Freelance Piece

01 july 2010

The last few weeks I've been freelancing, which has been great. So I thought I'd share a piece I've been working on while I look at getting my online portfolio together.

- Wedding 'Save the date' design. Used for email send out.

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Look, Find, Move and Evolve

01 july 2010

They say a change is as good as a holiday, and part of me really wants to believe it, but to be honest I want a holiday as well!
We are about to move (at long last) and although it's been a little stressful trying to find somewhere I'm really looking forward to it, especially:
1. Discovering of new cycle paths and parks
2. Finding new Cafes and little shops
3. Taking more photos!! I've been slack recently
4. Making new friends and...
5. Sitting back (on the balcony), to a freshly unpacked place, firing up the laptop and giving this site the love it deserves.

So keep checking back, as I move next week and will post more soon.

On the Elliot front, she has been proudly getting me to and from house viewings and helping me with the shopping.

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Friday Photo

28 may 2010

Finally... a day with sunshine, I can go for a ride.

I'd been deterring cabin fever from setting in (due to rain) by making a start on my looming to-do list. That's right I have just finished attaching keywords to over 3,000 images... how exciting... (pause) Not! Although it did take me on a nice trip down memory lane. It's kind of like when your mum calls you up to come and 'collect' all that stuff you'd left at her house for years (as not to clutter your own!). So when you do take on the culling mission, you find yourself being distracted by all your old things and the memories as to why you kept them. Before you know it, it's time to leave. You've thrown out some old school work, filling the recycle bin which gives your mum the impression you're making progress. But the truth is sometimes it's hard to let go, sometimes not, so you repack the one or two boxes you opened and know it'll be there for another day.

Today I packed a care box, for a friend over the other side of the country. I filled it with things I needed to pass on and things I thought she'd enjoy. The box fitted nicely on Elliot's rack, and as we hit the road to send it off, I heard from this friend. It made me smile that we're always thinking of each other, and this was the inspiration for today's Friday photo.

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Bonjour!

20 may 2010

So the 9 - 5 monotony is over for the time being. Last Friday saw me say goodbye to my job of two years, which was both sad but also completely liberating.

The start of my first free week, saw it piss down with rain, and today is the first dry day, so I’m out enjoying coffee and creating a to do list as long as my arm. Tasks include, sorting our website (in particular my portfolio page!), applying typekit to our site... my inner type nerd is coming out, keyword 1000’s of photos (give me strength), read, study, pack, house hunt and learn french (just to name a few!).

Week one, so far...

Day 1: Still in work speed mode, queuing anxiously at the post office, as though time is everything, and getting the cranks at the pushers in... and breathe! Raced frantically around the shops, like a woman on an hour lunch break.

Day 2: As the rain is persisting, I take the advice of our french teacher and watch some French TV, to immerse oneself in the speed of the language... Bonjour Sex et the City! I now know the words for erection, vagina, I like, I don’t like and little else! After sitting through back to back episodes, my vocab is growing at a snails pace, but it was a good laugh. So I decided to switch off, take on the rain and go and grab myself some french magazines to further the learning.

Day 3: God where did day three go... well, I made a start on the to do’s, while my man worked from home. We had lunch together, enjoyed coffee and ate some lovely slow cooked stew.

Today: My day begins with my phone buzzing and my mum on the other end. Her voice racing to tell me about about an awesome job she’s spotted, that (of course) I’d be well suited to. Sales Rep for hair products... WTF! The best intentions I know, but far out! I’m starting to wonder what people are actually thinking about the notion of me quitting and wanting to take time out and study.

Tomorrow: Off to school to further my XHTML/CSS knowledge at the uni. From there i’ll be looking into some courses, and see how I feel about further education. Will keep you posted!



Above is today's lovely coffee... Au revoir!

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Keep Cup

08 april 2010

It's the little things in life that matter, and I believe that just making a small effort or change does count. This is doubly true with my daily morning coffee.

Every weekday I take 5 from my desk and pop down to grab a 'real' coffee, I wait for it to be poured into it's paper sippy cup and off I go back to the office, blissfully unaware. Until I discovered how many litres of water (take a look wwf video) it takes to make just one of those cups, and how most of them can't really be recycled and generally aren't.

So on this note I bought myself a keepcup, the perfect barista sized reusable sippy cup!. I have been using it every day and I must admit I was a little cautious at first that it'd change the taste, but actually it's really no different. Recently my in-laws kindly sent me over a felt cup holder for Elliot, which snuggly wraps around my keepcup. So this weekend I plan taking my coffee for a test ride, and hope not to spill a drop!

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Snip Snip

10 march 2010

I fancy checking this place out when it's open.

Mon - Fri 7:15 - 5:15 ... that's a long ol' day in my books!

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Home sweet home

22 february 2010

It's been a while on the blogging front, but one is preparing for the imminent move...

