The Decaffeinated Blog

Sunny Sunday

2011-10-25T23:50:00.000+11:00

Summer is here!! Or at least warm weathe is. The Cameras came out and produced the first of many happy summer snaps. Learning how to ride a new bike and going to places that have never been before in one's own city (aka, let's be tourists in Melbourne for a day).

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100 Years/ Style/ East London

2011-10-24T19:43:00.002+11:00

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MARGIELA-AAA!!

2011-10-21T21:28:00.003+11:00

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Arthur Galan Take #2

2011-10-20T22:37:00.009+11:00

Summer!! Too much spending has been going on these last few months and too much laying back watching the world go past. My turn to conquer, don't you think? Well, I am a Manual driving Licence away ...

So, the new year is not here yet, but as life's new chapter resolution; my opening quote should be '1.5 Items a month'. And by that I mean, one item of clothing and another of whatever. It doesnt stop here. I need to restrict myself on the price limit also, as this has never been a consideration in my shopping escapades ... Shoot!! Im a classic case of 'confession of a shopaholic [queen]'. Oops!! Back to the price limit ... Well, that I will have to think about a little bit more.

Now, I have to hope really hard that the items below stay in stock throughout the whole year. Ah, that's funny!! Nice subtle styling this year, by the way. Or I could just be into high wasited pants and blouses this year. Ive never been over the oversized trend mind you. Anyhow, is it me or is AG killing it for the second time in a row for women's wear. I reckon what those outfits are missing is a bright and shiny yellow 3/4 pencil skirt.

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Banksy in Palestine

2011-10-19T21:59:00.012+11:00

She's Back!! How many posts this year have had that exclamation as an entry? Quite a few?!!

Back from a very intense holiday (aka family catch up). I am ready to go and start working again, but unfortunately my enthusiasm isn't met with similar excitement by prospective employers. So, whilst waiting on them to get on the bandwagon and start realising that they are in dire need of my fabulous skills, I shall talk Banksy.

Who is Banksy? One might ask. Well, good question. Who the f*#@k is Banksy? That's my answer.

All we mortals know, or all I care for is that Banksy is a street artist with some zest who I was introduced to his work and IDEA a few months ago by a very goodlooking (amongst other positive ... and negative traits) gentleman that goes by the name Francis in this story.

Funnily enough, as I was in Jordan visiting my dad; I happened to mention a few famous paintings/scribbles/stencils that Banksy did around six years ago on the 'Barrier Wall' (in the West Bank in Palestine) to be politically correct, and dearest father replies with a 'you know what, we had five Englishmen stay at the Hotel in Beit-Sahour (town right next door to Bethelehem, and well known for the Church of the Shepherds field where in the Bible an Angel appears to inform the Shepherds of the Birth of Christ) and we thought them Silly for leaving at seven in the morning everyday with buckets of glue and brushes' ... Turns out one those Englishmen was Banksy himself.

A week later father dearest was determined to prove he was right and introduced me to the guide (Mr. Wissam) that was helping Banksy with locations etc., so I believed him. And I believed that Mr B. also scribbled on the side wall of the hotel to show kids how stencil (or ruin mum and dad's walls). My little brother used to have a wall of his own when he was three years old and he was only allowed to draw using crayons. That way, the walls can be cleaned and repainted easily without any trace of the doodling. I on the other hand, had my own wall to practice tennis against it ... Did you have your own personal favourite wall while growing up? I wonder if Mr. B did, and if he, just like my three year old brother; has the crayons and wall to thank for his work being so widely acknowledged (aka our cultural hipster fascination).

After all that excitement and the unexpected connection to Mr. B., which I barely gave any thought mind you until I got to London and told a friend about what had happened and we ended up going on a Banksy hunt (even in Brighton ... yes, Banksy, I know of the Jesus one. Its my favourite); I dragged my poor father and later my cousin and her 'three daugters and daughter' and went and snapped up a couple of the surviving work around the West Bank. One must also consider that this Wall is quite lengthy and there were other Street Art that was done toward Ramallah which is a good couple of hours from Bethlehem and I couldnt really be bothered nagging people to take me there, especially when I hadnt seen them in an AGE!!

So, here you go. Feast your eyes on the beauties:

Some of the famous works along the Wall (there are many around the towns as well) are included below. Photos apart from the last one were not taken by me and most of these are faded by now. The below have been sourced from the guardian.co.uk:

(The photo on the right taken by me and it's the state of the wall and stencil condition as of two months ago)

P.S. If anyone knows, is the stencil of a 'tank being towed away' a Banksy IDEA?! If so, then I may have spotted one or I may have just imagined it. There's quite a lot of Wall Scribbles and Ideas around the West Bank nowadays ...

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Luxe Vintage

2011-09-22T16:10:00.001+10:00

"OMG I'd die if I don't get it!!"

Oh My God, I'll kill you if you don't (shut up) get it!

Dolce & Gabbana

Vivienne Westwood

Photos from Resurrection Vintage.

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PARIS MENSWEAR SS 2012

2011-06-15T08:43:00.002+10:00

Okay Cats, who's excited?!! I am one hundred percent ... One week to go.

wednesday 22 june 2011

Y.PROJECT
MUGLER
EHUD
LACROIX HOMME
AMI ALEXANDRE MATTIUSSI

thursday 23 june 2011

VIKTOR & ROLF
ISSEY MIYAKE
RICK OWENS
JUUN J.
LOUIS VUITTON
ALEXIS MABILLE
JEAN PAUL GAULTIER
YOHJI YAMAMOTO
DRIES VAN NOTEN
MALTO
ADAM KIMMEL

friday 24 june 2011

JUNYA WATANABE
YVES SAINT LAURENT
JULIUS
GUSTAVOLINS
WALTER VAN BEIRENDONCK
KRISVANASSCHE
BORIS BIDJAN SABERI
COMME DES GARÇONS
GIVENCHY
HENRIK VIBSKOV
JOHN GALLIANO

saturday 25 june 2011

MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA
KENZO
ROMAIN KREMER
ANN DEMEULEMEESTER
BERNHARD WILLHELM
DIOR HOMME
WOOYOUNGMI
CERRUTI
PETAR PETROV
DAMIR DOMA
HERMÈS
RAF SIMONS

sunday 26 june 2011

BILL TORNADE
LANVIN
ROLAND MOURET
SONGZIO
AGNES B
RYNSHU
PAUL SMITH
QASIMI HOMME
THOM BROWNE
ARNYS
YIGAL AZROUEL
ACNE

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Splendour in the Grass

2011-06-05T23:44:00.006+10:00

I am going to Splenour in the Grass next month for free!! I have an insane friend who decided to catch a cab to a location where a 'hunt' for two tickets was going. The hunt was a competition run by the Splendour crew where they published clues of the whereabouts of the tickets around Melbourne ... I was at home that day and my gig-partner-in-crime was texting me where she thought the tickets were. And being the really good friend I was, I thought of ignoring her messages and give her any falsified hope whatsoever ... Well, Ash decided that she was going to Fitzroy Gardens and ask 'Hipster-looking' guys sitting at one of the benches if they had the tickets - mind you there were more clues that got her to ask them, but it's a long story and if you'd like to read in more detail, go here (I make a guest appearance. Woot!!) ... Long story short, I am the plus one and off to Splendour in the Grass. Going to be a very tight scheduled at next month which is going to be like this:

27 July - 1 August: Splendour in the Grass
1 August - 2 August: Melbourne
2 August - Indefinite (?!!): Overseas

Guess it's a good way of saying my farewells and what not.

Who am I looking forward to seeing, then? Here they are:

Coldplay - c'mon, a lot of us don't like to admit it, but Coldplay is our number one music to help with a sleepless night
Mona - this band is going to rock. The lead singer kinda looks like a young Joe Strummer (No?)
Young the Giant - what?! These guys are playing? Noway!!
Fitz & the Tantrums - Really? You don't know who they are? SHAME!!
British Sea Power - have been in the country A LOT, and I still haven't managed to see them. I am this time!!
Modest Mouse - have been around for an age (back when cassettes were around) and still love them as much as when I first heard them.

The list is just a few of the bands that I remember from the massive lineup. In noway I am being prejudiced whatsoever towards the artists that werent mentioned above (except for *ahem* Kanye West)

Bands mentioned above also deliver on the video clip front. Check them out:

Coldplay - The Scientist

Fitz & the Tantrums - Winds of Change

Young the Giant - Apartment

MONA - Listen to Your Love

British Sea Power - Carrion

Modest Mouse - Dasboard

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Music Revival

2011-06-05T23:29:00.002+10:00

And I'm back!! Back into browsing th world wide web and obsessing over all new music. A while back I posted about a really good (VERY good) Australian songwriter called Jack Ladder. This time I am going to post about a song by the man himself from the new album. I have a feeling the look of the girl in the clip adds extra fascination to the song. Here it is, 'Cold Feet':

This time around, Mr. Ladder got himself an impressive band. Checked him out at a preview gig last month (Birthday Present Courtesy of dearest Ash), and for the first time EVER, I was tongue tied and left the gig without saying a word to any of the band members. So, thats what it takes ha (?!) - to have Jack Ladder in the same room to stop me from Bullsh****g

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DS ART

2011-05-29T14:54:00.004+10:00

Don Stewart is an artist who after getting a BS in Biology and Art, and then his M.D. qualification; decided that art was where his passion was and has been drawing up amazingly whimsical ballpoint sketches ever since (1986). Well, I'm happy that the world does not have this one doctor. Some of his works below are mind blowingly smart.

