Hello Neighbour

Hello Everyone,

Sorry it has been a little while, and for that I apologize. It has been a hectic week full of interviews and introductions. It appears that I will be an ESL teacher at the beginning of March so that is indeed very welcome news. What I do until then for work, is certainly still up in the air. But I have certainly been trying, probably setting a record for most applications/interviews in a month long period.

So here are a few updates of happenings occurring these days. One, The Brisbane Book Fair is one of the most awesome things I've ever seen. Sprawled throughout the ENTIRE Brisbane Convention Centre, there were more cheap used books than I could possibly imagine. I managed to grab a bag full for only $10.

At UBC, in the most memorable and crazy year of my life, I had an Aussie neighbour who I loved dearly. His name was Aidan, and he really was a travelling soul. He had one guitar, a few blankets, and a few books to his name, and he didn't even bother to lock his door. He was the kindest, most easy-going guy, and I remember on our last day, he left his guitar with me. I still have it. In the strings was a note that indicated that we would meet again one day at the right place. Well I didn't think it would be Monoplane St, here in Brisbane. Turns out, he returned from Peru, to his home is Brisbane, which happens to be on my street. What are the chances of that. He features in the video above.

Also managed to see True Grit. Man oh man, what a treat; more straight forward than your usual Coen Brother movie, but certainly a treat when it comes to dialogue. It's kind of interesting how the Coen Brother's quirkier movies seem to gain cult status, while their more streamlined films seem to garner recognition at award season. The young actress who played Maddy Ross, was absolutely outstanding, and stole every scene she was in. Mom and Dad, aside from brief bits of violence, I think even you guys would like this movie. Interested (as always) to know what Sam thought of this.

I've been trying to get a hold of Captain Cassidy, but alas his life is very attached to the Jewel or the Dawn, or whatever cruise ship he is on. This is for two reasons, one for my one selfish needs, and one for an adventure. I would love to see him, if he came into port in Brisbane; but more importantly, Eddy, Hefe, and I are planning an adventure to Southeast Asia, and it would be rather ideal if he could join in the fun.

I went to a touch rugby training session the other, and my god, I am in such pain. I have never had such an intense pre-practice workout. I think it would be safe to say, that nobody would show up to practice anymore if the Nighthawks adopted this workout....maybe Justin. He's a firefighter.

I'm slowly getting more and more used to this city. One thing I think Vancouverites take for granted are the North Shore mountains. Not for their recreational purpose, but rather their navigational one. It is always nice to know where North is at all times; I don't have that luxury here.

Lastly, and most wonderfully, the Strokes (my all-time favourite band) are returning with their new album 'Angles' on March 22nd. They released their first single 'Under Cover of Darkness' today. I love it already, the rhythm section is so slick, and I hear for the first time backing vocals (WHAT?!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwxcQvB_vcQ&feature=player_embedded

Life is busy. New faces and old ones are helping me along this ridiculous ride. Keeping in contact with people back home has been just as important. Thanks for your help.