expanding like the surface of a balloon. It's been proven that this expansion is accelerating. Current theory's have the universe's rapid expansion reaching a point where it violently rips apart like the point where a balloon just bursts... so my theory is that maybe it won't rip apart. Maybe the universe is like a sound. It just keeps on going and never rips, it just gets fainter. Kind of magical.

I don't know anyone who I could even begin to discuss my thoughts with.
What's been on your mind?

Just when I was bored with TV...

2010-02-06T08:11:00.004+11:00

comes along Moving Wallpaper.

Surfing mindlessly through dull Friday night TV, while most bachelors are out boozing it up on the town, I came across UKTV and a show called "Moving Wallpaper". I don't venture on to UKTV all that often as my viewing habits usually have my box stuck on Discovery, Nat Geo or Fox 8 and that's as far as I venture on Foxtel (yeah, money well spent).

As for a comedy show I thought it was average. But, I was glued to it. Forgive me a little here if you already know about this show, apparently it's a year or two old: It is a comedy series, similar to the Australian "Frontline" show, about the behind the scenes world of television. It centres on the production of a soap called "Echo Beach". It deals with the office bitchiness, the egos of bosses, the writters coming up with the story lines and to a lesser extent the stars of the soap. As I said, it was pretty average and I don't think I was laughing a hell of a lot, but it was the fact that following each episode of Moving Wallpaper was an episode of its soap "Echo Beach".

Echo Beach was a very typical soap. It's not satire, or at least I couldn't tell if it was or not, it was like watching an episode of "Home and Away". It was pure soap.

The good thing about this concept was the way the soap contained objects from the previous episode of Moving Wallpaper. Comments in moving wallpaper like "How are we going to make her have doubts?.. I know, let her find something in her husband's pocket." Then in Echo Beach the character picks up her husband's jacket and an earring falls out of the pocket. In Wallpaper the producer has a stuffed panda that he hates and kicks around his office, then in Echo Beach the panda, looking a lot worse for wear, ends up as a prop as one of the character's toys.

This, to me, is original television and a great concept. Sure the actual programs individually are not original TV in themselves or really that great, but it's the combination of them that make this interesting. Let's face it, it's the first time I've actually wanted to watch a soap in many many years.

I didn't have a great day today...

2010-02-05T19:59:00.004+11:00

at work.

I've been stressing about one of my projects for a month or so now. During my holidays it was in the back of my mind. I just wanted everything to go well. Today was the day it all had to come together. Yesterday, I double checked all my equipment and left work a little less stressed because I had things under control. My test run through went perfect.

Today didn't go perfect. Ok, the technology all worked exactly how it should, but I just made a mistake. A simple mistake, like closing a file with-out saving it. I'm simplifying here because I can't go into details on this project.

I dwell on things. It's in my nature. I let things brew inside and on the way home from work today I felt so cranky with myself and I was bordering on being very upset. I didn't want to be at home by myself so I dumped my stuff here, threw on a pair of boardies, grabbed my snorkel and mask and walked around to Shelly Beach.

Sydney's weather is pretty crap at the moment. Heavy random showers, high humidity and most beaches are closed because of dangerous surf. Shelly, although protected from the ocean swell, was empty. I put on my mask and slipped into the cool water. As I floated along the top of the water a shower rolled in. The rain on my back was amazing. The tinkling sound as it hit the water was amazing. The curious school of Bream that swam with me was amazing. I turned to head back to the beach and let the waves move me forward. Suddenly I was surrounded by a huge school of thousands of small fish. It was amazing. But, schools of fish like this actually scare me because predators could be about. So I left the water and sat on the beach.

The heavy rain continued. As it ran down my face the taste of salty sea water was replaced with the very sweet taste of fresh water. I just closed my eyes and felt the moment and felt the world around me.

What problem at work?

Tunes...

2010-02-05T15:39:00.004+11:00

I'm sure so many of my blog readers listened to the tunes I added last year. So I've decided to re-set my Fairtilizer playlist and start a new 2010 one. It's going to be a good way for me to keep track of the tunes I've enjoyed through the year and when it comes to voting in Triple J's hottest 100 this year I'll have all my faves ready to go (assuming that most of the songs I like are on Fairtilizer).