Dragon Fly

Shutter Bugs and Party Animals

Portrait of the artist in his former profession

The Rain Coat? It's a Mac

A floral bouquet in flight

Trap Set
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Etsy - knuckle dusters

2011-05-25T15:20:00.004+10:00

NERVOUSYSTEM

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Arthur Galan AG

2011-05-19T16:49:00.004+10:00

... this man is a genius. I finally found an Australian designer that's similar (well, to me anyway) to the likes of Gareth Pugh and Todd Lynn. It's probably the mix of leather and silks that get my approval.

I have only been a fan in the last two months and already got myself a couple of pieces.

Here's a selection of my favourite pieces of the current collection (totally obsessed with the belt in photo number 5)

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The last six months in reflection

2011-05-09T11:03:00.002+10:00

Whoa, that was a rollercoaster ride ... and it's still going.

the last six months have been eventful, and it's not going to stop for a while. Some of the major events:

Meeting one or two special people *smiles*
Moving into a new house to find we had to move out two months later
Friends moving away
Redundancy of the groundwater team
Free Splendour in the Grass tickets
Not sure what to do with oneself
Tickets for August holiday booked

So, where to from now? Let's have some fun with what we have here ...

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Sheesh!!!

2010-10-27T20:37:00.003+11:00

It has been a month!! Anyhow, awesome Laneway Festival (Only the best festival of the summer!!) unleashed its lineup for next year and awesome Stornoway is playing. So is Local Natives. Are we excited or what?!!

And yes, Sideshows please. Since I get to miss out on The National Falls Festival sideshow. Boo!!

So, here they are. Stornoway. I wish I did literature at Oxford ...

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RIP

2010-09-26T15:52:00.005+10:00

I own three ipods!! Guess which one died first? The answer is the iTouch. The oldest one (top) ipod in photo below) hasn't failed me once. That says something - that technology is improving, but quality is not. I still own an ancient mobile (Nokia 6310) that still functions very well, (but no longer use because it does not cater to my busy and minimalist lifestyle) even better than my Nokia E71 that's currently hanging on to life by a thread. So, I have come to the conclusion (along with millions of others) that quality is no longer an option. Opt for the looks, and never expect a lifetime service ...

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London FW Spring 2011

2010-09-23T20:35:00.005+10:00

Highlights:

Todd Lynn - the sharp tailoring is making my head spin. This is definitely going to be something am going to be sporting.
Paul Smith - never fails ... ever!! And those half Jelly shoes!!
Betty Jackson - the colours are warm and the prints are subtle. I like blocking ...
Peter Pilotto - Drapes and more drapes please. Bet would be a nightmare to iron though. Nevertheless, hides away bloated tummy on a bad day.
Osman - Again, I am a fan of oversized clothing and always buy two sizes larger and the browns as well as fabrics are very eye catching no matter how simple (but classic) the cut.
Kinder Aggugini - The layering is really smart.
Vivienne Westwood Red Label - she's my adopted aunt of choice!!

Lowlights aka disappointments of the collections include:

Julien MacDonald - Too frilly for what I know of his work?!!
Acne - Country Road at dearer prices!!
Richard Nicoll - I think the collections was shown on same day as Acne and Julien MacDonald. So my negativity would have been due to a pre existing disappointment. However, I really didnt like the styling. It was all rags ...
Marios Schwab - I don't want expensive sleepwear. I want to wear it out!! And you are way more sophisticated than Alannah Hill!!

Todd Lynn

Paul Smith

Betty Jackson

Peter Pilotto

Osman

Kinder Aggugini

Vivienne Westwood Red Label

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MDG SUMMIT

2010-09-20T22:06:00.002+10:00

The summit is also known as High Level Plenary Meeting of the General Assembly.

Just a little heads up that this summit will be taking place these upcoming few days (20 - 22 September 2010), at the United Nations HQ in New York. The aim of this summit is for heads of state to address and commit to achieve the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. The themes to be focused on during this summit include:

— Addressing the challenge of poverty, hunger and gender equality
— Meeting the goals of health and education
— Promoting sustainable development
— Addressing emerging issues and evolving approaches
— Addressing the special needs of the most vulnerable
— Widening and strengthening partnerships

Endpoverty2015 details the MDGs and their purpose as well as the eight goals (End Hunger, Universal Education, Gender Equity, Child Health, Maternal Health, Combat HIV/AIDS, Environmental Sustainability and Global Prtnership) that were intially agreed on when the treaty was signed by the 189 world leaders in 2000. There's plenty of information on the website.

The idea is that even though there has been progress in many countries, we are still falling behind ...

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Newly Dicovered Musical Treasures

2010-09-20T13:54:00.003+10:00

Tim Ten Yen

Im From Barcelona

Peachcake

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Birthday Present

2010-09-20T12:03:00.004+10:00

SO, the little one is a teenager - well, he became a teenager two years ago; but he's a proper one with actual opinion this year. Doesn't make me feel any better about being obliged to be mature in this world. Anyhow, he's a teenager with a taste in t-shirt ... actually, its me who loves buying my brothers endless supply of t shirts.

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Different, different ... but same

2010-09-20T10:55:00.003+10:00

The video below is a funny video. Period. Sums up what our dear Melbourne peeps have been doing to themselves. If I remember correctly, this trend has gone out of control during my final two years at Uni. The trend makes me cringe. Everyone parades around in what they would like to call vintage clothing, but in truth, it actually really is just a second (or possible 4th hand) jacket. So, just call it op shop you noob.

This year's St. Jerome's Laneway Festival was a perfect example. I have never seen a bigger group of people pretending they don't care about what they are wearing, as if whatever they had on was something they whipped up that morning, where in truth, it took them hours of thinking through ... and those 'vintage' wayfarer sunnies definitely didn't cost you $7, because I own a pair and Karen Walker definitely doesn't charge that much. Otherwise, she wouldn't be Karen Walker dude ... Unless you bought yours in HK, those sunnies would have cost you $295.

There's a snippet at the 'Fitzroy Anti Social Club' where the audience at the gig looked unimpressed. Boy, that was excatly what happens often and the latest experience was last friday night. Must say, sometimes I'm guilty of that, but only when its music Im confused about and CANNOT dance to (aka house techno). My friends are very much guilty of this as well, and it really pains me when they sit around sulking.

Maybe its a phase people go through. I remember me a while back when I took it all a tad too seriously, but now I realise that everyone is trying to find themselves and they will eventually realise that they're not cut out to be muscians for example. In the meantime, lets all help them out and get them to enjoy it all for a little while. If we wanted to be pretentious about, why not go form out own bands then?

We all need to stop being a CRITIC!! and thrive to have everyone else follow in our own footsteps ... then get all worked up that people are copying us.

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BRISBANE

2010-09-01T21:04:00.004+10:00

Back from Brisbane. Woohoo!! Victoria is 3/4 packed and all set to move back to Melbourne (Psychologicaly - wise). Caught with few other friends from uni - thanks to the nature of the course that we all did, everyone is all scattered around the country and even the world. As I am not the best at keeping contact, was very glad to have managed to catch up with as many people as I have and was lovely to see thye're all doing great and Progressing per se ... and what I mean by that, is that they are all finding themselves and definitely making their mark in the world in their own way.

So, Brisbane!! Was lovely and not as hot and humid as I thought it was going to be. Then again, I did go during Winter (temperature-wise, it wasn't winter at all). City was really interesting in terms of infrastructure. Seemed like it was built to suit the landscaope than the landscape being tamed in order to suit the infrastructure etc.

The view from the apartment was stunning. A number of the photos below were taken from the apartment. Disappointed I didn't put my act together and get up there earlier in the year when the stress of packing and moving wasn't being the B***h it always is. So you know, it wasn't all work - Brownies and Mojiitos were consumed and checked out the Valentino Retrospective exhibition at the Gallery which didn't make me feel very good (Never do in instances where I get to see the real deal, whic in this case some infamous dress, that weren't worn by celebrities might I add; and can't touch or even own, and most likely won't ever be able to own anything similar to the craftmanship that we witnessed)... Anyhow, am VERY excited to have Victoria back in Melbourne town and in time fot the spring and 'floral' weather *smiles*.

And now to Work in a few hours ...

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Taxi Driver Man

2010-08-25T21:50:00.003+10:00

You are on my black list!! Was meant to go to a friend's going away drinks tonight, but was inclinded on not eating out as I had a home made meal waiting for me at home (take into consideration that I have been away from home for a long time and I am starved for good food, coffee and the absolutely wonderful snoberry of Melbourne). Anyhow, had two hours to waste which involved a pub crawl. I got cold and miserable as well as moody, so decide to catch an $8 cab home. The cab fare was $11.80, because the driver went to Bridge road instead of Swan street in Richmond. Oh, the outrage! Definitely didn't make me less moody. This reminded me of another taxi trip where the driver drove for nealy ten minutes, then said that he was lost and to top it off asked if he could stop by the petrol station.

Got something that makes you an angry citizen?!! Here's something I came across on Sheawater's myspace:

Shearwater frustration!!

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Back Home ... for a little while!!

2010-08-23T12:55:00.004+10:00

Back in Melbourne for sometime (clean underwear at last!!), where the good coffee is (hence the pun above) and then off to Brisbane for a few days to help lovely friend with moving back. Couldn't understand Melbourne peeps' complaining about the weather when I flew in on Sunday - it was very nice. Was at the READY with my double shot scarf, but didn't need it and even pulled my sleeves up (as my mum would say - oh, the nerve!). Monday was okay too. Wasn't until break out time that it started to get miserable. And I was just starting to thrive on the fact that the weather got better for me (bear in mind that it started raining as I was leaving Alice Springs) ... Anyhow, big desicions are being made whilst in town - and yes, buying a whole heap of useless crap is definitely one of them. Why else would I consider me a city-terian?!