The house we love and rent is about to be put on the market and we are both sad, inspired and a little jaded by the whole experience (and it hasn't really begun yet!).

Tenants apparently have rights, and in all my renting years i'm still not sure what they are. Lately i'm managing to get jerked around by pushy real estate agents, and for the next 4 weekends have to vacate the house every Saturday morning to let the herds of future possible buyers descend on what I once thought was my home. Some looking, some buying, some investing, some just god damned nosey.... taking a peek inside our lives and our home, and I pay for this priviledge!

So I’ve packed away things that are a worry to keep out, and I shall turn our personal photos around, and hope that our home looks like a soulless house for those four visits. No doubt potential buyers will eat each other alive at the auction to own ‘The Aussie Dream’, and at the end of it we may get to stay for the luxury of a rental price hike. So I keep packing and the new home hunting begins! Which on the bright side means new adventures on Elliot... finger's crossed we find something soon and i'll keep you posted on the outcome.

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Friday Photo

19 february 2010

It's been a while, but this put a smile on my face on my way home.

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Blackwattle and Rozelle Bay

31 january 2010

A sunny Sunday always means a bike ride. Today was no exception, we headed over to nearby Glebe and took a slow ride around the Blackwattle and Rozelle Bay walking loop.

I'd done the walk before, so I knew doing the loop on the bike would be a nice relaxing ride. Fortunately the track seemed fairly quiet and I got the chance to road test Elliot's new accessory... an elastic rack net, to keep it all luggage in (today my camera)!

We entered the loop via Ferry Road (see a similar route) enjoying the bay views, looking out to the Anzac Bridge as we emerged onto the track. Riding around the water, through parklands and past the marine scrapyard before finally taking on the bridge! The bridge ride was fine, I think knowing there was a big downhill really helped. Once on the street again we headed past the fish markets... oh the smell... let's just say I pedaled hard to get past that one. Stopped a couple of times to admire things that usually go unnoticed and headed down some back streets home, finding an old man selling about 30 bikes outside his house, needless to say I didn't stop.

The elastic rack net, went down a treat, I highly recommend them for anyone riding the 'Live'. I picked mine up from a cute little bike shop in Newtown called Cheeky Transport. The net has 6 hooks on it so it nice and evenly grips the frame, holding everything together snug. Will be a good test to see how it handles boxes, or whether I'll end up reverting back to the good old okkie straps (can post more photos if anyone want to see more detail of the net).

Anyway I'm off to watch the gripping third set of the Australian Open... Come on Andy!

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Friday Photos

29 january 2010

This week's photos come to you straight from the heart of the city, where I work. Unfortunately I don't sit near a window, but noticed something that made me smile one afternoon when passing one; the beautiful afternoon light was splashing against the modern structures and illuminating them brightly with colour, even if momentarily. I stood and watched as it disappeared as quickly as it arrived. The following day I tried capturing it, and here's what I caught.  (if you look closely, a cheeky Sydney icon has crept in... can you spot it?).

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Friday Photos

22 january 2010

This Friday's photos are from the Patrick Watson gig we went to as part of the Sydney Festival. Was a tranquil and intimate gig, and as I haven't seen Patrick live before... it turned out to be candy for my ears... it was bliss. I particularly loved the fact that they make music with unlikely objects. Mingling sounds from a deflating balloon, a saw, and megaphone into songs seamlessly like that was their intended purpose.

As Patrick played 'To Build a Home' my eyes closed momentarily, allowing the piano keys to ripple over my ribs, and stir up emotions that only a live performance, and a hushed crowd can. Patrick's harmonic voice was a real treat.

P.S. Dolly Parton, if you're reading this, you really should consider doing a duet with Patrick; the song he wrote for you is great.

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A Weekend in the City on Bikes - Part Two

18 january 2010

I apologise for the delay on this but the week has been manic... excuses, excuses, I know.

So the second part of a weekend in the city, saw Chris and myself take a ride (dare I say it) over the bridge to Kirribilli's art and design market. For me this seemed like a long ride, approximately 10kms of backstreets and busy roads until you meet with the iconic coathanger... the Sydney Harbour Bridge.



Riding over the bridge was a brand new experience for us both, turning our faces into ones of first time tourists doing a picture postcard activity...our grins were huge, and also it meant we were nearly there! The end of the bridge saw a meeting with the stairs and a very steep bike ramp...not looking forward to that one on the way home! The bike path across the bridge had lead us straight to the markets... and shade! Yet strangely no bike parking!. So JD and Elliot stayed with us, disabling me from looking too much and definitely not buying! We eventually found a random pole and locked up the pair and kept wandering.




Feeling a little on the sweaty side, we pulled up a grassy patch and knocked back some water. Deciding the markets were done, we grabbed the bikes and ventured around Kirribilli... another first. Our ride gave us harbour views, hills (boo) and eventually some well earned caffeine... I was beginning to flag.