I've started with some tunes that have come to my attention so far this year, even though they are from the end of last year.

*ps: I'm buying the new Groove Armada album tonight.

Unconscious Mutterings :: Week 366

2010-02-04T10:55:00.002+11:00

Furniture :: lounge
Beauty :: beast
Sip :: hot
Block :: head
Forehead :: bangs
Championship :: final
Hurl :: ey )(
Whip :: it good
Destruction :: construction
Leather :: love

Post...

2010-02-03T09:32:00.004+11:00

party.

For my 4oth I asked my immediate family and my close friends to descend on my birth town for a game of barefoot bowls. This meant interstate travel for some of us, but we all made it and had a great morning. It meant a lot to me for my family to hang out together with my friends. It's something that does not usually ever happen.

It was also an excuse to take over the clubhouse and start drinking at 9am in the morning. We're champions.

For 40 I think I'm in mighty damn fine shape.

After the bowls club put on a lunch for us we all headed back to my big sister's house to continue the festivities, have some cake, lots of laughs and a few more beers. I had "moment" when my sister gave me a little book she had put together with photos of me from when I was a little lad right up to now. One thing I really missed this year, and it really broke my heart, was that my Granny was not there. One of the photos of me and Granny brought out a few emotions. But I re-grouped and continued to enjoy the arvo. My family brought out some old old old old home movies and I hope this didn't scare my mates too much. We are a rather fun/unique family.

Later in the evening, Judo, Dave, Mark and I drove back to Judo's hotel and proceeded to destroy it. Well, not in a rock star way, but in only a way that 3 drunks men and one sober man could. Mark looked mighty fine roaming the halls in the hotel robes and I enjoyed kicking toilet rolls into the vases in the room. We then went somewhere for a few more beers to finish off a mighty good day - birthday or not. I love my family and friends with all my heart.

I am alive...

2010-01-28T10:10:00.001+11:00

I am on holidays
I have turned 40
I am having a great time
I will blog again soon.

Wednesday Haiku

2010-01-20T13:05:00.001+11:00

Caught out by surprise.
Is that a present for me?
I like chocolate cake.

Unconscious Mutterings :: Week 364

2010-01-19T20:43:00.000+11:00

Weak :: as piss
Flashy :: bling
Sack :: race
Business :: case
Purple :: people eater
Fan :: cool
Airline :: disaster
Guide :: book
Lunch :: box
Exercise :: regularly

You're a clown...

2010-01-15T11:09:00.004+11:00

and you're not my ideal medical practitioner. Seriously, when I visit a doctor I really expect a level of professionalism.

The other day I visited my local eye care centre to have my eyes checked. All good except they didn't have the specialist equiptment needed to investigate the black spot in my vision. But their city centre did so yesterday I went to see a specialist there.

Waiting. I hate waiting rooms. This wasn't too bad I guess because I wasn't surrounded by sick looking sad people. Just healthy looking sad people. Anyhoo, the Dr comes out with his previous patient and apologises for being late, he said that I should really blame "her", pointing to his previous patient. "She was late, so now you're going to be late!" I said I didn't care less, at least I'm not at work.

He was a weird man. Very jovial. Too jovial for me. Everything was a joke to him. He did some tests wrote some stuff down on my file then wrote something on the prescription pad. He then said, "You know what? Screw this." and threw.the.pad.out.into.the.hall and said I didn't need a prescription. "You've got perfect sight, you don't need glasses." Well duh.

Yeah, I know... um but I still can't see out my right eye and they both are causing me pain every evening and morning so, let's get on with this please.

A few more tests, dye injections and colour lights flashing and he figured it out. He explained what the issue was, with diagrams. But frankly I can't even remember what he called my condition. I was not interested in listening to him any longer. It didn't sound serious and there was a simple solution of drops and massaging of the problem glands so why should I care what it's called. I just could not wait to get away from this most creepy man I've ever had to deal with.. and I've known some creeps!

Wednesday Haiku...

2010-01-13T14:42:00.002+11:00

Sitting here unnoticed
Your tanned skin catches my eye
The sun peaks through clouds