As for those of you that are very curious to know whether I succumbed to two posts below or not, I am not going to give you the good/bad news about what happened. Whether I gave in or not, I don't like myself for my actions. So, this could be take that I actually bought them and now am in absolute self loathing and sitting in a corner rocking back and forth thinking about how many hypocritical acts before I actually get it? Or I could have very well resisted and didn't buy the shoes and now regretting til eternity because it will be eternity until the next swedish hasbeens sale. Did I? Or didn't I? I may have let the secret out once Im comfortable with the decision. I the meantime, off to make me a warm cup of tea, beccause I REALLY need it (It's very cold in this room).

In other new, Aunty Meredith is turning 20 and am going to celebrate her birthday this year, with wonderful friends including Neill Finn, Warren Ellis, Reverend Horton Heat, Little Red and Many more. You know what that party is missing?! Jack Ladder!!

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Ashlea ... This is just for you

2010-08-17T21:44:00.003+10:00

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SWEDISH HASBEENS SALE!!

2010-08-16T23:35:00.005+10:00

The Swedish Habeens sale on the summer collection is on until 25-08-2010. Clogs are in this summer, so why not get a good decent pair of the real thing?! Those lovelies are more beautiful in real life. And get onboard the bandwagon, as Swedish footwear is making its mark. I'm on a self imposed shopping ban until I get back to Melbourne. But, by the way things are looking; I will be back home before the end of the sale. If I get my choice, I would get these without a second thought ...

I'm in trouble!!

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Newly Discovered Musical Treasures

2010-08-16T21:20:00.004+10:00

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Northern Territory Work Post #1

2010-08-11T21:57:00.003+10:00

So, I'm currently going around communities in the Northern Territory assessing the condition of the groundwater bores in these areas. This is the intial step to determine the production bores in these towns need to undergo remediation or they will be required to be replaced, as well as if additional bores are needed to meet the water supply of the said town. I don't know what to think about this project. Unlike other projects, this seems to be a little less hardcore and intense as the rest, but it's an absolutely important project. Maybe it's the fact this project is going to be a very slow paced one as we have to get it right and tere's A LOT of money going into this. And because I'm not sure what the confidentiality of this project exactly is, I will leave it here and post the following photos from the two sites visited - Hermannsburg and Yuendumu. AH-MAZING!!

Note that I didn't include any photos od communities. That's because it wasn't allowed, and as a personal moral obligation, I didn't think it would have been appropriate of me - considering the political sensitivity in these parts of Australia.

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Two Door Cinema Club

2010-08-10T23:50:00.005+10:00

03-08-2010

I have heard of these guys a few months ago and loved the way they sounded. They seemed very young and the lyrics is an indication of that. I have a couple of their songs as my motivational go -for-a-run song. Anyhow, as we got to the gig, started to get this gutting feeling - maybe had something to do with me not being a 100% healthy and the husky voice was beginning to make its presence. Anyhow, this feeling was aided by the fact that I felt like an aunt considering how young the crowd at the gig was. Boy, I was an aunt ... or I could've been the older sister or the mentor/chaperone.

How was the music? It was good, but was a little disappointed they didn't steer away from their album material. Guessing it's probably the safest option and considering the crowd they were playing for, they are better off playing the album. Was a bit surprised how popular they were and the crowd knew most of their songs word for word. It was impressive!! And what was more impressive was their drummer. The kid reminded me of the drummer from Muse. Poor thing didn't know what to think about that ... Don't worry Ben, Dom Howard from Muse is a goodlooking man. Many people thinks so (including myself). Anyhow, the lead singer mentioned onstage that the band will be back soon. I have a date, but not sure whether its confidential and the date was blurted out as a consequence of alcohol consumption at the after party (or could be me asking inappropriate questions?!).

Anyhow, TDCC are a VERY young band and can see them growing. Kudos to selling out their first ever show in Melbourne within hours.

The crowd knew the words to most of the songs.

Ben Thompson - TDCC touring (very impressive) drummer

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ASH + We Are Scientists = WASH

2010-08-10T22:31:00.003+10:00

04-08-2010

Brilliant Gig! But that seems to be the case with every gig I have been to (Well, most). But this time, went to see one band (We Are Scientists) and ended up being very impressed and woed by another band (ASH). The gutarist from Block Party is on tour with ASH for a little while - he did look younger than the rest. Wonder how tall the lead singer is, and the bassist was right infront of us. He was very, um, bendy ... Now, We are Scientists are a very funny due. They are also much skinnier than I would have thought. There was a joke about women getting pregnant by the end of the night, and the bassist kept on going about how the lead singer Keith will be able to check etc. the joke got more awkward and funnier ... Very glad we decided to go to this at the very last minute. Would've loved to have been able to meet them. Anyhow, the encore was a joint one between Ash and We Are Scientists (WASH). There were some technical difficulties, where a mock of 'This Charming Man' (Never gets hold), then did a Mudhoney and a Weezer cover (See video below).

The support act were The Last Dinosaurs.

We are Scientists ...

ASH ...

Again, Thanks Ash (my friend) for the pics

WOWZERZ!!

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Midlake

2010-08-02T19:52:00.008+10:00

WoW!! The only band that I will ever consider cheating on Spoon with is Midlake. Awesome and Brilliant band. What completely made my night was that they closed their set (excluding encore) with a personal favourite 'Head Home' (See video below please). Absolutely adore this band! And the fact that there were four guitar players out of seven was sure to make a lot of Sound., along with flutes and recorders. Oh, and I of course got me a hug (or two rather) - after much deliberation *Smiles*.

The support band was Big Scary. This was the second time I've seen this band live and they are quite loud for a two person band. However, they were slightly quite chilled this time around - I guess considering the musical nature of the band that they were supporting. And, does anyone thing the lead singer looks like one of the guys from the History Boys?!

Photos: Ash. W.

We also got snapped up by fasterlouder photographer CazTheTurtle here

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Foals

2010-07-31T11:05:00.005+10:00

Played one of their sideshows to Splendour in the Grass in Melbourne on the day after I got back from the middle of nowhere. I didn't dance much, and I barely tapped my feet. I was in awe!! They were really good. Really. For once, we didn't go near the stage, but found a spot on the stairs for a complete view of the stage, as being near the front at The Hi-Fi isn't always a good thing. The lead singer was a nutter on stage and he managed to crrowd surf at the end of the set, and act all upset when pulled back onto the stage by security and stormed off backstage. It was kinda endearing. Anyhow, he jumed back into the crowd during the encore ... Must say that the support act The Gypsy & The Cat were also impressive and I will be looking forward to their next gig in town.

Photos: Ash.W.

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Drilling for groundwater isn't for the faint hearted

2010-07-28T16:28:00.007+10:00

Or supervising the drilling rather!! So, Back in town (Melbourne town that is) for four days short of a fortnight. It will be a time where I will have to prepare BIG time for the groundwater drilling program. I have heard lots of things about drillers and the attitude of drillers towards my kind - the city slicker, university kid waving her paper around bossing around. The girl who could easily be mistaken for a 13 year old.

5 things that are going against me include:

Female
City Kid
Freshly out of university
Hydrogeologist
Holds the record for most times stalling a manual car.

Apparently (as a joke I presume), the fact that my mother half comes from the 'evil empire' isn't going to do me any favours either. So, how do I think am going to fair up? Pretty well. We are going to get along just fine ... in my dreams. First of all, they're not going to acknowledge my extistence. Second, they are going to test me constantly and challenge my inexperience. And thirdly (but definitely not lastly), they are going to make my life hell in terms of playing tricks. I guess the thought of hanging out with the exploration geologists working near us and who will be staying at the same roadhouse doesnt sound so bad afterall.

Anyhow, in the end all the hassle is WORTH it, when the end product looks like this.

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Sound Causing Pictures

2010-07-11T21:48:00.005+10:00

Life and it's intricates!!

Heart Sinking End - and its not what happens to him

Epitome

Little Red Riding Hood over Alice in Wonderland anytime

When?!!

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Adieu

2010-07-11T21:21:00.003+10:00

I am off to the middle of nowhere (approximately 350km out of Alice Springs) to do good ... well, to look for groundwater to be specific. Finally get to do some fieldwork after many months stuck in one of the towers in the Buisness District in Melbourne.

This is what I am taking with me:

Drove this car in the city today and for the first time ever I did a hook turn, only because I had to.

I am off for a couple of weeks to begin with and hopefully some of that time I will within reception area where I won't have to use Satellite communication devices to communicate. Yes, yes it's going to be one hell of an experience and a challange as well. The second round of fieldwork might apparently go up to six weeks. Yikes. Nevertheless, I am going to do good!!

I am going to leave with a very precious find - a band called Remma.

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The Soft Pack

2010-07-09T00:19:00.004+10:00

Mid week gigs are exhausting!! Especially when one has to go to work at 7 am to prepare for fieldwork happening in the following week in the middle of nowhere - literally!!

