KateOnTheGo

2007-12-31T19:42:00.000-08:00

"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeing new landscapes,

but in having new eyes. " -- Marcel Proust

On the Road Again....

2007-09-15T14:33:00.000-07:00

Hello dear friends.... are you still there?

Ugh. I think everyone has left me. There was a time when I had up to 40 readers a day... due to my absence people have gone, moved on with their lives.

You see, a year ago I made the decision to leave the exciting life that I was leading in Edinburgh and head on back home. I was missing my family. I was missing my home. I was missing my profession.

Well, the good news is that by being back here in Australia, I am spending so much time with my family that I miss them on a daily basis if I dont see them! I am spending so much time working at being a good lawyer that it takes all the energy out of me. But I am happy. Happy happy happy.

I am back on the road again as of 19 October. No, its not permanent. In fact, it is only for 8 days but stay turned because no doubt there will be beautiful photos to add to this page. I am going to FIJI, one of the most amazing islands in the South Pacific. I am taking myself there as a present for the hard work I've been putting into things since arriving back. I am going alone, and as you all know, I LOVE being alone when I travel! he he he

Annie's new baby is due in December which is going to be another little bundle of joy. As for Charlotte, she is still the shining light in my life. I come down and see her every week and we have a ritual where I take her out for a milkshake every Sunday morning, just her and I. She is nearly two! Can you believe how time has flown? I remember coming home from the UK to find a baby... a year later and she has become my little companion.

Stay tuned for photos!

My New Hobby - Cooking!

2007-07-16T03:26:00.000-07:00

Well I am now 27 years old. Ugh. Frightening. One step closer to thirty!

Enough of the complaining. Check out my cullinary delights that I cooked over the weekend for my family dinner. And what does a photographer do with her new found hobby? She photographs!!!

Oven baked baby potatoes sprinkled with rosemary and italian herbs.

Crunky grilled asparagus with butter dripped over then

Grilled chilli-lime king prawns on skewers

Chargrilled veggies - eggplant, capsicum, beans and carrot.

Charlotte enjoying birthday cake (couldnt resist).

It was wonderful to share my birthday with the family after last year being away from them.

Our Girl, Pasha

2007-06-29T23:48:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, I travelled up for work to Newcastle. On my way, I visited Australia's newest tourist attraction, the Pasha Bulker. See below or http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pasha_bulker for exactly who Pasha is!

The following information has been taken from www.wikipedia.com:

The MV Pasha Bulker is a 76,741 tonne deadweight Panamax bulk carrier operated by the Lauritzen Bulkers Shipping company and owned by Japanese Disponent Owners.[1] While waiting in the open ocean outside the harbour to load coal the Pasha Bulker ran aground during a major storm on June 8, 2007 on Nobbys Beach in Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.

Early on the morning of 8 June 2007, Newcastle Port Corporation radioed the 56 moored ships waiting off the coast to load coal to warn them to move out to sea to escape the approaching storm.[3] The Pasha Bulker along with 10 other ships did not heed the warning. As the storm hit the Pasha Bulker could not clear the coast and it became beached at 9:15am. The ship never called for tug boat assistance, ran aground with a fully operational engine room and still had both anchors stored in the hawsepipe leading some maritime experts to believe that proper precautions were not taken by the ship's captain.[4]

After the Pasha Bulker ran aground the 22 Filipino and Korean crew members aboard were successfully rescued by the Westpac Rescue helicopter service from the vessel, however it remains grounded about 30m from the shore at the popular Nobbys Beach.[5][6] The ship was empty of any cargo at the time, awaiting to load 58,000 tonnes of coal from Newcastle Port.[7] However, it does contain around 700 tonnes of fuel oil, 38 tonnes of diesel and 40 tonnes of lube oil, which if released could cause a major ecological disaster.

Wetting Myself Laughing

2007-06-24T01:44:00.000-07:00

www.kinsellalaw.com/audio/voicemessage.wav was posted on http://www.inhouseblog.com/2005/01/benefits_of_bei.html, which is a inhouse lawyer blog which is freaking hilarious.

Be careful, the audio has a few "f" words, so kids, dont listen.

Adults, have a giggle at just how funny lawyers can be.

New Hair

2007-06-17T04:08:00.001-07:00

2007-06-16T00:31:00.001-07:00

Random Outburst of Negativity

2007-06-14T21:52:00.000-07:00

I usually keep my whinges and complaints quiet on this blog. I figure there is enough negativity in the world and on the internet that I dont need to contribute.

However, tonight, if I dont find some kind of forum just to.... write... then I'll probably implode. Or atleast stew over everything and not get any sleep.

The issue is that I am tired. Sick and tired. Literally. As in, a couple of days ago, I had a tummy bug. Tonight, I feel a cold coming on. Last week I was in tears because of the pressure I've been carrying around and not releasing. Its 9pm and I am only just sitting down to dinner. Soon, I will crawl into bed and its back to square one tomorrow.

The problem is that even I am starting to get tired of hearing myself complain. Once upon a time, I'd get asked how I am going, and I'd smile and say "yeh, I'm doing okay" or, "super, I'm doing just fine". Thats because I dislike people who complain and complain and complain. I always try to be pretty chirpy around people because I figure people deserve to be nice to each other and I dont ever want to cause people any harm.

However, my "yeh, I'm doing okay's" have turned into responses of "you know what? I'm tired. I'm sick. I'm really under pressure right now. Things arent so great."

I'm getting sick of complaining, and I am trying to deal with the fact that everyone around me is also struggling. It is true that my co-workers are under just as much pressure. They are tired too. They are over it as much as I am. And when there is just as many over-worked, frustrated people around you, who is left to listen to you about how tough things are for you personally?

There is the added issue of what I do for a living - in law, your job is to take stressful situations away from people and to deal with them on their behalf. Your job is to resolve conflict. People expect lawyers to be able to deal with the garbage because its just what we "do". That is true to some extent, and while we can usually tough things out, there's a point where it gets us down. Right now, I'm fed up with just how nasty people can be, how people treat other people, the power struggles, the politics, the lies and all of the other habits that nasty people have.

I'm just sick. Sick and tired right now. But how is my sickness and tiredness any different to the next over-worked person and the next?

Old Australia

2007-06-13T21:40:00.000-07:00

Australia is a baby when it comes to "history". While the Aboriginals have been in Australia for many centuries, Australia was technically only settled in 1788 (I say technically, because as always, there's two sides to the story - a legal debate I will one day enter into on this blog, but not tonight!). Built in 1803, Vaucluse House is one of the older buildings in Sydney, being the home of William Charles Wentworth, 'father' of the first Constitution for New South Wales. And if that doesnt really matter, it makes for great photos. On the weekend, there was an art exhibition from the local university in the remains of the stables...

Woof

2007-06-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

Vaucluse, Sydney

2007-06-13T21:01:00.000-07:00

Its only when I get out with my camera do I realise just how lucky I am to live in such a beautiful country. These photos were taken 5 - 10 mins from where I live now, and I believe that this area is one of the most scenic places in Sydney. It had just finished raining the night before and I (and the city's dogs) had a great time playing with the puddles!

Chilling.... Live

2007-06-09T18:02:00.000-07:00

Yikes its cold at the moment. And the weather has been terrible here in New South Wales.... 6 people dead due to flooding, and our offices up in Newcastle are completely destroyed as a result. So much work to do to clean up...! Spirits are reasonably high though. I also managed to put some pictures up!

Beautiful Hahndorf, Adelaide

2007-06-09T12:59:00.000-07:00

The little country town of Hahndorf was founded in the early 1800's when German Lutherans arrived after fleeing persecution in Germany. Hence, while its called Hahndorf, and why it looks so german. That said, it still has a lovely touch of Australian colonialism.

Familiar Territory

2007-06-05T05:51:00.000-07:00

I write this at Sydney Airport, surrounded by excited travellers with boarding passes in hand. It reminds me of "those" days, when Kate was On The Go. Each airport signified a new adventure or the end of one, where one day I would be in Sweden and the next I would be Italy. Oh, I look on those days so fondly and I know that it wont be long before I cease this whole lawyer game and go back to travelling on a full time basis! Looking back at travelling, my days were a lot simpler, thats for sure. Its not the say that my days now are any less exciting (I do actually love what I do), I guess travelling was not as stressful, or complex!

Kate in On the Go for the next two days, travelling to one of Australia's most boring states, South Australia. Okay, that is a little unfair. I know that South Australia has a lot of famous places, including the Barossa Valley, the heartland of Australian Wine, and it has Adelaide, its capital city, the city of Churches. I'm taking my camera down and am hoping to get some time out to take some photos... of churches, I guess.

Thank you thank you thank you for everyone that has come and flocked back to this crazy little page. I knew my friends would never leave me! Lives move on, but good friends never do! (Annie doesnt count, cause she is my family and she'll never move on!).

A blog entry would not be a blog entry without a gush about my gorgeous little neice, Charlotte. Well, she is some little lady now. Not talking as yet, but as mum says, she's never met a family member of ours who couldnt talk - we all can talk underwater with marbles in our mouths! Charlotte knows every animal of the farmyard, knows each colour of the rainbow and can point to her eyes, ears, mouth, nose, hair, teeth, fingers, hands... you catch my drift!

Ahhhh... the smell of jet fuel enters my nostrils and I know I'm back On the Go!

