Quick update to make sure I don't totally neglect this blog.
Current things on my mind
1. when is the new internet month going to start? I've hit my download limit and have been capped at modem speed for over a week now. Which means no internet for me. Which means no blogging for me either.
2. Had a really good gym session tonight. 7k on the treadmill, and a revised shoulder and back workout till close. First good run I've knocked out in a few weeks. Later as I was cooling down and stretching, I really thought about how much of a mental thing running it is. You just have to keep running. Would love to do a marathon. This year maybe?
3. What do I get a pregnant lady? One of my colleagues at work is going on maternity leave on friday. She is a no fuss sort of girl, but she has a giantor heart. When I'm stressed (which is very very often nowadays), she pulls me downstairs, and buys me a coffee. Thinking of what I can get her. So far, I think because she is a no fuss girl, I want to get her something that is just for her. I'm thinking a nice wine, as she hasn't been able to drink for the last 32 weeks, or maybe the suggestions I got.
Not-so-pregnant lady at work said - pregnant massage near Yarra Valley. She said 2 things about it of note
a. Its specifically for pregnant ladies - the massage table has a breathing space opening for the head, and also a padded space for the bun in the oven. She said being able to lie down on your stomach alone is worth it.
b. She said that certain pressure points can induce labour. hahaha. So don't go to a regular masseuse.
Another lady friend said she got her sister baby products cream from the body shop. Haha. Didn't know babies cared about moisturizing.
4. holiday plans starting to take shape
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
Worth it
The weekend in review.
Good Friday - ate Rockling to ensure I ate fish on good Friday. Also ate almost 1kg chocolate. no joke. the roadie came out for a 20k ride as a result. The quietest I've ever seen Chapel St - but found a 24h restaurant - Chappellis!
Saturday - the first real gym session I've had. Awesome! Birthday celebrations for 2 very important people.
Sunday - Hiking at Mount Worth State Park. 125 km SE of Melbourne (1040 hectares of natural forest in the western Strzelecki Ranges)
8.5k hike, but some mountainous terrain. Great hill sprints with some of the boys.
Monday - day with family friends. Irritated I didn't get a gym session before it closed. Soothed my inner frustration with port and a homemade penang thai curry. First time I've made it since my cooking excursion, and it turned out great!
Good Friday - ate Rockling to ensure I ate fish on good Friday. Also ate almost 1kg chocolate. no joke. the roadie came out for a 20k ride as a result. The quietest I've ever seen Chapel St - but found a 24h restaurant - Chappellis!
Saturday - the first real gym session I've had. Awesome! Birthday celebrations for 2 very important people.
Sunday - Hiking at Mount Worth State Park. 125 km SE of Melbourne (1040 hectares of natural forest in the western Strzelecki Ranges)
8.5k hike, but some mountainous terrain. Great hill sprints with some of the boys.
Monday - day with family friends. Irritated I didn't get a gym session before it closed. Soothed my inner frustration with port and a homemade penang thai curry. First time I've made it since my cooking excursion, and it turned out great!
Friday, April 10, 2009
Back to back Byrne
Last year I splashed out and laughed all the way to 5 shows at the Melbourne Comedy festival. Hughesy, Will Anderson, Chopper, Arj, and Jason Byrne.
Among the greats, Jason took it hands down. I never heard of Jason before, but decided to listen to my mate wax lyrical about this guy. It was one of those decisions I look back and think "I am so glad I made that decision".
So on a sunday afternoon, my mate and I planed to meet at the town hall. We both happened to have big nights beforehand. I ended up being about 10 minutes late, and my mate missed the train and was about 15 late.
We snuck in but the door was very close to the stage. I was 5 steps in, walking towards a back seat, when a voice booms "oh no you don't!! There are 2 seats for you HERE!!"
I turn around and see the lights focused on Jason on the stage. My focus then extends to his pointing finger, which coincidently is pointing to exactly 2 seats for my mate and I, front and centre of the first row.
Thinking we were forgiven with our "priority"seats, I began to relax and enjoy the show. But Jason had other ideas. He had only forgiven us for 2 minutes, before asking us questions. The next thing I know, my mate was on the stage. Being a great mate, I did my duty and took a photo with my phone. I dont know whether it was the sound or the flash, but it caught Jason's attention and his focus shifted from my mate to me.
The next thing I know, I am co-hosting this comedy gig with Jason. I am smack bang on stage, sitting down on the middle table, with 2 seats to my left, and 2 to my right. My mate is the assigned scorekeeper.
What you have to realise is that I had absolutely no idea what this show was or who this Jason Byrne person was. I walked into the room not knowing what to expect. And here I am, sitting in front of everyone, on stage, with a world reknowned comedian.