Anyhow, the band are quite good live. Drummer Brian drums whilst standing up - must be ridiculously hard. He also came up with the name 'The Soft Pack' ... Yes, that's exactly what it means and yours truly guessed it. Woot Woot!! And I don't understand why I am proud for having a filthy mind. I wouldn't be surprised if those aquainted are surprised, as am apparently generally clueless in that respect ... Then again, the title of this blog apparently has a sexual context. Something psychological going on in this brain of mine?! Could be, but who cares, it's getting me by okay last time I checked ... Oh, hang on. Wiki tells me about what 'Te Soft Pack' actually means. Well, I could have checked that instead over enthusiastically checking with the guys in the band. Bah!!

So, The Soft Pack are great live (Yes, I like to reiterate my point) and the guitarist is BRILLIANT!! Also, to the guy who repeated his offer to take a photo quite a number of times (no, not the fasterlouder guy, he was sweet) - go away!! I don't want to take a photo. In fact, if it was Madonna I wouldn't want to take a photo! Why would I want to? There so many other photos with band memebers and other people that are out there. What am I getting out of it? It would be just like those weirdos that take photos of the sunset and actually miss out on experiences and possibly revelations... So, Go away!!

Photos shall follow. I am off to bed ...

EDIT:

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A New PM!!

2010-06-27T18:32:00.002+10:00

I woke up to find that morning that we were about to have a new Prime Minister and that the longest match in tennis history was being played at the Wimbeldon Championships!!

Who didn't see it coming?!! There was a discussion over beer and chips after a very hard working week that the whole debbacle and booh-ha behind Kevin Rudd becoming Prime Minister was to get a Julia Gillard a lee way in.

At least lets hope she gets things going and such as the CPRS, which is one of the many that Rudd seemed to take his time to get going.

I think as the face of our country, she seems more solid and representable than Rudd. He definitely did not send out the aura that he was a leader. He probably would have been lost at an where people didn't do their homework and he wasn't officially introduced as Australia's PM. Anyhow, that's my 2 cents worth.

Cartoon from here

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Four Years Later ...

2010-06-27T13:12:00.008+10:00

I discovered the movie Stranger Than Fiction!! I knew this movie was around since it was released but being the prejudiced person that I am, thought it would be just another Will Ferrell movie, you know ... Well, turns out it's not a 'Will Ferrell' movie. What got me really excited a few minutes into the movie is that one of my favourite bands' (accoustic) songs was playing in the background. My movie experience tends to get a whole heap better ... anyhow, the plot gets loads better and the characters are endearing (love how Dustin Hoffman's character 'recycles' coffee, I do the same to the water in my hotwater bottle), and by the end the soundtrack is very well dominated by favourite band accoustics. And because of this, I decided to google the movie and see what's going on. Turns out the soundtrack was a collaboration between band and composer of film.

This brings me to question whether I should put some effort in researching bands that I like ... only thing I am worried about is that this reasearching might end up being beyond the band's music and it will ruin it for me. I am only interested in the journey the artist may have taken to end up with the particular piece of art (in this case song). Anyway, my point is that I will end up trying to connect with the artist than the lyrics ...

I absolutely recommend this movie and it has gone on my favourites list.

I am a tragedy!!

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Two Days Off

2010-06-22T19:07:00.007+10:00

I have done it again!! Apparently I suffer from a little thing called 'overtraining syndrome'. It' happens when one trains/exercises up to a point where one's own body is incapable of recovering in time for the next training session. So, what happens when THAT happens? Well, one begins to experience fatigue, muscle and joint pain, interrupted sleep, loss of apetite, loss of motivation (hence, competetive drive), depressed immune system (which in my case isn't in the best shape to begin with), and the big one; Depression!

Not that I suffer from depression, but I tend to develop less tolerance towards others, as well as become more impatient and more negative than usual (Trust me, my negativity is a family/genetic trait and when I admit that my negativity is not the norm, then there's definitely something wrong).

How did this come about you might ask? Well, at work we have a HealthyWalk challenge that has been set up to encourage employees to be more active (you know, hydrate and walk 10,000 steps a day kind of challenge). I think I may have (Okay fine, I admit I HAVE) taken the challenge a tad too far and increased my workout/execise regime twice to what it usually was and it became a daily routine than just five days a week max.

So, if you ever read this, please don't be a fool like me and understand your body as well as the extent it can be pushed. Now, I have to keep a log of what exercises I do, how much, for how long, what types of food I eat, sleeping patterns (and how much I sleep) etc. Basically, because I am now branded a serial 'trainer', what used to be something that I did for fun and good health will have to be monitored and controlled just like a Diet. The joke is that this should be my new years resolution.

And I am SHIT at keeping a schedule!! Because of the pain, I have been bed ridden for two days, and accumulating cobwebs. I Have to Keep the Schedule!!

P.S. this is definitely not a weight issue.

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Shoes of Summer 2011

2010-06-21T20:11:00.004+10:00

A collaboration between Moschino and Kartel gives us the below. What makes them so special when we've had the Melissa jelly shoes for some time now?! Well, the fact that the ribbon is on the side wins me over (I feel confronted with the riibbon/bow/flower right in the middle, like a clown) ... These will apparently be released early next year and will retail for around 115 AUD. I want the pale pink and the electric blue ...

Pic from Vogue

Yum!! I know what I'll be asking for my birthday by then ...

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Embracing a new week

2010-06-20T21:02:00.002+10:00

Last week was an interesting week and a week where things became clearer and decisions were set in stone. As a supersititious person, won't be letting on anymore, just in case things won't go MY way. Anyhow, new band came across called The Dukes Jetty. Video below is the only 'official' clip I could find. Please do check them out as they have many other lovely songs ... and their Album is actually on itunes Australia. Woot!!

Oh Girl - by the Dukes Jetty from Aaron Daniels on Vimeo.

A very good way to start my week - decided to postpone a very serious post for mid week. Can't wait for my morning walk to work listening to them sing tomorrow.

Sound causing pictures

2010-06-15T23:10:00.007+10:00

Winter Should not all be Black

Weekends and Holidays

Dance like you just don't REALLY give a $ugar!!

HOME SICK!!

So, where does the name Alona come from?! ...

ANGER

FRUSTRATION

Are you $h**ing me?!!

2010-06-12T19:38:00.005+10:00

Seriously?!! This woman thinks she's a saviour of some kind? Humanitarian work is more satisfying? Does that bag she's carrying emboss humanitarianism? Dude (and I mean it here in the true meaning of the word), I am probably more of a humanitarian than you are and still think I am the biggest hypocrite!! I go on holidays, spend a whole heap of dough on vanities ... and hell, I have been eating fish again!! I don't even know why I bothered with this post, but I guess it shows how much it disgusts me!!

Here's the article and along with a video here - I have my reasons for not including photos with this post.

Jack Ladder

2010-06-06T15:18:00.004+10:00

In celebrating me getting my hands on Jack Ladder's album Not Worth Waiting For at last, and having had a very comprehensive listen to it, I went into reminscing and decided that I am overdue for a Jack Ladder fix. He's been gone for a while now. Wonder if he plans to tour soon. I really hope so and it won't be when I have to be away for work.

Last time I saw Jack Ladder was in Frankston, Victoria - supporting Wolfmother. Not much of a wolfmother fan, but definitely Jack Ladder and Yves Klein Blue (who were also supporting). Just in case, we ended up in Frankston because I was meant to be away for work that week and was going to get back same night the show was to be in Melbourne. Boy, was I glad a few of my friends agreed to come along to Frankston.

Must say that it was an experience, but I don't think I will repeat it though.

Anyhow, Jack Ladder was brilliant on stage and I craved the t-shirt he wore, (it was a Jack Ladder t-shirt btw) and have been scouring the world to try and get my hand on one to no avail.

I found out about Jack Ladder when I came across the clip below. He covers Okkervil River's 'Starry Nights'. I remembered this clip when I read a blog post about song covers being better than originals. As much as I love Okkervil River, I think I prefer Mr. Ladder's version here. I like the quiteness that comes with Jack Ladder's version, considering the nature of the lyrics.

Back to the t-shirt story - I've been working on my own Jack Ladder t-shirt. It's still a work in progress, but this is what I have managed to put together so far. I can't decide whether to use both or just one. I don't even know if this is going to end up just another unfinished DIY project. I wonder if I'm actually allowed to use it either.

P.S. Tim Rogers is actually Jack Ladder's real name. And he's too young to be the Tim Rogers from You am I just in case you were about to start relating them to one another (a bit of trivia from one of the Yves Kelin Blue guys).

2010-06-02T22:58:00.003+10:00

Apparently, I need to to tell people about this blog. Who cares?! It's a journal that noone reads, and mind you looks so much better than my unreadable handwriting (and would feel like a self-loathing twat fishing for compliments if I was to go around telling/begging people to have a looksee). Anyhow, a little about pears and apples ...

Slice a pear and you will find that its flesh is incadescent white. It glows with inner light. Those who carry a knife and a pear are never afaid of the dark ... An apple resists being eaten. An apple is not eaten, it is conquered. The crunchiness of a pear is far more appealing. It is giving and fragile. To eat a pear is akin to kissing ...

- Yann Martel, Beatrice and Virgil

Recommend my next read, please ...

I missed Eurovision for ...

2010-05-30T22:50:00.007+10:00

Miami Horror!

We saw them play at the Corner Hotel. Wasn't feeling too suave, and only water was consumed. Although much dancing was done, and a lot of cheesy try hard pick lines were said, which got Ash to unintentionally utter the f#$* word. How'd the gig go? Well, sorry my dear Ash, but they were ordinary for me. Their support were fun, and for the life of I can't remember who they were. I hope it comes to me at some stage, beacuse I would like to check them out.