Watch this space for Adelaide pics!

K

Woohoo! She Is Back!

2007-06-02T19:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am back online and ready to write again.

The last four months have been a blur. I was living at home and feeling like I was out of the loop with society. I was living life 7am - 9pm and going to sleep in order just to wake up and do it again.

Not anymore.

The good news is that I decided that moving into the city was the only option. I now live in the heart of the city (well nearly) and feel like I have a few extra hours in my day which means.... its time to get back online and to start photographing again!!!

Please please everyone come back and see me, say hello and tell me that you are all still out there.... please? hello?

Coming Soon...

2007-06-02T02:43:00.001-07:00

Photos from the gorgeous suburbs of Sydney....

And photos from Adelaide, the Garden State of Australia!

Stay Tuned!

Happy Easter Everyone!

2007-04-06T18:56:00.000-07:00

Merry Easter...!

Finally, I have been able to find the time to sit and write, post a few photos and thank those who are still coming to this site regularly to see whether I have posted. I am still a faithful blogger, however, just as I expected, work doesnt leave much time to post, or play for that matter.

I am enjoying life a little more now. Charlotte is still being ultra cute and is growing up at the rate of knots. I've attached a couple of photos from when my sister and I took her on an Easter Egg Hunt, with a couple of children. She is now walking and running like an expert and she caught onto the "finding easter eggs" concept pretty easily!

Even Though My Days Are Tough....

2007-02-24T21:31:00.000-08:00

When I have worked 14 hours, when its gone dark and I am the only fool still in the office, when everyone has gone home, it is hard to stop and think "how could I have given up the freedom and independence of travel for this??".

I remember Scotland, the fun I had, the travel through France, the wonderful days in Sweden, and its usually just as I am climbing out of bed to go to work at ungodly hours of the morning, that I cant help but experience a tiny bit of sadness.

Sure, my quality of life is pretty dismal at the moment. I wake up at 6am, and I am home by 9pm. I'm living a life of continuous meetings, endless cups of coffee and uncomfortably high heels. I feel as though I havent seen hardly any of my friends in weeks, and there hasnt been a night that I havent fallen into bed with mentla and physical exhaustion.
But not once have i ever regretted coming home.

I am witnessing my little baby neice grow up to become a gorgeous little girl. A little bundle of fearless, energetic joy. I dont think I have ever come across a child that has so much personality, and so much enthusiasm for discovery. She makes every hard day at work seem worth it, because I am here in Australia now, instead of being so far away. I know I babble on about her a lot, but when life is so full of complexity (even more so now with the new job), Charlotte simplifies everything. When your day is filled with a bunch of adults fighting over stupid legal issues, coming home to see that gummy smile the instant she recognises you, melts my heart and makes everything worth it.

When I see her playing with other children, I cant help but feel proud of her. My sister has done a wonderful job at making her into an outgoing, fiesty little girl who wants to be friends with everyone (even when they dont neccesarily want to be friends with her!). She walks up to kids randomly and just smiles at them, with her toothy little smile.

From this entry, you all must think I dont like my job. You're wrong. I love it. I've always loved the profession, the challenge of it. I am right for the job. I am handling the work, the responsibility and everyday I'm thrilled by whatever comes my way. But my love for the job was partly the reason why I gave it up way back in January 2006 for what I thought would be a few years. Now, it appears that the profession has lured me back after only nine months. Is that a sign that this is my fate? That this is what I am truly meant to be doing in life?

Frustratingly though, when I work, I love it so much and I am so passionate about it that I give 110%. Which means that I dont necessarily get that work/life balance that is required to remain healthy and happy. Circumstances have meant that since starting work, its been so busy that any hope of a work/life balance has disappeared temporarily. The highs that come with being in an executive role lasts right up until you get to late at night, when you are still churning out the work, when everyone is at home with their family and friends.

However, once I settle in, I am determined to get my life back on track again!

(pictures above are of charlotte and my sister, Annie).

She Loves Books

2007-02-24T21:19:00.000-08:00

She's going to be a lawyer, like her Aunty.

I'm Alive and Well

2007-02-18T21:26:00.000-08:00

You will all be pleased to know that I have survived my first two weeks of work..... barely. Three days into the job and a sudden legal crisis hit and ever since then, I've been pulling 14 hour days and this weekend was spent at the office. I'm enjoying the job, but being back into the corporate world, its long days, its office politics, etc, its been a bit of a culture shock!

All is well. Thanks for coming back and checking my blog still, even though i havent been such a regular blogger of late!

I'm A Motivator!

2007-02-05T21:17:00.000-08:00

I am so glad to hear that some of you are a little inspired by my fitness information.

Did you know that within four weeks of an established fitness regime, you begin to notice a real difference in your level of fitness?

Did you know that within twelve weeks, your body shape can begin to change dramatically?

My problem (and every one elses) is that I start a fitness regime and a few weeks later, i lose the motivation to work hard. I still exercise, but I dont do it as regularly, or as intensly as what I had done at the beginning. I begin not to do the right stretches, I get lazy with weights, and my eating isnt as healthy.

But the key to it is (apparently, so I have read) that you have to change your mindset along with your body.

Its no use going and saying "I'm going to go on a diet for two months" or "I am going to stay on a diet until I get down to a size ---".

I've said it before - FITNESS IS FOR LIFE!

So I am focusing on getting into a routine at the gym, and keeping it. Fitness HAS to remain a part of my every day life because my health depends on it. I will die if I dont look after my body. People DIE if they dont look after their bodies. Scary, huh!

Keep up the exercise everyone and I promise to as well!

Beat Those Myths!

2007-02-01T20:29:00.000-08:00

Fitness Tips - 10 Exercise Myths

Although some old fitness fictions, such as "no pain, no gain" and "spot reducing" are fading fast, plenty of popular exercise misconceptions still exist. Here are some of the most common myths as well as the not-so-common facts based on current exercise research.

You Will Burn More Fat If You Exercise Longer at a Lower Intensity.

The most important focus in exercise and fat weight control is not the percentage of exercise energy coming from fat but the total energy cost, or how many calories are burned during the activity. The faster you walk, step or run, for example, the more calories you use per minute. However, high-intensity exercise is difficult to sustain if you are just beginning or returning to exercise, so you may not exercise very long at this level. It is safer, and more practical, to start out at a lower intensity and work your way up gradually.
If You're Not Going to Work Out Hard and Often, Exercise Is a Waste of Time.

This kind of thinking keeps a lot of people from maintaining or even starting an exercise program. Research continues to show that any exercise is better than none. For example, regular walking or gardening for as little as an hour a week has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Yoga Is a Completely Gentle and Safe Exercise.

Yoga is an excellent form of exercise, but some styles are quite rigorous and demanding both physically and mentally. As with any form of exercise, qualified, careful instruction is necessary for a safe, effective workout.
If You Exercise Long and Hard Enough, You Will Always Get the Results You Want.

In reality, genetics plays an important role in how people respond to exercise. Studies have shown a wide variation in how different exercisers respond to the same training program. Your development of strength, speed and endurance may be very different from that of other people you know.
Exercise Is One Sure Way to Lose All the Weight You Desire.

As with all responses to exercise, weight gain or loss is impacted by many factors, including dietary intake and genetics. All individuals will not lose the same amount of weight on the same exercise program. It is possible to be active and overweight. However, although exercise alone cannot guarantee your ideal weight, regular physical activity is one of the most important factors for successful long-term weight management.
If You Want to Lose Weight, Stay Away From Strength Training Because You Will Bulk Up.

Most exercise experts believe that cardiovascular exercise and strength training are both valuable for maintaining a healthy weight. Strength training helps maintain muscle mass and decrease body fat percentage.
Water Fitness Programs Are Primarily for Older People or Exercisers With Injuries.

Recent research has shown that water fitness programs can be highly challenging and effective for both improving fitness and losing weight. Even top athletes integrate water fitness workouts into their training programs.
The Health and Fitness Benefits of Mind-Body Exercise Like Tai Chi and Yoga Are Questionable.

In fact, research showing the benefits of these exercises continues to grow. Tai chi, for example, has been shown to help treat low-back pain and fibromyalgia. Improved flexibility, balance, coordination, posture, strength and stress management are just some of the potential results of mind-body exercise.
Overweight People Are Unlikely to Benefit Much From Exercise.

Studies show that obese people who participate in regular exercise programs have a lower risk of all-cause mortality than sedentary individuals, regardless of weight. Both men and women of all sizes and fitness levels can improve their health with modest increases in activity.
Home Workouts Are Fine, But Going to a Gym Is the Best Way to Get Fit.

Research has shown that some people find it easier to stick to a home-based fitness program. In spite of all the hype on trendy exercise programs and facilities, the "best" program for you is the one you will participate in consistently.

http://www.femail.com.au/exercisemyths.htm

Cardio Training - Get Your Heart Rate Up!

2007-02-01T20:25:00.000-08:00

http://www.free-online-health.com/cardiovascular-fitness-programs.htm

Sample Cardio Fitness Programs

*Always consult your Doctor before starting an exercise program!

Program 1

Warm up and stretch for 5-10 minutes.
Jog for 100m, walk for 200m.
Repeat 5 times.
Always complete a warm down before finishing the session.

