Friday, 29 June 2007
Thursday, 28 June 2007
the Metro stole my headline
I was going to headline this 'All Change' - but the Metro used that already to mark Gordon Brown's first day as Prime Minister. I do still think it feels odd that without any sort of election or campaigns or lengthy battle for power (er, should I say, no lengthy official battle for power), this country has a new PM. Of course, big news here; only made it to item #3 on the New York Time's world pages -- better work harder Gord.
But rather than Gordon Brown, what the change really makes me think of is memories of 10 years ago, just after I decided to move to London. In preparation, I was obsessively consuming any item I could that had to do with the UK -- from CSPAN's coverage of Parliament, to old episodes of Monty Python. And as part of that, I followed closely the campaign and election of one Anthony Blair -- I can still see myself in my little kitchen in DC, reading a Newsweek article about how 'Clinton-esque' the campaign was...
Wow -- many changes in those 10 years - at least my hair hasn't gone as thin as Tony's! (though maybe as grey - I just cover it better...)
But rather than Gordon Brown, what the change really makes me think of is memories of 10 years ago, just after I decided to move to London. In preparation, I was obsessively consuming any item I could that had to do with the UK -- from CSPAN's coverage of Parliament, to old episodes of Monty Python. And as part of that, I followed closely the campaign and election of one Anthony Blair -- I can still see myself in my little kitchen in DC, reading a Newsweek article about how 'Clinton-esque' the campaign was...
Wow -- many changes in those 10 years - at least my hair hasn't gone as thin as Tony's! (though maybe as grey - I just cover it better...)
Monday, 25 June 2007
New favourite blog!
OMG - Ken Levine has a blog - fun read if you like TV (hmm - could that be me or anyone I know?) Come back to the Mariners, Ken!
Monday, 18 June 2007
Refugee Week
Thanks to TimeOut, I learned that this week is Refugee Week. And also thanks to TimeOut, I learned of a small friendly museum, tucked away in the East End -- dedicated to these refugees and immigrants to London. And so, thanks to TimeOut, I saw a little piece of London history I never even had an idea existed. (and no, I don't sell TimeOut, but at least glad I read it this week! ;-)
19 Princelet Street is a classic symbol of the various immigrant communities that have made London home at one time or another. Originally home to a Huguenot weaver, it then was converted into a synogogue in 1869. Sadly over time, as the Jewish community moved out of the East End, the house fell into disrepair. About 10 years ago (not that I can find the exact date), a trio of philanthropists / activists decided to attempt to preserve the house, as the Museum of Immigration.
It's still badly in need of funds -- and hugely deserving of them as well. The current exhibit -- Suitcases and Sanctuary -- is incredibly well done, having been created with local school children, as they learn about the immigrant history of the neighbourhood. Given the funding needs, the museum is only open a few days a year -- Refugee Week being the big push -- so we were lucky to get the opportunity to see it.
Unfortunately you're not allowed to take photographs inside, but I did buy some postcards! I was amazed by the memorial notices still visible inside of the synogogue -- complete with notations of how much of a donation their loved ones had given in their memory!
19 Princelet Street is a classic symbol of the various immigrant communities that have made London home at one time or another. Originally home to a Huguenot weaver, it then was converted into a synogogue in 1869. Sadly over time, as the Jewish community moved out of the East End, the house fell into disrepair. About 10 years ago (not that I can find the exact date), a trio of philanthropists / activists decided to attempt to preserve the house, as the Museum of Immigration.
It's still badly in need of funds -- and hugely deserving of them as well. The current exhibit -- Suitcases and Sanctuary -- is incredibly well done, having been created with local school children, as they learn about the immigrant history of the neighbourhood. Given the funding needs, the museum is only open a few days a year -- Refugee Week being the big push -- so we were lucky to get the opportunity to see it.
Unfortunately you're not allowed to take photographs inside, but I did buy some postcards! I was amazed by the memorial notices still visible inside of the synogogue -- complete with notations of how much of a donation their loved ones had given in their memory!