Photos by resident photographer A.W.

Kind Regards

Eurovision

2010-05-30T21:32:00.008+10:00

Two words: Love it!! I have only been able to watch the final this year. Was impressed by Russia, Germany (Yes, I know she won), Iceland and Israel. From memory, I had a liking towards Cyprus ... France was utterly disappointing and what on earth was going on with Moldova?! Special (Pizzazz) mention goes to Siberia though - Those Cheek Bones!!! and was that really a PRINCESS co-hosting?!

Must say that I prefer it when artists sing in their native languages, but I think my English understanding ears made me biased this year.

Cyprus and Germany

Iceland and Russia

Israel

Every year, there's a few that make me go wow, whoa and sigh ... my wow was Israel and whoa was Serbia, but sigh goes to Norway's boy (Last year Norway was my wow and sigh). and his name is Didrik Solli-Tangen. I reckon there's a pattern going on here. Maybe I should consider moving to Norway?! Not sure about picking up yet another language however. Feasties on my 2010 Eurovision's sigh below:

Just in case, here are the final results for the 2010 Eurovision Song Contest:

Germany
Turkey
Romania
Denmark
Azerbaijan
Belgium
Armenia
Greece
Georgia
Ukraine
Russia
France
Serbia
Israel
Spain
Albania
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Portugal
Iceland
Noway
Cyprus
Moldova
Ireland
Belarus
United Kingdom

I really hope the results have been mainly due to geopolitics, beacause it would be musically depriving if that's what Europe thinks of music these days.

Again, Eurovision:

Mad Hatter

2010-05-17T21:02:00.003+10:00

I don't wear hats, but if I ever get my hands on any of the below by ChaCha House of Ill Repute, they will be promoted to the hardest working item in my wardrobe.

Two sides of the story

2010-05-15T23:55:00.001+10:00

Two songs that talk about stalking and being stalked. Thought it a good concept as in this World Wide Web age of ours, we're all stalkers and stalkees.

The Stalker's Perspective: Regugitator's Song of the damned ... Hilarious and Lovely!!

The Stalkee's Perspective: The Basics' Lookin' over my shoulder ... Favourite bits are 2.31 and 2.39 *Smiles*. He HAD to stop to do THAT!!

It's hard, but am trying

2010-05-15T16:17:00.003+10:00

I know!! I am a female, and I have an unhealthy obsession with Fashion. However, lately I seem to be more fascinated by menswear. For example, the shot below. How brilliant are the combinations. They're all the same, but yet different. Hmm ...

I rather think Docs look nice on men, because they are the only footwear that men can get away with wearing in different colours without looking like a 75 year old gardner. Appropriate length as well. I do not condone pants longer than that. If they are, cuff them - just like Bottega Veneta's done for AW10.

2010-05-10T23:37:00.011+10:00

I am still in Britt Daniel/Spoon withdrawal. Check out what I stumbled across whilst trying to find Spoon gig photos in Australia ... It's brilliant!! I can imagine the photographer saying the following: Now, Britt! Just imagine you are six again!! And if Britt replies with a 'yes, can do'!; HATS off to the man and I will love him even more.

Comment on top photos (Start from right): Oh, new phenomena making his eyes widen with curiousity, then he Growls the toy Lion away from his territory ... Or it could be the other way around, depending on the character of the person. He could have retaliated to begin with, then actually realised that he's the bigger man (literally).

Awesome Photostream as well.

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T18:36:00.006+10:00

Happy Mother's Day to a wonderful mum! We used to celebrate Mother's Day in March before moving to Australia, and I think I prefer it in March. It doesn't clash with my birthday. Actually, I don't really mind one bit. A few years ago, I promised my mother that I would be buying her something red on my birthday - my way of showing responsibility and appreciation. Will get back to you with details on this year's red item.

This year in particular has been a little hard on mum, as grandma passed away a few motnhs ago ... LOVE to you mum and this year is going to be a wonderful one. I will make it one of my resolutions (it's also a lifetime promise as well - to make every year a wonderful year for her)

Poached pears was what we had for dessert. Yum!!

I think mum will 100% disapprove of her choice of the yellow shorts. Probably even more so that it's out for the virtual world to see, but I wanted to show her with grandma and that's the only photo that I could find.

May the 4th be with you ...

2010-05-04T11:08:00.002+10:00

also known as my Birthday. Two days ago I was reminiscing the past four years and how far things have come since I was quite the naiive *ahem* year old. Jeez, to many four years may not be a long time, but I did leap them and I am on my way to becoming a completely different person. All I'm missing is French (the language). Anyhow, love to friends and family. You are required to be part of my life for at least the upcoming quarter of century.

Well, since you may want to ask, what would I like for a present? I would like this ...

Remedy for the sick

2010-05-02T13:04:00.003+10:00

I was bed-ridden most of yesterday. Kept snoozing at odd times. No sign of the worst yet - have been having the leading up to flu symptoms such as sore throat and headaches. Anyhow, mum treated me with the below ...

Mother's day is this weekend. I wonder what shall we do?!!

Dear Diary ...

2010-05-01T01:03:00.012+10:00

When Britt Daniel tells you that 'you smell nice', you don't wait until the next day to blog about it ... Spoon are my little uni secret that was uncovered/discovered in my second year at University (awful year, but revelations were had). I have actually managed to go on for so long without 'googling' the band (along with one other that I may mention one day), because I was under a superstitious thought that if I did, I would never see them (same goes for The Killers btw).

Apparently, not looking the band up got me a compliment tonight from the Brilliant man himself. He told me I smelled nice. Well thank you Britt, I think it was my shampoo, or Calvin Klein Obsession (bear in mind that that Jacket has been exposed to a variety of Fragrances that can no longer be washed away with just Soap).

So, I am going to continue not looking the band up, beacuse it's bad luck. Come BACK SPOON!! Also, it was very interesting to find out that Britt Daniel actually produced White Rabbits album. Vroom!! Again, thanks Ash (... and Ben) for that info.

Thanks Ash for coming along, who was devastated her AFL team lost tonight - I think she should stop looking them up as well, and maybe they will win the cup this year *winks*.

Photos below were not edited at all this time (except for the last one). This was all the doing of my camera that has a loose screw we couldn't find a spot to put it in and survived a bucketful of water. Feasties on the photos ...

Cool and charm!! I want to be Like him when I grow up ... next week!

Guy in glasses was a character. He was wearing leather jacket that was a wee big on him and he was drinking out of a flask and at some stage lit a cigarette lighter ... and yes, Ash I think you are right. He's Will from 'The Inbetweeners' ... Bassist had brilliant jacket on - half leather, the rest mixed stretchy lurex. I think I stroked for a little while there.

Thanks for taking the Pic with your iphone wanna be, Ash *smiles*

It's a CWAZY world!!

2010-04-25T18:37:00.005+10:00

The T-shirt below is by Balmain. The price didn't put me off. Afterall, 'Luxury' designers can charge anything they want for their 'designs'. It's the fact that this item is on it's way to being sold out that got me baffled. I am going to take it upon myself to make me a similar T-shirt, even if I won't wear it.

2010-04-19T20:38:00.005+10:00

It would be inappropriate, undignified, at thirty eight, to conduct friendships or love affairs with the ardour and intensity of a twenty two year old. Falling in love like that? Writing poetry, crying at pop songs? Dragging people into photo-booths, taking a whole day to make compilation tape, asking people if they wanted to share your bed, just for company? If you quoted Bob Dylan or T.S. Eliot or, God forbid, Brecht at someone these days they would smile politely and step quietly backwards, and who would blame them? Ridiculous, at thirty-eight, to expect a song or book or film to change your life. No, everything had evened out and settled down and life was lived against a general background hum of comfort, satisfaction and familiarity. There would be no more of those nerve-jangling highs and lows ...

- (Twenty Years, Two People) One Day by David Nicholl

Do you think you will relate to the statement above by the time you are 38?

2 in 1

2010-04-17T16:31:00.004+10:00

Phone Holder and Wallet at the same time ... September is new phone month. Blackberry anyone?

3.1 Phillip Lim:
Left
Right

Feathers

2010-04-17T16:18:00.003+10:00

BB Dakota

Doctor Who?!!

2010-04-14T20:42:00.004+10:00

Matt Smith is the Eleventh Doctor ... Okay, I cheated!! I watched the new episodes online. Couldn't wait any longer. Wanted to see if the new doctor is going to behave as insanly as David Tennant did, and by insane I meant it as a good thing. This new Matt Smith character is okay. He has a very squarish face though, and thought his face structure was rather distinct. He's a bit pale as well, isn't he? AND very proper with that accent of his. I bet he's proper with his manners as well.

Anyhow, just as ever. Love the Doctor! Who wouldn't when he makes statements such as:

About who he is: 'I don't know, yet. I'm still cooking'
'New mouth, new rules'
'Beans are evil!!'
'I'm the doctor, I'm worse than everybody's aunt'
'If this is just a mouth, I'd love to see the stomach *GROWL* but not right now'

Maybe the doctor should regenerate into a female next time? Anyhow, still enjoying this one :)

How come noone told me about this?!!

2010-04-10T00:43:00.003+10:00

Back from work trip in Western Australia. There's two hours time difference between Melbourne and Perth. Took me six hours to get back - flight was a little over three hours though. Time difference messed up my sleep clock. It's well past midnight and am still wide awake. So I am lurking around the world wide web and came across the following:

Perfect festival footwear

Link to Buy

So Subtle and Awesome ... Link to Buy

Winter is on the doorstep, and boys ...