Program 2

Choose a piece of cardiovascular equipment (eg, Bike, Rower, etc.)
Warm up and stretch for 5-10 minutes.
Complete 2 minutes at 85%, then 2 minutes at 60%.
Repeat 4 times.
Increase the high intensity section and keep the low intensity section the same as it becomes easier.
Always complete a warm down before finishing the session.

Program 3

Warm up and stretch for 5-10 minutes.
Complete the following intervals 4 times: 1 minute at 90%, 2 minutes at 60%.
Increase the high intensity section and keep the low intensity section the same as it becomes easier.
Always complete a warm down before finishing the session.

Program 4

Indoor Cardio Circuit:

Warm up and stretch for 5-10 minutes.
Choose 3 pieces of Cardio equipment (eg, Bike, Treadmill, Rower).
Complete 2 circuits of the machines spending 5 minutes on each machine, each time. (eg. 5min on bike, then treadmill, then rower, at the first intensity. Then go through again at the second intensity).
Spend first circuit at 60%-70% HRmax.
Spend second circuit at 70%-80% HRmax.
Always complete a warm down before finishing the session.

Cardio Programs For the Fit Only

Program 1

Warm up and stretch for 5-10 minutes.
Complete the following intervals 5 times: 4 minute at 90%, 2 minutes at 60%.
Always complete a warm down before finishing the session.

Program 2

Indoor Cardio Circuit:

Warm up and stretch for 5-10 minutes.
Choose 3-4 pieces of Cardio equipment (eg, Stepper, Bike, Treadmill, Rower).
Complete 3 circuits of the machines spending 5 minutes on each machine, each time (eg. 5min on bike, then stepper, then treadmill, then rower, at the first intensity. Then go through again at the next intensity, and so on).
Spend first circuit at 60%-70% HRmax.
Spend second circuit at 70%-80% HRmax.
Spend third circuit at 80%-90% HRmax.
Always complete a warm down before finishing the session.

Program 3

Warm up and stretch for 5-10 minutes.
Complete the following intervals 5 times: 400m at 90%, 400m at 60%.
Always complete a warm down before finishing the session.

Program 4

Warm up and stretch for 5-10 minutes.
Complete the following intervals 5 times: 2min at 85%, 2min at 75%.
Walk for 10 minutes.
Complete intervals again.
Always complete a warm down before finishing the session.

Program 5

Warm up and stretch for 5-10 minutes.
Complete the following intervals 5 times: Sprint 400m then jog until heart rate reaches 70% HRmax.
After the 5 intervals, walk for 5 minutes.
Repeat intervals.
Always complete a warm down before finishing the session.

Fitness Is My New Priority

2007-02-01T19:32:00.000-08:00

The Biggest Loser, one of my favourite television shows, is back on as of Sunday. It shows several very very overweight people and their quest for weight loss - the proper way. No gimmicks, no medication, just plain old hard work.

Channelling My Inner Madonna

2007-02-01T18:24:00.000-08:00

I blame the champagne.

Well Chuffed

2007-01-30T21:22:00.000-08:00

I'm well chuffed, I am.

My sister scored me an entire apartment worth of matching furniture on ebay for $100. BARGAIN! Now all I need is a house to put it all in!!!!

I love family.

Photos of Canberra

2007-01-30T20:27:00.000-08:00

On Australia Day (26th Jan), I happened to pass through our nation's capital, Canberra, on the way out to the country for a friend's wedding. I took my camera - of course.

Parliament House, looking down Anzac Parade

The War Memorial - the Roll of Honour (those that have died at war for Australia)

Once again looking down Anzac Parade, from the steps of the War Memorial

2007-01-30T20:15:00.000-08:00

Black and White Photos from the War Memorial, Canberra

2007-01-30T18:20:00.000-08:00

Drought affected Australia - the country side is so dry its heartbreaking.

New Car!

2007-01-21T19:05:00.000-08:00

A new job = A new car!

Finally, I Can Tell You My Good News

2007-01-17T21:02:00.000-08:00

I've had to keep it a secret for a week or so, because I had to wait until it was finalised but I have some very very good news.

I have been appointed as "Legal Counsel" for the Australian/New Zealand arm of a global company (cant tell you which one for obvious reasons!).

I certainly didnt plan on coming back and taking on such a huge role so soon, but the opportunity has arisen and its a role which is very much what I have always been looking for.

It is going to be very tough, and I dont know what it will mean in terms of blogging, and whether or not I am going to be able to continue blogging as much as I do now, if at all. I dont start for another 3 weeks, but I just thought I would share the great news, and warn you that KateOnTheGo may be winding down. Maybe I can set up another blog, for my photography, so that I dont lose touch with everyone.

So, maybe coming back to Australia wasnt planned, but was meant to be. Who knows. Time will tell. I'm just excited that I have been given this opportunity at such a young age, and at such a great time in my life where I can truly dedicate the time to doing well.

I've been DYING to tell you all but I had to wait. But the wait is over, and the countdown is on til "Start Date"!

The Results!

2007-01-16T22:49:00.000-08:00

Didnt do so well in the TV categories, but I went okay at the Movies!

MOVIES

BEST MOTION PICTURE DRAMA
Babel WINNER!
Bobby
The Departed
Little Children
The Queen

BEST MOTION PICTURE MUSICAL OR COMEDY
Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan
The Devil Wears Prada
Dreamgirls WINNER!
Little Miss Sunshine
Thank You for Smoking

BEST ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE DRAMA
Leonardo DiCaprio, Blood Diamond
Leonardo DiCaprio, The Departed
Peter O'Toole, Venus
Will Smith, The Pursuit of Happyness
Forest Whitaker, The Last King of Scotland WINNER!

BEST ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE DRAMA
Penélope Cruz, Volver
Judi Dench, Notes on a Scandal
Maggie Gyllenhaal, Sherrybaby
Helen Mirren, The Queen WINNER!
Kate Winslet, Little Children

BEST ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE MUSICAL OR COMEDY
Sacha Baron Cohen, Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan WINNER!
Johnny Depp, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Aaron Eckhart, Thank You for Smoking
Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kinky Boots
Will Ferrell, Stranger Than Fiction

BEST ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE MUSICAL OR COMEDY
Annette Bening, Running With Scissors
Toni Collette, Little Miss Sunshine [GO AUSSIE!]
Beyoncé Knowles, Dreamgirls
Meryl Streep, The Devil Wears Prada WINNER!
Renée Zellweger, Miss Potter

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE
Ben Affleck, Hollywoodland
Eddie Murphy, Dreamgirls WINNER!
Jack Nicholson, The Departed
Brad Pitt, Babel
Mark Wahlberg, The Departed

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE
Adriana Barraza, Babel
Cate Blanchett, Notes on a Scandal [GO AUSSIE - CB IS THE BEST ACTRESS ON THE PLANET]
Emily Blunt, The Devil Wears Prada
Jennifer Hudson, Dreamgirls [Jen will most likely get it, but I am biased Aussie] WINNER!
Rinko Kikuchi, Babel

BEST DIRECTOR
Clint Eastwood, Flags of Our Fathers
Clint Eastwood, Letters From Iwo Jima
Stephen Frears, The Queen
Alejandro González Iñárritu, Babel
Martin Scorsese, The Departed WINNER!!!!!!!

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE
Cars WINNER!
Happy Feet [GO AUSSIES!]
Monster House

BEST FOREIGN-LANGUAGE FILM
Apocalypto
Letters From Iwo Jima WINNER!
The Lives of Others
Pan's Labyrinth
Volver

BEST SCREENPLAY
Babel
Little Children
Notes on a Scandal
The Departed
The Queen WINNER!!!

ORIGINAL SCORE [ER... no freakin idea!]
Babel [just a guess!]
The Da Vinci Code
The Fountain
Nomad
The Painted Veil WINNER!!

ORIGINAL SONG
''A Father's Way,'' The Pursuit of Happyness
''Listen,'' Dreamgirls''
Never Gonna Break My Faith,'' Bobby'
'The Song of the Heart,'' Happy Feet'' [GO AUSSIES!] WINNER!
Try Not to Remember,'' Home of the Brave

TV

BEST DRAMA TV SERIES
24
Big Love
Grey's Anatomy WINNER!
Heroes
Lost

BEST ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES
Patrick Dempsey, Grey's Anatomy WINNER!
Michael C. Hall, Dexter
Hugh Laurie, House WINNER!
Bill Paxton, Big Love
Kiefer Sutherland, 24

BEST ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES
Patricia Arquette, Medium
Edie Falco, The Sopranos
Evangeline Lilly, Lost
Ellen Pompeo, Grey's Anatomy
Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer WINNER!

BEST MUSICAL OR COMEDY TV SERIES
Desperate Housewives
Entourage
The Office
Ugly Betty WINNER!
Weeds

BEST ACTOR IN A MUSICAL OR COMEDY TV SERIES
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock WINNER!
Zach Braff, Scrubs
Steve Carrell, The Office
Jason Lee, My Name Is Earl
Tony Shalhoub, Monk

BEST ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL OR COMEDY TV SERIES
Marcia Cross, Desperate Housewives
America Ferrera, Ugly Betty WINNER!
Felicity Huffman, Desperate Housewives
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, The New Adventures of Old Christine
Mary-Louise Parker, Weeds

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A SERIES, MINISERIES, OR TV MOVIE
Thomas Haden Church, Broken Trails
Jeremy Irons, Elizabeth I WINNER!
Justin Kirk, Weeds
Masi Oka, Heroes
Jeremy Piven, Entourage

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A SERIES, MINISERIES, OR TV MOVIE
Emily Blunt, Gideon's Daughter WINNER!
Toni Collette, Tsunami, the Aftermath
Katherine Heigl, Grey's Anatomy
Sarah Paulson, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Elizabeth Perkins, Weeds

BEST MINISERIES OR TV MOVIE
Bleak House
Broken Trail
Elizabeth I WINNER!
Mrs. Harris
Prime Suspect: The Final Act [sentimental favourite!]