The way home saw us take a detour, and head for Circular Quay. We took the bikes around to the Opera house and indulged in the views. With the Sydney festival in full swing it was a little crowded, but kind of fun people swerving! After hitting a dead end - the Botanical Gardens 'No Bikes Allowed' sign - we headed back through the city and home, showing Chris my daily ride, it was a familiar but nice feeling. Maybe I'm becoming a local after all!

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Weekend in the City on Bikes- Part one

11 january 2010

The month long Sydney festival kicked off at the weekend with a bang. This year sees a pretty good line up, and i'm off to see Grizzly Bear on Wednesday night and can't wait! The design theme of the festival is very yellow and every time I see the ad I can't help being reminded of a Coldplay gig (Yellow balls etc). Nevertheless I quite like the black typography and the yellow is rather lively.

So we skipped the Saturday crowd and decided to hit the streets with Elliot and JD instead. The sun had been beating down all day, so we left late afternoon to avoid getting burnt and headed towards the eastern suburbs for a ride round Centennial Park.

I must admit the heat had put me in the mood of an angry scorpion... I was very volatile and ready to strike at any given moment... and don't be fooled Sydney's hills weren't helping any. I cursed ignorant drivers as I rode behind JD and eventually hit the pavement, where I continued to curse the council. The lack of dropped curbs is disgusting, being handicapped in this part of the city would suck.

We did finally reach the Parklands, where I at last cracked a smile and gulped some water; it was comforting to see some green with bike tracks! We took the 3.5km Grand Drive track at a very leisurely pace. We then cut through the middle of the park to investigate other areas only stopping to take 5 under the shade of a large leafy tree, and check out the horse riding.





Upon leaving I frowned at the hum of traffic, but soon realised the ride home was predominantly downhill. This I could do, and once home with the bikes inside, an icy cold shower awaited me.
 

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You Don't Take Coal to Newcastle

10 january 2010

During our last week of holiday time...after meeting a client deadline we decided to take a well earned break. With no plans, a tent, a cake and a bag packed we decided to hit the road! We called some friends, and my brother to check all were about and went visiting, leaving the city behind for who knew how long.

First stop was about 1.5 hr up the road to see some friends and their little one by the lake, enjoy their view for the last time (they're moving very soon), and indulge in an early dinner and cake. It was great catch up time but it always goes too fast and we had to keep moving. It was almost dark and now raining... camping was not looking good.

Next stop, another 1hr, was my brother's house in Newcastle. Named after England's famous coal port, Newcastle is also known as for it's steel, hence the nickname 'Steel city', however the steel works have since shut down. Still it's Australia's second oldest town, so lots of history remains, including forts, swimming holes and shipwrecks! Newcastle is a place which I strangely hold close to my heart for many reasons: I lived, studied and worked up there for four years... a time where I learned about design and life in a grungy looking town by the sea. Let me show you a little...

So after leaving my brother's place, we decided camping just wasn't happening. Instead we splashed out on a nice hotel for the night - a room with a view - the main reason being that, well, Chris kinda hates Newcastle, which is my fault. Let me explain... the first time I took Chris to see "Newie", I told him about the beautiful beaches, cafe lined streets, cool bars and a laid back lifestyle. What did I show him? Rough pubs, shady areas, and his first prostitute sighting on my scenic drive to the beach. He's never really recovered from these images, and me wanting us to relocate up there...well ain't going to happen yet. However I am persistent and Chris isn't narrow minded so I got him to take another look.

Our 'harbour view' room was nice, and although we arrived late, and Chris was worried about our car being nicked... we finally exhaled from a busy Christmas period and had a laugh over a late night cup of tea. The morning was unfortunately overcast, but dry so I took a quick picture of the 'harbour view' before we left for breakfast (I never eat at the hotel).



For breakfast we went to downtown Darby Street, a street known for it's food and cool little shops. I used to have a favourite cafe, but it's been years so we tried "The Kitchen". I had a craving for porridge and although mid summer, it was a fairly mild morning so why not? The waitress talked me into trying the semolina porridge with mixed berries. I enjoyed it very much, however it was strangely too smooth!

After a wander round the funky little shops, and a scout through the second hand bookshop I took Chris to see the beach via the lush King Edward Park. No one was about, it was very relaxing, but very warm... the sun was finally out. Heading towards the sea we took a peek down at the 'Bogie Hole', the water temperature was sharp, so we didn't feel too bad about not jumping in and instead continued the tour.

We caught up again with my brother for a late lunch, more old book shops and then headed to nearby Stockton to try and find a camp spot... unluckily for us everywhere was full and free camping isn't really an option there! Instead we made the most of the late afternoon sun with a long beach walk, shell collecting and a walk up the break-wall to check out the historic shipwrecks and local fishermen's catches... (one guy was pulling in a huge fish as we passed).



