The Objective Fox

My return to Australia for a second back-to-back summer

2012-01-09T15:37:00.004+11:00

In mid-October, I arrived back in Sydney and some great mates joined me for a few celebratory drinks. Here we are at the Scary Canary. We based ourselves here and then had a super-touristy long weekend in Sydney that included a monorail ride, a trip to Manly on the ferry, shoe shopping and delicious cocktails.

From scanary

Back in Cowra, I found that Puss was doing very well!

From Aus2011

Jo Apthorpe celebrated her 30th in style; We took a wine tour in the Hunter Valley.

From Aus2011

The last winery that we visited on our tour was the Hope Estate. I'm pictured here with Ange in the Great Cask Hall. I knew that it felt familiar for some reason... This winery used to be the Rothbury Estate Hunter Valley!

From Aus2011

I was east again, a journey which I has become quite a habit, this time to run in a Sri Chinmoy race with Finch, Aly and Mixy. Even with a race on the next day, I felt that a few vinos, the night before at a fancy dress party, couldn't do too much harm. Paula (the artiste, of course) paints my portrait while I wait. It was really impressive!

From Aus2011

I bounced back pretty well. (My pre-race breakfast is chocolate and orange juice.) I ran 10 mi in the Sri Chinmoy race in 1h 25min and 6 sec.

From Aus2011

In November, the Pinkerton men headed to Tathra for a week on the coast. Les peacefully paddles his kayak on Wallagoot Lake (shown below) while I prepare to dive in try to overturn his vessel.

From Tathra Nov 2011

Marko dons the smugglers and had a blast at Hobart Beach with Les.

From Tathra Nov 2011

Our last day had gorgeous weather. So, Les and I did some snorkelling in Kianinny Bay, just south and down the hill from the Tathra Pub.

From Tathra Nov 2011

Jen presented Les with a puppy, Howard. (Les named his after John Howard, our former prime minister.) The puppy is very friendly and has doubled in size since this photo was taken. He's still a real sook, though, and terrified of Puss.

From Xmas2011

On New Year's Eve, I joined Phill, Amanda and Goofy at a toga party in Coogee. It was a huge night and fun! I caught both rounds of fireworks - and remember them!

From Aus2011

I caught up with Finch and Aly just after New Years and just prior to another blast on the moto' over the mountains and back to Cowra.

From Aus2011

Arcata, Humboldt University and San Francisco

2011-12-21T19:43:00.003+11:00

After leaving the redwoods, Emily and I stayed for a day in Arcata. There was a bustling farmers' market taking place in the town square when we arrived. This town felt very laid-back. And we made a couple of trips to the great bar, Humboldt Brews.

From MoreCali

Arcata is a college town, home to Humboldt SU. The weather was pretty mild and reminded me of the east coast of Australia.

From MoreCali

Next to the chemistry faculty on campus was a Wollemi pine!

From MoreCali

Em poses here next to some information on campus about clean transportation. After we'd taken in the town, we flew to San Francisco to do some shopping and catch up with Mr Kinnison.

From MoreCali

Our trip co-incided with a huge navy influx so down-town San Francisco was really busy. We still found space at a nearby bar to have a few beers with Kevo and Christina!

From MoreCali

And here I am with Kevo. We've caught up for beers on three continents now - we're almost half-way there!

From MoreCali

I'm on a little boat in front of the Golden Gate Bridge on a suitably foggy day; Kevo explained that these fogs roll in from the ocean, much to his repeated devastation, almost every afternoon.

From Last USA day

Emily and I are outside the gate now.

From Last USA day

We rode a historic tram (much like those in Melbourne) back in to the city from the wharves after a loop around Alcatraz.

From Last USA day

On my last evening in the USA, I dined with Emily and Kevo. And then we had a final couple of beers together. San Francisco was my last stop in the USA prior to taking the gruelling flight home (over Alaska and Korea via Hong Kong!). I really enjoyed making some great friends during my time in the US. (US people: keep on writing to me!) And I had many really memorable experiences too. I'll definitely be back for a visit! Next up: The Return.

From Last USA day

The Redwoods of Northern California

2011-12-19T18:19:00.003+11:00

In October, after our visit to the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, Emily and I arrived at Klamath, in Northern Cali. I didn't realise that the forests there are fairly isolated. After some challenges associated with ground transportation from Arcata airport, we based ourselves on the Klamath Indian Reservation. We made a short excursion into the Redwood National Park to the north.

From Redwood I

Here are those famous trees. Very 'Jurassic Park'.

From Redwood I

We took some lunch together and then did our best to make it to the beach.

From Redwood I

We were close but we didn't quite make it to the beach on that trip. Sorry Em!

From Redwood I

We headed back to catch the community bus back in to rustic Klamath. We cut our time in Klamath short by a day and headed next to the university town (college town?) of Arcata.

From Redwood I

Colorado in early October

2011-11-16T08:27:00.015+11:00

Emily and I visited the Rocky Mountains National Park near Estes Park at the start of October. We flew to Denver from Chicago. Emily took a seat in the cockpit prior to take-off.

From Colorado

While hiking, we had pretty good weather though the nights were cool. We spent three nights in the mountains on our hike. Our walk started from the Longs Peak trail-head in the east of the park. (We hitch-hiked there from near the Beaver Meadows information centre with a friendly couple from Boulder.) And then we were on our way!

In addition to a selection of photographs, I have included some stats from our hike that were recorded using a GPS and heart-rate monitor.

Day 1: 8.5 km, 500 m of climbing (Garmin stats)

After starting out on the Longs Peak trail, Emily and I turned on to the Eugenia Mine trail heading north and passed through the Moore Park campsite. This little robber bird and his mate were loitering at that spot.

From Colorado

And then we took in the view half-way up Estes Cone before heading back towards the Goblins Forest.

From Colorado

After stopping to purify water (using a UV lamp) and cook some food (on an alcohol burner), the brisk pace we set wasn't enough to save us from arriving after dark at our campsite, the Goblins Forest.

Day 2: 10.8 km, 628 m of climbing (Garmin stats)

Our second day of hiking was the most physically challenging. I purified some more water from the nearby stream before we set out.

From Colorado

Friendly chipmunks, obviously familiar with hikers, appeared along the path the cheer us on and quietly implore us to had over a pistachio nut.

From Colorado

The junction with the Chasm Lake trail provided us with a great view of the lake and of the imposing East Face of Longs Peak.

From Colorado

I took my turn posing in front of Longs Peak too.

From Colorado

We continued our climb to Granite Pass. At that altitude (over 12000 feet), it was cold and windy. I had no luck getting the stove working, so lunch was postponed until we could get back under the tree-line on the north-east side of Battle Mountain.

From Colorado

An afternoon storm gathered over Thatchtop and the Arrowhead. We copped a bit of hail on our way down but the sun came out again after a little while and we had a pretty easy stroll down-hill then to our venue for the second evening in the park, Boulder Brook campsite.

From Colorado

Day 3 (partial): 5.7 km, 116 m of climbing (Garmin stats)

Our third day of hiking was relatively easy. We started the day with enormous pancakes (after I had managed to get the stove going; the fueled cooled down below its flashpoint unless you kept it in your pocket).

From Colorado

We followed N. Longs Peak trail to Glacier Creek and then headed south along the edge of Mills Lake (where we took our lunch and my GPS watch ran out of batteries).

From Colorado

Shortly after lunch, we arrived at our camp, the appropriately-named Glacier Gorge campsite, around the bend in the following photograph. This photo was taken looking south, back down the gorge.

From Colorado

With rather a bit of afternoon left, Emily and I hoisted our packs up and into the trees and continued down to the back of the gorge to bathe in Black Lake, above the Ribbon Falls. We hoisted our packs into the trees while they were unattended (and at night too) so that they would not be accessible to the black bears with whom we were sharing the park. We even used a bear-canister.

From Colorado

Day 4: no stats available (out of battery)

There's no map available online for our fourth day of hiking. We simply followed the Glacier Creek trail all of the way back to the Storm Pass trailhead.

From Colorado

The park is dotted with Aspen groves that are spectacular at this time of the year.

From Colorado

Thankfully, some friendly travellers gave us a lift back in to town and even stopped with us to see the Elk. These enormous animals come down on the the open land around the town in late-Autumn to socialize and are not really disturbed by gawking people and their vehicles.

From Colorado

After this, well-earned hot showers were had. I slept like a log and then we were off to California, the subject of my next post.

Party at the boys' house in September

2011-11-16T08:13:00.002+11:00

Marcus, Harrier and I had a bit of a shin-dig at our house in Mishawaka. It was my last week living in the States with these top blokes.

From party at the boys house

My colleagues Joe, Jimmy and Malcolm joined Harrier and I.

From party at the boys house

Here's my running buddy, Cat, with Harrier and I.

From party at the boys house

"Zoomi" takes a brief break from leading the game.

From party at the boys house

ZOBAMA made an appearance. You know Zobama don't care 'bout health care; Zobama's already dead!

