Tuesday the 29th, we are late risers after the bus trip and toil to a little coffee shop down the street where we indulge in great french coffee, carrot cake and pain aux chocolate. After this we wander the streets admiring the stores and their contents though nothing is a bargain unless you want some tourist tat: a glowing Tour Eiffel, t-shirts, hats, etc.
We head to the Champs Elysee via the Metro, walking and watching. They are packing up the Christmas market and preparing for new years eve which we are told is crazy on the Champs. We still have to figure out where to watch the light show, from there, the Tower or up the hill in Montmartre perhaps. Knowing us we'll be in bed asleep the crazy nighthawks we are.
The Champs Elysee is fascinating, from the cobbled surface, to the Arc de Triomph standing proudly at the top, the stores ranging from Cartier and Louis Vuitton through the occasional tourist store (not sure how they afford the rent), some great restaurants and a veritable mass of people. The people flow up and down the street in search of whatever it is they want, the tourists taking pictures trying to capture the essence of the street which is impossible. The locals using the street as a passage to their next appointment or, for the lucky few, some shopping. Shopping here is high end stuff and so we see the elegant man in his black velour jacket and trousers, stark white shirt and narrow black tie carrying bags from a fashion store of which I didn't recognise the name... there are too many to keep track of here. We also saw the lady walking her small dog whilst wearing a full length fur or faux fur coat. As it is Paris I would think it is real...quite a surreal moment in this day and age but this is Paris. On the other end of the fashion spectrum we also saw hot pants with suede ankle boots connected by black patterned hose, an interesting choice with the cold wet weather for the guy in question... I kid, it was a girl and she carried it off pretty well except for the tiptoeing through the muddy market. But in Paris you do what you must when you make your fashion statement.
And perhaps you are asking what my statement was, well with limited choice I threw together an ensemble I like to call clean jeans and t-shirt which, considering the limits of my wardrobe sans baggage, I carried off magnificently. I blended with the Parisiennes like a fish doing backstroke. Magnifique but odd.
More soon from your foreign correspondent as he labours in the Elysian Fields.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Yesterday was a Bus(t)
We spent yesterday on a bus... what was meant to be a leisurely train across countries between Germany, through Luxembourg and ending in Paris was adjusted as our boat could not make it to Trier. The river was running high with melting snow so much so that the boat could not fit under the bridge at Koblenz. This meant a change of plans and a visit to Cologne. Lovely with a great cathedral and an even better Lindt chocolate factory tour (sacrilege I know).
However, this somewhat screwed up the train passes we had purchased as we were no longer going to be in Trier to catch the efficient European train and TGV connection that would whisk us into Paris in four hours. To the cruise lines credit they were happy to put us on a bus with the rest of the folks continuing the tour and take us to Paris. An easy fix for us and nice to be with traveling companions.
So the coach was loaded at 8:00AM (bags outside rooms for loading by 7:00AM) and off we sped with Jochen and Oliver our drivers. Two likable and fun guys were needed because they were to drive to Paris and then back in the day which is too much for one driver under european safety regulations. We stopped briefly for a look round the Duchy of Luxembourg, International banking, bier and ... well that was pretty much it really. Very picturesque from what I could see in 55 minutes. Then back on the bus for another stint before lunch at a motorway/interstate stop. Pretty upmarket compared to the places I have 'enjoyed' in the UK ad USA. Jammed to the rafters with travellers so we had a take out jambon et fromage sandwich and back on the bus with 240 kilometers to go. This was the last leg and bar one 'comfort' stop we were straight into Paris at rush hour. This made for an entertaining if slow journey to the tour hotel as we watched Jochen dice with the Paris drivers... they know no fear as they don't care if they dent a fender or two. It brings a whole new meaning to driving aggressively and if you are a pedestrian you better have your wits about you.
So at 5:30PM we made it to the tour hotel. We were staying elsewhere so grabbed our bag (!) and headed off to our hotel in St Michel on the border of St Germain and the Latin Quarter. We charged the Metro like tortoises after hibernation (too much sleeping on the bus) and enjoyed the benefit of 'un incident sur la ligne' plus a train that stopped mid line and returned whence it came. When all was said and done we made it to our hotel around 7:30pm, exhausted and ready for a meal and sleep (sleeping on a bus can really tire you out).
Fortunately for us I can highly recommend the restaurant attached to the Hotel, c'est magnifique though rabid hunger may have distorted my perspective. Not much though... a good rose, some bread and what else matters.
After that, a short walk, 20 yards, back to the hotel... we did actually go outside (M will relate the other half of that story!) and sleep, deep hearty sleep after travelling for 12 hours on trains, buses and autobahns.
And I know, you are all (2 of you) wanting to know about Les Baggages... Non Monsiuer, il n'est pas arrive. So we look forward to the day when someone says something other than soon or tomorrow to be reuntied with our baggage.
My last word for now is that we are in Paris and the city of lights is living up to its name. Truly a lovely place and incroyable during the festive season. I recommend everyone see the it sometime in their life.
So for now, bon chance, bon voyage and if I don't get back for a day or two bonne annee.
However, this somewhat screwed up the train passes we had purchased as we were no longer going to be in Trier to catch the efficient European train and TGV connection that would whisk us into Paris in four hours. To the cruise lines credit they were happy to put us on a bus with the rest of the folks continuing the tour and take us to Paris. An easy fix for us and nice to be with traveling companions.
So the coach was loaded at 8:00AM (bags outside rooms for loading by 7:00AM) and off we sped with Jochen and Oliver our drivers. Two likable and fun guys were needed because they were to drive to Paris and then back in the day which is too much for one driver under european safety regulations. We stopped briefly for a look round the Duchy of Luxembourg, International banking, bier and ... well that was pretty much it really. Very picturesque from what I could see in 55 minutes. Then back on the bus for another stint before lunch at a motorway/interstate stop. Pretty upmarket compared to the places I have 'enjoyed' in the UK ad USA. Jammed to the rafters with travellers so we had a take out jambon et fromage sandwich and back on the bus with 240 kilometers to go. This was the last leg and bar one 'comfort' stop we were straight into Paris at rush hour. This made for an entertaining if slow journey to the tour hotel as we watched Jochen dice with the Paris drivers... they know no fear as they don't care if they dent a fender or two. It brings a whole new meaning to driving aggressively and if you are a pedestrian you better have your wits about you.
So at 5:30PM we made it to the tour hotel. We were staying elsewhere so grabbed our bag (!) and headed off to our hotel in St Michel on the border of St Germain and the Latin Quarter. We charged the Metro like tortoises after hibernation (too much sleeping on the bus) and enjoyed the benefit of 'un incident sur la ligne' plus a train that stopped mid line and returned whence it came. When all was said and done we made it to our hotel around 7:30pm, exhausted and ready for a meal and sleep (sleeping on a bus can really tire you out).
Fortunately for us I can highly recommend the restaurant attached to the Hotel, c'est magnifique though rabid hunger may have distorted my perspective. Not much though... a good rose, some bread and what else matters.
After that, a short walk, 20 yards, back to the hotel... we did actually go outside (M will relate the other half of that story!) and sleep, deep hearty sleep after travelling for 12 hours on trains, buses and autobahns.
And I know, you are all (2 of you) wanting to know about Les Baggages... Non Monsiuer, il n'est pas arrive. So we look forward to the day when someone says something other than soon or tomorrow to be reuntied with our baggage.
My last word for now is that we are in Paris and the city of lights is living up to its name. Truly a lovely place and incroyable during the festive season. I recommend everyone see the it sometime in their life.
So for now, bon chance, bon voyage and if I don't get back for a day or two bonne annee.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
People
So another cool part of the trip is the people we have met.
The boat is pretty small, max 148 people, with about 90 passengers onboard this trip. The group cover a fair cross section of ages (5 through 70+) and nationalities (US, Australian, Japanese, Venezualan, Mexican, etc) which makes for an interesting experience in and of itself.
Over and above the passengers are the crew who are an amazing group of people with great stories and spirits. One of the team is an ex water polo player while another is 23 year old Latvian who has been on ships round the world except for Asia, which he wants to see next. A large number, if not all, seem to be from the old eastern bloc countries - Hungary, Bulgaria, Latvia and beyond. They all work long hours but seem to enjoy life because they are making there way in the world, and something for themselves, but also (hopefully) because the parent company is well managed. As one of the guys said, "I could be better paid on another boat but it is less stressful here which is better for me and you". Very wise on so many levels.
In terms of the passengers, we've spent time learning about:
- A lady born and brought up 2 miles from where I was born. Her husband flew Winston Churchill in the war and worked for British Airways for 20+ years.