As the sun set, we made the regrettable decision to head back to the city, but not before we ate dinner! I had a flashback of an awesome Chinese place I used to go to near where I once lived, and Chris being a fan of Chinese food, it was right up his alley and still as tasty as I remembered.

In conclusion, although we didn't go camping, or stay away for as long as hoped, I think Chris may have seen a brighter, more promising side to 'Newie'. For all those visiting, I hope you enjoy it, or at least stop for a coffee and a beach walk.

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Friday Photos

09 january 2010

Basking in the late afternoon sunshine after fitting a new accessory to Elliot. She now has a brushed metal water bottle holder...sweet!

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20-10

07 january 2010

20-10 or two thousand and ten, you decide... for me it’s 20-10 and happy new year to you all!

Well New year for us Aussies involves... a bbq, friends, alcohol and some illegal fireworks... or if you’re lucky Sydney Harbour. This year, we caught up with some great friends on the coast, ate like there was no tomorrow and drank pretty much the same way... hitting the hay just before sunrise. We stayed at my friends for three nights instead of the usual one, and it was the best start to the new year one could wish for; staying up late talking, playing cards and heading to the beach to swim in a storm...stupid, perhaps...fun and memorable, most definitely.

Anyway, now back in the big smoke, but not back in the office! So took Elliot for a spin with JD to Sydney Park (see pic), for a well needed breather from some client work. Sydney Park is a nice open patch of green, with ponds and wildlife surrounded by the bustling city. From the top of the highest hill in the park you can see the airport to the South, the City to the North and to the sides, industry and apartments. As we rode through the park, a pair of dogs chased our heels, the afternoon sun warmed our backs and the light breeze sent the sounds of arriving planes around the park; the repetition, like a dog continually chasing a ball.



Now back at the house, lush dinner consumed, Rolling Stones in my ears, staring at my Christmas candelabra which arrived today (oh well!)...  I’m slowly working my way through my last bottle of red from Adelaide (brought on from chatting to a very dear friend staying out there at the moment) and, true to my new years words, eating chocolate; what a combo! The book beside me tops the night off... LP’s ‘Pacific Northwest trips’ and as my friend reminded me today, ‘So Sam, when you guys heading to the States...’. Well... frankly I would love to do a working stint out there... have been back in Oz two years, and have really itchy feet... 20-10 bring it on!

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Last friday's photos!

31 december 2009

Apologies for the delay, but here was a little snippet of the first Christmas at our house. My mum, brother and his girlfriend all joined us. Fish on the barbie Christmas eve, followed by the traditional trimmings Christmas day. Was a pretty good feast, and I made an attempt at a gingerbread house, which as you will see, I let my brother and Chris decorate.

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Ciao 2009

31 december 2009

I'm sitting here reflecting on 2009, while slowly getting through a bottle of Penfold's we hauled back from the Adelaide vineyard earlier this year. I'm not usually a red fan, but this is going down mighty fine!

2009 as I saw it, not only flew past, but also seemed to lack any major oomph. Sure there were personal highlights including: engagements, the births of friend's babies and perhaps turning 30, yet I'm undecided on that one and still lie about it (Globe please don't change my age just yet!). But on the everyday levels, It was well... a little unfulfilling.

Which brings me to some resolutions of sorts. A list for 2010 which doesn't include the cliché weight loss, get fit regime or not eating chocolate for the year...screw that. I've become a fan of listing goals since having a late drinking night with a friend, who seems to achieve a hell of a lot. That night was purely full of dreams, let's just say lists are key. So here goes (before I drown myself with wine!):

- Worry less and smile more (yeah yeah, hand in hand)
- Read more
- Paint a picture
- Be more decisive (took me a minute to work out which way to spell decisive... god help me!)
- Juggle for more than 30 seconds
- Find new cycleways and do a big ride
- Photograph more
- Learn something new (must think of what it'll be otherwise it won't happen!)
- Camp more
- Do something that challenges/scares me
- Plan big trip overseas
- Write beautiful vows, then learn them in Polish
- Believe in myself.

Yep that'll keep me busy in 2010... I'm sure it'll get modified as 2010 rolls by, and I have a feeling positive change is on the horizon... But right now, I'm enjoying the music, wine and company... it's awesome.



Taken: NYE Sydney 01.01.2009

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I Fight for Feuille

30 december 2009

Well a mighty quick update on the I ride for Robert front.

Considering December was a short month work wise, and with the silly season taking control, I managed to ride to work approx 10 times, saving $60. Not sure exactly how much that is in US dollars, so i'm calling it $60USD. Robert, I've just completed the transaction, and although small I hope it helps in some way.

Fellow Glober's I hope you all had an awesome Christmas, and look forward to reading about your riding tales in 2010.