From party at the boys house

Tennis and Logan's Run

2011-08-26T08:11:00.003+10:00

At the end of July, I got out on the court for a hit with my post-doctoral colleague aus Deutschland and two talented undergraduate chemists. My racquet didn't get any use since then as I injured my foot running barefoot (and only recently have started running again). On the sweltering day that the four of us played, Jimmy and I were victors.

From Tennis at Notre Dame

In early August, having been subject to the training program I administered, Emily ran a personal best time in the 5 km race, the Logan's Run, on the Notre Dame campus. Go Emily!

From Aug 25, 2011

I expect that Emily is ready now for the multi-day hiking expedition that we have planned in the Rockies early next month. And now that I have (another) replacement camera, I will be able to show you how it goes!

Eddie's Ann Arbor

2011-08-16T11:26:00.002+10:00

Towards the end of July, I hired a car and shot up to to Ann Arbor with Emily to visit Eddie (my Clover Village compatriot) and Evana.

From Eddie's Ann Arbor

It was a classy weekend.

From Eddie's Ann Arbor

In the company of our gracious hosts we toured the town and visited the art festival. And of course, with it so hot, stopped for a brew at a cafe. As if we needed an excuse.

From Eddie's Ann Arbor

We all did a little fishing.

From Eddie's Ann Arbor

Here I am reading Walden and bringing back some colour to a body that has endured back-to-back winters.

From Eddie's Ann Arbor

Emily looks out from the guest room.

From Eddie's Ann Arbor

And then she enjoys a classy cocktail served up by our mixologist Eddie.

From Eddie's Ann Arbor

Independence Day Weekend in South Bend

2011-08-08T12:22:00.001+10:00

Emily snapped a photo of me as we made our was past Badin Hall to St. Mary's lake for a picnic on the first weekend of July.

From Afloat at Notre Dame

Before we settled down, we took my little inflatable boat out on to the lake. Emily was first to pose with the Dome and Basilica in the background.

From Afloat at Notre Dame

And here I am between strokes and with the iconic Notre Dame spires behind me.

From Afloat at Notre Dame

When we'd had enough sun, it was time for a picnic on the shore.

From Afloat at Notre Dame

A curious family of geese visited us. The goslings were very cute but we were startled by the extremely protective mother!

From Afloat at Notre Dame

That weekend, coinciding with the July 4th Independence Day celebrations, meant that the Silverhawks baseball game would be concluded with a fireworks display. Emily, Ian, Sarah and I headed downtown to watch the Silverhawks get beaten and have a couple of beers too.

From SilverHawks

Some more Sunburst

2011-08-07T06:31:00.002+10:00

Here's those other photos from the Sunburst Half-Marathon (run in early June) that I had promised.

From Sunburst2011

Since then, my running buddy, Cat, was out of action after losing some bark training for a triathlon. I experimented (against good advice) with running barefoot and missed out on the Logan Run due to injury this weekend. I'll be looking to resume my training with even greater intensity soon!

From Sunburst2011

We jubilantly finished the race on the hallowed turf in the Notre Dame stadium.

From Sunburst2011

Soon, I'll post some photos from great summer activities like boating, golfing and having picnics.

By the way, tickets are booked and for those interested, I'll be touching down in Aus come October 11.

May and June runs

2011-07-22T08:41:00.000+10:00

Cat, Josh and I ran in a 5 km race at Granger in the second-half of May. Here are a couple of shots that Emily took of Cat and I coming down the home straight. My time was 22 minutes and something-or-other.

From 2011-05-14

Afterwards, Emily and I took a ride along the East Bank Trail in to town for lunch.

From 2011-05-14

And then I was rolled in this game of chess.

From 2011-05-14

Cat and I kept training and then ran, on a sweltering morning in the start of June, in the Sunburst Half-Marathon in South Bend. We finished the race in the stadium on campus. Our time was a bit over two hours. There's a few more photos from this race that I will upload shortly and paste into my next post.

From 2011-06-04

Spring at Notre Dame

2011-07-22T00:41:00.000+10:00

The PI's boss was baptised at The Basilica in May. In the afternoon afterwards, some of my colleagues and I stopped for a couple of photos.

From 2011-05-09

You can see that the trees are getting their leaves back here and it only took until May!

From 2011-05-09

The campus is gorgeous in all seasons!

From 2011-05-09

Here's a shot from the Main Building to the La Fortune building, my primary source of tea.

From 2011-05-09

Wow - some blue sky! Ideal running climate settled in at about this time of the year. So, the next post will have photos from 5km and 20km runs.

From 2011-05-09

Morel-hunting

2011-07-21T12:21:00.002+10:00

Indiana's climate turned a bit more hospitable in May so I took the opportunity to hike a little in the nearby woods. Spring-time is accompanied by the fruiting of morels. Emily poses with a fair-sized specimen here.

From 2011-05-08

These strange-looking fungi are actually pretty tasty when lightly salted and fried.

From 2011-05-08

Here is another in its natural state.

From 2011-05-08

And then we found this mysterious hatch in the forest. Having watched so much 'Lost' we knew better than to force the hatch!

From 2011-05-08

Savannah, GA (Part 6)

2011-06-21T13:32:00.002+10:00

Rattlesnakes on the ground, alligators in the water and fighter-jets in the sky! Jenny and I played a round of golf at the Crosswinds course on Easter Sunday.

From 2011-04-24

Jenny's is going over the water on this par three hole.

From 2011-04-24

That's rattlesnake territory behind me. And in the tree: it's more Spanish Moss.

From 2011-04-24

Jenny and take another walk through Savannah. In the distance is Mercer House, which is prominent in the 1994 John Berendt novel 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil'.

From 2011-04-24

A little further south, we came across this fountain in Forsyth Park.

From 2011-04-24

And the following day, we left Savannah and returned to our post-doc jobs. What a beautiful and historic town to visit!

From 2011-04-24

Savannah, GA (Part 5)

2011-06-20T21:48:00.003+10:00

On Saturday afternoon, just before Easter, Jenny and I visited the Half-Moon Brew-pub in down-town Savannah. We each ordered the sample paddle and the beers were pretty good.

From 2011-04-24

We took a walk afterwards. Here is Jenny in front of a fountain in another of the beautiful garden squares.

From 2011-04-24

And here's Jen again:

From 2011-04-24

Later, we ate crabs for dinner on the balcony of a restaurant down on Bay Street.

From 2011-04-24

On Sunday, we played a round of golf at the Crosswinds course. We were warned to look out for alligators and rattlesnakes! I'll post a few photos from our game in the next post and conclude my series on the trip that Jen and I took to Savannah.

From 2011-04-24

Savannah, GA (Part 4)

2011-06-16T12:26:00.002+10:00

Fireworks erupted from Bay Street in Savannah on Easter Saturday evening. Jen took this photo from the window of our apartment across the adjacent square.

From 2011-04-24

The next day, Sunday, we visited the Wormsloe Historic Site. The estate was one of the first permanent white settlements in Georgia.

From 2011-04-24

Part of the property is bounded by swamp-land, which we walked by en route to a demonstration settlement.

From 2011-04-24

Jen sings out from the little homestead.

From 2011-04-24

Meanwhile I stand at attention for the Union Jack, unfortunately limp at that moment.

From 2011-04-24

This grove was really beautiful and tranquil. The shade was very welcome as, even though only April, the weather in Savannah was decidedly warm!

From 2011-04-24

I want to post up some photographs from our round of golf amongst alligators, lunch at a brew-pub and some other pretty shots from around town. As such, visit again for parts 5 and 6 of Savannah, GA! (And thanks for being so patient!)

Savannah, GA (part 3)

2011-05-10T12:23:00.002+10:00

Jen and I traveled up and down the Savannah River.

From 2011-04-24

Many of the old buildings along the waterfront are constructed, at least partially, from British stone. This material was used as ballast in trading ships that left from such ports as Liverpool, as bearing some load improved the handling of these vessels. The ballast was ejected from the ships at Savannah and was recovered for construction and paving.

From 2011-04-24

This statue was erected in remembrance of a woman who lost her lover; he failed to return from a stint at sea and could not fulfill the promise his promise to marry this woman. She waved to ships for her entire life in the hope that her love would return. Many other sailors were heartened to see a woman greeting their ship as it sailed up the Savannah River, so they celebrated her brithday and arranged a pension to support her in her old age.

From 2011-04-24

The cemetery just south of the Historic District is very picturesque. Jen and I strolled around here in the afternoon. You know it's good because people are dying to get in.

From 2011-04-24

These horses work tirelessly in the heat; it was over 30 degrees Celsius every day and humid too. Delicious for us though! Though horse-drawn carriages are a bit tourist-y, I still enjoyed seeing the horses and listening to them 'clopping' around the parks in Savannah.

From 2011-04-24

Next, I will describe the trip that Jen and I made to Noble Jones' Wormsloe Plantation.

Savannah, GA (part 2)

2011-05-05T12:33:00.004+10:00

Jenny and I split a pound of steamed prawns down near the river-front.

From 2011-04-24

The next day, we drove east to Tybee and visited the old lighthouse.