- A May/September retired couple who met and married late and now live three doors down from Bo Derek while running their own small vineyard.
- A Canadian couple where the chap used to work at Amex in the same building as us.
- The president and vice president of the cruise line of which the VP is a woman who used to work for Amex too.
- A retired gay couple from New Mexico who are going to Paris for their anniversary which is the same day as ours.
Everyone has a story if you want to sit and listen. It's a great way to spend time and brings a whole new level to people watching.
Till the next time, may your grapes and wine mature and flavour as you desire.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod
The boat is pretty small, max 148 people, with about 90 passengers onboard this trip. The group cover a fair cross section of ages (5 through 70+) and nationalities (US, Australian, Japanese, Venezualan, Mexican, etc) which makes for an interesting experience in and of itself.
Over and above the passengers are the crew who are an amazing group of people with great stories and spirits. One of the team is an ex water polo player while another is 23 year old Latvian who has been on ships round the world except for Asia, which he wants to see next. A large number, if not all, seem to be from the old eastern bloc countries - Hungary, Bulgaria, Latvia and beyond. They all work long hours but seem to enjoy life because they are making there way in the world, and something for themselves, but also (hopefully) because the parent company is well managed. As one of the guys said, "I could be better paid on another boat but it is less stressful here which is better for me and you". Very wise on so many levels.
In terms of the passengers, we've spent time learning about:
- A lady born and brought up 2 miles from where I was born. Her husband flew Winston Churchill in the war and worked for British Airways for 20+ years.
- A May/September retired couple who met and married late and now live three doors down from Bo Derek while running their own small vineyard.
- A Canadian couple where the chap used to work at Amex in the same building as us.
- The president and vice president of the cruise line of which the VP is a woman who used to work for Amex too.
- A retired gay couple from New Mexico who are going to Paris for their anniversary which is the same day as ours.
Everyone has a story if you want to sit and listen. It's a great way to spend time and brings a whole new level to people watching.
Till the next time, may your grapes and wine mature and flavour as you desire.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod
Saturday, December 26, 2009
The litany continues
So after baggage delay (loss?), cold, diarrhoea and popped rib ligament (see morganizedchaos.blogspot.com) it is perhaps no surprise to find that the recent snows have caused the river to rise to such a level that we can not get under the bridge at Koblenz. Not a big deal though we now have to figure out how to get to Trier to catch our train. But this is what travel is about, getting lost and finding the pearl in the place you should never have been. We're getting lost a lot this trip, metaphorically speaking.
Arriving in Koblenz the river's mooring spots are all full and double banked as all the cruise ships and cargo barges are in the same boat (with the bridge issue). So the skipper draws a crowd on and off the boat as he has to manouvre all 300 foot to within 30 feet of the stone bridge while dealing with a 10 knot current. He managed it with aplomb though perhaps taking a bit more care and time than usual. He then supervised strapping the ship to the pilings to stop us floating off during the night. Now the boat is creaking and groaning against the cables and timber fenders. Makes me feel all nautical and Jack Sparrow like.
So until the next time Ahoy me hearties I'm off to splice the mainbrace.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod
Arriving in Koblenz the river's mooring spots are all full and double banked as all the cruise ships and cargo barges are in the same boat (with the bridge issue). So the skipper draws a crowd on and off the boat as he has to manouvre all 300 foot to within 30 feet of the stone bridge while dealing with a 10 knot current. He managed it with aplomb though perhaps taking a bit more care and time than usual. He then supervised strapping the ship to the pilings to stop us floating off during the night. Now the boat is creaking and groaning against the cables and timber fenders. Makes me feel all nautical and Jack Sparrow like.
So until the next time Ahoy me hearties I'm off to splice the mainbrace.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod
Christmas Cracker
Merry Christmas (a day late but not a dollar short) to everybody out there, reading or not. Karmically it's gotta be good to send positive vibes to the world whether it celebrates Christmas or something/nothing else.
Been a great couple of days here.
Spent Xmas eve in Wertheim, home of Hans (booby) the glass blower. A small quaint village offering a cold and brisk morning stroll and the last shopping opportunity for the week.
Hans had done a glass blowing demonstration on the ship the night before. He'd captivated folks with his showmanship, skill and sense of humour. He got the kids to blow themselves ornaments as keepsakes and in between showed a range of things including blowing a glass bubble thinner than paper before exploding it all over himself but coming out unscathed as the glass is like tissue paper.
We ended up not buying anything at Hans even though we liked a lot. A sign of how under the weather we were both feeling.
Later we went on to Miltenberg but spent the afternoon relaxing on the boat as we built up to the big Christmas Eve dinner.
In Germany Christmas Eve is more important than the day. So dinner was all the fixings of the season before the crew provided a mini carol concert and then Santa Klaus paid a visit with gifts for everone. After that we danced till late having become firm friends with the pianist who after a long 10 month season wanted to play something more than the standards, seasonal or otherwise. M had him playing Steely Dan, which he loved, and he then spent a while extolling his love of jazz. All in all a fun and fascinating night.
We woke up Christmas morn with the chilly weather around but no snow. We'd done our Christmas at home but the ship gave us little chocolate gifts in our shoes, which we'd been asked to leave outside our rooms the night before. A lovely touch to start the day.
The day was given over to wandering through Mainz and Rudesheim. Both enjoyable and different with the highlights being the museum of mechanised music machines (!) and the smallest street in europe.
All in all a very full couple of days.
Till next I write, TIOT
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod
Been a great couple of days here.
Spent Xmas eve in Wertheim, home of Hans (booby) the glass blower. A small quaint village offering a cold and brisk morning stroll and the last shopping opportunity for the week.
Hans had done a glass blowing demonstration on the ship the night before. He'd captivated folks with his showmanship, skill and sense of humour. He got the kids to blow themselves ornaments as keepsakes and in between showed a range of things including blowing a glass bubble thinner than paper before exploding it all over himself but coming out unscathed as the glass is like tissue paper.
We ended up not buying anything at Hans even though we liked a lot. A sign of how under the weather we were both feeling.
Later we went on to Miltenberg but spent the afternoon relaxing on the boat as we built up to the big Christmas Eve dinner.
In Germany Christmas Eve is more important than the day. So dinner was all the fixings of the season before the crew provided a mini carol concert and then Santa Klaus paid a visit with gifts for everone. After that we danced till late having become firm friends with the pianist who after a long 10 month season wanted to play something more than the standards, seasonal or otherwise. M had him playing Steely Dan, which he loved, and he then spent a while extolling his love of jazz. All in all a fun and fascinating night.
We woke up Christmas morn with the chilly weather around but no snow. We'd done our Christmas at home but the ship gave us little chocolate gifts in our shoes, which we'd been asked to leave outside our rooms the night before. A lovely touch to start the day.
The day was given over to wandering through Mainz and Rudesheim. Both enjoyable and different with the highlights being the museum of mechanised music machines (!) and the smallest street in europe.
All in all a very full couple of days.
Till next I write, TIOT
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Snapshot
...
Nuremberg - Christmas baubles and my winter outfit.
Short news as the network is about to go down.
- Rainy
- Relaxed day wandering and reading especially as
- My wife has popped a rub ligament... picking something up (3rd item?)
- Bags still MIA though Air France is sure they will get to them tomorrow!
More news and views when the network is back and I have something of note to say... do I ever have something of note to say!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Frolicking in Franconia
So while net connectivity holds up....
We have spent the last two days in burgs, Bam and Wurz, which showed their charms through the multiple petticoats of wind, rain and cold. They also showed their 'wurst' (I had to get the pun out the way early), the famed German sausage (insert your own German porn star joke here), which smells fantastiche as we walk the markets but due to a variety of reasons we have yet to sample (see morganizedchaos.blogspot.com for more information). My excuse is that it is hard to jam anything extra down my throat over the three meals and two snacks the boat is providing daily. As it is, Melissa (my sensual siren of a wife of ten years on Jan 1st) nearly had to get a sedan chair to get me home from town. Unfortunately or perhaps fortunately they are not too prevalent around these parts.
Needless to say the food is very good so it is trial to eat in moderation though we are doing OK really. Its truly startling the range of stuff provided daily...I'll touch on that more another day perhaps.