And lastly, If anyone else is keen to help Robert kick cancer's arse you can read more here.

Ciao for now.

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Elliot finds a friend!

27 december 2009

Ok, so it's been a little while... the run up to Christmas was both manic and alcohol fueled to say the least. But I'm not complaining. I'm now off from work for a whole two and a bit weeks and I'm stoked! I can fit a load of rides in and I now have company on my adventures. That's right, Santa arrived a week early and delivered Elliot a friend...Meet J.D!

J.D is a pretty cool looking bike for my partner Chris, who's now hooked on the idea of riding to work everyday... which I think will be an interestingly crazy 12km ride (each way). Not only will he get to cross the iconic Harbour Bridge, but he'll have to face some pretty crazy traffic, which will make my city ride look like a lonely ride in the park.

Unfortunately the bike wasn't a big surprise, as I think choosing a bike yourself is key, but what I wish I had captured was the grin from ear to ear on Chris's face when he hit the road for the first time. It seriously was like watching a five year old getting their training wheels off and proudly becoming one of the 'big kids'! It was awesome! The whole weekend we rode everywhere we needed to go... and I mean everywhere. It's truly great to have someone to go out for a spin with and find new places on our rides.

Last weekend we rode through Sydney Park, headed into Newtown and also picked up some xmas shopping, which as you can see Elliot carried around...JD is a slacker as you can see below!



So, with two weeks holiday, I'm looking forward to blogging about Elliot and J.D.'s many adventures together - oh and me and Chris as well...

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Us Lardy? How latte is lifestyle making!

20 december 2009

My response to Sydney Morning Herald article: 'How latte lifestyle is making us lardy'



I ride and I breakfast...enough said!

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Friday Photos

17 december 2009

As promised, a ride down to Australian Technology Park, the Old Eveleigh Railway Workshops. I love how things of yesterday and the modern intermingle, and form a relationship of some kind.

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It's all in the Name

17 december 2009

This is particularly true for certain objects. Toothbrush, mud guard, sunscreen to name a few. But today for me it was the paper towel.
I had an awesome ride into the office today, and although i've been taking the same route (I've so got it down pact) I am discovering new things. Like new place to take photos, buildings I didn't know existed, and grungy signage/street art which is a secret love of mine.

Some days I just take it slow, just so I can tilt my head while riding and admire these new objects. Such objects have triggered my inner nerd... so I now carry my small Moleskine everywhere and take note of new things to photograph, because as usual my camera isn't with me!

Anyway by the time I reach the inner city, I have to switch my head on as traffic will kill me. Yet it's not till i'm in the shower that I realise, yep... that little voice in my head saying 'You've forgotten something' was bang on...my towel.
So what does one do? I'm not about to use some random's that's hanging listlessly by the lockers, and I can't use my sweaty t-shirt or toilet paper, so i'm left with the 'Paper towel" option, my temporary knight in absorbent armour. Mini crisis officially averted.

Now all I can tell you is this: The towel part of the name is slightly deceiving. I'm guessing I used the equivalent of three towels... to actually begin to feel dry, but I'm not complaining. It was either the paper towel or the sweaty shirt, and it's all in the name.

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An Update on My Ride for Robert

13 december 2009

Well the last fortnight has rushed past like whirlwind, Things weren’t so smooth in the riding department week one, mainly due to loosing my keys at work (not only Elliot’s but also the house keys)... it was not my finest moment. Not only did it cut into my riding time but Elliot had to stay over at work, with an extra lock strapped to her (one must take all precautions!) and I had a mad search for my keys, which showed up on friday (luckily). So we raced around getting Elliot and an office chair (for my brother) back to the house before trying to leave the city by lunchtime... which didn’t happen... arggghhhh!

Week two was a little brighter; I didn’t feel as exhausted as the first - I think I needed to get away for the weekend! However I only managed to get Elliot to work a couple of times due to christmas madness, a colleague’s leaving drinks, and an industry meet.  The times we rode in we had a blast, it is seriously getting easier! My aim this week is to better last week. I think Santa needs to find me one of these, but in Oz I just can’t find one :(

Last week also saw a moment of inspiration for some photography so one night this week I plan to take Elliot over to the old carriage works for a bit of a shoot. There are some really nice buildings, both old and new, should make up for the lack of friday photos this week.

This weekend we headed an hour north for a beautiful weekend with friends to celebrate birthdays and engagements. I grew up here so it always spins me out a little coming back (not a lot changes!). We grabbed an ice cream with our beach walk, before catching up with everyone. Sunday morning rolled around way to quickly, Chris and Matt managed to squeeze in a quick swim before we headed back to have Christmas lunch with extended family. Now I need some sleep!

Money raised to date: $24

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Learning Over a Soy Latte

07 december 2009

It’s nice to think that you can learn something new everyday. This is doubly true if after spending four years with someone you are still learning.