From 2011-04-24

The beach at Tybee was packed and the water was... er... brown. Some Aussies are spoilt brats when it comes to beaches.

From 2011-04-24

Fort Pulaski, a civil-war era fort, hoists the 'Stars and Bars'. The advent of rifled artillery meant the end of fortifications such as this.

From 2011-04-24

Kicking back outside the moat. Blissfully unconcerned about rabid raccoons.

From 2011-04-24

Down in the cannon chambers.

From 2011-04-24

The heavily bombarded NE wall is shown below. The fortress was forfeited to Union forces in about a day.

From 2011-04-24

A roof-mounted cannon.

From 2011-04-24

Later, we were having a couple of quiet ones back at the hotel bar.

From 2011-04-24

Next, I'll cover our trip up and down the Savannah River and an excursion to the oldest homestead in the state of Georgia.

Savannah, GA (part 1)

2011-05-04T22:10:00.002+10:00

Around Easter and late in April, Jen and I visited the historic and picturesque coastal town, Savannah, in America's Deep South.

From 2011-04-21

The town plan incorporates a garden square at the centre of every 3x3 town blocks (in the historic city). So when strolling around Savannah, you can plan your route to include lots of these beautiful gardens.

From 2011-04-21

This statue depicts a hero of the Civil War, an issue that remains prominent.

From 2011-04-21

The largest church in the area is Catholic; this is the John The Baptist church.

From 2011-04-21

The first golf course in America was, I think, established in Savannah. So, it was only appropriate that Hodgo and I took advantage of the warm weather and got out for a round. Our first nine was at the Hunter course, on a military base, to the South of the city.

From 2011-04-21

Here's Jen chipping one in from a very precarious position!

From 2011-04-21

I hope that this wasn't a ball that went in the drink.

From 2011-04-21

And here's Jen again, about to use an iron to chip on.

From 2011-04-21

Next, I will post a few more photos from around Savannah and others from our excursion east to Tybee Island.

Holy Half Marathon 2011

2011-04-11T04:43:00.003+10:00

My jogging mate and colleague, Cat, and I have been training for a few months and entered this year's Holy Half Marathon. It's a 13.1 mi (21 km) race that is run entirely on the Notre Dame campus. Over 1000 people entered the race this year.

From 2011-04-10

Fellow chemists Forbes and Adam joined us for the challenge as well.

From 2011-04-10

Despite a fairly congested first few miles, I was pretty revved up about the event.

From 2011-04-10

At about 60% of the way, I made a few more over-takes... See the next photo too for the outcome of this attempt.

From 2011-04-10

Actually, are those in the right order? If not then... I guess that I was saving a little for a sprint on the home-straight.

From 2011-04-10

Here's the obligatory shot in front of the dome. It's a beautiful campus and I'm so grateful to Ian; he came and took heaps of photos and even offered me chocolate at mile nine!

From 2011-04-10

And here I am with metres remaining and blowing hard. I emptied the tank here and probably looked totally crazy doing it. (But loved that bit of the race the most!) Thanks Ian and especially: thanks Cat! Now let's plan our approach to the next big race in Indy.

From 2011-04-10

The times aren't out yet; I think that I ran something like 2 hours. I'm hoping that I'll be on the lower side of that mark. When I find out, I'll post it in the comments.

Group Ski Trip to Caberfae Peaks, Michigan

2011-02-09T14:52:00.004+11:00

On Friday, my research group and friends took a trip to Michigan for a spot of skiing at Caberfae peaks.

From Feb2011

My Deutsche colleague eagerly approached the black-diamond runs. Me... not so eager but I did get there!

From Feb2011

A blizzard had passed over the US just a couple of days beforehand, setting us up for a great day of skiing. The sky even cleared and we had bright sunshine!

From Feb2011

Here is a shot south from a cable car.

From Feb2011

After lunch, climbing a hill turned out to be a lot of work!

From Feb2011

A lamp sprung out of my head as we posed at the top of the mountain. Seriously, a great day out there. Scace, I know what you're on about now! Cheers! (Though I felt as sore the next day as if I'd played three games of rugby!)

From Feb2011

Excursions around New Hampshire and Maine

2011-01-10T14:39:00.003+11:00

Jenny and I had a lunch (and we shared a paddle) at the Run of the Mill brewery in Saco, Maine.

From Christmas10

We stopped briefly at another UNE.

From Christmas10

On our return south, we enjoyed the tranquil scenery at a little fishing village called, I think, Fortune's Rocks.

From Christmas10

Here is the nearby lighthouse and keeper's quarters.

From Christmas10

In the new year, I joined Jen and a party of her colleagues for dinner at the Redhook Brewery at Dover. The brewery claims to be the largest producer of IPA in the USA. Before dinner, we toured the facilities. The bottling and packaging room is shown below. At dinner, I had my first meal of ribs, an American specialty, and was immensely satisfied. (Do try the ribs!)

From Christmas10

Having returned the car that had been lent so kindly to us, our remaining excursions were on foot and mostly within the precinct of UNH. The blizzard conditions were followed by a brief warm spell of weather that affected all of the northern states of the US. Now, I was much more cautious about my frozen river crossings!

From Christmas10

Desperately out of my element, but spurred on by Jen's easy grace, I gave ice-skating a shot. It was good fun - especially as I didn't trip over once! (Though I made some very abrupt lunges for the barrier around the edge of the rink.)

From Christmas10

Here's a snowman prepared earlier (and by someone else). I have been directed to wait for the hard snow that comes later in the season, for it is exceptionally good for creating snowmen.

From Christmas10

Neither of us, now that the weather had warmed some, were game to cross on to the Mill Pond. Though I expect that it should be solid again by now.

From Christmas10

I made the arduous journey last Sunday back to a snow-less Indiana. Thankfully, since then, we have had a big dump of snow (over two feet).

Here's wishing you all a great new year!

Dover and the College Woods

2010-12-30T14:27:00.004+11:00

Here, I have mounted a huge pile of snow on the main street of Durham.

From Christmas10

Jen and I made an excursion to nearby Dover, the oldest permanent settlement in New Hampshire. I wasn't able to find a certain covered footbridge so I took a break on the shore of the Piscataqua River.

From Christmas10

In the afternoon, Jen and I took a hike through the College Woods near UNH.

From Christmas10

It was so gusty in town but pleasantly calm in the forest. We even saw a few cross-country skiers out on the tracks. Have you ever been cross-country skiing?

From Christmas10

This is kind of a "Where's Wally?" photo. Can you find Pinko in here? (It might help to click on the photograph first.) The first correct response wins a prize.

From Christmas10

We turned around at the river but not before I worried Jen that I was on the brink of falling through the ice.

From Christmas10

Next post, I'll write about our trip up to Maine.

After the blizzard

2010-12-29T09:16:00.002+11:00

Jen, long-suffering, comes under fire as we ventured out to survey the town after the blizzard of 2010.

From Christmas10

I made a snow-angel.

From Christmas10

It is my best snow-angel yet.

From Christmas10

The gale was so strong that the flag pole yielded.

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Here's Jenny with Thompson Hall in the distance.

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Yes, the snow is still a novelty to me.

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Here is Jen in front of some snow-laden conifers.

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This is a picturesque street-scape typical of New England (feat. Hodgo).

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It was a pleasant surprise to see, that under the right conditions, snowflakes really do exhibit the famous six-fold symmetry.

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On our return, I cleared a little snow from the apartment entrance.

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Back in the warmth, we were able to watch the occasional flurries that continued to blow in throughout the afternoon.

From Christmas10

Boxing Day in New England

2010-12-28T04:25:00.002+11:00

Jen and I visited Portsmouth, a coastal city in New Hampshire incorporated in the late 17th century. Jenny and I stopped in the middle of the Pierce Island Bridge.

From Christmas10

I am pictured below with the 18th century Sheafe's warehouse. It being so cold near the Piscataqua river, we ended up going for tea in town.

From Christmas10

Back in Durham, we found the Mill Pond entirely frozen over and were able to walk around on it. However, if we stood near to each other on the pond, that alarming "crack" was audible and surface evinced a renewed lack of structural integrity.

From Christmas10

Back inside, I practised flying Jen's helicopter.

From Christmas10

And then later, we had a few beers and cheered the Patriots on to a very convincing victory over the Buffalo Bills. In the evening, the wind started to whip up and a blizzard came to Durham. I'll post a few photos of the result of this next time.

From Christmas10

Christmas in New England

2010-12-27T06:13:00.003+11:00

As this photo makes clear, I still like to open presents at the first opportunity I get on Christmas day. Jenny presented me with a little portable chess board in the same style as the set I parted with to come to the US. My new set is now even more portable; I will be able to honour a chess-challenge anywhere!

From Christmas10

Hodgo evinced a remarkable understanding of helicopter dynamics. She readily hovered and yawed this helicopter and then landed with precision. No fares have yet had to be refunded. We tried using the helicopter outside but, after about 30 seconds, it fell from the sky like a stone. We found that sub-zero temperatures don't agree with the device. Though it's still amazing! (Expect to see a few more photos of this yet.)