BEST ACTOR IN A MINISERIES OR TV MOVIE
Andre Braugher, Thief
Robert Duvall, Broken Trails
Michael Ealy, Sleeper Cell: American Terror
Chiwetel Ejiofor, Tsunami, the Aftermath
Ben Kingsley, Mrs. Harris
Bill Nighy, Gideon's Daughter WINNER!
Matthew Perry, The Ron Clark Story

BEST ACTRESS IN A MINISERIES OR TV MOVIE
Gillian Anderson, Bleak House
Annette Bening, Mrs. Harris
Helen Mirren, Elizabeth I WINNER!
Helen Mirren, Prime Suspect: The Final Act
Sophie Okonedo, Tsunami, the Aftermath

"Can I Have a Mop & Bucket To Aisle Four PLEASE???"

2007-01-14T00:19:00.000-08:00

Annie has written her finest blog entry to date at www.shehassomethingtosay.blogspot.com.

Its a fantastic ode to why Charlotte will be staying with Aunty KateOnTheGo next week while mummy goes to the grocery store.

ehehehe delightful.

Sad News

2007-01-14T00:04:00.000-08:00

One of EC's blogging mates passed away after a long battle with cancer. I have decided to pay my respects by linking to his website, onto a page which outlines his story. I dont know him, and unfortunately, i never got to read his blog entries, but i will take the time to now read his site, for as long as it remains.

http://www.cancergiggles.blog-city.com/live_with_cancer_1.htm

Even through death, let us find some joy.

The Greatest Joy

2007-01-13T00:19:00.000-08:00

I think that the greatest thing on earth is watching a baby turn into a little adult.

Charlotte is doing some amazing things these days. She is going through a period where things are starting to make sense. She is copying sounds, becoming attached to certain books, and the most special of all - walking!

Yes, Charlotte is walking. She is walking between people, say, five or six steps or more each time. We usually have to hold her upright and make sure she is stable, but if her mum or dad is a few steps away, she will walk across to them on her own. As she walks, she squeals in delight and laughs. Sometimes, if she is squealing or giggling too much, she loses balance. Its hilarious. When she is successful, she has the proudest look on her face every time she reaches her destination!

What a delight!

And I would have missed all of this had I been in Whistler.

Gold, Gold, Gold

2007-01-12T13:11:00.000-08:00

Yes, folks, to prove just how much time I have on my hands these days, I am proud to present my Golden Globe Predictions. Please note that these are based on absolutely no information about most nominees, I have not seen most of the films/tv shows listed, and I tend to go with names I like best rather than careful, well thought out critiques on performances.

So here we go. Remember, you heard it here first! [predicted winners in red]

MOVIES

BEST MOTION PICTURE DRAMA
Babel
Bobby
The Departed
Little Children
The Queen

BEST MOTION PICTURE MUSICAL OR COMEDY
Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan
The Devil Wears Prada
Dreamgirls
Little Miss Sunshine
Thank You for Smoking

BEST ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE DRAMA
Leonardo DiCaprio, Blood Diamond
Leonardo DiCaprio, The Departed
Peter O'Toole, Venus
Will Smith, The Pursuit of Happyness
Forest Whitaker, The Last King of Scotland

BEST ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE DRAMA
Penélope Cruz, Volver
Judi Dench, Notes on a Scandal
Maggie Gyllenhaal, Sherrybaby
Helen Mirren, The Queen
Kate Winslet, Little Children

BEST ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE MUSICAL OR COMEDY
Sacha Baron Cohen, Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan
Johnny Depp, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Aaron Eckhart, Thank You for Smoking
Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kinky Boots
Will Ferrell, Stranger Than Fiction

BEST ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE MUSICAL OR COMEDY
Annette Bening, Running With Scissors
Toni Collette, Little Miss Sunshine [GO AUSSIE!]
Beyoncé Knowles, Dreamgirls
Meryl Streep, The Devil Wears Prada
Renée Zellweger, Miss Potter

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE
Ben Affleck, Hollywoodland
Eddie Murphy, Dreamgirls
Jack Nicholson, The Departed
Brad Pitt, Babel
Mark Wahlberg, The Departed

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE
Adriana Barraza, Babel
Cate Blanchett, Notes on a Scandal [GO AUSSIE - CB IS THE BEST ACTRESS ON THE PLANET]
Emily Blunt, The Devil Wears Prada
Jennifer Hudson, Dreamgirls [Jen will most likely get it, but I am biased Aussie]
Rinko Kikuchi, Babel

BEST DIRECTOR
Clint Eastwood, Flags of Our Fathers
Clint Eastwood, Letters From Iwo Jima
Stephen Frears, The Queen
Alejandro González Iñárritu, Babel
Martin Scorsese, The Departed

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE
Cars
Happy Feet [GO AUSSIES!]
Monster House

BEST FOREIGN-LANGUAGE FILM
Apocalypto
Letters From Iwo Jima
The Lives of Others
Pan's Labyrinth
Volver

BEST SCREENPLAY
Babel
Little Children
Notes on a Scandal
The Departed
The Queen

ORIGINAL SCORE [ER... no freakin idea!]
Babel [just a guess!]
The Da Vinci Code
The Fountain
Nomad
The Painted Veil

ORIGINAL SONG
''A Father's Way,'' The Pursuit of Happyness
''Listen,'' Dreamgirls''
Never Gonna Break My Faith,'' Bobby'
'The Song of the Heart,'' Happy Feet'' [GO AUSSIES!]
Try Not to Remember,'' Home of the Brave

TV

BEST DRAMA TV SERIES
24
Big Love
Grey's Anatomy
Heroes
Lost

BEST ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES
Patrick Dempsey, Grey's Anatomy
Michael C. Hall, Dexter
Hugh Laurie, House
Bill Paxton, Big Love
Kiefer Sutherland, 24

BEST ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES
Patricia Arquette, Medium
Edie Falco, The Sopranos
Evangeline Lilly, Lost
Ellen Pompeo, Grey's Anatomy
Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer

BEST MUSICAL OR COMEDY TV SERIES
Desperate Housewives
Entourage
The Office
Ugly Betty
Weeds

BEST ACTOR IN A MUSICAL OR COMEDY TV SERIES
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Zach Braff, Scrubs
Steve Carrell, The Office
Jason Lee, My Name Is Earl
Tony Shalhoub, Monk

BEST ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL OR COMEDY TV SERIES
Marcia Cross, Desperate Housewives
America Ferrera, Ugly Betty
Felicity Huffman, Desperate Housewives
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, The New Adventures of Old Christine
Mary-Louise Parker, Weeds

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A SERIES, MINISERIES, OR TV MOVIE
Thomas Haden Church, Broken Trails
Jeremy Irons, Elizabeth I
Justin Kirk, Weeds
Masi Oka, Heroes
Jeremy Piven, Entourage

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A SERIES, MINISERIES, OR TV MOVIE
Emily Blunt, Gideon's Daughter
Toni Collette, Tsunami, the Aftermath
Katherine Heigl, Grey's Anatomy
Sarah Paulson, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Elizabeth Perkins, Weeds

BEST MINISERIES OR TV MOVIE
Bleak House
Broken Trail
Elizabeth I
Mrs. Harris
Prime Suspect: The Final Act [sentimental favourite!]

BEST ACTOR IN A MINISERIES OR TV MOVIE
Andre Braugher, Thief
Robert Duvall, Broken Trails
Michael Ealy, Sleeper Cell: American Terror
Chiwetel Ejiofor, Tsunami, the Aftermath
Ben Kingsley, Mrs. Harris
Bill Nighy, Gideon's Daughter
Matthew Perry, The Ron Clark Story

BEST ACTRESS IN A MINISERIES OR TV MOVIE
Gillian Anderson, Bleak House
Annette Bening, Mrs. Harris
Helen Mirren, Elizabeth I
Helen Mirren, Prime Suspect: The Final Act
Sophie Okonedo, Tsunami, the Aftermath

Just remember, you heard it first HERE on kateonthego.blogspot.com. And I take no responsibility for the fact that all of these predications may be wrong wrong wrong!

Blog Hoare

2007-01-10T21:14:00.000-08:00

Not having a job at the moment means lots and lots of time to read peoples blogs. And there are so many interesting people about! Seriously. Blogging just doesnt stop at mad-nutters and boat-owners (reference to sister blog: www.ihaveaboat.blogspot.com).

EVERYONE SEEMS SO MUCH MORE INTERESTING

Reading people's blogs gets me all depressed. KateOnTheGo was established to share all of my wonderful travel stories. Now, the only travelling I am doing is a train ride to job interviews.

Yes, KateOnTheGo is (Not So) OnTheGo anymore.