Once I started to grow accustom to the stage, the next round surprises came in. I soon came to realise the ticket I had bought, was entrance to a "comedy game show", similar to spicks and specks. Speaking of Spicks and Specks, out walked out the first team, which consisted of Adam Hills and Colin Lane (of Lano and Woodley). I shifted nervously in my wooden chair while trying to maintain a cool composure for the crowd. The opposition then proceeded to sit down next to my right. It was Greg Fleet and Tom Gleeson. After the first few jokes, I couldn't help but relax and soak in the comedic energy, even getting the crowd laughing a few times.
It was the best show I've ever been to, even beating the memorable Dave Callan's "Beautiful World" in 2006. Dave's show was amazing, and I remember walking out with a huge spring in my step and giant smile of satisfaction and laughter. Unfortunately, seeing him back to back in 2007 proved anti-climatic.
But Jason Byrne proved back to back shows could work. I saw him last night at the Capitol. Not one joke was recycled, and you could tell he was born for stage comedy. He is so random!! I thought he started a bit slow and my comedy critic came out to play for the first 10 minutes or so (granted I had finished work at 8:30pm and had to speed and run to the theater). But he pulled it off. He finished off strongly and had me laughing, with too many jokes to remember and use. Highly recommended!!
Among the greats, Jason took it hands down. I never heard of Jason before, but decided to listen to my mate wax lyrical about this guy. It was one of those decisions I look back and think "I am so glad I made that decision".
So on a sunday afternoon, my mate and I planed to meet at the town hall. We both happened to have big nights beforehand. I ended up being about 10 minutes late, and my mate missed the train and was about 15 late.
We snuck in but the door was very close to the stage. I was 5 steps in, walking towards a back seat, when a voice booms "oh no you don't!! There are 2 seats for you HERE!!"
I turn around and see the lights focused on Jason on the stage. My focus then extends to his pointing finger, which coincidently is pointing to exactly 2 seats for my mate and I, front and centre of the first row.
Thinking we were forgiven with our "priority"seats, I began to relax and enjoy the show. But Jason had other ideas. He had only forgiven us for 2 minutes, before asking us questions. The next thing I know, my mate was on the stage. Being a great mate, I did my duty and took a photo with my phone. I dont know whether it was the sound or the flash, but it caught Jason's attention and his focus shifted from my mate to me.
The next thing I know, I am co-hosting this comedy gig with Jason. I am smack bang on stage, sitting down on the middle table, with 2 seats to my left, and 2 to my right. My mate is the assigned scorekeeper.
What you have to realise is that I had absolutely no idea what this show was or who this Jason Byrne person was. I walked into the room not knowing what to expect. And here I am, sitting in front of everyone, on stage, with a world reknowned comedian.
Once I started to grow accustom to the stage, the next round surprises came in. I soon came to realise the ticket I had bought, was entrance to a "comedy game show", similar to spicks and specks. Speaking of Spicks and Specks, out walked out the first team, which consisted of Adam Hills and Colin Lane (of Lano and Woodley). I shifted nervously in my wooden chair while trying to maintain a cool composure for the crowd. The opposition then proceeded to sit down next to my right. It was Greg Fleet and Tom Gleeson. After the first few jokes, I couldn't help but relax and soak in the comedic energy, even getting the crowd laughing a few times.
It was the best show I've ever been to, even beating the memorable Dave Callan's "Beautiful World" in 2006. Dave's show was amazing, and I remember walking out with a huge spring in my step and giant smile of satisfaction and laughter. Unfortunately, seeing him back to back in 2007 proved anti-climatic.
But Jason Byrne proved back to back shows could work. I saw him last night at the Capitol. Not one joke was recycled, and you could tell he was born for stage comedy. He is so random!! I thought he started a bit slow and my comedy critic came out to play for the first 10 minutes or so (granted I had finished work at 8:30pm and had to speed and run to the theater). But he pulled it off. He finished off strongly and had me laughing, with too many jokes to remember and use. Highly recommended!!
Off to the Circa
My menu
main - Saddle of rabbit, braised leg raviolo, mushroom, artichoke, peas, sage and anchovy fritter.
side - roasted kipfler potatoes, paprika and parsley butter, and the organic rocket leaves with fresh figs and pomegranate dressing
dessert - soft chocolate croquante, orange and mint
Finally the Circa is off my list of restaurants to savor and critique.
Simple summary - The dessert was memorable. The panna cotta dessert amuse busch was a nice touch as a lead in to the smoothness of the croquante. Reminded me of a fusion chocolate martini mousse I had in Brisbane, and in my books, sits as highly regarded as Ezard's renowned honeycrunch icecream with toasted gingerbread and sugar swirl dessert. The main meal was satisfying, but left me wondering if I should have ordered the wagyu.