From Christmas10

Jen and I roasted an 8-pound chook too, for Christmas, with roast vegies and gravy.

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The beer comes from the Red Hook brewery "just down the road" at Portsmouth. The wine is an Aussie chardonnay.

From Christmas10

Putting off that afternoon nap, we took a walk through the township of Durham. It was easy going with there being just a dusting of snow.

From Christmas10

Jen's Turtle Pond is about 90% frozen now but she plays it safe in the photo below and stood on the grate.

From Christmas10

Next time, I will put up some photos that show us venturing further on to a frozen lake and document our excursion to Portsmouth on Boxing Day.

Christmas Eve in New England

2010-12-26T08:31:00.003+11:00

I travelled to New England for the holidays and arrived on Thursday. My journey was lengthened for I mis-heard the PA system on the train. I heard "Exit at the next station for Durham" and leapt from the train. In hindsight, the message was more likely along the lines of "Exeter: the next station, then Durham". Thankfully forgiven for putting Jenny and her friends out for having to collect me from the wrong town, I was treated to a stroll the next day around (the aptly named) Wagon Hill Park, north-east of Durham, NH.

From Christmas10

I found a little frozen patch to prank around on.

From Christmas10

Park of the park is in contact with the Great Bay, an estuary that feeds into the Piscataqua River.

From Christmas10

Near this peninsula, the surface of the lake has frozen.

From Christmas10

Even in the middle of winter most of the bay will remain navigable. Many of the nearby houses have ramps to access the lakes. In the photo below, and to Jen's right, you can see a large pier that has been established for this purpose.

From Christmas10

Next, I'll put up some photos from our Christmas day!

Snow on Notre Dame, IN

2010-12-13T04:37:00.003+11:00

It's snowing now, at Notre Dame. Monika took this photo of me on the steps of the La Fortune building. Behind me is the Basilica and the Main building. I am so glad for my down jacket and wool-lined boots. Even at -10 °C and in the snow, it is comfortable out. In fact, as my apartment is well-insulated, I am warmer now that I was at the Fox!

From 2010-12-07

I really enjoy the snow and hope that my fascination lasts. Lots of people, to whom snow is a familiar annual hindrance, don't share my enthusiasm for big winter snow storms.*

From 2010-12-07

*Except for when I need to fly, such as to New Hampshire at Christmas.

Around Notre Dame

2010-11-29T12:22:00.003+11:00

Here is my little squirrel neighbour. Since this photo was taken, we have had a few inches of snow. However, this little guy is still active and I saw him perched on the fence earlier today.

From Notre Dame I

The weather was turning cool, so I made use of the hat I received from furhatworld.com

From Notre Dame I

The Main Building supports the Golden Dome, an icon of Notre Dame. That is Jenny on the stairs.

From Notre Dame I

And here is the interior of The Dome.

From Notre Dame I

Another iconic building is the Basilica.

From Notre Dame I

We took a tour of the Basilica. I haven't been to a service here yet but figure that I might give it a shot at some stage. When in Rome...

From Notre Dame I

Jenny and I walked back past the soccer fields to my apartment, marked by a telephone tower. It is a convenient navigational tool and a reminder of man's ability to transmit and receive radio waves for the purpose of communication.

From Notre Dame I

My next post should have some photos of Notre Dame under snow! (I will try to get out for a shoot this week.)

Notre Dame Vs Utah

2010-11-28T12:17:00.002+11:00

The University of Notre Dame is home to the largest college marching band in the USA. The band opened proceedings at the enormous stadium prior to Notre Dame's clash with Utah.

From Notre Dame I

Jenny and I had great seats with a good view of the cheerleaders.

From Notre Dame I

Notre Dame, in the gold tights, took to the field and started warming up.

From Notre Dame I

Despite the rain, the stadium was still packed. And as a reward for the ND fans, the Irish got up in a big way over Utah.

From Notre Dame I

Go Irish!

From Notre Dame I

The band had the field taken from them after the game by the students! As this was the last home game for the season, the students were allowed to flow on to the field after the game.

From Notre Dame I

The next day, the weather turned cold but Jenny and I still got out to tour the campus; I will post some more photos, from the Basilica and the dome next time.

Tail-gaiting before the Utah game

2010-11-25T00:36:00.003+11:00

Prior to the Notre Dame Vs Utah game, I went "tail-gating". Bean-bag toss was pretty popular. A beer in one hand helps with balance.

From Notre Dame I

Here's a true Notre Dame supporter.

From Notre Dame I

After lunch we headed over to the stadium and passed the "touchdown Jesus".

From Notre Dame I

Next post, I'll post some pictures from inside Notre Dame stadium, shown in the background of the following photo.

From Notre Dame I

Fall at Notre Dame

2010-11-22T13:47:00.003+11:00

Jenny visited Notre Dame last weekend. We took a walk around the lakes on campus. Here, I am on the edge of St. Joseph's Lake and you can see the golden dome of the main building and the spire of the Basilica in the distance.

From Notre Dame I

The buildings on campus are grand. Morrissey Hall (pictured below) and Walsh Hall are my favourites. Morrissey has the most imposing presence and Walsh has a little archway that I go out of my way to walk through when going to-and-from the Rockne Memorial sports centre. (Gnute Rockne, a football coach from Notre Dame's golden years in American Football, is immortalized in many ways all around the university.)

From Notre Dame I

Jen joined me on the pier near the boathouse for a photograph in the style I refer to as the "Amy Sullivan-style selfie".

From Notre Dame I

This cute, well-fed squirrel was not really put out by our presence. I enjoy watching these busy little creatures gathering, burying and re-burying nuts. I was intrigued to read that squirrels will often fake burying nuts if they think that they may be watched! (In order to conceal the real location of their caches!)

From Notre Dame I

There's a little magnetic attraction here but it's very innocent; I'm loading a sample into the 300 MHz NMR to quickly check that the titanium-based catalyst system I use has served me faithfully.

From Notre Dame I

Before I headed off to introduce Jenny to my new colleagues at our end-of-the-week function hosted by some of the grad' students, I posed in my invisible safety glasses and lab coat.

From Notre Dame I

Post-doc at the Uni of Notre Dame, IN

2010-11-17T00:02:00.004+11:00

At the end of September, I moved to Indiana to take up a post-doc at the Uni of Notre Dame in Indiana. The photograph below shows me in front of the "Touchdown Jesus" on the Hesburgh library. Though pretty busy in the laboratory, I have "tail-gated" a few times, watched a couple of football games in the huge (80,000+ seats) stadium, cheered the Irish to victory in ice hockey, and made a road-trip to Grand Rapids, MI, for a Ben Folds concert. Without my own camera, I'm a bit light-on for photos, though. I especially wish that I'd taken some pictures of our first snow on the Friday before last. Last month, I also took my driving test to get an Indiana driver's licence. It's more handy than always using your passport for ID, especially as you must show ID for all grog purchases here. I have also had Jen visit in the past week and will post some more photos of Notre Dame next.

From 2010-10-10

Last ride

2010-11-11T16:30:00.000+11:00

I missed posting this photo from early September. Marko and Les and I have been playing more and more golf recently. The course in Cowra was returning to its former glory, having had a lot of rain this year. (And I believe that it's still coming down.) We actually played in the rain on the same day that the following picture was taken, though the western sky had cleared for us as we were coming up the eighteenth.

From 2010-06-14

Bill and I took our Suzukis (1400 and 500 cc, respectively) out for a spin on my last full day in Australia before I was to leave for the States. We rode south-east through Mount Collins on the way to the Wyangala Dam. There were many fields of canola lining our route.

From 2010-06-14

The Dam had risen to about 25% at this stage and now I hear that it is up to about 50%. I hope that it's full by the time I get back.

From 2010-06-14

The next day, Jan and Les gave me a ride to Lithgow and then I rode two trains and took two flights and 30 hours later I was in Indiana and getting ready to start my post-doc. In the next post, I'll put up some pictures from the Uni of Notre Dame.

A packed August but light-on for photos

2010-11-11T12:01:00.003+11:00

Jen left for the States at the end of July and after hanging out in Sydney for a few days, and then Cowra, I headed north for my last big ride for the year. I didn't have a decent camera, so from this point on, the photos are pretty ordinary. On the second morning of my journey to Brisbane on the GS500, after staying in Newcastle on the first evening, I took the photo from my campsite at Minnie Water in the Yuraygir National Park east of Grafton.

From 2010-09-18

I reached Brisbane on Saturday afternoon, 11th of Sept, and after a motorcycling tour through the city, Hall and I stocked up with some Belgian beers.

From 2010-09-18

Later, we headed north to catch up with the extended Roberts clan for a few more brews.

From 2010-09-11

I lived in Hall's garage for almost a week and was starting to feel right at home. After spending a heap of time lounging by the pool, soaking up the great QLD climate, and catching up with Gunners too for a few brews, I made the trip south again to the Central West. I camped out the first evening and plotted out my route home. Crossing west into the countryside was absolutely freezing. Though the ride from Grafton, through the mountains, to Armidale was outstanding even if it was freezing!