Words

2007-01-10T18:42:00.000-08:00

She's had something to say today: www.shehassomethingtosay.blogspot.com

What Is My Worth?

2007-01-10T18:09:00.000-08:00

Today has been a day of discussions about salary. Money money money. How much am I asking for? What would someone in my position usually get paid? What was I getting? What is my limit? What would I be prepared to accept?

Money

Money

Money

When I was ruffing it in Thailand, I didnt give two wotsits about money. A massage cost me $3 an hour. Having my toes painted cost me $2. When travelling in Scotland, all I cared about was beer. Beer and saving enough money for a ticket home. Now I've been thrown back into a world of corporate deals, salary negotiations and more deals.

I'm worth a comfortable bed to sleep in at night. I'm worth a plate of dinner. Maybe if I stretch it far enough, I'm worth a gym membership. I dont ever want to have to define myself by the amount of money I make. But when it comes down to it...

..... what are we REALLY all worth?

2007-01-09T21:55:00.000-08:00

Me. On New Years.

2007-01-09T21:17:00.000-08:00

Cause Im worth it!

Its a Mad Mad World

2007-01-09T19:19:00.000-08:00

*sigh*

I'm sitting in my room listening to my mother talk to my cat. Here is an example of some of the comments she has made.

"Here. Pilchards. There's no gravy on these pilchards to lick off, i'm afraid." [citing her annoyance at Tigger for licking all the gravy off his dinner and then walking away]

"No. I'm not listening. I'm over you." [citing her annoyance at Tigger's constant whinging]

"This isnt a drive thru cafe, you know." [citing her annoyance at Tigger walking in and out of the house at his own leisure].

"You piddle in that room and you die, cat." [citing her annoyance at Tigger continually looking for places around the house to wee]

"Yeah, dont whinge to me, mate." [enough said]

Water Therapy

2007-01-09T15:53:00.000-08:00

There is something therapeutic about swimming up and down a 25m pool. The arms burn, the lungs heave but the water feels so fresh around you. Sixty laps and I was out of the pool, feeling fit again.

2007-01-09T12:10:00.000-08:00

Live: Sydney

2007-01-09T11:51:00.000-08:00

I'm in a pickle.

Career opportunities are beginning to pop up now that I've got my CV out to agencies. Big firms, little firms, firms firms firms.

Am I ready to settle back down in Sydney?

I feel like I am. I was ready in November. And Whistler showed me I was ready in December.

But when it all comes down to picking the job, am I committed enough to put in the hard yards again? Lets say a get offered a big job with a big pay check. That would allow me to really get ahead here in Sydney - a house, a car. Its so easy to want something when you dont have it.

Alphabet

2007-01-08T21:43:00.000-08:00

I stole this from http://confessionsofangel.blogspot.com/

A - Available/Single? Single since Owen.
B - Best Friend? My sister.
C - Cake or Pie? Ummm.. cake. I think.
D - Drink Of Choice? Water.
E - Essential Item You Use Everyday? LAPTOP!
F - Favorite Color? Sunshine yellow.
G - Gummy Bears Or Worms? Gimme the Gummies!
H - Home or Homesick? Homesick (oh how that has changed!)
I - Indulgence? A Spa Treatment.
J - January Or February? Feb. Jan is booooring.
K - Kids & Their Names? no kids, but an adorable neice Charlotte.
L - Life Is Incomplete Without? Family.
M - Marriage date? When hell freezes over.
N - Number Of Siblings? One. Annie.
O - Oranges Or Apples? Apples.
P - Phobias/Fears? Death.
Q - Favorite Quote? "The Village called. They want their idiot back" (saw it the other day on a t-shirt! heheh)
R - Reason to Smile? Charlotte.
S - Season? Spring
T - Tag 3 or 4 people? Eh?
U - Unknown Fact About Me? See below. There's 20 of them.
V - Vegetable you don’t like? brussel sprouts
W - Worst Habit? Untidiness.
X - X-rays You’ve Had? Mammogram. Ankle. That's it.
Y - Your Favorite Food? Pizza.
Z - Zodiac Sign? Cancerian.

20 Random Facts About Me

2007-01-08T21:17:00.001-08:00

1. I cant write neatly unless I use a felt tip pen.

2. I wear orthotics in my running shoes.

3. I love sparkling wine.

4. I have three clocks in my room, all of them set at wrong times.

5. I cannot go to sleep unless I have a pillow over my head (no, i'm serious).

6. I do not watch television.

7. I can eat an entire watermelon in a day.

8. I never put my CDs back in their CD covers.

9. I prefer soda water over sparkling mineral water.

10. I cannot fall asleep if I need to go to the bathroom.

11. I sometimes dont brush my teeth at night (gasp) but never forget in the morning.

12. I hate drinking ice cold water after chewing mint flavoured gum. My mouth burns.

13. I rarely read a novel from start to finish.

14. I still hope that Justin Timberlake will marry Britney Spears.

15. I wear fake tan when I can be bothered putting it on.

16. This year, I didnt make new years resolutions.

17. I have a wastepaper basket in the shape of a chicken egg.

18. I am not sure if I believe in life after death.

19. I would like to have babies with Wentworth Miller.

20. This year I plan to set up a trust fund for Charlotte.

Life Can Sometimes Be A Real Bitch

2007-01-08T20:50:00.000-08:00

Yup.

It can.

And I am often (in my own quiet way) the first to admit that I drew a freakin short straw in this life.

But then I read something, just a paragraph of a blog, from another person in this community. A cancer battler. And I think, my gosh, look at me. 26. Educated. Loved. And on my way back to healthy.

I am the moon....

2007-01-08T08:38:00.000-08:00

I found this on http://frothonthedaydream.blogspot.com/

You are The Moon

Hope, expectation, Bright promises.

The Moon is a card of magic and mystery - when prominent you know that nothing is as it seems, particularly when it concerns relationships. All logic is thrown out the window.

The Moon is all about visions and illusions, madness, genius and poetry. This is a card that has to do with sleep, and so with both dreams and nightmares. It is a scary card in that it warns that there might be hidden enemies, tricks and falsehoods. But it should also be remembered that this is a card of great creativity, of powerful magic, primal feelings and intuition. You may be going through a time of emotional and mental trial; if you have any past mental problems, you must be vigilant in taking your medication but avoid drugs or alcohol, as abuse of either will cause them irreparable damage. This time however, can also result in great creativity, psychic powers, visions and insight. You can and should trust your intuition.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

30 Answers to 30 Questions

2007-01-07T22:25:00.000-08:00

(Stolen from my sister's blog - www.shehassomethingtosay.blogspot.com)

1. IF YOU COULD BUILD A HOUSE ANYWHERE, WHERE WOULD IT BE?
In Wanaka, New Zealand, overlooking the Southern Alps.

2. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ARTICLE OF CLOTHING?
My denim skirt (you can dress up, dress down, or just throw it on over a bikini!)

3. THE LAST CD YOU BOUGHT?
Er... nup. Dont buy. I just borrow them off my sister.

4. WHAT'S MOST IMPORTANT, STRONG IN MIND OR STRONG IN BODY?
Strong in mind, because strong minded people tend to understand the importance of being strong in body as well.

5. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE KITCHEN APPLIANCE?
The microwave. You name it, I can use the microwave to cook it.

6. WHAT MAKES YOU REALLY ANGRY?
Animal cruelty.

7. FAVORITE COLOR?
Yellloooow.

8. FAVORITE CHILDREN'S BOOK?
The Little Engine That Could..... my life story!

9. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEASON?
Spring.

10. IF YOU COULD HAVE ONE SUPER POWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Remove ignorance from everyone - that would then lead to less war, less damage to the climate, more assistance to the poor.

11. TATTOOS OR BODY-PIERCING?
I love a man with a tattoo on his arm. I admit, its true. But on me? I'll stick to my pierced navel.

12. THE ONE PERSON FROM YOUR PAST YOU WISH YOU COULD GO BACK AND TALK TO?
The last man that dumped me. Kidding. I would probably say.... my grandfathers.

13. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE DAY?
Every day is a blessing.

14. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CARTOON?
Creature Comforts.

15. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEAL?
Ummm... I'm loving Indian at the moment.

16. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW?
Fitness For Dummies.

17. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
Dont have one. i use my laptop's touch pad.

18. FUTURE CHILD'S NAME?
Lucky (he he no seriously).

19. CHOCOLATE OR VANILLA?
Strawberry

20. DO YOU LIKE THUNDERSTORMS?
So long as it brings rain to Australia.

21. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CAR?
A little red Proton hatchback. Was fast because it was red.

22. WHAT IS YOUR SIGN?
Stop Sign. Kidding. I'm cancerian.

23. DO YOU EAT THE STEMS OF BROCCOLI?
Yep. Gives you hair on your chest (thats what my mum told me).

24. IS THE GLASS HALF FULL OR HALF EMPTY?
Depends what drink is in it.

25. FAVOURITE PERFUME OR COLOGNE?
Oh wow... tough question. I am obsessed with good perfume. Issey Miyake, Cool Water for Women, Ralph Lauren Blue, Polo Sport for Women, All About Eve Joop, Ralph Lauren Glamourous... my perfume collection is out of control.