We've been on board two days only but the days are whipping by as there is so much organised. So much so you have to carve time out for a rest! For example, today's itinerary:
7 - Breakfast
9 - Head to Wurzburg; 1 hour tour of the Residence (Palace); an hour in town and back to the boat for 12
12 - Lunch
1 - Off to Rottenbaeur; 1 hour tour and 1 hour in town and back for 6
6:15 - Glassblowing demonstration
7:15 - Dinner
9:15 - in the Lounge for music
10:30 - late snack
11:30 - trip to the vomitorium
We bailed on Rottenbaeur for a walk back into Wurzburg. M had skipped the morning tour with the beginnings of a cold and it was nice to just amble through the streets and see the town going about its Christmas preparations. We half heartedly looked for a semi formal outfits for the Christmas dinner (yes Day 5 and the baggage is still missing, presumed sunning itself in Rio). But we spent more time listening to Santa grinding his organ (no monkey in sight), practicing my german without spitting on people (Frohe Weinachten), buying a few gifts and people watching. It's always humbling how many folks speak english in comparison to how few englishers speak the local language. In sync with that the locals always get a kick out of you trying to speak their language. It opens doors in many ways... funniest conversation to date: buying a bra (for M!) and working with the lady on size etc. before she admitted she had great english! Those interactions tend to be my favourite elements of trips as a potentially closed moment can be bridged with some terribly stilted german and a smile.
This is the last real shopping day in Germany as Christmas Eve is a big thing here with the country shutting up shop (literally) until the 28th after lunchtime tomorrow. The Christmas markets will be gone, the decorations will dangle a little more forlornly and the new year will nearly be on us.
One final note, I am not sure Germany lends itself to frolicking but here in Franconia and Bavaria, home to leder hosen (which tends to chafe at frolicking speed), they like to enjoy themselves. And although I have had many (1) requests to don the famous leather trews I am leaving the LH wearing to the professionals.
Till the next time I'm Rudy Maxout, the Saveloy traveller.
We have spent the last two days in burgs, Bam and Wurz, which showed their charms through the multiple petticoats of wind, rain and cold. They also showed their 'wurst' (I had to get the pun out the way early), the famed German sausage (insert your own German porn star joke here), which smells fantastiche as we walk the markets but due to a variety of reasons we have yet to sample (see morganizedchaos.blogspot.com for more information). My excuse is that it is hard to jam anything extra down my throat over the three meals and two snacks the boat is providing daily. As it is, Melissa (my sensual siren of a wife of ten years on Jan 1st) nearly had to get a sedan chair to get me home from town. Unfortunately or perhaps fortunately they are not too prevalent around these parts.
Needless to say the food is very good so it is trial to eat in moderation though we are doing OK really. Its truly startling the range of stuff provided daily...I'll touch on that more another day perhaps.
We've been on board two days only but the days are whipping by as there is so much organised. So much so you have to carve time out for a rest! For example, today's itinerary:
7 - Breakfast
9 - Head to Wurzburg; 1 hour tour of the Residence (Palace); an hour in town and back to the boat for 12
12 - Lunch
1 - Off to Rottenbaeur; 1 hour tour and 1 hour in town and back for 6
6:15 - Glassblowing demonstration
7:15 - Dinner
9:15 - in the Lounge for music
10:30 - late snack
11:30 - trip to the vomitorium
We bailed on Rottenbaeur for a walk back into Wurzburg. M had skipped the morning tour with the beginnings of a cold and it was nice to just amble through the streets and see the town going about its Christmas preparations. We half heartedly looked for a semi formal outfits for the Christmas dinner (yes Day 5 and the baggage is still missing, presumed sunning itself in Rio). But we spent more time listening to Santa grinding his organ (no monkey in sight), practicing my german without spitting on people (Frohe Weinachten), buying a few gifts and people watching. It's always humbling how many folks speak english in comparison to how few englishers speak the local language. In sync with that the locals always get a kick out of you trying to speak their language. It opens doors in many ways... funniest conversation to date: buying a bra (for M!) and working with the lady on size etc. before she admitted she had great english! Those interactions tend to be my favourite elements of trips as a potentially closed moment can be bridged with some terribly stilted german and a smile.
This is the last real shopping day in Germany as Christmas Eve is a big thing here with the country shutting up shop (literally) until the 28th after lunchtime tomorrow. The Christmas markets will be gone, the decorations will dangle a little more forlornly and the new year will nearly be on us.
One final note, I am not sure Germany lends itself to frolicking but here in Franconia and Bavaria, home to leder hosen (which tends to chafe at frolicking speed), they like to enjoy themselves. And although I have had many (1) requests to don the famous leather trews I am leaving the LH wearing to the professionals.
Till the next time I'm Rudy Maxout, the Saveloy traveller.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Day 3, Bagless in Bavaria
(...delayed post due to no net connection...)
So today (Mon 21st) we got news that there is no news on our bags...excellent!
This meant spending the morning buying clothes for the next few days as everything was shut yesterday due to it being Sunday. This meant all the shopping had to be completed before we boarded the boat in the afternoon. Shopping for a complete wardrobe...a woman's dream, a man's nightmare and all to be done to a budget and time limit. All the makings of a bad gameshow or a task on the amazing race.
Actually M hated it too due to the restrictive parameters of the task. And exhausting especially competing with the Christmas shopper crowd.
But we were victorious, and yes I mean we WON as it was a battle of wills, minds and bodies from which we emerged foot sore but with clothing that at least means tomorrow is not Groundhog day again.
A true test of a relationship one might say, if one was still on speaking terms...I jest, M is asleep which is why we're not speaking.
No sooner out of the shops than into a taxi and to our boat for the next leg of our journey. We made the boat at 4.30pm enjoying swift showers before safety and welcome meetings started and we started to acclamate. It's certainly nice to finally be aboard enjoying all the MS Amalyra has to offer.
As I sign off we have just set sail at 11.00pm to the scratching and scraping of ice breaking down the sides of the boat hull. I feel like an arctic explorer looking for the northwest passage...but with cocktails on demand.
Brilliant start to the cruise. Till the next time, keep your tiller in your hand and your helm steady.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod
So today (Mon 21st) we got news that there is no news on our bags...excellent!
This meant spending the morning buying clothes for the next few days as everything was shut yesterday due to it being Sunday. This meant all the shopping had to be completed before we boarded the boat in the afternoon. Shopping for a complete wardrobe...a woman's dream, a man's nightmare and all to be done to a budget and time limit. All the makings of a bad gameshow or a task on the amazing race.
Actually M hated it too due to the restrictive parameters of the task. And exhausting especially competing with the Christmas shopper crowd.
But we were victorious, and yes I mean we WON as it was a battle of wills, minds and bodies from which we emerged foot sore but with clothing that at least means tomorrow is not Groundhog day again.
A true test of a relationship one might say, if one was still on speaking terms...I jest, M is asleep which is why we're not speaking.
No sooner out of the shops than into a taxi and to our boat for the next leg of our journey. We made the boat at 4.30pm enjoying swift showers before safety and welcome meetings started and we started to acclamate. It's certainly nice to finally be aboard enjoying all the MS Amalyra has to offer.
As I sign off we have just set sail at 11.00pm to the scratching and scraping of ice breaking down the sides of the boat hull. I feel like an arctic explorer looking for the northwest passage...but with cocktails on demand.
Brilliant start to the cruise. Till the next time, keep your tiller in your hand and your helm steady.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Loneliness of long distance luggage
So a call this morning identied that our bags are not delayed but their whereabouts are unknown. Good news if you love a mystery but less so if you need some warm clothing and are getting on a week long boat cruise tomorrow.
We ventured out in the 5 degree weather in search of adventure and a sweater. Managed a 50% success there as Nuremberg is a cracking little town with a great Christmas market. We sped round as much as we could whilst holding the cold at bay with newly purchased hat, scarf and socks. Plus pausing regularly for kaffee unt gluhwein to fortify ourselves. As it is Sunday there are no real shops open so no sweaters to be found. I did however get some classic looks in the cafe where I was the only person wearing a short sleeve shirt!
Having had our fill, for now, of Nuremberg's offerings we headed back to the hotel. Unfortunately news on the bags is still that they are missing in action, holidaying by themselves somewhere warm and sunny I suspect. More news as it happens.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod
We ventured out in the 5 degree weather in search of adventure and a sweater. Managed a 50% success there as Nuremberg is a cracking little town with a great Christmas market. We sped round as much as we could whilst holding the cold at bay with newly purchased hat, scarf and socks. Plus pausing regularly for kaffee unt gluhwein to fortify ourselves. As it is Sunday there are no real shops open so no sweaters to be found. I did however get some classic looks in the cafe where I was the only person wearing a short sleeve shirt!