Today I learned that Chris’s favorite fruit is raspberry, I should have guessed when he only orders berry smoothies and today, pear and raspberry bread. This insight happened while sipping a coffee at a cafe around the corner. A nice little spot which got us out of the house and got us thinking... all sorts of stuff really. A place we can conjure up big ideas, dreams and realities all in a soy latte. There were moments of enjoyable silence (usually caused by one putting an idea into the other's head), laughter and a whole lot of bouncing ideas off one another. I think we've vaguely got a few ideas up our sleeves for the next yr or two!

The thing about me is that I get pangs to go somewhere new for awhile. Some call it itchy feet, the grass is always greener, and all that that goes with it. For me it’s just a new experience I crave. At the moment, my thoughts are over somewhere on the west coast of the States (any recommendations?). Before I entered the Globe experience I’d already started reading itineraries for ‘Pacific Northwest’ and it sounds awesome... I feel Elliot is a sign. I also feel like the fellow Globers probably don’t know much about me at all, so I’d thought i’d share a few things about me:

Mambi is a name one of my best friend’s calls me, not really sure how it came about but it stuck!

I’ve been back in Oz 2 yrs to the day! I was previously living in the UK. Which is where I met Chris.

I’m a graphic designer (and photographer when I get the opportunity!) the Globe project has really motivated me to get out with my camera more and I am so grateful for that! I also like drawing, but really have to be inspired for that! My latest personal project is wycinki (Polish version of paper cutting), which I hope to incorporate into some design ideas!

I’m currently reading ‘thoughts on interaction design’

My favorite movie is probably Pulp Fiction, i’m not really an epic film kinda girl.

I love music, last CD I purchased was Grizzly Bear ‘Veckatimest’

I drink a soy latte most mornings, but also enjoy Earl Grey tea. After hours I indulge in a Long Island iced tea!

In general I’d love to live closer to the sea, do a working stint on the west coast of USA, travel more, in particular Iran and Cuba and learn another language.

I have some really great friends, they all inspire me, but I hate that we don’t live closer!

My favorite holiday was back in 2006: Trans Siberian, through Russia - Mongolia - China. For many reasons, the landscape, the people, the diversity... it was amazing.

and My favorite fruit is Mango, (I hate paw paw!).

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Friday Photos

05 december 2009

Ahhh finally out of the city, 30km took over an hour, now on the open road!



and 4 hours later we're almost at our destination... will write more soon folks my mum only has dial up, so a little difficult and time consuming. We're only up for the weekend to celebrate mum's birthday so really don't want to spend it in front of the computer. Will tell you all about my crazy week soon!

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Quote of the day!

01 december 2009

"That's a nice luggage rack you have there"

- Random Stranger

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December: I Ride for Robert

30 november 2009

The Globe experience is a unique one for me, I feel like there is this small global community that I am both humbled and grateful to be a part of. The thing is I feel like I am getting to know the fellow globers more and more, even though we've never met, It's like we're starting to get to know one another like some kind of random tour group on holiday or something, where we share similar experiences, varied interests but a common goal.

So if the glober page was a tour bus, then we used to sit next to each other at the back, but now we're all shuffled about, so Robert this post is for you. Your story really affected me so I want to help you out in the little way I think I can, from one glober to another. December I ride for you.

So here's what i'm going to do:
For the month of December, for each time I ride to/from work I will donate the money I would have spent on the bus or train to Robert. Now I know this isn't a lot, and that i'm not riding every day yet, but it'll motivate me more knowing I'm helping you in a small way. Who knows, maybe it'll catch on?

For those of you who aren't lucky enough to be on the glober tour bus, please spread the word to help our fellow glober kick cancer's arse.

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The Heart of Sydney

28 november 2009

If Sydney was a heart, then the city is on the brink of a major heart attack.

Its main roads are permanently clogged and this weekend was no exception. I braved the 34 degree day and ventured up onto the busy Parramatta rd... why? ...for a 20% sale!

Earlier in the week a friend at work shot me through an email of something I might be interested in... a hand printed fabric shop over in Annandale that was having a sale. I figured I may be able to pick up a couple of hand made things to festive up the place for our first xmas at home, or draw some inspiration for some future screen printing projects. Either way I couldn’t resist.

So I packed my camera, a large bottle of water and plastered on the sunscreen. My ride was fun, but the roads were busy, every road is busy... in particular Parramatta rd; it’s one of the main arteries into the city and it’s bloody awful to drive on let alone ride on. Picture, six pot holed lanes, filled with traffic lights, where one can pick up a wedding dress or a second hand car. And it’s shabby, really shabby. Lucky for me it doesn’t have much pedestrian traffic, so I rode the pavement.