26. FAVORITE MOVIE?
Good Will Hunting.

27. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?
Rallying

28. THE BEST PLACE YOU HAVE EVER BEEN?
Venice, of course.

29. IF MONEY WERE NOT AN OBJECT, WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH YOUR LIFE?
Be a lawyer.

30. COKE OR PEPSI?
Water.

31. IS YOUR CALENDAR ALWAYS ON THE CORRECT MONTH?
I dont own a calendar... does Outlook count?

32. DESK: MESSY OR ORGANISED?
A complete and utter mess. A sign of genius, they say.

33. WHO WOULD YOU WANT TO PLAY YOU IN THE MOVIE ABOUT YOUR LIFE?
The girl that played Punky Brewster. Or maybe the one that played Annie. Failing that, I'll have to ask Julianne Moore - I was once told I look a bit like her (??!).

Introducing........

2007-01-07T17:49:00.000-08:00

A New Blog!

Annie, my sister, has finally begun her own blog. It remains to be seen how often she will post, but lets give her as much encouragement as possible! We all know what a fantastic writer she is.

http://www.shehassomethingtosay.blogspot.com/

Its Steamy In Here

2007-01-07T12:24:00.000-08:00

It is so humid today. We once again received rain, which is a really really good thing, given the country is in such serious drought. Its amazing when it rains. This morning, my parents and I sat out on the porch and watched the rain fall, and listened to the birds. When it rains, they squark in delight, and sit up on the street lights with their wings out, washing themselves in the water. Birds around here havent seen rain in a long time either. Its such a small, yet wonderful, delight.

Charlotte's First Swim!

2007-01-06T21:20:00.000-08:00

Charlotte loves the pool. It was her first real swim and she has already begun to kick her legs and float on her own. She didnt cry once!

This is Australia

2007-01-06T20:55:00.000-08:00

Surf Carnivals are as Aussie as beer and cricket, meat pies and kangaroos. Today I was in Manly and happened to "stumble" across a huge surf carnival. Basically, its where all of the beach lifesavers from around the country come together to challenge each other in various types of "beach" sports - rowing, board, swimming, beach running. Its a great day out and it symbolises everything that I love about Australia - sun, surf, health and happiness! To add to the excitement, the surf conditions were really rough, making it even more challenging for the lifesavers.

2007-01-06T20:52:00.000-08:00

Boats hitting the big waves

Facing the waves on surfboards.

A competitor contemplating the surf.

A Gorgeous Day On the Harbour

2007-01-06T20:38:00.000-08:00

People lolling about in the sunshine.

A cruise ship towers over Sydney's citizens

A perfect day to jump in the launch!

One of the most thrilling experiences - climbing the harbour bridge (i did it in 2000).

Aussie Icons - The Opera House

2007-01-06T20:21:00.000-08:00

Coming Soon

2007-01-06T13:31:00.000-08:00

Some new photos are on their way very soon - I did some photography around the Opera House, and the Sydney beaches! I had a very successful day with the camera.

Sitting Pretty

2007-01-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

God I didnt realise how annoying boredom is.

I dont wanna read books.

I dont wanna play any more electronic sudoku.

I dont wanna surf the net randomly for my "dream job".

I wanna actually be doing something in my day.

For the last two days I've stayed at the gym for two whole hours simply because I didnt want to go back home to resume doing nothing.

Ugh.

Krispy Kremes? I Never Had No Krispy Kremes

2007-01-02T13:46:00.000-08:00

Weight Watchers (aka "Fatty Club") always had a saying "Tomorrow is another day" which means you can completely forget your little indiscretions of yester-year and start all over again today.

So, Krispy Kremes? Eh? Dont remember a thing (actually, i remember eating my fifth donut at about 10.30pm last night).

But, today is a new day.

And I went to the gym for two hours.

Back to my favourite place in the world (alright, maybe not my favourite...but...)

You see, I am a gym-addict in a non-gym-addict's body. I love the gym. I'm thinking of going back tonight. Just for the heck of it. I feel so great after doing it, and I dont have that horrid fatigue that has been hanging around since coming back from Whistler.

Finding Spiritual Direction

2007-01-01T19:49:00.000-08:00

I had my Tarot Cards read a couple of days ago. I've never had them done before but I felt like it was quite a good time in my life to have them done. Whether or not you are a believer, some of the cards that came up were incredibly interesting.

The Tarot Spread was the Celtic Cross. I wont outline the entire result, but here's some of the more interesting findings:

Heart of the Matter; Present Environment - Card: The World
Thus, the World card, very aptly, represents a successful conclusion, all aspects accounted for and taken in; the end to a long-term project is in sight, and that it will be accompanied by well-earned praise, celebration and success. This is a wonderful card of wholeness, perfection, satisfaction and happiness.

Root Cause; Unconscious Influence; Deeper Meaning - Card: The Wheel With Jupiter as its ruling planet, the Wheel of Fortune is all about big things, luck, change, fortune. Almost always good fortune. Almost every definition of this card indicates abundance, happiness, elevation, luck. A change that just happens, and brings with it great joy. This card can mean movement, change and evolution.

Future; Approaching Influence; Unresolved Factor; Quality to Embrace - Card: Death Yes, the Death card can signal a death in the right circumstances (a question about a very sick or old relative, for example), but unlike its dramatic presentation in the movies, the Death card is far more likely to signal transformation, passage, change.

There was such an obvious theme of "change" and "transformation".

How exciting!

Bring on 2007!

Happy Nuuuuuu Year!

2007-01-01T10:50:00.000-08:00

I've decided that the Year 2007 will be the "Year of Health" for me. Getting healthy, dropping those few little kilos off places I dont want them, getting good exercise done, not drinking too many drinks with bad toxins, limiting my coffee in take.

I start back at the gym tomorrow (we all know how much KateOnTheGo loves going to the gym).

I've only slipped up once this morning (its 11 hours into the New Year). On the way home from staying at a mates house, I stopped off at Krispy Kreme and purchased for my family a dozen original glazed donuts.

They offered me a "sample" donut while I waited for them to pack me my fresh dozen. I had to say yes. It was so generous of them to offer me one, so I didnt want to look a gift horse in the mouth.

Then of course I didnt want to take the Krispy Kremes home only to find that they were not of good quality. So I ate one of the way home, just in case.

And then, I didnt want to be unsociable so I had to sit down with Mum and Dad while they enjoyed their Krispy Kreme donut.

Then of course, no one likes when people watch them while they eat, so I had to sit and eat one with them. Its courtesy, right?

So its been 11 hours into my Year of Health, I've had three Krispy Kreme Donuts and I've decided I'm going to lounge around in bed because I feel mildly hungover from last nights celebrations.

Oh, I'm doing really well so far!!!!

hehehe

You Want Exotic? Pt 1

2006-12-30T20:59:00.000-08:00

Today I went to the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere and only an hour out of Sydney. It is their Cultural Week, and there were all sorts of activities going on, including meditation sessions, lantern and face painting, dance exhibitions. Regardless of the buzz that the place had today, it is still such a peaceful, beautiful place. And its wonderful to photograph!

You Want Exotic? Pt II

2006-12-30T19:13:00.000-08:00

For some reason, the photos arent loading... here's the only other one that i can upload.

2006-12-30T18:35:00.000-08:00

Burning Incense

2006-12-30T17:41:00.000-08:00

2006-12-30T17:23:00.000-08:00

2006-12-30T16:51:00.000-08:00

2006-12-30T16:50:00.000-08:00

2006-12-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

2006-12-30T02:35:00.000-08:00

I'm Bitter And Twisted

2006-12-28T16:50:00.000-08:00

Its not fair. My sister blog is a much more exciting blog these days. Yes, "ihaveaboat.blogspot.com" is actually reporting LIVE from mexico. On a boat.

Me? I'm reporting LIVE from oz. In the bedroom I've lived in for over 25 years.

The most exciting thing in my day has been the watching of the rain falling. Yes, it is a very exciting thing to have rain in this part of Australia. In fact, its important when it rains anywhere in Australia right now. We are in the worst drought period in 100 years.

The good news is that tomorrow I am taking my camera to somewhere exotic.

You will have to wait and see!

Legs Eleven!!!

2006-12-27T19:12:00.000-08:00

What does a girl do when she is unemployed and has nothing else to do?

She goes to BINGO!

Thats right, ladies and gentlemen, today I woke up, got ready and off I went with a couple of mates to the local club's bingo day!

Yes, laugh away, I dont care - I completely underestimated the skill required for this game. You try and have up to one hundred numbers thrown at you at a rate of one number per second, and see how you go!!!

Sadly, I didnt win, and was bitterly disappointed having left the club without a meat tray, or voucher, but nevermind - there's always next week!

Why be skiing in one of the world's greatest ski resorts when you can be right here in Australia sitting amongst 50 elderly (and a few young ones) ticking numbers in boxes?

Live: From Australia

2006-12-25T11:11:00.000-08:00

I'm waiting for guests to arrive, ready for Xmas lunch. Still havent opened the presents. We have a rule in our family that says no one opens their presents until everyone arrives. Arrival time? 1pm. Not fair.

Anyhoo, its time to introduce you all to an age old family tradition - the making of the Pavlova. Australians and New Zealanders have been arguing over who actually invented the Pavlova, b ut regardless of who invented it, its still a huge tradition here. The key is the topping of the Pavlova. It can often make the difference between a good Pavlova, and a bad one. Every year, I am in charge of making it, and I try and make the most bizarre, but aesthetically appealing topping as possible!