Now to the next chef hat.
main - Saddle of rabbit, braised leg raviolo, mushroom, artichoke, peas, sage and anchovy fritter.
side - roasted kipfler potatoes, paprika and parsley butter, and the organic rocket leaves with fresh figs and pomegranate dressing
dessert - soft chocolate croquante, orange and mint
Finally the Circa is off my list of restaurants to savor and critique.
Simple summary - The dessert was memorable. The panna cotta dessert amuse busch was a nice touch as a lead in to the smoothness of the croquante. Reminded me of a fusion chocolate martini mousse I had in Brisbane, and in my books, sits as highly regarded as Ezard's renowned honeycrunch icecream with toasted gingerbread and sugar swirl dessert. The main meal was satisfying, but left me wondering if I should have ordered the wagyu.
Now to the next chef hat.
Life's too short to be fearful
Two years have come and gone. How much has really changed?
Dear A,
I haven't thought of you in a while. But my view of you remains exactly the same as when I last pictured you. In the highest possible regard. I miss you. My heart still longs for you. I truly wish you were here.
I can't help but think you were too far advanced for your time. Too elite to be held back by the routine of life. You inspire me to reach not for the stars, but to the furthest extent of the universe.
I just want one more of your all encompassing bear hugs that block the world out. I want to feel your energy and dare to break the rules and be spontaneous.
No matter how far away you were from your destination, distance never stopped you from living your dream. Those endless kilometres, week after week didn't even dim your burning fire. The joke is on all of us. Who aren't fearless. Who give in. Who don't put in the effort.
I strive to be immortal like you. Whatup girl
Dear A,
I haven't thought of you in a while. But my view of you remains exactly the same as when I last pictured you. In the highest possible regard. I miss you. My heart still longs for you. I truly wish you were here.
I can't help but think you were too far advanced for your time. Too elite to be held back by the routine of life. You inspire me to reach not for the stars, but to the furthest extent of the universe.
I just want one more of your all encompassing bear hugs that block the world out. I want to feel your energy and dare to break the rules and be spontaneous.
No matter how far away you were from your destination, distance never stopped you from living your dream. Those endless kilometres, week after week didn't even dim your burning fire. The joke is on all of us. Who aren't fearless. Who give in. Who don't put in the effort.
I strive to be immortal like you. Whatup girl
Thursday, April 2, 2009
myself at Christmas
My motivation comes in ebbs and flows.
Super healthy one day. Binge junk food bulldozer another.
My motivation has now evolved to thinking about myself. At Christmas.
When it is December 25 2009, who do I see, how do I look, what skills do I have, what is my lifestyle like, how is my account balance.
I can see this person. Blurry at the moment. But now every decision I make I think of this person.
I find its making me do 2 things
1. make me stop doing the bad habits
e.g Every time I want to skip a gym session or eat a block of chocolate, or when I want to pull out the credit card, I stop and think about that ideal person, then think about a mediocre version of that person. Then I make an educated decision
2. makes me start to do the good things
e.g eat properly, take the stairs, try and get out of work by 6, etc
Wonder how close I'm going to get to that person......
Super healthy one day. Binge junk food bulldozer another.
My motivation has now evolved to thinking about myself. At Christmas.
When it is December 25 2009, who do I see, how do I look, what skills do I have, what is my lifestyle like, how is my account balance.
I can see this person. Blurry at the moment. But now every decision I make I think of this person.
I find its making me do 2 things
1. make me stop doing the bad habits
e.g Every time I want to skip a gym session or eat a block of chocolate, or when I want to pull out the credit card, I stop and think about that ideal person, then think about a mediocre version of that person. Then I make an educated decision
2. makes me start to do the good things
e.g eat properly, take the stairs, try and get out of work by 6, etc
Wonder how close I'm going to get to that person......
quite grand
Sunday was a day which started out with my phone waking me up at 5am. I set it to 6am so i could go on a pack ride with some mates to Mordialloc. So I slapped myself for forgetting daylight savings and went back to sleep. I get a call an hour later, and the pack is about to leave. I'm late. And still in bed. 50 minutes away from the meeting point.
I did end up with some extra sleep, but I did want to go for a ride. Oh well. To other news.
Despite being a born and bred Melburnian, last weekend, I finally popped my grand prix cherry. And it was better than i imagined.
Quietly impressed as a matter of fact.
I was stunned by the sheer speed of those sexy refined hunks of metal, and the noise was absolutely ear shattering, despite ear plugs! Yet I still saw almost half of the crowd not wearing earplugs. Not bursting my eardrums thankyou very much.
The poll position for bursting the eardrums though was the F18 fighter jet that glided through the sky like it was the biggest fish in the pond. Very impressive though. I can say that most people had sore necks from looking at that beast, but it was definately worth it.