From 2010-09-18

Leaving the RSC

2010-11-01T23:12:00.004+11:00

Last Thursday of August, I was farewelled by the Banwell group at a dinner in town.

From Eden

And the next day, Jen and I had our last Bramley's Bar session with a few more of our friends from the RSC.

From 2010-09-18

Good times at Bramley's.

From 2010-09-18

And we followed it up with dinner and cheap beers at the Hellenic Club. It's a good routine!

From Eden

Golfing in Eden

2010-10-20T12:28:00.003+11:00

On the second-last Tuesday of August, this year, Jenny used the viewing tower, on the third hole at the Eden golf club, to ensure that the fairway was clear for our tee-shots.

From 2010-09-18

We were lugging renting clubs having left our own sets back in Canberra and not realised this until almost half-way there. (The rented clubs were probably better anyway.)

From 2010-09-18

Jenny takes a shot from the fairway of the seventh from within the middle of a mob of kangaroos, who are evidently very familiar with the game.

From 2010-09-18

On Thursday, we took our leave from Eden and returned to Canberra. I'll post, next, some photos from my final group dinner and our last Bramley's Bar.

Ben Boyd

2010-10-18T15:36:00.002+11:00

At the end of August, Jen and I visited the Sapphire Coast and stayed at Eden. On the first afternoon, we took a walk around Lake Curalo and along Aslings beach to the rock pool. Afterwards, we climbed the steep embankment and followed Imlay Street back through town.

From 2010-09-18

After viewing the old whaling works, we headed up to Boyd's Tower. Nearby, the water, as viewed from the southern head of Twofold Bay, was very enticing!

From 2010-09-18

Boyd's tower is imposing and in great condition. It was not granted a licence from Sydney to operate as a light-house so Boyd packed up and headed to California instead.

From 2010-09-18

After taking some lunch near Boyd's tower, Jen and I headed right out to the tip of the headland.

From 2010-09-18

Later we took an afternoon hike in Ben Boyd National park from Bittangabee, past the ruins to Saltwater Creek and back again. On the return journey, the urge to bathe was once more irresistable for me!

From 2010-09-18

A little further south is the grand Green Cape Lighthouse. It's a beautiful structure though its function is now carried on by a small electric, automated system, just visible on the right edge of the picture. Construction of the lighthouse was started by a private operator that won a government contract. Though he ran out of money, the project was finished with government funding and was staffed by three full-time lighthouse operators.

From 2010-09-18

In the evening, we walked to the marina and watched the sun set over the fishing boats, and then took 2 x everything on the menu at the restaurant behind us.

From 2010-09-18

In the next post, I will show you how we faired on the course before our few days in Eden closed.

Last game of the season with the Uni-Norths Owls

2010-10-11T11:41:00.003+11:00

Our rugby team had its last game of the year in August against Easts. We came out victorious from the clash. I'm pictured below with the club's third-grade side. Though we didn't make the finals this year, I had a great time with the club and reckon that it helped to keep me sane during my final year at the ANU. The club attracts a great bunch of blokes and I am always grateful to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them. Here's to a huge 2011 season!

From 2010-09-18

Last beer at The Fox

2010-10-09T13:20:00.002+11:00

On Friday, 20 August, Jenny and I finally moved out of The Fox. We packed and swept, scrubbed and vacuumed. Here is the kitchen, formally home to my oft-thought-of keg-fridge.

From OuttaFox

Here I am vacuuming carpet (yes, thrilling) that, along with every other furnishing, was removed to make way for the ensuing refurbishment days after we moved out!

From OuttaFox

One of the best things about The Fox was the garden in the backyard. There were these lovely big olive trees and it most mostly pretty peaceful to barbecue, play darts and relax out there.

From OuttaFox

Gav, with Rhiannon, came to give us a hand with the last couple of heavy items. Rhi didn't do anything and so she didn't get to have a beer.

From OuttaFox

Here are Jen and I in front of our first little home together.

From OuttaFox

It took all of my modest Tetris-skills to pack my gear on to the truck! See how compressed the rear tyre is? From here, we headed to Cowra and added to the Pinkerton family collection of washing machines (now four) and fridges (now five).

From OuttaFox

After all of this hectic activity - through finalizing the thesis, selling the motorbike, saying our farewells and the moving out of The Fox - Jen and I took a trip at the end of August to the Sapphire coast. I'll mention a few of the highlights in my next post.

Outta Fox

2010-10-06T01:20:00.000+11:00

Though we had disposed of some old furniture, we still had a lot of things to move out from the Fox. With this in mind, we started first with moving Jen's things across Canberra. The ute pictured, so kindly loaned to us for our move, was invaluable. I'm shown below on the Monday morning, 16 August, and obviously making light of the job ahead.

From OuttaFox

So for a few days there, we had only the most rudimentry of furniture. (Good practice for the way I have "furnished" my apartment in the US now.)

From OuttaFox

Jenny made the tough decision to sell her motorcycle before we departed for our post-doc jobs in the States. This was Jen's first motorcycle and she learnt to ride with it. I was a bit attached to it and then it wouldn't start for the prospective buyers! I imagined that it was for show, so that we would keep it. I persevered and now it lives out near Belconnen. I'll hope to see it around town again (and probably still with an L-plate on it) in 12 months. Jenny rode this bike all the way to Eden with me at one stage and took it to Newcastle and back another time.

From OuttaFox

Friday, August 20, 2010, was our last day at The Fox. It was going to the biggest day of packing and cleaning, so we started early. In the next post, I will show you how we managed it all. Before I finish though, I point out the daffodil in the photograph below. This daffodil is descended from one of a number of bulbs that were given to Jen along with some tulip bulbs. We planted these here in preference to the problematic Jerusalem artichokes that we had tried previously. Every spring, we saw that these bulbs were multiplying and were gratified that some of the daffodils bloomed in time for us on our last days in our old home. I bet that the tulips are in full bloom now and trust that they are again brightening people's days.

From OuttaFox

Last party at The Fox. I still can't believe it!

2010-10-03T01:20:00.001+10:00

Jenny and I had a good supply of ale on hand for our last party at The Fox on Saturday, August 14. The weather was still pretty cool at this stage, so we had the fire bin chock full at all times. I had been hoping to have that last hurrah at the Fox for some time but had to wait for revisions of the fateful document. The beer though, never had tasted so good!

From OuttaFox

Here we are, playing with some sparklers, later in the evening.

From OuttaFox

You can see how full that bucket is! Also, it reads "Live Free or Die", the state motto of the US state of New Hampshire and the host of Jen's postdoc job.

From OuttaFox

Some rickety old garden furniture was dispensed with as well and reduced the amount of things that we'd have to shift later.

From OuttaFox

Next time, I will show you how Jenny and I, in a fairly rapid manner, set about emptying the Fox. Having been so comfortably settled there for over eight years, one accumulates quite a lot of gear but we get there in the end, so hang in there. And imagine how after so long I can be so nostalgic about my rough'n'ready little sharehouse in Lyneham. Once we're done there, I'll show you a little of the trip Jen and I made to the beautiful Sapphire Coast.

Puss moves and we visit Cowra

2010-09-30T01:20:00.000+10:00

On Monday the 9th, following Jen's soccer game on Sunday, we decided to relocate Puss to Cowra. It was figured that he would love it there where he could lounge in front of a wood-fire, hunt mice around stacked trellis post and would be spared the intrusion of almost any vehicular traffic. As well, he would be pampered by Jan and Les! Puss was very put-out by the whole affair and was little comforted by my reassurance. We stayed in Cowra for a few days to try to help him settle in but were suprised by how quickly he reverted to a kind of half-wild state. He comes by now, under the cover of darkness for his dinners, and is extremely elusive. Eight-and-a-half years of sharehousing together have been put aside and now Jan and Les are doing their best to win him over again. Inadvertently, they also end up supporting a number of neighbouring felines that appreciate the extra suppers!

From OuttaFox

Jan and Jenny and I took a morning tea of scones with cream and jam to Les, on Tuesday morning the 10th, while he took a break from spraying prior to the impending bud-burst. Though still quite cool, the relatively wet recent conditions have made Cowra lush and green again. As well, the harvest this year is expected to be quite good.

From OuttaFox

In the next few updates, I will be relating the last hurrah that we held at The Fox and then how we got serious about moving out. We did really hook in to the moving gig so that we could get away on a little driving holiday, the details and some photos of which will be appearing soon too.

What has been happening since mid-July?

2010-09-27T14:07:00.002+10:00

It's high time that this blog was brought up to date. Over the next couple of weeks, I will update the blog regularly and document the huge events that have taken place in the past two months. Summarily, I submitted my PhD thesis and we celebrated, Jenny and I moved out of the Fox and were kindly farewelled multiple times, Puss was repatriated in Cowra, and then Jen and I moved to the US this month to take up post-doctoral jobs.