Wikipedia writes at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pavlova_%28food%29:

Pavlova is made by beating egg whites and salt to a very stiff consistency before folding in caster sugar, vanilla, and vinegar, and slow-baking the mixture to create the meringue. This makes the outside of the pavlova a crisp crunchy shell, while the interior remains soft and moist.

Pavlova is traditionally decorated with whipped cream and fresh fruit, notably strawberries, peach slices, passionfruit and/or kiwifruit. Raspberry is a popular topping in the United Kingdom, with the tartness of raspberries contrasting with the sweetness of sugar. Factory-made pavlovas can be purchased at supermarkets and decorated as desired, but rarely achieve home-baked quality. A commercial product is available that includes pre-mixed ingredients for baking the meringue shell, requiring only the addition of only water and sugar.

Leftover decorated pavlova can be stored in the fridge overnight, but will absorb moisture from the air and lose its crispness. Undecorated pavlova can safely be left overnight in the oven in which it was baked, to be decorated in the morning.

Pavlova is a common addition to the table for social gatherings, such as parties or for Christmas lunches. It is a popular to offer when sharing a meal at someone's home, where the host has requested each guest to "bring a plate".

Note: No diet or fat-free products were used in the cooking of this pavlova.

Step One: Buy the base from the supermarkets (okay, its cheating, but who has time to make it from scratch, really?)

Step Two: Beat the cream til it "peaks" (note: fighting often occurs when the licking of the cream off the whisks begins - theres only 2 whisks - we only had 2 kids in our family, so fighting was often avoided.)

Step Three: Even out the cream over the base. Oh, and then lick the spatula afterwards too (dont forget to wash the spatula should you use it again!)

Step Four: Once the cream is spread out, thought must then go into the design of the topping.

Step Five: Voila!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

2006-12-24T19:37:00.000-08:00

Well, my loyal readers, its time to say Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday! You have come from all walks of life to read my blog over the past 12 months, and I wish I could give you all a present, each and every one of you!

Lets all have a very safe couple of days, and... well, I dont want to get all "do-gooder" on you all, but lets spare a thought for everyone who is out there, away from their family (we all know how important family is!). Those serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, all of those who are suffering in various parts of the world (Africa, Middle East, South America). Regardless of how low I feel sometimes, I always thank my lucky stars that I have so much in life - good family, good friends, a job, a roof over my head.

This sounds like an Oscars speech!

*puts on fake american accent* I'd like to thank Jesus Christ and all of those people who supported me through this amazing experience...(>insert a few "oh my gods" plus tears<) Without you all this would not be possible!

Ho ho ho.

Be good, and if you cant be good, be good at it!

K

A Christmas Present For My Readers

2006-12-23T14:28:00.000-08:00

Seeing it is Christmas, and I am in the Christmassy mood, I am going to do the unthinkable. I am going to take off word verification AND also the restriction requiring commentors to be members of Blogger. What a present to give! (particularly to Bead, my "sister blog" at ihaveaboat.blogspot.com, who continually mentions her dislike for word verification). P.S I hang out with Bead because a) she's nuts b) she's more nuts than me c) she makes me look less nuts by being much more nuts.

"Ta-dah"

(p.s any filthy, distasteful comments from cyber-pests ie. superfly, alex, whoever will mean the present given to EVERYONE will be taken away and the cyber pest will be labelled as 'The Pest Who Stole Christmas, got it? You've been warned.)

Its Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

2006-12-23T14:00:00.000-08:00

Ahhh..... no parking at shopping centres, petrol prices at extraordinary prices, RSI caused from wrapping too many presents.... okay okay, I will stop the negativity and tell you all the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I love Christmas. I'm just a bitter and twisted old soul who cant help but wish Christmas wasnt so complicated these days. People seem to be like Zombies in the shopping centre, buying because they have to, not because they want to. And half of them arent really putting that much thought into the things that they are buying.

Next week I am going to go down to Wollongong and stay there, get a bit of sun and surf. And maybe some photography. I havent done anything with it since returning from Whistler, and the beach is always good for that kind of thing. Going to play with the oil pastels again today, but yet to work out what to draw/paint.

This blog is going to get so boring now that I am not traversing the world. I suppose I will lose all of my regular readers to some exciting new travel journel belonging to someone else. I recommend www.travelblog.org for anyone who wants to leave me for someone else. :)

Ho ho ho (hum).

Ho Ho Ho (As In Christmas, Not.... Nevermind)

2006-12-21T21:51:00.000-08:00

Health Update

2006-12-21T21:26:00.000-08:00

Update on Ear: Still damn well blocked. Unlikely I will hear the person sitting on my right hand side at the christmas dinner table. Maybe Charlotte should sit on that side.

Update on Weird Virus: Gone, virtually. Still tired though. Will try and be back at the gym by mid-January. I need to get back. I've been a little lax with the eating since I got back (what pack of chocolate biscuits? Dont know what you're talking about).

I woke up this morning and had a shower and was drying off when I realised a rather peculiar rash on my arm. Looked down, and the peculiar rash was on my legs, tummy and feet. Off I went at lunchtime back to the Doctors (does it ever end?!!?) and I am now the proud owner of an allergy to penicillin (which I've been taking for the ear).

I can't win! No penicillin, no fixing virus. Take penicillin, get weirdo rash on tummy. Catch 22.

Still, the arms and legs work, the brain is still functioning, its all not terminal and I am in reasonably high spirits. I just have to try and not scratch my arms in public. People might think I have fleas. :)

Getting Ready for Christmas

2006-12-21T21:12:00.000-08:00

This afternoon I was in a jovial mood and decided to get creative with some oil pastels. I ended up with a black square and three flowers. Hardly Van Gogh but hey, its alright for someone that doesnt ever profess to be an artist.... Dont look at it close up. It shows how badly its been painted!!! heheheh Agh well.

Been doing some christmas wrapping tonight. I dont wrap paper all that well, either. I am alright sizing the paper up and folding and so forth, but I dont do so well when it comes to the end bits that I have to fold. Also, wrapping things that arent square or rectangular dont end up being wrapped all that well. So I tend to always buy gifts that are simply shaped.

That said, I bought these funky shoes for Charlotte for Christmas (little sneakers like this are THE fashion item for bubs at the moment - apparently). They werent all that easy to wrap but I figure Charlotte will be more interested in the paper itself.

Workaholic

2006-12-20T20:49:00.000-08:00

I have to confess, I have been doing some consulting at the law firm for the last few days because I am a workaholic. I hate sitting there doing nothing. The opportunity to go back and do a bit of extra work there came knocking and I couldnt refuse. I cant handle just sitting, not progressing. I feel like I need to always be doing something. Thankfully, the work I'm doing is not too onerous - just advisory stuff, administrative stuff.

My family and friends have been very surprised at how well I have bounced back this week. Last week was hard because I wasnt prepared to be back home. However, now that I am beginning to get out and about, go out with friends, get a bit of work done, the future doesnt seem so dim for me. I am so thankful that I have a job with my firm to return to and a very flexible arrangement at that. So I am in no hurry to make plans right now. I am just going to see whats on offer over the next couple of months, travel a little, relax a little (yeah right!) and just enjoy being home.

Good News

2006-12-18T22:52:00.000-08:00

No glandular fever, which is a relief.

Bad news is that my ear is still not playing fair, and I am having to continue seeing the doctor for a couple of days for treatment. Damn ear. Its ruining everything.

I'm officially putting the wheels in motion to start work. I cant handle staying at home any longer. Its driving me insane!!!

Happy Birthday Dad.

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-18T19:58:00.000-08:00

This was sent to me by Rob. There's a really scary guy at the beginning named Zipster (proof as to why so many children are scared of clowns), but if you can look past him, its hilarious. As Andy Warhol once said in 1966 "In the future, everyone will be famous for 15 minutes".

Talent Scout

2006-12-17T03:11:00.000-08:00

Cant say I am a big fan of talent shows, and Simon Cowell is a twat, but man, this girl can sing. And she won the UK's X Factor show. Check it out!

A Little Bit of Sadness

2006-12-16T20:41:00.000-08:00

So I am a little sad tonight. Whistler has apparently had over 50cm of snow in the past twenty four hours and no doubt today was all about blue skies, sunshine and epic powder. I would be lying if I said I didnt miss being there. I'd be lying if I said I wasnt missing the great people that I met over there in those two weeks. *sniff* Even in the short time I was there, and although I couldnt go out much, I loved standing at the door of the unit, chatting to everyone as they came in off the mountain, listening as they told me how their day was. But I'm not there, I'm here. And I'm still sick. My right ear hasnt made any progress in healing and I am having to go to the doctors again on Monday. My glandular fever test results arrive this week. I'm still so fatigued. There was no way I could have gotten (or afforded) proper medical care over there. There was also no way I would have been able to have begun, or maintained, a job over there like this. It simply wouldnt have been possible.

Okay, I'm ending this entry now, before I get too sad. On a lighter note, I think Charlotte may take her first step in the next couple of weeks. Who knows, she may do it on Christmas Day!

Ho Ho Ho Ha Ha Ha

2006-12-16T19:05:00.000-08:00

Something for y'all to have a laugh about:

A Newfie, let's call him Danny MacDonald, is driving home after downing a few at the local pub. He turns a corner and much to his horror he sees a tree in the middle of the road. He swerves to avoid it and almost too late realizes that there is yet another tree directly in his path. He swerves again and discovers that his drive home has turned into a slalom course, causing him to veer from side to side to avoid all the trees.