I got a pretty sweet spot track side which I effortlessly filled up my camera with shots of the F1s. Had to get the token ferrari shot, along side the Red Bull car which looked great. I personally was most interested in the McLaren - that would definately be the design I would choose to cruise down chapel. Was very tired by the end of the day, I must have walked for over 4 hours, probably did 40,000+ steps.
Other highlights of the day included
- the skill and effortlessness of the roulettes
- the festival atmosphere of the crowds, and the buzz of crowds packed onto the hills
- barging and stampeding the security guards to break onto the grand prix track
- watching Dallas Crane and The Who blast Albert Park with their best 0fs
Photos to come.
I did end up with some extra sleep, but I did want to go for a ride. Oh well. To other news.
Despite being a born and bred Melburnian, last weekend, I finally popped my grand prix cherry. And it was better than i imagined.
Quietly impressed as a matter of fact.
I was stunned by the sheer speed of those sexy refined hunks of metal, and the noise was absolutely ear shattering, despite ear plugs! Yet I still saw almost half of the crowd not wearing earplugs. Not bursting my eardrums thankyou very much.
The poll position for bursting the eardrums though was the F18 fighter jet that glided through the sky like it was the biggest fish in the pond. Very impressive though. I can say that most people had sore necks from looking at that beast, but it was definately worth it.
I got a pretty sweet spot track side which I effortlessly filled up my camera with shots of the F1s. Had to get the token ferrari shot, along side the Red Bull car which looked great. I personally was most interested in the McLaren - that would definately be the design I would choose to cruise down chapel. Was very tired by the end of the day, I must have walked for over 4 hours, probably did 40,000+ steps.
Other highlights of the day included
- the skill and effortlessness of the roulettes
- the festival atmosphere of the crowds, and the buzz of crowds packed onto the hills
- barging and stampeding the security guards to break onto the grand prix track
- watching Dallas Crane and The Who blast Albert Park with their best 0fs
Photos to come.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Early April fools?
I hardly get any sleep during the week, so over the weekend, I religiously pray to the sleep Gods until around noon when I wake up on Saturday and Sunday.
Yet my alarm was set to 6am Sunday morning.
I actually went to bed early on Saturday night excited. I was going on a pack ride to Mordialloc with some mates, who had elite racing mates coming along too. It was going to be a serious 50k ride, but my first true test on my roadie with elite riders.
I wake and up see my alarm ring at 5am. I am so angry with myself, and set it 1 hour later. About 1 hour later my alarm rings, and about 1 minute later my phone rings. It is my mate, and they are about to start. I am picturing a peleton of elite riders, but feeling the warmth of my covers as my mate says "maybe you can meet us for breakfast".
Funny he said that about a week before hand, when we had our annual long weekend mud bash. I stayed up till 2:30am in the morning to get my 1990 mountain bike ready for action. It was a cold night which didn't help changing the tyres, which had fused to the wheel after a year of neglect. I ended up cracking the sh*ts with my mountain bike and pushed it down like a pile of junk steel.
I missed the 7am start for the mud bash, but woke up to a buzzing phone, with messages such as
"you better have a nice pink apron at breakfast", and "you need to eat a tablespoon of cement to harden up".
Turns out my phone was smart enough to be pre-programmed for daylight savings, but wasn't intelligent enough to know to it was delayed a week this year. Will feeding it that tablespoon of cement help?
Yet my alarm was set to 6am Sunday morning.
I actually went to bed early on Saturday night excited. I was going on a pack ride to Mordialloc with some mates, who had elite racing mates coming along too. It was going to be a serious 50k ride, but my first true test on my roadie with elite riders.
I wake and up see my alarm ring at 5am. I am so angry with myself, and set it 1 hour later. About 1 hour later my alarm rings, and about 1 minute later my phone rings. It is my mate, and they are about to start. I am picturing a peleton of elite riders, but feeling the warmth of my covers as my mate says "maybe you can meet us for breakfast".
Funny he said that about a week before hand, when we had our annual long weekend mud bash. I stayed up till 2:30am in the morning to get my 1990 mountain bike ready for action. It was a cold night which didn't help changing the tyres, which had fused to the wheel after a year of neglect. I ended up cracking the sh*ts with my mountain bike and pushed it down like a pile of junk steel.
I missed the 7am start for the mud bash, but woke up to a buzzing phone, with messages such as
"you better have a nice pink apron at breakfast", and "you need to eat a tablespoon of cement to harden up".
Turns out my phone was smart enough to be pre-programmed for daylight savings, but wasn't intelligent enough to know to it was delayed a week this year. Will feeding it that tablespoon of cement help?
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