In the early hours on the 3rd of August, I received endorsement from my supervisor to submit my thesis. Though incredibly relieving, this spurred me, after Jen and I enjoyed this eagerly anticipated milestone, into frantic activity in order to make the final revisions and then print and bind the document. There was a kind of tranquility, knowing that the thesis was on the cusp of being submitted, that I will always remember.

The final surge to submit the thesis meant that I snatched only scraps of sleep over the next few days as I was determined to have the thesis submitted by Friday, the 6th. My advice to colleagues at the RSC about to go through the same process, just have the ANU printing unit take care of the printing. It turned out to be so much easier than doing it at the RSC! (And you are re-imbursed anyhow.)

After a few printing hiccups (and a bicycle collision en route to the RSC!), four copies of the thesis (shown below), were signed and made ready for submission to the Examinations Office.

From OuttaFox

It was a truly euphoric moment to be concluding this period of intense study and devotion. After four years and five months working at the PhD, finally making my way to the Examinations Office with the theses in hand was overwhelming.

From OuttaFox

Jenny and I toasted to the moment with champagne on the deck by Sullivan's Creek. Jen was so supportive of me and helpful while I was going through the final phases of my program, that I had to toast to her at this point too.

From OuttaFox

Happily, we were shortly joined by a great bunch of friends and colleagues from the RSC and we continued to toast in the usual fashion.

From OuttaFox

Aware that we would be leaving shortly for the US (for Jen, departure was scheduled to take place in just over three weeks time), we soon launched into the next phase of operations: empty the Fox. I reflect now that only seven weeks have passed since this decisive day but I have been so busy that it feels instead like many months. I trust that you will appreciate this, dear reader, and forgive me for the blog's recent lack of updates. I am going to make it all up to you over the next week or so. As such, come back soon for Puss and the last hurrah at The Fox.

West of the mountains again

2010-07-20T10:13:00.002+10:00

Down in Moonan Flat on Wednesday morning, it was warm enough for Jen and I to cook breakfast.

From thewarmth

Later, we stopped to view some of the coal mines at Ulan, between Cassilis and Gulgong.

From thewarmth

We stopped for the day in Orange and met Ange and Ant's girl, Charlotte, and then stayed with the Sullivans before meeting up with Marko, Les and Jan for a spot of golf in Blayney on Thursday. Shown below is the shot that I used to extricate myself from this deep gully.

From thewarmth

Polblue Swamp, Barrington Tops

2010-07-15T12:17:00.003+10:00

Jen and I stopped on Tuesday evening at the Polblue Swamp in the Barrington Tops. There are a collection of clear streams here but it was so cold that I refrained from swimming.

From thewarmth

Though the timber was a bit wet, we managed to get a stable little fire burning. I used a little gas burner to boil the billy. As the sun sunk, the temperature dropped rapidly and I started putting on extra layers of clothing.

From thewarmth

We had been warned by a kind gentleman at the Gloucester visitor's centre that it would be mighty cold up in the mountains. "We're from Canberra; it'll be fine" was our response. Admittedly, I was surprised to find so much ice on the ground in the late afternoon. These icy outcrops were very widespread at the Polblue Swamp.

From thewarmth

Though warned that we ought to expect temperatures down to −9 °C, the temperature dipped below even that. In the middle of the night, the thermometer registered −10 °C. Thankfully, Jen and I were using good down bags in our tent. Though the cold did have some surprising effects: the hood of my bag was freezing to the inside surface of the tent, our gas-powered light and stove were not useful as the vapour pressure inside the gas cylinders (70:30, butane/propane) dropped almost to zero, and the camera took one photo and then conked out due to battery problems. That one photo was of Jenny's glasses that iced over during the night.

From thewarmth

In the morning, we took the stroll around the swamp and were impressed by the ice-scape.

From thewarmth

Here, Jen and I pause to soak up some of the warming sunshine. As our stove was not functional even after our walk, we postponed breakfast and headed west out of the mountains.

From thewarmth

The tops

2010-07-14T14:22:00.002+10:00

We viewed a stand of rare and enormous Antarctic Beech trees.

From thewarmth

The view into the valley here is spectacular and a rival to those we enjoyed at the Kanangra Boyd Nat. Park in the Blue Mountains.

From thewarmth

Gently leaning on the rail, I take in the view from high in the Barrinton ranges.

From thewarmth

The warmth

2010-07-14T14:15:00.003+10:00

The fine weather stayed with us as we stopped in at Tathra for lunch on the Monday.

From thewarmth

I found the water at Crowdy Bay very pleasant and ventured a dip. There are obviously dangerous rips here though, so I didn't venture out beyound my depth.

From thewarmth

Again, we paddled at the beach on Tuesday morning.

From thewarmth

Jenny enjoys the ocean in moderation.

From thewarmth

After morning tea, we headed west through Glouster and up into the Barrington Tops.

Newcastle

2010-07-14T14:09:00.002+10:00

Jen and I visited Mel and Ryan in Newcastle late last month. The weather is pleasant and mild east of the Great Dividing Range. We drove to the waterfront to watch the Chinese Dong being loaded.

From thewarmth

The dogs enjoyed a run at a beach dedicated to canine fun.

From thewarmth

Here, the dogs await action from their master.

From thewarmth

Later, Lucky Mel won the fish tray at the Minmi Pub.

From thewarmth

Fine winter days

2010-07-14T14:06:00.003+10:00

On fine days, Jen and I often walk the bridge-to-bridge circuit around Lake Burley Griffin.

From thewarmth

Incidentally, Jen's fine and learner-legal motorcycle is for sale. As the days continue to lengthen you're going to want at least one of these babies in your garage!

From thewarmth

Giving back

2010-07-14T14:02:00.004+10:00

Jenny and I have been tidying The Fox. Jen is shown here contributing her "Obsession" to the pile of iron to be recycled.

From thewarmth

This comfortable velvet-covered couch found a new home at Hitler's Bunker, Bruce, with Roberto.

From thewarmth

The Fox is so spacious now. And luxurious for some.

From thewarmth

June farewells

2010-07-14T13:58:00.002+10:00

Last month, we farewelled Lauren.

From thewarmth

And we farewelled Amy too. Best wishes!

From thewarmth

Corny

2010-04-29T16:44:00.002+10:00

Jenny and I have started harvesting our corn crop. The field was blown down by a gale a couple of weeks ago but is still providing us with many ears.

From corny

On a fine weekend about a fortnight back, Hodgo, Roberts and I tried fishing from the shore of Lake Burley Griffin near the museum. We had seen many fish jumping from the water during our scouting expedition in the inflatable boat. In the meantime, however, seven thousand carp had been removed from the lake and we returned with empty baskets. The lost bait made a hearty lunch for a little water-rat that swam by a few times.

From corny

Compare our casting. First me:

And then Roberto:

Puss makes a friend

2010-04-10T02:30:00.000+10:00

Puss has made a little friend, Hamlet.

From Inflated

Here they are again, playing.

Easter Monday

2010-04-09T05:30:00.000+10:00

The beautiful April weather coaxed a captain, a cabin boy and I to take to the water again.

From Inflated

Unsikable warship shown below.

From Inflated

The destroyer takes up a defensive pose. (See video below).

At the risk of mutual destruction, I boarded the duck.

From Inflated

Our patron, Sportsco (like Wilson), is prone to misadventure. See his dramatic rescue in this short video.

We then made our way to the Lighthouse (in vain, as thirsty sailors could get no refreshment).

From Inflated

Sportsco made another break for it when he couldn't get a drink.

From Inflated

The destroyer and the duck exchange fire.

From Inflated

Land-lubbers, large and small, enjoyed (or were confused by) the spectacle.

From Inflated

In the afternoon, we finally quenched our thirst and crisped a bird.

From Inflated

Easter Sunday

2010-04-09T02:30:00.000+10:00

It was a leisurely Easter Sunday at The Fox. We took in some of the mild weather while engaging in some darts. Robbo was the victor in a game of Mickey Mouse. Jen came second and I made up the balance.

From Inflated

Easter Saturday

2010-04-08T13:27:00.002+10:00

Robbo launched onto Lake Burley Griffin on Saturday afternoon.

From Inflated

A hasty repair gave way early on and Roberts had to abandon ship. (I came back for him, though).

From Inflated

Without bouyancy for another beer on board, we set out across the lake. We came ashore at the museum to purge the bilge and then paddled back to the Ferry Wharf as inclement weather was bearing down on our modest vessel. (And our beer supply had been exhausted).

From Inflated

Autumnal Equinox 2010

2010-03-26T16:44:00.002+11:00

Chris(tmas) visited us from Perth late last week and joined the chemists at the Uni Bar to congratulate Mikey on submitting his thesis. Lucky bastard.

From Stout

The Fox, on Saturday, was the venue of a combined Pinkerton party that co-incided with the Autumnal equinox. This many chemists meant that draining two kegs was a trivial matter and that chess was a certainty.

From Stout

Stout was the order of the evening, as a tribute to St. Patrick's day that had just passed. For the pleasure of guests, the lanterns were lit early.