Moments later he hears the sound of a police siren and brings his car to a stop. The officer approaches Danny's car and asks him what on earth he wasdoing. Danny is telling his story of the trees in the road when the officer stops him mid sentence and says, "Fer Christ sakes, Danny, that's yer air freshener!

(borrowed from http://wonderinglost.blogspot.com/ - cause i think its funny)

My Usual Christmas Whinge

2006-12-16T17:43:00.000-08:00

Today I went shopping with my mother. I am not sure if its still the fatigue I'm suffering, or its my bad attitude to Christmas, but I cant help but find this time of the year utterly unbearable. My main whinges include (but are not limited to) the following:

1. Why is it that people who wait for elevators have to stand right in front of the doors as they open? This always seems to happen at times when we have Charlotte in a pram. Getting out of the elevator is up there with Mt. Everest in terms of climbing difficulty. My advice - all you lazy people without prams and trolleys - USE STAIRS. YOU MAY FIND YOU ENJOY IT.

2. Why is it that people can wait in line to pay for their shopping, yet cannot for the life of them, wait in line to order a cappuccino?! Are they in that dire need for caffeine? My advice - BYO coffee.

3. Why is it that every B-Celebrity, "celebrity cook" or "famous sportsperson" always happen to complete the "stories of their lives" just before Christmas time? Maybe the need to write about your life is a seasonal thing. Ideas flow better during summer time?

4. Where the hell are people getting money from these days? People seem to buying, buying and buying some more. The likely answer to this "whinge" is that the banks are getting richer and richer. I feel terrible - my credit card debt has arisen from selfish crusades across far reaching places and exotic continents. These people's credit card debts are arising from buying their mothers in law cookbooks.

Decking the halls with bells of holly aside, when will people like me actually stop whinging about Christmas and simply stop celebrating it once and for all??

D-Motivate!

2006-12-15T22:22:00.000-08:00

I'm a sucker for a good self-help book (actually, I could probably name the Top 100 out there). However, my sister showed me the most HILARIOUS website on this planet. From this website, I now give to you - Demotivation Posters. LOVE THEM! There are hundreds to choose from.

http://despair.com/viewall.html

Day Three of UnEmployment

2006-12-14T19:37:00.000-08:00

Its the third day back home and I'm going insane. I'm already looking at contract work, maybe some legal stuff, just to keep me occupied until I work out my new travel plans. I've never done "nothing" before. Its a new concept to me. For pete's sake, I was home in November for three weeks before heading to Canada and I worked "just for fun".

Being the lady of leisure that I am at the moment, I spent the day with Charlotte and my sister, lunching a local cafe and taking Charlotte to get her Santa Photo taken. I will see if I can scan it and upload it for you all to see. She looked adorable, in her little denim skirt and pink polo shirt. She even smiled for the camera, the little munchkin.

I'm also spending a lot of time thinking about travelling (surprise!). Maybe my next step is Cambodia/Laos/Vietnam? Then Africa?

I'm The Generation "Y" Blogger

2006-12-14T16:01:00.000-08:00

Over time, I have had some people (who know me well) come up to me and express their surprise and (in part) discomfort with my blogging. Some people are surprised that I am willing to share my daily life with complete strangers, and are uncomfortable with the idea that there are some things that should be kept to oneself.

So the question is - "why do I blog?"

Blogging is a Generation Y Phenomenon. Its the new form of journalism. Its the ability to express yourself to people collectively. Its a simple form of letter writing to those you wish to communicate. Is there a limit to what people put on their blogs? Of course there is. Can people go too far with their blogging? Of course they can. But I set out some rules when I blog :-

1. Never disclose information about people without their consent.
2. Try and avoid putting photos of people without asking them first (for the most part, I am successful here).
3. Never ever give away personal information about yourself which can assist a stranger in locating you.
4. Never talk disrespectfully about someone.
5. Try and not use this as a form to gain people's approval about my decisions in life (i've sometimes struggled with this one, but am learning).
6. Never disclose any matters with respect to my job (as a lawyer).
6. Avoid topics such as relationships.

Am I uncomfortable with people knowing about my highs and lows in life? The simple answer is no. Those people that know me know that if I have something to say, I say it. I am truthful, I have nothing to hide and I have faith in my own beliefs, opinions and decisions. There is nothing on this blog that I would not say to someone face to face. There is also nothing here on this blog that I write and then regret - It helps not to add too much emotion. I carefully think about what I put on this blog and I make sure it abides by my own rules. Sure, some of the things that I write about may seem to be deeply personal experiences. However, these are experiences which I am comfortable sharing. I put the information out there, I deal with the consequences that arise from doing so. I am not ashamed to say that some days I am feeling low, and some days I am feeling great. I am not ashamed to do it. Its carthasis for me.

Blogging is like talking non stop, and allowing those who want to listen to choose to do so. If people dont like what I write, then they have the choice not to read.

There is no neediness attached to this blog. I do not "need" to know that people are reading. I like the thought that there are people who care about my life enough to share its experiences with me, dont get me wrong. But I am not here to increase my readership. I'm here so that if anyone wants to know where I am, they can find me.

Some people can blog, some people cant. Some people can share their feelings easier than others. I share them, and I dont find it difficult. Its a Gen Y thing, whereas some Gen Xers dont really "get it".

I'm a blogger.

Photos from Whistler

2006-12-13T20:54:00.000-08:00

I finally bit the bullet and took out my memory card from my camera taken during my time in Whistler. I realised that there isnt even a picture of me actually there. All I have are just a few random photos that I must have taken in the first day or so that I arrived... when I had the energy to get up out of bed to take them. Oh god, listen to me - such a sorry sad case I am! *sniff*

2006-12-13T20:38:00.000-08:00

All the reminiscing about my travels has made me feel a little better today. I've probably bored you all to tears with it, but hey, its therapy for me right now!

Dooo-bai

2006-12-13T16:48:00.000-08:00

There was definately something memorable about being in Dubai, UAE, during Ramadam.

Unemployed Enlightenment

2006-12-13T14:38:00.000-08:00

I've worked out that there are two things wrong with being at home during the day:

1. Daytime Soap Operas; and
2. Incessant telephone calls by people trying to sell stuff.

I wonder just how bored I will have to get before I will actually enjoy those salespeople telling me how I happen to be their "lucky" customer today who has won a free seven night holiday (but only on the condition that I buy some overpriced timeshare apartment in Brisbane, or some high tech vacuumn cleaner).

I Heart Cinque Terre

2006-12-13T14:18:00.000-08:00

Time to bore you all with some old holiday photies from Le Tour of Italia, October 2005 - possibly the best couple of weeks of my life.

Confessions of An Unemployed Drama Queen

2006-12-13T13:26:00.000-08:00

Argh. I hate just sitting here doing nothing. I am such a terrible patient. I am bored. Bored. Bored. Bored. Daytime television here in Australia sucks. I loved having cable in Whistler. I didnt start loving television until I got to Whistler and was confined to being indoors. I had two channels of ice hockey to watch. I had CNN, BBC plus a few other channels of news to watch too. Extreme sports. Dr Phil. Jerry Springer. Round the clock episodes of the Simpsons. Oprah. More Oprah. Even Tigger my cat is so bored watching TV with me that he's gone outside to find something more interesting to do. Even more depressing is the fact that come next week, I'll be stripped of all television shows on Channel Nine because of the Ashes series (cricket), hence limiting the already-poor choice of television shows.

I'm convinced that those who travel must find it harder and harder to keep themselves occupied in ordinary day to day living. What's more exciting than standing in the middle of Bangkok at 1am, the pollution grabbing at your lungs like an iron fist? What's possibly more thrilling than standing on a ledge, ready to jump with only a rope stopping you from crashing to the bottom? What is more pleasurable than standing at the waters edge of the Mediterranean with gelato running down your hands and into your lap? What will be more refreshing than skiing down a hill of luscious white powder, the icy wind hitting your face and the mountaineous scenery before your very eyes?

Right. Time for some more ear drops.

Time To Sleep But Eyes Wont Shut

2006-12-12T22:24:00.000-08:00

I also suspect i'm jet lagged too! Heck, my body has been through so many time zones in the last 6 weeks, I think my body has said "to heck with you, i'm just going to make you generally feel like crap."

Right.

I need to go and scratch my ear.

Sing-A-Long

2006-12-12T21:15:00.000-08:00

Sing it with me now..... "All I Want For Christmas....is my UK tax back, my UK tax back, my UK tax back .........."

I vote that the HMRC doesnt take Christmas Holidays until they've done my tax return.

My ear is itchy. I keep scratching at it. I need one of those big halo things that they put around dogs' necks to stop them from licking their wounds.. except I need one that stops me from sticking my finger into my ear.

Owwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww. Owwwwwwwwwwwww. *sob* Its like chinese water torture. The painkillers aint kicking in either. *groan* Gimme drugs. Gimme moooore drugs.

*sigh*

Postcards From The Edge... Kinda

2006-12-12T16:50:00.000-08:00

The travelling may have momentarily stopped, but the memories sure havent!

2006-12-12T15:10:00.000-08:00

(I took this only two weeks ago when in Sydney)