2010-04-05T12:49:00.006+10:00

I was browsing the Mens department at ASOS and came across a few Jackets that I think would have me lost for words if I ever saw a man donning any of them. The Jackets might be quite pricey, but considering how much our fair sex spends on handbags and jewellery alone, investing in a good Jacket for the boys should not be an option. Have a look-see below:

1. Hugo Boss £299
2. G-star double breasted blazer £235
3. Richmond Wool Blazer £456
4. Bolongaro Wool Coat £164 (Was £295)
5. Paul & Joe Pea Coat £301 (Was £430)
6. Villain Helmut Leather Jacket £420

It's obvious that I am a danger to a Man's credit card ... Besides, the boys get great selections of t-shirts cheaply (which is why I shop in the Men's sections for t-shirts, as am quite 'frumpy' in feminine blouses).

World Water Day

2010-03-22T06:00:00.001+11:00

22 March 2010

I am somewhat a water scientist (note that I had three attempts at typing 'somewhat' and I failed. There goes the third language). I was never passionate about water resources until my third year at university. The story behind how this passion came into being is just another story to be told at a later stage maybe, or when I'm in need of an ego boost.

Anyway, today is WORLD WATER DAY!! This is a day to recognise and fight the water crisis worldwide. This day is the offspring of a UN 1992 conference on Environment and Development in Brazil. This year's theme is 'Clean Water for a Healthy World'. Damn straight!!

"International human rights instruments recognise the fundamental right of all human beings to be free from hunger and to an adequate standard of living for themselves and their families. It is quite clear that these two requirements include the right to a minimum quantity of water of satisfactory quality from the point of view of health and hygiene." - European Charter on Water Resources.

There are 2.9 Billion people around the world that do not have access to clean water. The Millenium Development Goals have set 2015 as the year that will see clean water will be accessed by all. However, according to reports by WHO and UNICEFF, this won't happen if the current activities towards achieving the goal are not improved or 'put on steroids'. So, what can we do? First step is to do the following ...

Sign up for the petition to demand action for SANITATION & WATER FOR ALL!! The petition this year has been done in the form of the World's Longest Toilet Queue. Unfortunately, I had committed to participate in the Melbourne City Romp and could not join the queue. However, I have managed to join it virtually. Thank you Mr. Internet!

To know more about this, have a quick look-see at the below:

Recyclable Fashion

2010-03-20T07:52:00.000+11:00

This is Amazing. I came across the necklace below as I was trying to hunt down the Campana Melissa Shoes. As a tree-hugger (words of my bro), couldn't help but fall in love. It was sad that I couldn't come up with the idea myself. I guess that's why I am in policy. The necklace is by Swedish Designer Kumvana Gomani and is made from plastic bottles. Absolutely beautiful snowflakes indeed. SO I got me one.

This also got me thinking - as I am a water junkie and the above is an homage to H2O somewhat, I am on the hunt for more accessories (or apparel) with Water as the inspiration behind their creation. You know it!

Good Vibrations 2010

2010-03-13T17:35:00.007+11:00

This post should've been done weeks ago, but due to laziness and being swamped with other duties, I could only get to it now. To be honest, I am not what one might consider as a Good Vibrations crowd. It's not my scene, I can't dance house and I definitely cannot get it down to Rap and R&B. The mentioned music genres were what dominated the festival.

And our descision to go to Good Vibrations was because the Killers were headlining. The week leading up to the festival, one of the two bands I wanted to see pulled out (Thanks Friendly Fires), then it was announced that The Killers were pulling out of a few of the shows as well - that's when my heart skipped a beat. I thought Melbourne was one, but luckily that wasn't the case. The boys were going to play at the Melbourne show. I have been ever so obsessed with them and never seen them live ... you get the drift.

So, how did the day go?

Bluejuice: boy these guys are skinny. They were last minute addition as replacemnt to Friendly Fires. We missed their set at Big Day Out, and were really happy got to see them. Must see them in a smaller venue now.
Art vs. Science: very persuasive in getting the girls to take their tops off for them. I wonder if the girl found her top in the end. For some reason, the crowd didn't appear to go crazy as the Falls Festival crowd did.
Salt n Peppa: did not play their own music which was a disappoinment.
Basement Jaxx: cool!! lots of the songs are familiar to many, so there was a bit groovin'. Although, because they were the act preceding The Killers, we were preoccupied with trying to find a good spot to watch near the stage.
The Killers: WOW!! Must say though, the lead singer looked so much older than I thought he does in pics and videos. As for the show they put on, I thought Muse at BDO were a little better, and I'm not so much of a muse fan.

Other day observations include:

Very heavily tattooed individuals.
Lots of hand motions instead of whole-body-moving to substitute for dancing.
The wifebeater was a popular choice.
Not even one pair of Docs to keep mine company.
My Rayban wayfarers felt quite unique (unlike St. Jerome's Laneway Festival, where they felts like they were at a RB convention).
I want to be a Victim to get this T-Shirt

Bluejuice

faux Chanel anyone?

Friendly Fires DJ set

Art vs. Science

I have a slight crush on this guy ... the fact he would have a different wayfarer on everytime I see the band perform could be a reason.

Basement Jaxx

THE KILLERS

Christian Lacroix

2010-03-13T11:34:00.001+11:00

(Corbis)

I become more in awe than I would've been every season this man shows a new collection. Christian Lacroix isn't a designer. He's a costumier. The fact that his pieces are so eloquent - they are different but I don't see them as un-wearable to me. Unfortunately, Lacroix was a no show this year, as the company went into administraion and apparently it's expected that it would get back into womenswear in 2012. And there's no promising that the Mr. Lacroix would also be coming back.

It's sad that the generation of coutouriers is dying out , and we seem to be willing to pay good money on a piece of shreded material that lets-face-it is only a part of a seaonal trend. My mother always taught me never to invest in a piece unless I am certain that I will be wearing it during my 30s and 40s.

I recently saw Valentino: The Last Emperor. Wasn't sure whether it was a celebration of the man's work or a dramatisation of how cruel the industry is. Even roylaty such as Valentino isn't safe. The branding is there, but I don't think I will be purchasing anything Valentino knowing that the piece has nothing of the influence of the man. It's not about the name, but the fact that a piece of clothing I'm wearing was thought of and its construction was supervised by the artist himself is what means most to me.

To be loyal, I bought a book in French (even though I know nothing of the language) whilst in Paris with Lacroix's costume sketches and drawings. The book has amazing drawings I would sit for very extended periods of time staring and day dreaming. The colours are so rich and combinations are non uniform. It's Beauty!!

I can see this as my companion during dark winters:

I will always dream of owning a Lacroix.

Couture Spring 2006 (Style.com)

International Women's Day

2010-03-08T21:15:00.006+11:00

International Women's Day is actually my mother’s favourite day. She prefers this day over mother’s day. This year I have been VERY slack that I neglected it. SO I will have to make up for it during this year’s mother’s day. It will have to involve flowers, something yellow (or canary rather) and a good cup of coffee ...

This Year’s Theme is Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for all.

We all can make our own destiny and shape our future. Yes, sounds corny but I’m a big believer. Things never seem to move ahead unless I get out of that silly bed and start watching, thinking, and talking. Boy, I haven’t been doing proper work of that since I got back from Holiday. About time I picked myself again, wouldn’t you say?

Australia’s position(s) on this day include:

- Australia, UNIFEM: Unite to End Violence Against Women
- Australia, Queensland Government Office for Women: Our Women, Our State
- Australia, WA Department for Communities: Sharing the Caring for the Future

If anyone has flowers as a tradition for International Women’s Day, then may I suggest in an investment of the below. Rita Saardi makes me foam at the mouth. Flowers made out of fabric are one of my weaknesses!! And the paper work by Yulia Brodskaya is impressive and would be a WOW for a wall decoration or even a mantle piece card.

Dear Diary

2010-02-09T22:15:00.001+11:00

Major Craving ... that shall be invested in at some stage within the next couple of months.

I Saw these Liberty babies when in London, and considering the money spent by then, I couldn't justify purchasing the lovely. I was in the shop stroking it for a VERY long time. Paper was amazing. A dream Jotter!!

Amazing set by MoMA. It has a lined, graph and sketch book for all different purposes, and hopefully all can fit in the one bag. The MoMA store has brilliant-ly quirky items. Notebook on the right can be found at Modcloth.

I will NEVER tire from Paul Smith anything and I have been obsessed with the Mini Cooper items for a very long time now. Imagine actually owning a stripe Mini. WoW!!

New Year ... Rejuvenating a Healthy Addiction

2010-02-07T23:46:00.007+11:00

Had an interesting question asked of me a couple of days ago by a friend over lunch and coffee. Question was what my new year's resolution is for 2010 - it took me a while to think of an answer. Actually, I didn't have an answer then. I mumbled something about caring more (caring is different than understanding by the way)

I have a partial answer to that question now and that's to get back into shape I was all these months ago. So, the plan for every day in terms of exercise and health is:
1. 900 skips (rope), 100 sit ups, and 80 (semi) push ups (less often than the rest- don't want manly biceps)
2. NO FOOD past 9 o'clock
3. Wake up at 7 a.m. at the latest and go to sleep at 10.30 p.m.
4. Tennis on weekend only.