From Stout

Though warm without a fire, I couldn't resist ignition.

From Stout

And here is a festive bunch of revellers with staying-power. Thanks, guys!

From Stout

Eden motorcycle adventure

2010-03-16T14:48:00.002+11:00

On the weekend just passed, Jenny joined me on a motorcycle trip to the Sapphire Coast.

From Jen rides

We camped on Friday evening at a little site on Packers Swamp Road and close to Brown Mountain. Jen poses here with our little fire and in front of her tried-and-tested ZZR250. It was certainly much cooler in the mountains but we were comfortable over night in down bags.

From Jen rides

I prepared sausages on a small fire that was kindled from a little bark from the dry side of a tree, and refreshed myself with some lager th at I brewed at the start of spring. There are many features of camping in a state forest. Although there are no facilities, there is also no fee; and there are often very few nearby campers.

From Jen rides

The "Killers of Eden" were a pod of killer whales that are said to have aided whaling-parties that operated from the town many decades ago. The skeleton of the killer whale, Old Tom is on display behind Hodgo.

From Jen rides

The weather is starting to cool but the water is pleasant. Jenny and I took a dip at Eden before riding later to Tathra, our venue for Saturday evening.

From Jen rides

On Sunday, we were treated to lush scenery as we motored through the Bega valley on our return to the ACT. You could almost see smiles on the cows for this part of the country has had a fairly wet start to the year.

Yass Picnic Races 2010

2010-03-16T14:44:00.003+11:00

The course was too wet for horses but I still rated it fine, on the first weekend of March.

From Yass2010

Erroneously crossing town four times on foot gave me an unmatched thirst.

From Yass2010

Spirits were high on the ride back to town.

From Yass2010

The keg was certainly much less burdensome late in the afternoon.

From Yass2010

We returned to the infamous Royal and were swamped by other patrons as the night rolled on.

From Yass2010

Febulous Wedding

2010-03-01T16:35:00.004+11:00

Here I pose with many friends of the happy bride and groom in early February.

From RimsnJess

After dancing like this for about 10 minutes, I was shocked that noone else had joined our procession.

From RimsnJess

Phil and I joined Mixy out on the dancefloor too.

From RimsnJess

Rimsy the buck

2010-02-26T17:04:00.002+11:00

Rimsy's buck's afternoon featured pitch'n'putt golf of which Roberts' was the victor. Scacey put in a valiant show to place a close second.

From hensnbucks

We strutted our way out of town. (Shown on Lonsdale Street).

From hensnbucks

We returned soon, though, and carried on at the casino.

From hensnbucks

Postman Pinko

2010-01-22T17:06:00.004+11:00

To provide a fresh trickle of income while I conclude my thesis, I have recently occupied myself as a part-time motorcycle postman with Australia Post. The pay is ordinary but mostly people like the postie. I get paid to ride over an ever-changing obstacle course and wave to my fans.

From Xmas 2009

Jenny visited me at on my run over the northern reaches of Belconnen in the ACT. It's been sweltering out there; I consume litres of water "on the beat". Surely, this is better than riding during a Canberra winter, though.

From Xmas 2009

Here I am in action.

From Xmas 2009

One cannot avoid becoming a connoisseur of mailboxes when you spend hours dealing with them. It's great to deliver to those thoughtful souls that provide a roomy mailbox with a big slot and put it adjacent to that of their neighbour's box on the sidewalk. (In this way I can stop just once and don't have to deviate from my path). There are some shocking boxes out there though. Sometimes the box in just lying on the ground. One "mailbox" is just a hole in the wall with a piece of rubbish to weigh the mail down. Many mailboxes aren't even wide enough to accept a standard letter without it having to be folded. (Imagine trying to jam a Foxtel guide through there). Oh, and if you park your car in the way (or leave your bins there), you should be flogged. Ramming speed!

Emily Miller Beach Pleases Again

2010-01-13T21:01:00.003+11:00

Roberts chased me along the scorching sand at Emily Miller Beach last Sunday afternoon.

From Four at the coast

In a shady spot, we did a little reading and snoozing.

From Four at the coast

Jenny brought a baby crab back with her from the surf. Roberts gently cast him back in to the sea.

From Four at the coast

The waboba ball must have hit a small wave and bounced out of my grasp.

From Four at the coast

I signalled that Roberto and I were sound after a very close meeting with a large ray in the shallows at the northern end of the beach.

From Four at the coast

My last-ditch effort to afford some shade underneath Jen failed to avert the substantial sun-burn that showed up later in the evening.

From Four at the coast

Our foursome took in some zydeco music in the shade at the Canberra botanical gardens as a cool breeze (and cool wine) provided further relief from the heat.

From Four at the coast

The Snowy Mountains Highway

2010-01-09T14:43:00.003+11:00

After viewing the Jillabenan Cave at Yarrangobilly, Rimsy, Jen and I climbed along the Snowy Mountains Highway to about 1500m.

From Snowy Ride

Though the snow ploughs were stored away for the summer, the yellow road markings are a reminder of the snow that blankets this region for much of the year. Even then, Rimsy may have been okay on his big BMW with heated grips a plug-in electric jacket.

From Snowy Ride

Jenny and I eased out of the saddle for a stretch next to this treeless plain.

From Snowy Ride

Dotted about the high mountians are emergency huts in which to shelter in the case of a blizzard. This notorious hut was re-built after being destroyed by a forest fire.

From Snowy Ride

Dead forests like that behind Rimsy and I have a ghostly, still feeling about them. Of course, new growth is already becoming well-established.

From Snowy Ride

Our last stop before schnitzels in Cooma was at the Big Trout at (new) Adaminaby.

From Snowy Ride

After Cooma, we endured the Monaro Highway and arrived safe and weary in the Can.

The Yarrangobilly Caves

2010-01-07T20:16:00.002+11:00

The Jillabenan cave is the oldest of the five caves at Yarrangobilly. Jenny poses here with some stalactites that are encrusted with crystals.

From Snowy Ride

The long, thin straws shown in the centre of the following picture are estimated to be ten thousand years old.

From Snowy Ride

The older caves are frequently the smallest; Stalactite growth, like that Rimsy is appreciating in the picture below, may have blocked or filled in parts of the cave.

From Snowy Ride

This veil looks very delicate.

From Snowy Ride

Green smudges at the bottom of this shallow cave pool are all that remains of copper pennies cast here in the 1950's and '60's.

From Snowy Ride

After the tranquility of the cave, we fired the bikes up and headed south along the Snowy Mountains Highway. It is from this point that I will take up the next post.

Jounama Creek and the thermal pool at Yarrangobilly

2010-01-06T17:49:00.003+11:00

Jenny, Rimsy and I barbecued steak, sausages and some bacon at Jounama Creek campground. We took stops at pubs at Wee Jasper and Tumut. Though this pleasant campsite is only 200 kilometres from Canberra, we were out on the motorbikes for about three-and-a-half hours on Friday afternoon. Enjoyable twisty roads through farmland en route to Wee Jasper gave me a chance to grind off some of the unnecessary bits of my foot pegs. Beautiful winding logging roads greeted us after a gruelling slog up-hill along the rutted track out of Wee Jasper towards Tumut.

From Snowy Ride

By leaving behind a few adult diapers, Rimsy had ample space to bring a tent along. Jen and I opted for the simple joy of sleeping under a hootchie. We were (mostly) shielded from the thorough early morning storm.

From Snowy Ride

The Jounama creek is crystal clear and pleasantly refreshing after an afternoon in the saddle. Thankfully, Jen had rested a couple of long-necks of my winter ale in the creek and this aided in the requisite relaxation and rejuvenation.

From Snowy Ride

Having risen early, we rode about half-an-hour south along the Snowy Mountains Highway to the Yarrangobilly Caves. Kindly, the parks officer waived the park use fee for us because we were travelling on motorcycles. We booked tickets for a tour through the oldest cave, the Jillabenan Cave. We had just enough time spare to visit the nearby thermal pool.

From Snowy Ride

The water temperature is stable all year at twenty-seven degrees Celsius. This water is so clear that you ought to be able to make out the stony bottom of the pool from the following image.

From Snowy Ride

In my next post, I'll describe our tour of the ancient Jillabenan cave.

1000m Climb

2009-12-23T20:25:00.002+11:00

My fascination with chess was maintained during our journey.

From KanangraBoyd

On Sunday, we set started early on our climb.

From KanangraBoyd

Like Jenny, we were all in high spirits as we conquered Cambage Spire, the steepest section we would cover on Sunday.

From KanangraBoyd

Marko reigns over Kanangra-Boyd National Park later in the day.

From KanangraBoyd

Thanks Marko and Jen for making this the best hike all year!

From KanangraBoyd

Down to the Kowmung River

2009-12-23T20:17:00.002+11:00

In early November, Jen and Marko and I commenced a hike from the Kanangra walls.

From KanangraBoyd

Our hike started from an altitude of 1000m and from within the clouds.

From KanangraBoyd

Just a little south of the stone caravan, we made our campsite and made fire.