Friday, 15 June 2007
Mac or PC... PC or Mac
I've got, got, GOT to get a new laptop, and confess I'm being drawn to a MacBook. I played with one a few days ago, and love the 'Garage Band' application in iLife (among other. things) - and it does look so easy to use. But I wish Mac-olytes weren't so darn smug! I really hate those 'Mac vs PC' ads - more for their 'ooh, aren't we cool and PC users lame' attitude. Makes me want to buy a PC in spite of knowing that a Mac would likely be better for home use like photos, video, e-mail, media...
And the guy at the Apple store was so derogatory as well -- when I asked about my personal website, and mentioned I'd bought an out-of-the-box offering from Mr Site, he said 'see - with a PC you have to buy everything separately'. So I asked 'wow -does that mean that with the Mac I'd get my own URL and web hosting space for my site then?'
Mr Apple: 'no, you'd have to subscribe to .Mac, and if you wanted your own URL, say, www.planetwulfagar.com, you'd have to buy that too.'
Me: 'Um, so, you're not really convincing me of the positive differences here - it looks like I'd have to buy something in either case.'
Mr A: 'Well, .Mac is more than just web hosting'
Me: 'It's still an additional expense. So it's unfair to say only with a PC do you have to buy extras'
Mr A: (ignores me and moves on to demonstrate Garage Band, which did indeed distract me)
So -anyone out there want to advise? Watch this space!
And the guy at the Apple store was so derogatory as well -- when I asked about my personal website, and mentioned I'd bought an out-of-the-box offering from Mr Site, he said 'see - with a PC you have to buy everything separately'. So I asked 'wow -does that mean that with the Mac I'd get my own URL and web hosting space for my site then?'
Mr Apple: 'no, you'd have to subscribe to .Mac, and if you wanted your own URL, say, www.planetwulfagar.com, you'd have to buy that too.'
Me: 'Um, so, you're not really convincing me of the positive differences here - it looks like I'd have to buy something in either case.'
Mr A: 'Well, .Mac is more than just web hosting'
Me: 'It's still an additional expense. So it's unfair to say only with a PC do you have to buy extras'
Mr A: (ignores me and moves on to demonstrate Garage Band, which did indeed distract me)
So -anyone out there want to advise? Watch this space!
Monday, 11 June 2007
brush with celebrity
OMG. So, I'm about to leave for work this morning, and as I casually glance out the front room windows, I see:
and of course, while there are no identifying marks on the vans (this was one of 2), it's clearly a film crew of some sort. So, in typical Lucy Ricardo, 'I wanna be in show business' manner, I start to head outside, real casual like, but with a big smile, ready to be talent spotted, which of course I will accept with nonchalant style and charm.
But THEN, just before I go leave... I see the star of the show, and realise that while, yes, an honest-to-goodness British celeb was right outside our building, there was no way they'd be choosing me for a part, extra or otherwise.
For it was none other than Mr Jeremy Clarkson, waiting to film the very popular, motoring petrol-head show Top Gear. So instead of asking to be in the show, I just asked to take his picture. Proof, y'know. And he somewhat graciously complied. Well, not too graciously -- but really, what was he going to do. Actually, it was neither gracious nor ungracious -- more neutral and a bit bemused more than anything. But that'll do. Should I send it to Heat? Hmm... Friday, 1 June 2007
Once in a blue moon is when?
Huh. Turns out a 'blue moon' *isn't* the 2nd full moon in a month... Thanks, NPR!
Tuesday, 29 May 2007
How many...
... of the 'Top 50 Films to See Before You Die' have you seen? (I'm up to 16 -- looks like I've got quite a few DVDs to start renting!)
dangerous 'sporting' events
Spain may have the running of the bulls, but only England could have cheese-rolling!
Thursday, 24 May 2007
just a few weeks too late
Gosh - what a shame this new attraction didn't open in time for all the wedding guests to attend... for that real Jolly Olde Englande feeling... (hmm... does it include genuine street urchins and throat clogging pollution? And Johnny Vegas collapsing drunkenly in the corner?)
Tuesday, 22 May 2007
The shoes in practice
When last I mentioned wedding shoes, my comment was 'possibly too high, and possibly over budget'...
As most of you know -- my fantabulous shoe fairies (M, K, & C, a million thanks again!) assisted with the latter concern, and trying on the dress proved the former concern to be irrelevant.