I arrived at Annadale, one okkey strap lighter (must have fallen off on a bump), locked up Elliot and headed into the shop to drool over the beautiful hand printed fabrics. A load of new ideas sprang to mind, one really does need to learn how to sew first! That didn’t stop me from picking up some printed linen napkins for xmas dinner and tree decorations.

On the way home, I made a stop at Shenkin Cafe (from my video) to say ‘Hi’ to the guys and grab a well earned icy cold drink with Chris - Elliot was perched next to the cafe window, being admired by passers by (including a thirsty Rottweiler who stopped for a drink!). Afterwards we checked out a flat for sale up the road, which was lovely, but Sydney prices along with its roads are enough to make anyone’s heart skip a beat.

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Friday Photos

27 november 2009

Elliot likes riding through the seedy parts of town... she picked up (milk), 'cause she's got a good rack!

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Small Cars Only

26 november 2009

Elliot waits patiently in the 'Small Car' rack... while I work.
P.S. Happy Thankgiving fellow Globers!

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Guys and Girls

22 november 2009

In life, a single guy can take a puppy to the park and gain a lot of female attention. I'm guessing this is for two reasons: firstly the girl likes puppies, they're all cute and stuff and secondly it's not late at a bar, the ugly lights aren't about to come on and there is no alcohol involved, therefore no threat at all!

For girls however it's a little different... would a guy approach a girl to pat a puppy, i'm not sure. but this weekend I discovered all a girl needs is a hot ride! Seriously! Let me explain...

Saturday saw Elliot, Chris and I down at the local food market, a small affair at Eveleigh, where we headed to pick up some essentials...bread, juice and flowers. Not long after entering the market, Elliot and I were swiftly approached by lovely American guy who was all over Elliot like a rash. It was both sweet and humbling... and i'm 110% sure he's been on the Globe site! (see sneaky pic!).



Anyway we stopped for some juice, I picked out some flowers, while Elliot patiently waited and Chris grabbed some yummy walnut bread and just when we were ready to leave...BAM! Another guy stopped me about the bike, he had his with him so i'm guessing it was more like bike appreciation ('That is one awesome bike'), much like puppy love.

So in the words of Beyonce: to all the single ladies - when deciding what to take to the park, market or anywhere... I say grab a hot ride, you'll be pleasantly surprised ;)

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Friday Photos

21 november 2009

Sorry Friday photos had to be taken on Saturday. Elliot and I didn't get to the harbour on Friday as planned due to thunderstorms, but we did make it to the market!



picked up some essentials...flowers and walnut bread.

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Third Time's a Charm

18 november 2009

Like they say third time's a charm, and today was my third attempt at 'The Commute' and yep I nailed it! This kid can ride! It was a proud moment... not getting lost, knocking 20mins off my first attempt and mapping my route for complete ease.

Not a lot to report on the ride front, except Elliot enjoys being checked out (a lot)... This morning I clocked the oldest man in the world smiling at my sweet ride. i'm guessing it reminded him of a past times.... or maybe he was smiling about the permanent grin I have plastered on my face whenever Elliot and I are out? Either way it was pretty funny.

Elliot has also been gaining attention in the office. Since I've been commuting into work, I seem to be giving a few orientation/meet Elliot tours, which entail: checking out the bike enclosure (of course saying 'hi' to Elliot), shower facilities, where to get your pass activated and what lifts to take (bit of a maze). Once I figure where the goods lifts goes, i'm thinking i'll bring Elliot into the office for the day to meet the rest of the crew, so they can coo over my newborn! 

My other plan this week is to knock off work on time and take Elliot down to Circular Quay for a bit of a tourist ride. We'll see some sights, take pics and enjoy the lovely weather on two wheels... Photo friday is looking good already.

So i'll finish up with a couple of pics from last weekend, and what a nice one it was. We got up early and headed over to Bondi to check out the annual sculpture by the sea event, taking the coastal walk from Tamarama Beach to Bondi  (without Elliot, way too crowded), which was lovely, warm (got slightly burnt), and crazily busy for the morning...I forgot people with kids get up early too! Had a bite to eat in Bondi, dipped our toes in the water, then headed back to sunny Erskineville AKA Erko, for the bi-annual school fete, or Erko Beserko! An inner city school, that grows it's own fruit and veg and encourages bike riding...love it! (see last pic! So cute).

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Friday Photos

13 november 2009

Chris met up with me and spent a little time with Elliot!


and Elliot with some street art...

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Baby Steps: Take Two

12 november 2009

I like to think when it comes to reading a map, i'm like a man. I don't need to turn the thing around or upside down in order to understand it...i'm all over it. Until this morning...