Having had our fill, for now, of Nuremberg's offerings we headed back to the hotel. Unfortunately news on the bags is still that they are missing in action, holidaying by themselves somewhere warm and sunny I suspect. More news as it happens.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod
Saturday, December 19, 2009
A passage through Paris
A long day having spent 20 hours traveling between Miami and Nuremberg. We were late leaving Miami and delayed in Paris (due to snow) for our connecting flight. Nothing to do but enjoy the experience as much as possible...people watching and figuring out the change of language always being an enjoyable start to the trip.
Arriving in Nuremberg and landed at -15 C or 5 degree F (official classification 'pretty nippy'). Snow all around and picture postcard trees glimpsed through the gloom. A bus to the terminal and efficient German baggage handling had us moving in moments. Unfortunately 'sans baggage' as inefficient Air France had not put our luggage on the plane (despite 4 hours in Paris to do the job). And although I believe in traveling light, this is taking things a little further than even optimistic me would do.
So off into the night we fled, overnight package in hand...a nifty pint sized pack with toothbrush, tooth paste, t-shirt stuff...to find our Hotel in darkest Nuremberg, essentially an upmarket and quaint B&B called the Hotel Vosteen. Beautifully appointed with one of the best self service coffee machines I have ever had the pleasure of using.
Now, in situ but with nothing to unpack we went hunting (not Miguel style) for a bite to eat. Parameters, nearby and frequented by locals so we can experience some flavour. Maria at the front desk recommended L'Osteria, a crazy busy italian joint with barely space to swing a cat and all the more festive for it. They jammed us in and we enjoyed all they had to offer with a rough red, bread, cheese and pasta to follow...not German but hit the spot n terms of warmth and comfort. Tomorrow we'll track down some wurst and some more locally derived fixings.
Post meal we fair sprinted back to the hotel as we were past 'nippy' and in to 'a bit bloody parky' territory. With a little luck tomorrow will bring some exploring, luggage permitting. My 'Miami travel outfit' is not really cutting it in the Bavarian winter! However, its just great to be here experiencing it...so tomorrow the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt (http://www.christkindlesmarkt.de/english/).
Till the next time, Auf Wiedersehen.
Arriving in Nuremberg and landed at -15 C or 5 degree F (official classification 'pretty nippy'). Snow all around and picture postcard trees glimpsed through the gloom. A bus to the terminal and efficient German baggage handling had us moving in moments. Unfortunately 'sans baggage' as inefficient Air France had not put our luggage on the plane (despite 4 hours in Paris to do the job). And although I believe in traveling light, this is taking things a little further than even optimistic me would do.
So off into the night we fled, overnight package in hand...a nifty pint sized pack with toothbrush, tooth paste, t-shirt stuff...to find our Hotel in darkest Nuremberg, essentially an upmarket and quaint B&B called the Hotel Vosteen. Beautifully appointed with one of the best self service coffee machines I have ever had the pleasure of using.
Now, in situ but with nothing to unpack we went hunting (not Miguel style) for a bite to eat. Parameters, nearby and frequented by locals so we can experience some flavour. Maria at the front desk recommended L'Osteria, a crazy busy italian joint with barely space to swing a cat and all the more festive for it. They jammed us in and we enjoyed all they had to offer with a rough red, bread, cheese and pasta to follow...not German but hit the spot n terms of warmth and comfort. Tomorrow we'll track down some wurst and some more locally derived fixings.
Post meal we fair sprinted back to the hotel as we were past 'nippy' and in to 'a bit bloody parky' territory. With a little luck tomorrow will bring some exploring, luggage permitting. My 'Miami travel outfit' is not really cutting it in the Bavarian winter! However, its just great to be here experiencing it...so tomorrow the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt (http://www.christkindlesmarkt.de/english/).
Till the next time, Auf Wiedersehen.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Back with a Whimper
So for what it's worth it appears I have been remiss in my blogging or at least with the frequency of my blogging!
Let's try this again.
So we're traveling today. Through Paris and onto Nuremberg to see the Christmas market. It's meant to be one of the biggest and best, seems like a good seasonal thing to do.
This morning has meant checking flights - due to snow delays in Paris - and final efforts making sure we're sorted out with everything we need.
Plus it is slashing down with rain here, snow in England and Paris...rum weather for sure. All adds to the spice of the travel. Nuremberg was 18 degrees when I last checked...packed one sweater and I'm thinking perhaps that won't be enough!
Ah well, I hear they take cash over there so if it ain't packed it can always be bought!
Alright, signing off till later...Auf Wiedersehen pets.
PS You can follow me at Twitter.com/twixtlimey
Let's try this again.
So we're traveling today. Through Paris and onto Nuremberg to see the Christmas market. It's meant to be one of the biggest and best, seems like a good seasonal thing to do.
This morning has meant checking flights - due to snow delays in Paris - and final efforts making sure we're sorted out with everything we need.
Plus it is slashing down with rain here, snow in England and Paris...rum weather for sure. All adds to the spice of the travel. Nuremberg was 18 degrees when I last checked...packed one sweater and I'm thinking perhaps that won't be enough!
Ah well, I hear they take cash over there so if it ain't packed it can always be bought!
Alright, signing off till later...Auf Wiedersehen pets.
PS You can follow me at Twitter.com/twixtlimey
Friday, July 24, 2009
A brief note on formatting
So you spend ages trying to format a post, in my case tabulating my recent training and it finally looks right and then...you sign in via a different browser and it looks like crap again. Ah standards, wherefore art thou?
Chrome, Firefox, IE, Safari would that you all played nicely together and presented content identically...or even nearly identically. A day we all await with anticipation but perhaps no breath holding.
Short and sweet or perhaps a little whiny.
TIOT
PS All tips on formatting tables / tabulated data in a blog are welcome.
Chrome, Firefox, IE, Safari would that you all played nicely together and presented content identically...or even nearly identically. A day we all await with anticipation but perhaps no breath holding.
Short and sweet or perhaps a little whiny.
TIOT
PS All tips on formatting tables / tabulated data in a blog are welcome.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Started an exercise kick - 6/6/9
And to try and keep me honest I thought I'd publish my efforts to date.
Nothing very exciting but its a step in the right direction after a very long time of looking in the direction and wistfully thinking I should be heading that way. And that brings you to the realisation of how amazing hindsight is eh! Not that I have not thought that before but it's a case of entering one of those arenas where you think, why has it taken me so long to do this, that or the other. And I will answer this with another well trod phrase, better late than never.
So, the list of accomplishments to date (minor in real terms but major in personal ones).
Name Date Time Miles Speed
Jog (?) 7/16/2009 0:34:36 3.06 5.31
Yoga 7/15/2009 1:00:00 0 N/a
Swim 7/14/2009 0:20:49 0.5 1.44
Yoga 7/11/2009 1:00:00 0 N/a
Racquetball 7/9/2009 1:10:00 0 0
Swim 7/9/2009 0:33:58 0.75 1.32
Yoga 7/9/2009 1:00:00 0 N/a
Yoga 7/8/2009 1:00:00 0 N/a
Racquetball 7/7/2009 0:55:00 0 0
Jog (?) 7/6/2009 0:35:06 2.98 5.1
Swim 7/4/2009 0:30:28 0.65 1.28
Jog (?) 7/2/2009 0:36:18 3.03 5.02
Swim 7/1/2009 0:30:11 0.65 1.29
Racquetball 6/30/2009 1:10:00 0 0
Spinning 6/30/2009 0:45:00 11.38 15.17
Swim 6/29/2009 0:30:00 0.66 1.33
Cycling 6/27/2009 1:40:00 22.2 13.32
Jog (?) 6/26/2009 1:03:48 4.74 4.46
Swim 6/25/2009 0:25:24 0.56 1.33
Jog (?) 6/24/2009 0:36:05 3.03 5.05
Spinning 6/23/2009 0:30:06 7.69 15.32
Swim 6/22/2009 0:25:12 0.54 1.28
Cycling 6/20/2009 1:30:00 19.75 13.17
Jog (?) 6/19/2009 0:38:08 3.03 4.77
Spinning 6/18/2009 0:30:00 7.5 15
Swim 6/17/2009 0:25:00 0.51 1.23
Jog (?) 6/16/2009 0:32:39 2.63 4.83
Swim 6/15/2009 0:24:23 0.5 1.23
Cycling 6/13/2009 1:10:00 14.78 12.67
Swim 6/12/2009 0:20:13 0.41 1.22
Jog (?) 6/11/2009 0:52:16 4.01 4.6
Swim 6/10/2009 0:20:01 0.39 1.16
Spinning 6/9/2009 1:00:11 16 15.95
Swim 6/8/2009 0:19:56 0.36 1.09
Cycling 6/7/2009 0:40:00 8 12
Swim 6/7/2009 0:20:09 0.39 1.15
Swim 6/6/2009 0:20:00 0.34 1.01
I am sure there is a better way to display this but I have as yet to discover it.