And now - a few months later - the shoes were finally pressed into service on the day, receiving photos galore... first of all - from Karen, so thanks very much Karen for sending this along:
As most of you know -- my fantabulous shoe fairies (M, K, & C, a million thanks again!) assisted with the latter concern, and trying on the dress proved the former concern to be irrelevant.
And now - a few months later - the shoes were finally pressed into service on the day, receiving photos galore... first of all - from Karen, so thanks very much Karen for sending this along:
Thursday, 17 May 2007
last day...
Sigh - as they say, I guess all good things must come to an end, and so it is with the Planet Wulfagar honeymoon!
Tonight is our last night at the plush Maison Arabe, before heading home. It has been a brilliant trip so far (cannot find the apostrophe on this arabic keyboard, so no contractions today!), lots of sunshine, relaxation, sightseeing, and maybe a little shopping. We even haggled a bit at the market today - though with the speed the traders accepted we were still probably paying over the odds! I also (reluctantly) accepted a monkey sitting on my arm... not my ideal situation, especially when its owner then tried to get us to pay 100 dirham for the privilege (about 10 euros) Do not worry, photo will be posted tomorrow!
so au revoir marrakech, hope to see you later!
Tonight is our last night at the plush Maison Arabe, before heading home. It has been a brilliant trip so far (cannot find the apostrophe on this arabic keyboard, so no contractions today!), lots of sunshine, relaxation, sightseeing, and maybe a little shopping. We even haggled a bit at the market today - though with the speed the traders accepted we were still probably paying over the odds! I also (reluctantly) accepted a monkey sitting on my arm... not my ideal situation, especially when its owner then tried to get us to pay 100 dirham for the privilege (about 10 euros) Do not worry, photo will be posted tomorrow!
so au revoir marrakech, hope to see you later!
Friday, 11 May 2007
nearly a month
wow - nearly a month since my last post. I guess I have been busy, what with, y´know, the wedding thing.
Which, by the way, was fantastic, and more than I could possibly write about here in the 10 minutes I´ve got before more sightseeing. So, will have to try to capture that later - possibly in a revamp of Planet Wulfagar... (in the meantime, however, you can visit Ben´s site for some preview pix!)
But for now - am enjoying our honeymoon... I definitely recommend Valencia, so glad we finally got here. We´ve packed a fair bit in already - beach, old town, bus tour, and the most amazing of all I think has been the Oceanografic --- a stunning multi-region aquarium that is part of the ´City of Arts & Sciences´ that is relatively new (and in fact still under construction).
And now only a few hours left before we´re on to Honeymoon Part Dos -- Madrid. Before we go, we´re going to explore at least a little of one of Valencia´s more distinctive elements -- the River Turia. And I say interesting, as it´s completely dry -- in I think the 50s, the city diverted the river around the town, because it flooded too often. So now there´s the river bed, full of parks, running trails, playing fields, and complete with bridges crossing it... but no water.
Adios for now -- and if we have a computer in our Madrid hotel, will post more there...
Which, by the way, was fantastic, and more than I could possibly write about here in the 10 minutes I´ve got before more sightseeing. So, will have to try to capture that later - possibly in a revamp of Planet Wulfagar... (in the meantime, however, you can visit Ben´s site for some preview pix!)
But for now - am enjoying our honeymoon... I definitely recommend Valencia, so glad we finally got here. We´ve packed a fair bit in already - beach, old town, bus tour, and the most amazing of all I think has been the Oceanografic --- a stunning multi-region aquarium that is part of the ´City of Arts & Sciences´ that is relatively new (and in fact still under construction).
And now only a few hours left before we´re on to Honeymoon Part Dos -- Madrid. Before we go, we´re going to explore at least a little of one of Valencia´s more distinctive elements -- the River Turia. And I say interesting, as it´s completely dry -- in I think the 50s, the city diverted the river around the town, because it flooded too often. So now there´s the river bed, full of parks, running trails, playing fields, and complete with bridges crossing it... but no water.
Adios for now -- and if we have a computer in our Madrid hotel, will post more there...
Friday, 13 April 2007
Lazy Sunday...