I used to do this every day during the week and have Friday/Saturday off but somewhere towards the end of last year I managed to stuff up the routine. Being away had an influence but it shouldn'y have. Anyhow, this partial resolution has more reason than just good health. I was a more positive person and my head was thinking clearly when I was doing well in the fitness department and since this year is turning out to be busy, I need that pumpkin on my head to be working very efficiently.

My training playlist needs a bit of a change though ...

What a man should wear in 2010 ... and onwards

2010-02-02T23:55:00.010+11:00

I have been so busy with Tennis, Music Festivals and settling back in after a VERY long break away in Europe. Anyhow, I have been slack with checking out Fashion Week and been trying to catch up like crazy for the last two days. I managed to finish checking out Menswear and Couture is on my to-do for the following week.

Menswear look really good this season, especially after coming back from Europe and having a fresh mind to compare. I found French men dress the best (No surprise there). I mean London boys do too, but they seem to be more brand oriented than the French. For all I know, the French could be too, but they didn’t appear to be wearing a piece of clothing with a massive [Insert Brand Name] in- your-face logo on it ... I loved the skinny (not indie skinny) pants that were worn around though.

Highlights from this season were:

Agnes B - I really like the styling of these ensembles.

Bottega Veneta - This is the only way men ought to fold up their jeans.

Burbery Prorsum - Coats and edge.

Costume National - I'm a sucker for this look. Doubling up on warmth is a very attractive look.

Dries Van Noten - Hopefully grammer school boys that I never got along with don't like this.

Dunhill - Classic. Always.

Etro - Reminds me of Singing in the Rain. It could be the hat (?)

Paul Smith - Eggplant is not just a yummy vegetable. This man knows what he's doing.

Raf Simons - Detail shot explains my likeness towards this particular ensemble

Victor and Rolf - Note Sunglasses on the Jeans.

I put together collages of favourite ensembles from each of the above collections. I am a fan of differently coloured and patterned pants/trousers for men. I also find my head turns automatically if a man dressed as [casually] sharp as the Dries Van Noten set. Actually, I am yet to come across a second for the past two years - the first one I saw was in Paris in December ... Anyhow, back to patterned and different colour trousers - I mean, we have dresses and skirts, but all they have are trousers and t shirts ... Feast your eyes ... I really like the mixing and matching that happens on a Paul Smith show.

AGNES B

BOTTEGA VENETA

BURBERRY PRORSUM

COSTUME NATIONAL

DRIES VAN NOTEN

DUNHILL

(Photos are from Style.com)

World Wetlands Day

2010-02-02T21:44:00.008+11:00

Is today ...

On the 2nd Feb of every year, its World Wetlands Day. It marks the date of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar on the shores of the Caspian Sea.

The Ramsar Convention is an intergovernmental treaty that embodies the commitments of its member countries to maintain the ecological character of their Wetlands of International Importance and to plan for the "wise use", or sustainable use, of all of the wetlands in their territories. Unlike the other global environmental conventions, Ramsar is not affiliated with the United Nations system of Multilateral Environmental Agreements, but it works very closely with the other MEAs and is a full partner among the "biodiversity-related cluster" of treaties and agreements.
I am not going to do this topic justice if I babble about it now. Its nearly midnight and I am spent from reading up on irrigation and water supplies, so I will have to leave it here and come back with a more prepared and thought about post ...

Photos below are of one of my favourite spots in the world and is also listed as one of the Ramsar wetlands. I wont go into the details why its one of my favourite spots, as it won't be interesting for many - its amazing to look at.

Laguana Colorado, Peru

(Photos from Corbis and Wikipedia)

St. Jerome's Laneway Festival

2010-02-02T13:53:00.001+11:00

A while back I posted about winning tickets to the Melbourne St. Jerome's Laneway Festival. This Festival basically sums up my musical trends. I wanted to see so many bands. The temperature on the day was boiling hot!! I sweated and drank water only. There was no alcohol consumption until the after party. So, to sum it up:

Black Gold - I think I need to see them live on their own. They left a good impression.
Hockey - Conflicted feelings about the lead singer. He was very thankful.
Bridezilla - Can't remember. I was heat affected. Ash had gone to see Philadelphia Grand Jury.
Mumford and Sons - Wow. They were a favourite. I wanted to see them play 'The Cave' before heading to Frightened Rabbit. They didn't and we had to make the decision of leaving before we miss out in FR. It took us good ten minutes to get out (We were right at the front)
Frightened Rabbit - The act I regret missing half of their set.
Eddy Current Suppression Ring - my eardrums were undergoing a bit of torture there. We were too close to the speakers and I had a guy, in 80's tank top and long hair dance in front of me. He wasn't very *ahem* rosy either. Ash joked that I seem to attract the smelly ones. We got food during this set. Thirsty and Heat was starting to get to my head.
The XX - Too hot, and the band were all dressed in black, skinny jeans and over sized t -shirts. How could they stand it?
Wild Beasts - Ash left me to go see Midnight Juggernaughts (who were replacing Echo and the Bunnymen - they missed their flight). Made friends with two guys from Brisbane on a roadtrip and Laneway was a 'pitstop'. A random flashed me with his camera - he has a pic of me now.
Black Lips - caught a bit of their set before heading off to see the boys the reason I got me two tix to Laneway this year
Dappled Cities - were Golden!! Literally!! Sarah Blasko made a cameo and someone managed to get on stage and shake it before being dragged off by security.
Afterparty - Radioclit guest DJs. Dance. Dance. Dance. Got hit on by the Short and Wonderful (not).

On non music oriented observations, incidents:

Boys were mostly dressed as if they were out of a Huckelberry Finn adaptation
My Wayfarers did not feel special at all. Nevetheless, I still love them as much as ever, if not more.
'Indie' crowd go out of their way to be fashionistas more than 'mainstream' crowd, and I'm not sure I like the majority of what they wore.
Clear Framed sunnies were a like for me.
There was some poking with one of the guys from Mumford, Ash will have to explain to me how it cam about.
Got home really late.

DAPPLED CITIES

With Sarah Blasko

HOCKEY

BLACK LIPS

MUMFORD AND SONS

Thanks Ash for pics

Inspired or plain un-original?

2010-01-29T21:50:00.003+11:00

I came across these 'inspired' shoes below a while back and thought would be brilliant as a future reference. I even saved it as a powerpoint file just in case, and what do you know - I finally managed to get this blog up and running.

Anyhow, this particular inspiration fascinated me. And I obsessed over the Miu Miu pair for a really long time, but was over it by the time someone decided to make a copy. Apologies there are no links for the Miu Miu and Gracious Me pair. I had these saved for a while with a very pessimistic attitude that I would never need the links. I tried to search for them againt but to avail, unfortunately. Although, I believe that the Modcloth pair are still on the site.

There are so many inspirational pieces everywhere you go these days. I don't knw whether to be for it or against it. I understand that the original is unsually beyond affordable for many, and to be honest, sometimes are ridiculously priced, but should we go around copying? I think I might just leave it here. It's not my place to have an opinion ... (yet?!!)

Hand(y) Compliments

2010-01-27T22:49:00.005+11:00

Rings!! New fetish are animal 'motif' rings. And they seem to be everywhere now ...

Animale

Noir

Young free & jingle

Your sweat is my sweat

2010-01-27T14:07:00.001+11:00

Well, at least part of it - is what I would say to those who were in the 'D' during the spectacular Muse set during muso fest Big Day Out yesterday. I have never seen Muse perform, but from friends who have, I only heard good things. And as Kasabian performance that afternoon didn't meet expectations, I was keen to see a decent act and behold, the headliners delivered. Apparently, they do a much better job when it's their own concert as they are free to do what they want and don't have the restrictions a music festival does. My Camera decided to have attitude and not take good photos, but I will post some edited ones to show where I was in the crowd and hopefully to demonstrate my newly discovered awe with the band ...

Acts we managed to see:
- Kasabian who I think I would've been a happier person if I hadn't seen them live. It could well be because they were the first act we saw and the heat wasn't making the day any easier.
- The Decemberists were really brilliant. Definitely a band that will be investing in buying their music instead of just listening to them when they make radio appearance.
- The Middle East are always nice to watch. One of the boys had a broken arm and had to sit on a chair in order to play the guitar. At some stage, a girl near where we were asked 'who are these guys? who is this guy? why is he talking?' - times like these you wonder whether to ask if the person asking such ridiculous questions is on medication or something of the sort.
- A bit of The Horrors was enough to hurt my ears. They all had very dark and sleek black hair, although the lead was wearing a hawaiian shirt under his leather jacket.
- Heard but not seen Rise Against, as we were in a fenced off area boozing (due to the event being an all ages event) and the sound tent was in the way.
- The Mars Volta will always remind me of Hendrix. Its the hair I bet. So much energy on stage. Disappointing people were trying to get to the front of the stage ready for Muse which was quite distracting. Wish I could move like vocalist Cedric Bixler-Zavala.
- First time to have seen Powderfinger, and not being the tallest person, I couldn't see most of the act, but the sound was amazing. They did a pseudo cover (the chorus) of this year's triple j's top 100 number one - Mumford and Sons' Little Lion Man.
- Muse was Amazing and my highlight of the day. I was a fan, but now am a convert and defintely want to see them again live!! (Jet lead singer guest appeared on stage to help with an AC/DC cover - accroding to Muse drummer, 'Australia day, cover an Australian band, with the help of an Australian singer'

Didn't see GirlTalk due to a particular clothing item to be mentioned below. A guy was actually willing to pay Michael $20 for his water bottle, but Michael felt bad and said he'd go for a fiver - he later explained that the guy would've regretted it and kicked himself for spending that much on water. I thought he should've ceased the opportunity, but in that situation he's the better man with a conscience.