So last night I spent the evening designing, and googling all things Sydney cycling related and BANG I found an awesome little site that lets you search for cycle routes based on suburb and also rating (yep beginners). I was lucky enough to find one that takes me fairly close to where I need to go, for beginners! (here's the map)

So this morning, after printing off the route, I was off. All was going well until I hit Redfern (again); one wrong turn saw me heading slowly back to my place, Elliot was not amused. We pulled over, took 5 and unfortunately resorted to referring to my iPhone... I felt defeated. But all (or rather I) was not lost, after a bit of quick pedaling through some streets I wouldn't venture down at night, I found a string of cyclists and then the cycle paths, which lead us to town.

I followed them as best as I could keep up, and started to feel like one of them... it was awesome! Today didn't see any major road crossings - which was lucky - for as I was walking my bike across a busy street I actually bumped into an old friend! For the record, this never happens to me for two reasons: firstly I've only lived in Sydney 2 years, and secondly I really don't think I know that many people... so Jodie met Elliot and from one (motor) cyclist to another: "Dude this is a seriously cool bike!". I was thrilled! It was nice to share a few blocks with Jodie and catch up on news before we parted ways. Elliot and I cycled on, a little late, but happy.

I awaited 5:30pm, eager to retrace my new route with Elliot and perhaps get it right... 5pm saw the heavens open, not just rain, but thunder, lightening the works. I paced the office willing it to stop, which didn't have any effect, and I anxiously left Elliot safely underground, locked and within a bike enclosure.

Tomorrow sees sunshine... and I can't wait till 5:30pm to roll round.

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Baby Steps

09 november 2009

I now understand the whole 'You need to walk before you run' saying. This morning was my first big ride into the city... now I know any 'cyclist' will be laughing... as my big ride consists of about 5kms!. But to me it's a small milestone. I was so nervous and perhaps still hungover from Saturday's 'Wetting the baby's head' (no just kidding it was my 30th celebration!), that I thought I was going to vomit...

The ride started out fairly well, as I pedaled my nervousness away and followed the cycle path,the sun shining, what a beautiful morning, then I hit Redfern. What happened to the cycle path? Oh it was replaced with busy roads and crazy motorists leaving me a little disorientated! The closer I got to the city the busier it became. So in short, I whimped out a little by riding both on the road and slowly on the footpath (which is probably illegal, i'm not sure). I arrived at work early!, even after taking 5 to find the bike enclosure, then the showers (which aren't on the same floor!) and had a smile on my face!(I did it!) All that aside, I looked forward to my ride home with Elliot, and to enjoy a little early evening sunshine, while remembering to pick up some okie straps and a reflective vest for the next ride!

On reflection I know this will get easier, I will find a new paths that won't involve navigating 6 lanes of traffic, I will get quicker and my confidence will grow but I figure for now it's baby steps for me.

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Announcement

06 november 2009

Mambi is pleased to anounce the arrival of Elliot, born November 4 at 11:19am, weighing a healthy 18kg, both Mambi and Elliot are doing fine and arrived home safely the same evening.

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The Live relationship

01 november 2009

Like an expectant father on the eve of the birth of his first born I wait... My stomach churns as it fills with anticipation, happiness and uncertainty of the unknown. Will this new thing in my life be something I will bond with? Will we agree with each other? Or will it be a case of you take the high road and well, I'll just catch the bus or something.

No people, I have not had a sex change, gotten into a whirlwind relationship with a girl and consequently about to become a father, but I have scored a new ride. A bike actually, not a crazy one that requires me to adorn Lycra (or leather for that matter, thank god) but one that will, I hope, be my leisurely, easy going commute to work.

So as part of my green bit, lifestyle change and fear of enclosed spaces, I'm taking part in the globe experience...or perhaps experiment! I entered their contest to be a part of making cars the minority, bikes the majority, and to get a non-cyclist type like myself on a bike that's fitted to my needs. So instead of writing about my want for one of these lovely two wheeled objects, I made a short video showing my daily commute and how it would change... take a look and turn up the sound!

So as I await my new Live, pacing excitedly while refraining from biting my nails, I wonder... what will our relationship bring? Will we form an everlasting bond that one will miss when separated? And what new paths will we form together... well you'll just have to wait and see.

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Sydney Buses

29 october 2009

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Things I won't miss about public transport

18 october 2009

1. Open mouth coughing
2. Stupid and loud ringtones
3. Courtesy… Can’t anyone vacate their seat for the elderly?
4. The crowds
5. The mystery of time… I like mystery but I also like to think I’ll be on time
6. Body odour
7. Heavy brakers… You know when you go flying up the bus aisle
8. Inflicting music tastes on others… We can all hear it
9. No eating no drinking no fun to be had
10. And lastly the recent price hikes…

I must say though I seriously will miss bus driver George (AKA Captain George), in the last year or so that I’ve been using Sydney public transport I have only ridden his bus once. He is the most entertaining driver ever and made my trip that morning one of the most memorable (for all the right reasons). To all bus drivers like him… I salute you, you can change someones commuting experience. Until then bring on walking or possibly a bicycle.

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