So – here it is Friday, and I never got around to updating the rest of the Easter weekend… in a nutshell, my Easter surprise trip was a lovely boutique hotel in nearby Richmond – the ‘lazy Sunday’ package at the Bingham… starting with a fabulous long lunch overlooking the river, afternoon stroll, cinema in the evening, and fun Jacuzzi bath (are you supposed to use bubble bath in a Jacuzzi tub? Not sure… it certainly bubbled up to no end!)
As for the movie – we saw Sunshine, really very good, if a bit of a slow starter. The basic premise is that the sun is dying out prematurely (it’s set in 2057) and a team of astronauts has to detonate a nuclear bomb in the sun’s core to re-start it and save the planet from rapid descent into permanent winter… sounds just like those comet bashing movies like Armageddon, but no. There’s plenty of action (especially in the later half of the movie) but it’s much more psychological and metaphysical; what’s it like being cooped up in a spaceship (granted, a very very large spaceship) with 8 people for 3 years of travel, with the mental pressure of being the last hope for saving the all of people-kind, and the very likely possibility you won’t make it back home (a previous mission had already gone missing 7 years earlier). And then this is combined with the majesty of being so close to the sun, what is that like to observe, even through the strongest filtered lenses. So good – and given the special effects, probably much better in a big screen than on the TV. (unless of course it’s a home-cinema sized one, mom & dad!)
Then a fabulous day off still on Monday, with very quick journey time to home - my favourite way to travel! No jet lag, no stiff legs from a long car ride... wonderful!
As for the movie – we saw Sunshine, really very good, if a bit of a slow starter. The basic premise is that the sun is dying out prematurely (it’s set in 2057) and a team of astronauts has to detonate a nuclear bomb in the sun’s core to re-start it and save the planet from rapid descent into permanent winter… sounds just like those comet bashing movies like Armageddon, but no. There’s plenty of action (especially in the later half of the movie) but it’s much more psychological and metaphysical; what’s it like being cooped up in a spaceship (granted, a very very large spaceship) with 8 people for 3 years of travel, with the mental pressure of being the last hope for saving the all of people-kind, and the very likely possibility you won’t make it back home (a previous mission had already gone missing 7 years earlier). And then this is combined with the majesty of being so close to the sun, what is that like to observe, even through the strongest filtered lenses. So good – and given the special effects, probably much better in a big screen than on the TV. (unless of course it’s a home-cinema sized one, mom & dad!)
Then a fabulous day off still on Monday, with very quick journey time to home - my favourite way to travel! No jet lag, no stiff legs from a long car ride... wonderful!
Sunday, 8 April 2007
how much do I *love* a 4-day weekend?
Sunday morning, still 2 more days off to come!
So far so good - Friday a wander around Primrose Hill to Regent's Park, posing prettily for pre-wedding pictures (aww - don't they look cute.) Was sunny and grand... except my shoes were perhaps a wee bit inappropriate... I didn't realise how much walking we were going to do! From the station to Primrose Hill to the park, through the park, onto Marylebone High Street, down to John Lewis... ouch. (OK - I realise that means pretty much nothing to the majority of readers, but if this link works, you can get an idea!)
Saturday a little quieter... Ashley went off for a canal-hike; I stayed a little closer to home & met up with friends Matt & Ailsa for lunch and also to see their new little girl Erika for the first time. Aww, how adorable, 11 weeks, slept the entire lunch... (of course, she can't be as cute as my niece, and no, I'm not biased in any way.)
And still 2 more days of the weekend to go.
Tuesday, 3 April 2007
The Kwik-e-Mart is coming!
Well, temporarily at least... seems a few 7-11s are being rebranded kwik-e-marts - complete with Squishees (and decrepit hotdogs? mmmm hotdogs). Unclear from what I can find as to which few 7-11s... but my guess is if your town is named Springfield, and you've got a 7-11, there's a good chance you'll get one of the few, going up to promote the Simpsons movie...
woo-hoo - Mariners top their division!
OK, so it's only 1 game - but I'll take that 1.000 record when I can get it, thank you very much.
Monday, 2 April 2007
Another weekend flown by too quickly… where do they go!!?? Started off Saturday with a final visit to our wedding venue – for a little reminder of how things might look in only FIVE WEEKS TIME! Ack!
