‘Board’ in Melbourne?

Thursday, January 5th, 2012

my board is usually in tow anywhere i go. but i left it behind for Melbourne thanks to unrelenting hay fever as well as my recent recovery from a chest infection. so somehow, i think its awesome how i always end up in some “skate-related” situation, be it meeting a bunch of local skaters or finding a sweet skate spot in said city. hello again happenstance! when i stumbled upon an exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria called, ‘Board‘!

personal skateboard of note: is this particular one (pictured above) of a Zephyr, owned by legendary Stacy Peralta. heard of Powell-Peralta? yup, Stacy is that ‘Peralta’ who owned half the company. these days, i hear he is into film and television production. it comes as no surprise to read about skaters heavily involved in artistic and socially philanthropic pursuits. i’m convinced skating is connected creativity and empathy, but that’s just me.

this exhibition showcases skateboard graphics and design from the 70s and 80s. there are also works from contemporary skate artist in conjunction with the ‘Three Sixty Project’ on display. ‘Board’ should still be on for another month or so. check it out if you happen to be in town! it’s free of charge ya cheapskate, so no excuses!

Test match survival guide

Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012

i was fortunate enough to be in Melbourne for the Australia v India boxing day test match. B does not have the patience and enthusiasm for cricket. So, a friendly warning for those who have never been to a test match. It is an all day affair. In fact, a test of “endurance”. Make the most of the two intervals (lunch and tea) to stretch your legs. While this might sound odd for a sporting event, bring a newspaper, knitting needles, PSP, anything to pass the time when play is slow.

other habits i picked up from my dad is to pack a picnic lunch, keep hydrated, slap on as much sunscreen as well as bring a portable radio for ‘live’ commentary. the weather in Melbourne was perfect all week for cricket. times like this, i secretly feel i’ve married the wrong man. while B has been supportive of me skating and so on, we share nothing in common. i’m aware common interests do not make a good marriage. but it would be nice to sit next to someone who is as excited to be at the MCG and have a good ole laugh at ‘Joe the cameraman’s’ expense (video below).

some things are more fun and best done with a “best friend / soul mate”. i mean i hate cars, racing, cooking programs, the rom-com genre, slapstick humour…. i’m sure there are days when B feels the exact same way when i am less enthused about his passions. i’m not complaining cause we did have fun chilling out and eating our way around Melbourne. just sayin it would be nice.

hello 2012!

Saturday, December 31st, 2011

just got back from Melbourne a couple of hours ago! We’re watching the Blackburn vs United game, wolfing down Krispy Kremes and awaiting midnight. lots of cursing, swearing and impassioned gestures happening in this household thank to the game. wishing i was still in Melbourne for the multi-million dollar fireworks instead of English Premiere League football. *yaaaaaawn* i’ll update on what happened in Melbourne soon!

meantime, check out this awesome poster hanging on most tram stops of a skater rhino with antlers and a rudolph red nose. It’s a public service service announcement for Melbourne-ites and tourists alike to be careful and watch for trams at all times. i really love this! On that note…. i’d like to say happy new year everyone! hope 2012 will bring wealth, health and an abundance of love. a toast, “to new and humble beginnings!!” *clinks*

Make Something Monday

Monday, December 19th, 2011

It’s no secret I’m terribly inconsistent and suck at posting. hmmm…. ‘Make Something Monday’? i’m sure i’ve stolen this from some place, but can’t remember where exactly?! I’ve always loved the idea! Every Monday, i’ll try to make something. It can be anything– kick ass coffee, a birthday card…. i’ll snap some photos and then write about it here. to kick things off, i made a: popcorn wreath! So much popcorn was left over from the Christmas tree tinsel that had already been strung.

 


So i bought a styrofoam ring from a craft store, wrapped the ring with some polyester padding and then “secured” the stringed popcorn with more thread starting from the inside. i use polyester padding because popcorn is wonky, greasy and uneven in many spots. I find the padding helps to hold it all in place. Some red ribbon later …. “Ta Daaaah!!”

The buttery popcorn smells amazing as you open the front door. mmMMmmm….. i likes it lots! Ya know, i think ‘Make Something Mondays’ will be good for me. it’ll get me into the habit of posting more often (I hope). And, i’ll be making things with my hands which really makes me happy. It’s something i don’t do often enough i reckon! So let’s give this a try, shall we? Yaay! for Make Something Mondays!

Mister Christmas 2011

Friday, December 16th, 2011

Christmas tree is up! I’ve decided to re-use my old ornaments and give our pocketbooks a rest. We’re still recovering from post- nuptial, budget blow-out, so everything has to be handmade or dirt cheap….. Okaaay! i lied. Bought one dinky Wedgewood “wedding cake” ornament. In my defense, it was on sale. plus! it marks our first X’mas as man and wife innit? heh.

 

This year, i went for a whimsical and kitsch carnival theme. It’s amazing what a bit of food coloring, popcorn and good ole patience can accomplish. There was so much popcorn leftover from stringing the ‘tinsel’ for the tree, i used the rest to make a wreath. Will post photos of that project soon. It feels weird having nothing to do now that uni and the wedding are over. Nevertheless, I’ve been using this time wisely towards TV series marathons. Carnivále down. Next up, The Wire!