June 5th was my epiphany with the realisation that I was 5 weeks from a Dr's appointment and I had yet again failed to lose any weight. Not a big deal per say except that this was 9 months on from warning signs that I did not like or need. So instead of thinking "I can do it when I want or need to..." I decided I better actually "do it" (not meaning to paraphrase Nike) before I suddenly found myself on the end of an unpleasant medical situation that could have been avoided with a little focus and diligence.
Crazy stuff, especially as I actually enjoy exercise when I manage to get myself out the door...will I never learn? The answer to that is yes, just very, very slowly...but hopefully in time.
PS For anyone wondering why I include Yoga (which I am trying as a means to expand my mind and increase my plasticity - something to discuss another day) as exercise, I recommend trying it before you decry it. Amazing how stretching can induce such increased heart rate and breathing. Which might say more about my state of health than Yoga but I don't think so.
TIOT
Nothing very exciting but its a step in the right direction after a very long time of looking in the direction and wistfully thinking I should be heading that way. And that brings you to the realisation of how amazing hindsight is eh! Not that I have not thought that before but it's a case of entering one of those arenas where you think, why has it taken me so long to do this, that or the other. And I will answer this with another well trod phrase, better late than never.
So, the list of accomplishments to date (minor in real terms but major in personal ones).
Name Date Time Miles Speed
Jog (?) 7/16/2009 0:34:36 3.06 5.31
Yoga 7/15/2009 1:00:00 0 N/a
Swim 7/14/2009 0:20:49 0.5 1.44
Yoga 7/11/2009 1:00:00 0 N/a
Racquetball 7/9/2009 1:10:00 0 0
Swim 7/9/2009 0:33:58 0.75 1.32
Yoga 7/9/2009 1:00:00 0 N/a
Yoga 7/8/2009 1:00:00 0 N/a
Racquetball 7/7/2009 0:55:00 0 0
Jog (?) 7/6/2009 0:35:06 2.98 5.1
Swim 7/4/2009 0:30:28 0.65 1.28
Jog (?) 7/2/2009 0:36:18 3.03 5.02
Swim 7/1/2009 0:30:11 0.65 1.29
Racquetball 6/30/2009 1:10:00 0 0
Spinning 6/30/2009 0:45:00 11.38 15.17
Swim 6/29/2009 0:30:00 0.66 1.33
Cycling 6/27/2009 1:40:00 22.2 13.32
Jog (?) 6/26/2009 1:03:48 4.74 4.46
Swim 6/25/2009 0:25:24 0.56 1.33
Jog (?) 6/24/2009 0:36:05 3.03 5.05
Spinning 6/23/2009 0:30:06 7.69 15.32
Swim 6/22/2009 0:25:12 0.54 1.28
Cycling 6/20/2009 1:30:00 19.75 13.17
Jog (?) 6/19/2009 0:38:08 3.03 4.77
Spinning 6/18/2009 0:30:00 7.5 15
Swim 6/17/2009 0:25:00 0.51 1.23
Jog (?) 6/16/2009 0:32:39 2.63 4.83
Swim 6/15/2009 0:24:23 0.5 1.23
Cycling 6/13/2009 1:10:00 14.78 12.67
Swim 6/12/2009 0:20:13 0.41 1.22
Jog (?) 6/11/2009 0:52:16 4.01 4.6
Swim 6/10/2009 0:20:01 0.39 1.16
Spinning 6/9/2009 1:00:11 16 15.95
Swim 6/8/2009 0:19:56 0.36 1.09
Cycling 6/7/2009 0:40:00 8 12
Swim 6/7/2009 0:20:09 0.39 1.15
Swim 6/6/2009 0:20:00 0.34 1.01
I am sure there is a better way to display this but I have as yet to discover it.
June 5th was my epiphany with the realisation that I was 5 weeks from a Dr's appointment and I had yet again failed to lose any weight. Not a big deal per say except that this was 9 months on from warning signs that I did not like or need. So instead of thinking "I can do it when I want or need to..." I decided I better actually "do it" (not meaning to paraphrase Nike) before I suddenly found myself on the end of an unpleasant medical situation that could have been avoided with a little focus and diligence.
Crazy stuff, especially as I actually enjoy exercise when I manage to get myself out the door...will I never learn? The answer to that is yes, just very, very slowly...but hopefully in time.
PS For anyone wondering why I include Yoga (which I am trying as a means to expand my mind and increase my plasticity - something to discuss another day) as exercise, I recommend trying it before you decry it. Amazing how stretching can induce such increased heart rate and breathing. Which might say more about my state of health than Yoga but I don't think so.
TIOT
Friday, July 10, 2009
TdF
I'll note this here to capture it in my mind and memory. This years Tour De France has more interest, intrigue and subplots than the last three put together.
And love him or hate him it stems from Lance Armstrong bringing an audience to the party. Some want to see him win and some want to see him lose. In that sense he has a Howard Stern quality, people watch in awe and people watch in 'aw'.
I loved the Tour from a long time ago. Fignon, Roche, Lemond, Big Mig (et al) being my introduction. All greats and great to watch. But Lance is another level again, not to decry the abilities and skills of the other riders who are super athletes in themselves but Armstrong brings an intensity, a belief and an ability to get the best out of everyone around him.
Even if he is just here enjoying himself, his desire is still truly astonishing to watch. To understand that he is competing at this level after 4 years off and when most sports folks are retiring/retired. Almost makes me believe I can get on a bike and ride...round the block anyway.
As I say, love him or hate him, he makes a great event greater for what he brings to the table...every day, every hour, every minute.
Thanks Lance, for your competitive fire, your take no prisoners attitude and in the real world for LIVESTRONG.
TIOT
And love him or hate him it stems from Lance Armstrong bringing an audience to the party. Some want to see him win and some want to see him lose. In that sense he has a Howard Stern quality, people watch in awe and people watch in 'aw'.
I loved the Tour from a long time ago. Fignon, Roche, Lemond, Big Mig (et al) being my introduction. All greats and great to watch. But Lance is another level again, not to decry the abilities and skills of the other riders who are super athletes in themselves but Armstrong brings an intensity, a belief and an ability to get the best out of everyone around him.
Even if he is just here enjoying himself, his desire is still truly astonishing to watch. To understand that he is competing at this level after 4 years off and when most sports folks are retiring/retired. Almost makes me believe I can get on a bike and ride...round the block anyway.
As I say, love him or hate him, he makes a great event greater for what he brings to the table...every day, every hour, every minute.
Thanks Lance, for your competitive fire, your take no prisoners attitude and in the real world for LIVESTRONG.
TIOT
Really CBS, Really?
Three days on I am still wondering why CBS found it necessary to refer to Michael Jackson’s youngest son via his nickname 'Blanket' during a retrospective of the memorial service. It may be how he is known in the family but it was not relevant to the moment. It moved an emotional retrospective (for anyone engaged with the moment) from nearly reverent to clearly risible.
I say this because mentioning the name once could have been a throwaway factual reference but CBS used the name several times which made the coverage laughable and no longer news, if it ever was news. It became funny (sorry MJ & fans) because it was so unnecessary and seemed like an in joke. CBS could have been far more respectful in tone if they used his given name Prince Michael the 2nd or something more solemn, but surely not Blanket at that time, in that moment. Hardly a fitting tone for that time.
This perhaps highlights just how far network news seems to have slipped.
The worst part of writing that is knowing I got sucked in to watching, unable to turn away - rubber necking at it's worst.
Anyway, this is obviously just my opinion and I could be wrong (with apologies to Dennis Miller).
TIOT
I say this because mentioning the name once could have been a throwaway factual reference but CBS used the name several times which made the coverage laughable and no longer news, if it ever was news. It became funny (sorry MJ & fans) because it was so unnecessary and seemed like an in joke. CBS could have been far more respectful in tone if they used his given name Prince Michael the 2nd or something more solemn, but surely not Blanket at that time, in that moment. Hardly a fitting tone for that time.
This perhaps highlights just how far network news seems to have slipped.
The worst part of writing that is knowing I got sucked in to watching, unable to turn away - rubber necking at it's worst.
Anyway, this is obviously just my opinion and I could be wrong (with apologies to Dennis Miller).