Then into town for a quick visit to the Face of Fashion exhibit (and more) at the National Portrait Gallery (thanks again Brian and Amy!) We could’ve stayed there for days, but were off again to visit one of London’s great consumer monuments:
Selfridges. (Again – I could’ve stayed there for days!) Every spring, Selfridges decorates and has events in a particular theme; this year it’s Surrealism – in conjunction with the V&A, which is hosting a major exhibit of the same name. We met up with our friend Cat and enjoyed Dadadandy cocktails (gin, ginger ale, lemonade, ‘washed with absinthe’) in the Ultralounge, ooh la la, how decadent. The drinks were to celebrate the launch of the new ‘surrealist perfume’ – Choix “the scent of choice”… with ingredients that include, umm, nothing. How surreal. And yet I was *still* tempted to purchase!
Drinks & dinner rounded off the day – and there was Saturday gone!
Sunday was a little more relaxed, sticking close to home – but still, disappeared before I knew it. Made a yummy impromptu ‘what can I find in the cupboards’ soup – chopped tomato base, with corn, kidney beans, black eyed peas, and rice; and plenty of cumin and chipotle powder for spice. Yum. And just enough over for lunch too – lucky me!
Then into town for a quick visit to the Face of Fashion exhibit (and more) at the National Portrait Gallery (thanks again Brian and Amy!) We could’ve stayed there for days, but were off again to visit one of London’s great consumer monuments:
Selfridges. (Again – I could’ve stayed there for days!) Every spring, Selfridges decorates and has events in a particular theme; this year it’s Surrealism – in conjunction with the V&A, which is hosting a major exhibit of the same name. We met up with our friend Cat and enjoyed Dadadandy cocktails (gin, ginger ale, lemonade, ‘washed with absinthe’) in the Ultralounge, ooh la la, how decadent. The drinks were to celebrate the launch of the new ‘surrealist perfume’ – Choix “the scent of choice”… with ingredients that include, umm, nothing. How surreal. And yet I was *still* tempted to purchase!
Drinks & dinner rounded off the day – and there was Saturday gone!
Sunday was a little more relaxed, sticking close to home – but still, disappeared before I knew it. Made a yummy impromptu ‘what can I find in the cupboards’ soup – chopped tomato base, with corn, kidney beans, black eyed peas, and rice; and plenty of cumin and chipotle powder for spice. Yum. And just enough over for lunch too – lucky me!
Friday, 30 March 2007
It's pronounced 'Bruggh-uh'
Add another European city to my list! Went to Brugge (aka Bruges) yesterday for a meeting for work – luckily I got there while it was still light out Wednesday evening, so did a little wander and took a few photos. Unfortunately, the light may have been out, but the town itself was relatively shut. And until I got to the main market square, it seemed eerily quiet. In fact, I ended up carrying my wheelie bag from train station to the hotel, as the echoing over the cobblestones sounded disturbingly loud… I half expected someone to throw open a window and glare out at the noise! (but not say anything of 
course – that would shatter the silence!) 
After a little walk around, I had *huge* meal of moules et frites at one of the many bistros lining the main market square. I’m sure it was a complete tourist trap, but I was hungry, and at least there were no photos on the menu… (ok – it did come in 5 languages, but that’s just being helpful!)
Then Thursday evening back to London via Eurostar… ah – the new great age of the train… what a lovely way to travel!
course – that would shatter the silence!) 
After a little walk around, I had *huge* meal of moules et frites at one of the many bistros lining the main market square. I’m sure it was a complete tourist trap, but I was hungry, and at least there were no photos on the menu… (ok – it did come in 5 languages, but that’s just being helpful!)
Then Thursday evening back to London via Eurostar… ah – the new great age of the train… what a lovely way to travel!
Saturday, 24 March 2007
i am a crafty girl...
Ooh - very exciting - the Stitch & Craft show is today! (well, for the pedants among you, it's from Thursday through Sunday, but I'm *going* today, so for me, it's today!)
Though since my rate of purchase is between 1 - 2 kits/show, and there are 2 shows/year, but I only complete about 2 items / year... well - you do the math...
Though since my rate of purchase is between 1 - 2 kits/show, and there are 2 shows/year, but I only complete about 2 items / year... well - you do the math...
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