Kasabian

The Decemberists

The Middle East

The Mars Volta

Muse

How did the rest of the day go? It went fine. As always, I found myself cringing at a few of the outfits. I understand that it's a festival and people are meant to dress up wacky and adventureous, but its the 'I'm so in touch with my innner fashionista that I spent so much thought into my outfit for the day', you end up wearing the below along with a few other hundred girls ...

(Topshop)

No offense to anyone. I'm a stripes addict myself, but the number of duplicate outfits on the day were insane and also amusing. I would usually freak out and pretend I didnt see that girl across the road wearing the same piece as me, but imagine the poor girls on the day. There were so many dressed the same it would've been impossible to pretend not to see. No escape!! ... This made me think how there's a fine line between trends and uniforms.

That's not where I stop in terms of what the crowds were dressed in ... Okay, if am to complain about it, then this is the time I can. If you are a man and like to wear this in public:

Then please, and politely please, stay the hell away from me. Men who wear those mentioned above don't look attractive in my opinion. You know, some clothes tend to look unflattering on men believe it or not and such are tank tops. These tops should be left for the home. I see a male wearing one out in public, the words that form in my head are - Meathead!! I understand the weather is too hot for a t shirt, but they don't all have to be tight, fitted and cotton. The trucker look is definitely not fashionable to me, and not going to get me swooning any time soon ... or ever.

Saturday 23rd was my friend Michael's birthday. He's a Muse fan so I thought a tour t shirt would be a good present. I hope it was. Happy Birthday Michael!!

The Magnificent Seven

2010-01-19T14:25:00.000+11:00

So, since the previous post was about two of my favourite entertainers (or music acts), I got the idea that for the next week I will post about my other favourites. And to keep My list short as I'm sure to have it extended to endless, Ive given myself the number SEVEN as the limit.

SEVEN Favourite People (Note I'm counting a band as one entity):
1. Patti Smith
2. The Clash
3. Christian Lacroix
4. Tom Stoppard
5. Madeline Vionnet
6. Paul Smith
7. Elsa Schiaparelli

I left out a few others I struggled (and disliked myself ) to not include, but I'm sure that at some stage in the future I will be publishing a post about those who were left out. I guess the above are on the list only because they have been influencing my day-to-day of late.

They are The Clash

2010-01-18T23:19:00.000+11:00

I am certain that the majority of my generation have a slight inkling as to who The Clash are. Who doesn't know the words to 'London Calling' or 'Rock the Casbah'?! Actually, I don't know the words to 'Rock the Casbah' myself, but I make up for it by knowing the words to many other Clash songs though.

Joe Strummer (Frontman) was actually the one of the last members to join the group. I never knew this before researching for this post. I've always felt that if I knew too much about the truth about the band, then my opinion of the music would slightly change. I wouldn't mind reading further into how they got to be who they are, but I think I would like to stay in the dark for a little longer.

The t shirts Joe Strummer wore were brilliant. I have been on the hunt for a few reproductions and hope to have a decent collection by the end of the year. .. Also, a not-so-random thought - I met a boy whilst in London last December who reminded of Paul Simonon (Who has twin sons that model). The way I see it, if I had grown up at the time The Clash were active; Simonon would be the pretty boy and Strummer would've been every girl's boyfriend of choice (Well, mine anyway).

Songs that will never tire me include 'Train in Vain', 'Rudie Can't Fail', 'Lost in the Supermarket', 'Rebel Waltz', and 'Straight to Hell'.

Patti Smith

2010-01-17T15:36:00.000+11:00

Is my favourite lady (After my mother).

Patti Smith is releasing (19/01/2010) a new book called 'Just Kids' about her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe who was responsible for the cover of my favourite Patti album 'Horses'.

Simply put, the woman is Charisma!! Photos below explain everything.

I Like You Lots But You Think I'm A Dummy

2010-01-14T19:37:00.000+11:00

YES!! I was saying before that I needed to get my hands on a Laneway ticket because I missed out when they were on sale - wasn't in the country, and I know I could've bought it on credit whilst overseas but noway was I going to do internet transactions in internet Cafes.

When I got back, tickets were sold out so I entered a competition run by Radar Radio a while ago. I don't remember the details as am such a forgetful person but I do recall that terms of competition were that one had to say which act playing at the festival one want to see and why. My answer was Dappled Cities because they don't play gigs as much as they should. And its true, the band is brilliant.

This morning whilst at work, I recieved this email:

Hi Alona,

Thanks for your entry to win Laneway tickets with Radar Radio.

I’m writing to let you know we loved your entry, and have selected you as one of our winners.

Congratulations!

You have won:

Two x Tickets to Laneway Festival on 30th January 2010 at Footscray Community Arts Centre, Footscray, VIC

These will be in the post to you shortly!

Have fun
Claire

WOW!! I have never won anything before and to win something such as a ticket to St. Jerome's Laneway Festival is just unthinkable!! But AWESOME!! I Laughed and snorted, but luckily didn't fall off of my chair. I cant remember if 'Bullshit' was said out loud or not. Noone said anything and who cares? Am going to Laneway!! Yippie!!

Fandom!!

2010-01-10T18:34:00.000+11:00

This post is dedicated to a friend who has become a White Rabbits fan as of 06/01/2010.

Dearest Ash, this devotion is only a phase. But here it goes ... Since previous post went on about the band may have come across as if I've known them for a while, whereas I actually didnt know they existed until the last day of the previous year at a festival here, I did some research (Thanks Wiki) and now I know that the White Rabbits are college/work friends who like 'beats' and moved from Missouri to New York five years ago (This was also told by band member Alexander Even). Fact I really like is that The Specials are supposedly one of their influences. GO SPECIALS!!

So, Ash!! This is going to be a phase right? I need to find you another band to obsess over as its going to be months until the NY-ers (?!) come back for another show. Hmm, I wonder how you'll like The Black Lips, or Hockey? Or you could just keep obsessing. I will have to interfere if I ever feel it has become unhealthy ...

But I know that I will be wearing the below next they're in town:

(Lauren Moshi)

On the Wishlist:

Love My Docs

2010-01-09T17:50:00.000+11:00

Continuing with the Festival topic.

Those babies are my bestfriends during this music season. Not only they look brilliant but after a couple of weeks of trying to break them, they are super comfy and beat any other Converse Chuck Taylors. I am risking a very ugly sock tan though, but the thought isnt stopping me from wanting the Croco Patent 1460s in green and the 1914 Bloom White Lamper for winter.

On the Wish List:

(Dr. Martens)

Music Season

2010-01-08T20:43:00.000+11:00

The first two months of the year are usually very busy with Gigs and Music Festivals (As well as the odd Tennis). Next up is Big Day Out here in Melbourne. Timetables were released last week.

(Girltalk, Kasabian, Rise Against, and Muse)

Then follows St. Jerome's Laneway Festival if I manage to snag me some tickets and find someone that would be interested in coming along.

(Eddy Current Suppresion Ring, Hockey, Dappled Cities, and The Black Lips)

And finally Good Vibrations. I have to admit that my friend and I are going mainly because of The Killers. We thought that they were going to play a sideshow last year, as they were in town for V Festival. They never did a sideshow and we were left with bitter regret. I am slighlty warming up towards the line up though ...

(The Killers, Basement Jaxx)

White Rabbits ...

2010-01-08T13:12:00.000+11:00

Are new favourite obsession. Caught a bit of their set at the Falls Festival in Lorne, Victoria over NYE. The drumming was brilliant. So what one usually does when one likes a band at a festival is check if they are playing any side shows. White Rabbits were playing a side show and the venue (The Corner Hotel) was around the corner from where I live.

Kid Sam were the support act. They're cousins and used a wok as a drum at some stage.

White Rabbits were funtastic. I am particularly a fan of 'Rudie Fails', and being the Clash nut I am I needed to find out whether the title had anything to do with 'Rudie Cant Fail'. The set was brilliant. At some stage, Brian disappeared and found him later on at the drum set with Matt. There was a bit of instrument swapping. Interactive!!

Got to chat (and hug) four of the band members afterwards. You see, Im very big on hugs and believe they show my appreciation of the band more than just walking up to them and saying how great they were. So, if you're in a band and get a hug from me, it means that I am a fan and you made an impression.

Things learnt from brief (sometimes awkward) chats with the boys include:
- Stephen is Vegetarian (He eats fish though, which means hes a Pescatarian not an Aquatarian which I still think is the better term). 'Rudie Cant Fail' is one of his top three Clash Songs (I should've followed up and tried to find out what the other two are). The song name 'Rudie Fails' was chosen by Jamie.
- Greg likes fishing. He's got the tatts to show for it.
- Alexander likes to watch the stars in parks. I wonder if he ended up having Waffles on degraves street? Yum!
- Matt is slightly psychic. He guessed the first two letters of my name. Amazing. Sorry for holding your hand longer than I should've, Matt. I was in slow reactionary surprise.

All in all. It was a good night. Well, at least from what I can remember. See, I tend to be a forgetful person. SO if you are like me and have the tendency to get carried away with babble, bring a friend who will remember everything you say ...

and if Alexander ever manages to come across this babble let me know if waffles were consumed or even a stop by Madame Brussels for punch was made in Melbourne?

I have been corrected on one of the above facts and also reminded of others:
- Matt was the one who came up with the title 'Rudie Fails'
- Stephen likes Chardonnay whereas Greg is more of a 'Lager man'.