TIOT
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Current Reading
So I finally finished Steve Berry's The Amber Room. I have been reading it for nigh on 3 months, in amongst other books. I love reading but having seen how long it took me to read this I was wondering why it had taken so long. I just seemed unable to settle to the task as there was always something else going on. The worst part of this is I keep seeing more and more books that I would love to read and there is less and less time to do so...or so it seems.
So how does everyone else manage it or is it true that a large percentage of books are bought for show, effectively ornamentation, and sit on a bookshelf as a display item that defines your taste or the taste you want people to think you have. And am I falling into this category by accident, rather than design. I'd like to think not as my bookcase is tucked away where no once really sees it.
In some ways this is worse as it highlights a "road to hell" with a bookcase filled with good intentions of reading.
And boy does that phrase come back from my childhood. I can clearly remember my Dad telling me I was like that, though I can't remember what specifically triggered the statement. I am sure it was something I had said I was going to do and not done! And that one for me ranks up there with being told he was "disappointed" in me. He obviously had expectations I was failing to live up to.
And that is all a strange flashback as Dad is gone now. He was an incredible man in many ways and it was very tough to live up to his standards. I think I still subconsciously try to reach or exceed them and often as not fail, or believe I do. He used to say "let others tell you how good you are and I'll tell you how to be better"...quite inspirational to a kid until you realise you can never attain the goal as there is always another one behind it.
I digress, though it all ties together in some ways. I always feel I am never reaching the goal with my reading but maybe there is no goal and I need to just accept enjoying or learning from it. And the lesson in all this would be to be in the moment with everything I do so that I am 100% focused on the item at hand. That way I enjoy it to the maximum and then move to the next thing.
Current books I am reading
- Born to Run by Christopher McDougall
- In God We Doubt by John Humphrys
- The Omega Rx Zone by Dr Barry Sears
- The Relaxation Response by Herbert Benson and Miriam Z. Klipper
- Learn to Speed Read (Ironic eh) by Evelyn Wood
TIOT
So how does everyone else manage it or is it true that a large percentage of books are bought for show, effectively ornamentation, and sit on a bookshelf as a display item that defines your taste or the taste you want people to think you have. And am I falling into this category by accident, rather than design. I'd like to think not as my bookcase is tucked away where no once really sees it.
In some ways this is worse as it highlights a "road to hell" with a bookcase filled with good intentions of reading.
And boy does that phrase come back from my childhood. I can clearly remember my Dad telling me I was like that, though I can't remember what specifically triggered the statement. I am sure it was something I had said I was going to do and not done! And that one for me ranks up there with being told he was "disappointed" in me. He obviously had expectations I was failing to live up to.
And that is all a strange flashback as Dad is gone now. He was an incredible man in many ways and it was very tough to live up to his standards. I think I still subconsciously try to reach or exceed them and often as not fail, or believe I do. He used to say "let others tell you how good you are and I'll tell you how to be better"...quite inspirational to a kid until you realise you can never attain the goal as there is always another one behind it.
I digress, though it all ties together in some ways. I always feel I am never reaching the goal with my reading but maybe there is no goal and I need to just accept enjoying or learning from it. And the lesson in all this would be to be in the moment with everything I do so that I am 100% focused on the item at hand. That way I enjoy it to the maximum and then move to the next thing.
Current books I am reading
- Born to Run by Christopher McDougall
- In God We Doubt by John Humphrys
- The Omega Rx Zone by Dr Barry Sears
- The Relaxation Response by Herbert Benson and Miriam Z. Klipper
- Learn to Speed Read (Ironic eh) by Evelyn Wood
TIOT
In the first of a potential series..."I didn't realise"
I didn't realise (UK spelling to satisfy my need to disobey the American spell check on my machine) how dull my life really was in terms of finding something to blog or write about.
Don't get me wrong, I knew my life was dull or, perhaps routine is a better word for it, but is it this dull or am I just not seeing the trees for the wood?
This thought occurred to me because two months ago I got the urge to explore the social networking (SN) environment. Unsure of where / how to start I decided to jump in on twitter (yes, bandwagon I know) as a quick and simple way to feel my way into the SN medium. And it is fascinating to see what people say and how they use the service but at the same time it tends to make me feel a little lacking as my life is routine and rarely prompts me to say something a little interesting.
And there in lies the rub as I don't think my life is interesting enough to warrant posting my various daily tasks "got to work, sat in cube, answered phone, missed lunch, sat in cube some more, on conference call for hoooooooooours, etc" and my daily life doesn't often provide me enough manna to feed my imagination that prompts interesting tweets. Or if I manage to feed my mind at work by reading, viewing, experiencing multi-media, etc. then my cube is not being used as it was designed and my boss gets a little testy that I am not delivering on my tasks.
So this is my conundrum or perhaps best stated by Churchill "a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma". ..how to service my soulful desire to post words to the world that are not mundane or forced while maintaining my current life (as it pays the bills).
At the moment my answer is to persist and post as I feel the words or moment fits. This means there are wordless stretches of barren mental wasteland interspersed by occasional bursts of wordy firestorms as endorphins kick me into action.
TIOT
Don't get me wrong, I knew my life was dull or, perhaps routine is a better word for it, but is it this dull or am I just not seeing the trees for the wood?
This thought occurred to me because two months ago I got the urge to explore the social networking (SN) environment. Unsure of where / how to start I decided to jump in on twitter (yes, bandwagon I know) as a quick and simple way to feel my way into the SN medium. And it is fascinating to see what people say and how they use the service but at the same time it tends to make me feel a little lacking as my life is routine and rarely prompts me to say something a little interesting.
And there in lies the rub as I don't think my life is interesting enough to warrant posting my various daily tasks "got to work, sat in cube, answered phone, missed lunch, sat in cube some more, on conference call for hoooooooooours, etc" and my daily life doesn't often provide me enough manna to feed my imagination that prompts interesting tweets. Or if I manage to feed my mind at work by reading, viewing, experiencing multi-media, etc. then my cube is not being used as it was designed and my boss gets a little testy that I am not delivering on my tasks.
So this is my conundrum or perhaps best stated by Churchill "a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma". ..how to service my soulful desire to post words to the world that are not mundane or forced while maintaining my current life (as it pays the bills).
At the moment my answer is to persist and post as I feel the words or moment fits. This means there are wordless stretches of barren mental wasteland interspersed by occasional bursts of wordy firestorms as endorphins kick me into action.
TIOT
Monday, May 18, 2009
Weekend May 16 & 17
Just had an very enjoyable weekend although it may be fairer to say that events started Thursday night even though work on Friday was a bear in the middle of it all.
Thursday we went to see Don Henley in concert. He was was good, playing a lot of Eagles stuff in a good tight fashion although the concert was reasonably short at 90 minutes. But better going for quality than quantity having seen Fleetwood Mac a month ago and where the sound from the system, or venue, was so muffled I felt like I was listening from inside a garbage can (rubbish bin).
Friday we went to dinner with an acquaintance from England who we had not seen in 12 years and another couple who are mutual friends. A lot of stories shared and ribald stories told. I laughed so hard at one point I was crying and I am not one for laughing heartily let alone like that. Needless to say it is not a story I can relate here, partly because it will not translate and partly because it related to the moment. I think the odd thing to note is that dinner/drinks with a group of Americans is vastly different to that with Brits. There may be a thesis there as I am unable to readily explain it.
Saturday was chores (weed killing, car washing, cleaning our sprinkler filter, etc. wild stuff I know) with sorting things around the house before going to the cinema to see Wolverine which was very enjoyable. I am not a hard core comic buff having not read one for years so had little issue with the story though I believe that is not the case for some folks. I go to the cinema to be entertained having long ago accepted that films can rarely do justice to original source material.
Talking of which Sunday was breakfast with the kids and then the movies again to see Angels and Demons. This fits the same bill as above, entertaining and a good enough translation of the book for me. It's hard not to like Tom Hanks having seen him interviewed a couple of times this last week. Probably part of his success (really, you think so!).
A litany of events and things done but it led to positive and upbeat feeling through the weekend which has been hard to come by lately. So not to look a gift horse in the mouth I thought I would acknowledge the buzz and document it here.
TIOT
Thursday we went to see Don Henley in concert. He was was good, playing a lot of Eagles stuff in a good tight fashion although the concert was reasonably short at 90 minutes. But better going for quality than quantity having seen Fleetwood Mac a month ago and where the sound from the system, or venue, was so muffled I felt like I was listening from inside a garbage can (rubbish bin).
Friday we went to dinner with an acquaintance from England who we had not seen in 12 years and another couple who are mutual friends. A lot of stories shared and ribald stories told. I laughed so hard at one point I was crying and I am not one for laughing heartily let alone like that. Needless to say it is not a story I can relate here, partly because it will not translate and partly because it related to the moment. I think the odd thing to note is that dinner/drinks with a group of Americans is vastly different to that with Brits. There may be a thesis there as I am unable to readily explain it.
Saturday was chores (weed killing, car washing, cleaning our sprinkler filter, etc. wild stuff I know) with sorting things around the house before going to the cinema to see Wolverine which was very enjoyable. I am not a hard core comic buff having not read one for years so had little issue with the story though I believe that is not the case for some folks. I go to the cinema to be entertained having long ago accepted that films can rarely do justice to original source material.
Talking of which Sunday was breakfast with the kids and then the movies again to see Angels and Demons. This fits the same bill as above, entertaining and a good enough translation of the book for me. It's hard not to like Tom Hanks having seen him interviewed a couple of times this last week. Probably part of his success (really, you think so!).
A litany of events and things done but it led to positive and upbeat feeling through the weekend which has been hard to come by lately. So not to look a gift horse in the mouth I thought I would acknowledge the buzz and document it here.
TIOT
Friday, May 15, 2009
Travel
The previous mention of vacation (holiday) has me thinking. And I know my talking about going on a vacation may seem odd having just got back from the UK but I really have the yen to travel and see something new or experience a different culture. The UK was, and is always, fun and a going home experience but it is also tinged with obligation and craziness in trying to fit in seeing as many people as possible.I am a late starter with travel but have really learned to love it. The little travelling I have done has allowed me to visit a few different places and often it is the people you meet that make the difference. The smile and support you sometimes get when trying to speak someones language (albeit butchering it along the way) is incredibly rewarding. Don't get me wrong there are equally folks out there who will not be helpful, interested or engaged but the good times outweigh the bad and the bad often gives you something to laugh about later.
The thought and planning around travelling is almost as fun and therapeutic as the trip itself. I am not sure what that says about me and I am not going to look at that too closely, for now.
So perhaps a side project to pique my interest when time allows.
Note: The attached photo is from a trip to Amsterdam with my wife when we took my brothers-in-law on their first major trip abroad.
TIOT
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Recharge
I feel exhausted at the moment, beaten down by the nature of my current day to day existence. No way to feel or live especially as I am not sure how to get out of the unhealthy and unproductive rhythm. There is a simple answer to this, if I quit everything, but this does not fit with my paying the bills! So I need a change but work will not differ in the near future as won't the turmoil that is currently my home life.
So my challenge is how to recharge on the fly: a vacation, a new goal, something new to learn, exercise, all of the aforementioned, etc. And to do this while working towards a more ultimate goal of a calmer and more enjoyable life pattern.
Maybe I can I combine the vacation, new goal and learning thing...but perhaps I am overstretching and over complicating things. A common factor here, trying to cram a quart into a pint pot.
The key has to be to start simple and then build things out. So where to start, suggestions welcome.
TIOT
So my challenge is how to recharge on the fly: a vacation, a new goal, something new to learn, exercise, all of the aforementioned, etc. And to do this while working towards a more ultimate goal of a calmer and more enjoyable life pattern.
Maybe I can I combine the vacation, new goal and learning thing...but perhaps I am overstretching and over complicating things. A common factor here, trying to cram a quart into a pint pot.
The key has to be to start simple and then build things out. So where to start, suggestions welcome.
TIOT
Back ...
Back to blogging, back from a trip to see family and back to work.
My blogging has been thin on the ground as I have found time difficult to find between work and home as both have been complicated of late. I don't see either of those changing so I will be doing the best I can here which comes down to being a bit better organised.
I am also just back from a week in the UK which was fun but extremely hectic and tiring. I spent the week chasing down family members and hanging out with them plus visiting a couple of friends. It was great to see folks and catch up on news and views but there was a degree of family politics plus dealing with the issues that have arisen around my Mum's health issues.
And now I am back to work which is like putting on an itchy and uncomfortable coat.
Finding a path through the various issues that life presents is something I struggle with every day. I am sure I am not the only one and I envy those who seem to make it look easy and keep a positive demeanor.
Envy is a strong word but likely apt as I wonder and wish I could manage it and make life a little more effortless or at the very least seem so.
Enough self flagellation for today though...just nice to be back in the blogging groove.
TIOT
My blogging has been thin on the ground as I have found time difficult to find between work and home as both have been complicated of late. I don't see either of those changing so I will be doing the best I can here which comes down to being a bit better organised.
I am also just back from a week in the UK which was fun but extremely hectic and tiring. I spent the week chasing down family members and hanging out with them plus visiting a couple of friends. It was great to see folks and catch up on news and views but there was a degree of family politics plus dealing with the issues that have arisen around my Mum's health issues.
And now I am back to work which is like putting on an itchy and uncomfortable coat.
Finding a path through the various issues that life presents is something I struggle with every day. I am sure I am not the only one and I envy those who seem to make it look easy and keep a positive demeanor.
Envy is a strong word but likely apt as I wonder and wish I could manage it and make life a little more effortless or at the very least seem so.
Enough self flagellation for today though...just nice to be back in the blogging groove.
TIOT
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Involuntary week off and "control"
So soon I ask. Yes. All I can say is that there were mitigating circumstances but that can be construed as an excuse (by reader and writer alike). So I'll just move on as I am here now, and as the sole reader/writer, the only one I have impacted to date is me. I hope that may change in the future!
So last week was a little bout of madness in terms of the variety of things going on which I don't expect to change soon so I am planning to learn to work round it plus manage my time better.
And of course, last week I had all these weird and wonderful things spinning through my mind that I should have jotted down as now there is nothing there. Its all been reabsorbed.
To see if I can spark some life into me and the idea stream I'll fill in the blanks.
Since I was last here...
My Mum has been moved to an assisted living facility from hospital. My siblings are pulling in different directions in terms of the right thing to do for her while not consulting her or including me.
I tried to get a flight sorted out to be there at the critical time but failed so I am now going in 10 days or so.
I am arguing with my wife constantly about the items above and an array of other things.
My car went on the fritz with smoke emanating from the front wheel arches - never a good sign I am told.
All somewhat mundane but monumental with the way the timing and "conversations" worked out so I found it all kept me very occupied one way or another.
The learning/relearning for me has to be I have little or no control and need to surrender to the inevitable when I recognise it. Easy to say but not necessarily to do. All I can say is that sometimes giving yourself to the beast is the only way to survive. You hope that instead of it snapping you in two you'll get a little light mauling or even have mercy shown and just be carried to another part of life's rich tapestry.
The key may be the recognising it. Plus (topic for another day), how do you stop people changing that perspective by constant questions, asking for direction, questioning the choices you make, etc...how is that balanced within it all?
The bottomline for today may be to just remember, when family is involved, you have no control!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Good Friday and a fast week
First of all Happy Easter, on this Good Friday, for those of you who mark such occasions. I even looked up why it is listed as a Good Friday" considering that I doubt Jesus would really have marked it that way in his diary. For those interested, here it is (Lily's answer being the most detailed/succinct that I have found).
It's been a long week...I think that is an oxymoron but I am sure you know what I mean. I have not been here as much as I would like or barely at all but my heart was here even if I was physically not.
My week has been spent ramping up my current project which is mid way between forming and storming meaning that all sorts of crazy has broken loose. On top of that my boss is on holiday so I am standing in for her. What an opportunity I hear you cry. Yes, just the type I love (I respond dully). All BS and no real productivity - the position is neither a doer or a shaker and so you end up being nothing to all people...a case of keeping none of the people happy all of the time. I really thought my own role's meetings and tasks were getting less and less productive but if you move another level up you can become a real leader. Make of that what you will but apparently the minimal desire I had to climb the greasy pole, improve myself and show I could do the job, has gone because there is no job to do!
Enough of that though.
In other news, I did manage to get my taxes finalised this week though my bank balance did not thank me for that as apparently I owed a fistful of dollars. So here I sit a mild feeling of relief and a not so mild feeling of lightness in the pocket.
I think the worst part of the week passing so quickly is, yet again, the amount of things I keep seeing that I'd like to get to, whether a book or article to read or a new website to explore let alone real activities.
And having just started to really explore blogging I find that there are so many blogs out there on so many things. You could read all day on a variety of stuff and be fascinated by it all...though I have yet to find someone who will pay me to do that (any offers gratefully received).
On a more physcial note (whoa there people) I did manage to play racquetball this week which was a revelation on many levels. After months of inactivity a leviathan effort brought three of us together to galumph round the court of which the foundations are no doubt still shaking! And though sore the next day, I was not immobile which in itself is quite astonishing. There is hope for me yet, though a long row to hoe before I could look myself in the eye and say I am remotely healthy or fit. More on that another day.
OK, signing off for now as I need to get back to forming and storming for a while. Have a great weekend.
TIOT
Monday, April 6, 2009
Tax Season and Beigeness
I am sure there are better people than me to comment on the complexity of the tax code but I would like to add that even with Turbotax's help it is a long arduous process to go through all the Qs & As associated with the various papers plus then make it work cleanly with no errors and the research that involves. So it is such a good feeling when you make it through and everything seems to be finished. I say seems as it is never that simple and if you keep looking something can always be changed or tuned. So finishing, as much as you can, is a moment to celebrate and savour...before the reality of any necessary payment slaps you upside the reality.
Navigating the tax code, even with the aid of heavy duty software, feels like a small win in a world where daily successes are pretty small.
I am not sure what that says, either about me or my world, that daily wins are pretty few and far between. That is something I'd like to change too. Life always feels a little better for an achievement or two even if they are small. Gives you a little pride in yourself and that feeling is few and far between in my line of work. Talking of which I should clarify. I am a cube dweller lurking close to my computer and my phone, listening/participating in endless meetings that decide little and suck the life out of you. Perhaps too cynical but that's what living in a cube does to you...see Dilbert for reference. Dilbert's popularity tells you how ridiculous cube life is and how close to the mark too.
Moving back to reflecting on small achievements with some glee it pops in to my head that I am beige as Billy Connolly would say - average in life by pretty much every measure. Nothing wrong with that but sometimes doesn't everyone crave a little colour. So I am feeling like one of the beige people but wishing for a change. I am worried I may not be able to, I may be too beige for self, or any other type of, rescue or maybe it's nature not nurture and I am inherently beige. Another element for further discovery I suppose. For now I will aim for beigeness with intermissions of vibrant colour...whatever that may mean!
Not sure how I got to that conclusion but it will suffice for now as time is short and tasks are long. To all a good night as tomorrow will be another day whether I be here or not.
TIOT
Friday, April 3, 2009
More about me and focus?
Continuing a theme, I have got to an age where I have realised there is much to do and perhaps not a lot of time to do it. I do not mean this in a day to day context but in a "Holey smokes what have I done with the last 20 years of my life when there is so much of the world to see, explore, experience..." etc.
So here am I thinking strange thoughts at all hours of the day:
- I want to learn to play the piano (having never tried anything musical)
- I want to lose 50 pounds
- I want to do more exercise and play more sport
- I want to take more advantage of the area in which I live and the weather it presents
- I want to travel more and explore new places plus revisit places I have seen and loved
- I want to read more (I buy a lot of books but they tend to sit on the shelf for a long time before I get to them)
- I want to learn more about photography having got the bug a couple of years ago
- I...
You get the picture, as that is off the top of my head. I feel like I am stood looking at this ever widening circle of choices and making no progress on any of them. I am indecisive in the sense there is too much choice. And logically I know I need to just choose something and run with it till I decide to change and/or I need to schedule my time better...and this is a slightly different flavour of yesterdays topic.
So focus, focus, focus has to be the mantra if I am truly to make and progress, progress, progress against any of these desires.
Any suggestions that can help me, tools, help aids, etc. are welcome as I want to try as much as possible in life with the time I have available - however long that may be...
TIOT
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Too little time or bad time management!
So yes I meant to be back in here before now but things come up and suddenly I realise that is a couple of days since I was here which is not what I plan to do at all.
This blogging exercise is to encourage me to write, to write often and to put down whatever thoughts I may have with minimal self editing. I have a tendency to over think things which has forestalled my trying anything like this previously. Therefore, to stop this I am meant to be diving in and creating some good habits of checking here daily. This will either prompt me to write, to note some ideas or at the very least show me I have nothing to say for the day.
So now I find myself a couple of days down the road and wondering am I too busy or just a bad time manager or even don't want to do it enough. I suspect the real answer is a little of all of those which means I have several adjustments to make if I really want to change.
My wife thinks I have ADD or ADHD or basically an inability to focus on one thing and get it done without my mind and body straying to the next thing in my mental hopper. An example of my mind straying is the detour it just took around the phrase "mental hopper" and it conjuring up strange images of me. The additional note to that is that my brain likes to play with words and alternate meanings whether mishearing or reading them. Endless amusement though not everyone appreciates it. And as you can see these detours swiftly lead you off topic!
I do have a lot going on between work and home but that is not a good excuse if I really want to change and learn. Especially when you look at how many hours are in a day and what you end up doing with them. For anyone interested, do that exercise and if you are like me you realise you end up wasting a lot of time, some of it necessary with the travelling too/from work and eating and sleeping but other time that just gets lost in the shuffle unless you really focus on what you want to get done.
So if all three issues are to be addressed I need to make time daily to pop in here and think/write plus use my time better across the spectrum of what I do and if all that doesn't happen maybe that tells me my desire is not there. This is something of a scary thought, that by inaction and procrastination I will end up nowhere except where I am now.
And that my friend (talking to myself here as I doubt anyone is reading this stream of strange consciousness) is a piece for another day - procrastination (which I am indulging in now from a work perspective) and day to day happiness.
TIOT
Monday, March 30, 2009
Early Warning
Hi to anyone who stumbles across this/me.
First of all a brief warning. I am new to blogging and blogging is new to me so there will be many things to learn and some slips along the way. Bear with me as in this manner this is only a test.
This is a journey for me (and possibly anyone who cares to read whatever I put out). There will be a degree of self discovery and a lot of exploring around the blogging/social networking community.
With that in mind, I am not sure the blog has an explicit focus yet as I do not have a clear focus in day to day life. I'll cover whatever I feel like writing about as I feel the desire. This may make the blog a little incoherent which will be part of the experiment but it will also hopefully begin to show some threads that run through the thoughts/discussion and some will start to knit together while some form clear and different patterns that bear separation.
Only time, and persisting with writing it all down, will tell.
Also note that grammar may from time to time be a problem. I was never formally taught grammar so will be learning along the way. If there are any grammar sticklers reading, tips are welcome but this is something of a brain dump for the ideas and thoughts and grammar improvement will only be a side item.
This also assumes I have ideas and thoughts that I can dump into the ether. Another part of the raft of questions this blog is posing to me. Do I have anything worth saying? I believe I do, even if it is only to myself and for my benefit to read later. Hopefully, it will run a bit deeper than that, not necessarily for anyone else but at least for me.
So the blog is likely to end up part diary, part therapy, occasionally topical with a little bit of sports thrown in for good measure. To see where writing my thoughts down leads as much as anything else. A lot of things occur to me on and off, nothing too wild but it gets lost in the stream of consciousness that each day becomes so I wanted to capture some of this stuff before I lose it or the the will to live let alone anything salient that I actually thought.
So, that's the early warning - I don't know what this is, or what you're gonna get but at least I finally started something...
TIOT
First of all a brief warning. I am new to blogging and blogging is new to me so there will be many things to learn and some slips along the way. Bear with me as in this manner this is only a test.
This is a journey for me (and possibly anyone who cares to read whatever I put out). There will be a degree of self discovery and a lot of exploring around the blogging/social networking community.
With that in mind, I am not sure the blog has an explicit focus yet as I do not have a clear focus in day to day life. I'll cover whatever I feel like writing about as I feel the desire. This may make the blog a little incoherent which will be part of the experiment but it will also hopefully begin to show some threads that run through the thoughts/discussion and some will start to knit together while some form clear and different patterns that bear separation.
Only time, and persisting with writing it all down, will tell.
Also note that grammar may from time to time be a problem. I was never formally taught grammar so will be learning along the way. If there are any grammar sticklers reading, tips are welcome but this is something of a brain dump for the ideas and thoughts and grammar improvement will only be a side item.
This also assumes I have ideas and thoughts that I can dump into the ether. Another part of the raft of questions this blog is posing to me. Do I have anything worth saying? I believe I do, even if it is only to myself and for my benefit to read later. Hopefully, it will run a bit deeper than that, not necessarily for anyone else but at least for me.
So the blog is likely to end up part diary, part therapy, occasionally topical with a little bit of sports thrown in for good measure. To see where writing my thoughts down leads as much as anything else. A lot of things occur to me on and off, nothing too wild but it gets lost in the stream of consciousness that each day becomes so I wanted to capture some of this stuff before I lose it or the the will to live let alone anything salient that I actually thought.
So, that's the early warning - I don't know what this is, or what you're gonna get but at least I finally started something...
TIOT
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