From KanangraBoyd

After a very steep descent, we arrived at the Kowmung River. The water was crystal clear and almost entirely trout-free. We shared campsite overlapped with the territory of a very large wombat. As well, we found a red-bellied black snake sunning itself on the rocks near our fishing spot.

From KanangraBoyd

Here, I relax with a mug of whisky by a handsome campfire and think positively about the gruelling climb ahead of us the following day.

From KanangraBoyd

On the Lachlan

2009-10-26T06:24:00.002+11:00

Jen performed admirably as my caddy while I joined the other Pinkerton men and Jan for a lap around the course at Cowra on Sunday. Les was the victor and Marko came a close second.

From River

In the afternoon, we paddled from Second Sands to the low-level bridge. The railway bridge is shown in the distance here.

From River

Marko starts a figure-eight of the pylons...

From River

...And capsized after trying to effect an impossible-sharp turn.

From River

Final talk

2009-10-14T15:51:00.001+11:00

A few weeks back, I gave my final presentation of my uni work.

From bowlinoldies

Later, Jen joined me for Chimay and chess.

From bowlinoldies

Great!

From bowlinoldies

CHS 1999 reunion

2009-10-14T15:50:00.002+11:00

On Saturday-before-last, Jenny and I visited the Town House in Cowra for the class of 1999 school reunion.

From Reunion09

Stu travelled all of the way from Goulburn.

From Reunion09

Here, Jen poses with one of my high-school friends.

From Reunion09

Prebirthday-girl Aly in Dickson

2009-09-22T14:35:00.003+10:00

After Kingsland, Trinity hosted our party and we celebrated Aly's impending birthday.

From Alybday

Paula and Bree selected cocktails and did their best to avoid the exaggerated dance-moves of nearby revellers.

From bowlinoldies

Jenny joined us for a few beers too.

From Alybday

Aly scratched a few out before we called it a night.

From Alybday

Bare-foot bowls at O'Connor

2009-09-22T13:48:00.002+10:00

Roberts and I joined Jen and her soccer buddies at the O'Connor bowls club on the Saturday-before-last for a game of bowls.

From bowlinoldies

Despite years of experience, Roberts showed us exactly what not to do on the pitch.

From bowlinoldies

Another curve-ball:

From bowlinoldies

Jen and Pippa won this round.

From bowlinoldies

The speedy team return fire.

From bowlinoldies

Jenny's thesis-submitting day

2009-08-28T16:09:00.003+10:00

Jenny presented her thesis, a culmination of the last few years of work, at the Pauline Griffin building today. Subsequently, we celebrated on the edge of Sullivan's Creek. (This is the first of a number of celebrations.) Congratulations, Jen!

From JSubM

As an aside, did you know that Chuck Norris didn't submit his thesis? He couldn't; Chuck Norris never submits!

Inflation of Robbo

2009-08-20T09:04:00.002+10:00

Click to Play

Fried canary

2009-08-12T07:36:00.003+10:00

The blokes and I (and Dr Cool on a canary) made a return trip to Crookwell on Saturday. The doctor had too much electricity on the return journey, but a remedy has since been applied.

From singing phoenix

Pump up the jam

2009-08-12T07:33:00.002+10:00

Sorry to every neighbour, in a 2km radius, that was home last Friday night but we were overdue for a Singstar blast.

From singing phoenix

Phoenix

2009-08-12T07:30:00.002+10:00

Jen and the doctors enjoy the eclectic ambiance of The Phoenix.

From singing phoenix

Meanwhile, Roberts scares them all away on the dancefloor.

From singing phoenix

Bye Mix

2009-07-19T09:20:00.004+10:00

Mixy followed a time-honoured (Sydney Uni) recipe while concocting punch to serve at his farewell party on Saturday.

From ByeMix

Scace decorated his apartment with various fancy-dress head-gear. Ash is less Warwick Capper and more a rough cavewoman.

From ByeMix

Trace rocked in to join Jen in wishing Mixy all the best in Sydney from next month.

From ByeMix

Here's to you, Scace! I hope that you're not struggling too much today. Great party. There's a tribute pad that I had people sign still at your apartment, by the way.

From ByeMix

Gunning for a ride

2009-07-19T09:16:00.003+10:00

Jenny and I rode return to Gunning last Sunday in an effort to intercept Steve and Rims on their return from Taralga.

From Gunning

We posed at the top of a road-cutting just north of Gundaroo.

From Gunning

Ground-handling day

2009-07-19T09:08:00.005+10:00

Ash practised some ground-handling techniques with his glider on the Lyneham High ovals.

Despite some strong gusts, a fan would have helped to get the pilot air-borne.

From Gunning

Jen conducsts a closer inspection of the inflating cells.

From Gunning

Rowan hosts a bogan-themed party

2009-07-09T02:00:00.002+10:00

Rowan, in bogan attire, is in the home-fabricated nerve-centre of the party. I didn't appreciate how appropriate skulls were as decoration until their link to the suburb was pointed out to me. Pretty relevant to drinking too, I guess. Oh - look out for what happens when you pull the white cord (in the upper-right of this photograph), and ring the attached bell!

From RowanP

Ah! A wood-elf at a bogan-party! I chose to rug up and inadvertently concealed my southern cross tattoo. (My "mark of the bogan" took days to remove!)

From RowanP

Amy is #1 in numbers

2009-07-08T02:00:00.001+10:00

The first round of toasts to Amy's accession to "number 1 in numbers" took place at O'Neill's in Dickson.

From RowanP

Later, it was on to the Kremlin.

From RowanP

Steve and Jen joined me in toasting to Amy's successes again.

From RowanP

Phill has a birthday

2009-07-07T02:00:00.001+10:00

On Thursday a couple of weeks ago, Phill celebrated his 27th birthday at O'Neill's. Jenny and I second Phil-the-mechanic's thumb-up sentiment.

From RowanP

Phill and Elise were enjoying the ambiance of the cigar-box.

From RowanP

Happy 26th birthday, Egg

2009-07-06T08:48:00.004+10:00

Jen turned 26 on Sunday. Happy birthday, Jen!

Here the birthday-girl poses with her Franken-bike, laden with blooms.

From Jen26

After the flash

2009-06-06T23:02:00.003+10:00

Jenny and I photographed the same splendid tree at lunch-time every Friday of May.

Moto' ride to the Collector Pumkpin Festival

2009-05-07T13:23:00.002+10:00

Making the most of some fine weather, Rowan, Emma, Gavin and I rode out to Collector on Sunday afternoon. Rowan and Emma rode an 800cc Harley and Gav' and I both rode GS500s.

From JBPumpkin

Our route via Gundaroo incorporated a substantial stretch of dirt road. I had the chance to stop and admire a dam that held some of our recent rainfall.

From JBPumpkin

The biggest pumpkin had sufficient flesh to contribute to over 5000 scones and is about as heavy as you'd expect. Half of Canberra had the idea to join us out at Collector.

From JBPumpkin

Inspired, I paid a greater-than-market price to a bloke for a butternut that has since been partially-applied to the production of scones. There was room to rope my purchase down while my other "pumpkin" was doing battle on the soccer field for ANU.

From JBPumpkin

JB coaches Sydney Comets to victory

2009-05-06T08:16:00.002+10:00

JB coached his Comets to victory over the Canberra Capitals at the Canberra Basketball Centre in Belconnen on Saturday evening.

From JBPumpkin

We missed Roberts' half-time on-court show that would have been accompanied by 90's music (the glory days of basketball). It was in the second half that Sydney developed a lead over Canberra, a lead that they maintained steadfastly until full-time.

From JBPumpkin

Vodafone Cup, Round Three

2009-05-05T09:43:00.003+10:00

The third-grade Owls and I competed against Queanbeyan on a bright autumn Saturday at Taylor Park.

From QBN1

I take the ball in to contact dragging a fellow along on my boot.

From QBN1

Nerdal and others clean out over the ruck that subsequently formed.

From QBN1

Chasing a few tries, I receive a ball from our full-back on the ground. Rashly, I grab the QBN winger and consider using him as a human battering-ram.

From QBN1

After posting a couple of tries and valiantly contesting our line-outs, we conceded to QBN, 22-14.

From QBN1

After a rest this weekend, the main competition, the John I Dent Cup, will commence. We will have our first game with The Vikings.

Two-up day

2009-04-27T08:43:00.002+10:00

Due to the aforementioned "Mad-hatter's Party", Jenny and I were not able to attend the dawn service. In leiu of this, we paid homage to those diggers by partaking in a few beers at All Barn Nun in O'Connor and placing a few wagers in two-up.

From Twoup

During our interlude from the ring, we watched Mixy playing goalie for the ANU rats in Lyneham. Mix placed his body on the line again and saved his team from yielding a couple of points.

From Twoup

Stuey, pictured with Amy, and Roberts were in great spirits having both attended the dawn service earlier and made a tidy pile of gold playing two-up.

From Twoup

Mad-hatters at Moncrieff

2009-04-25T08:39:00.003+10:00

Scotty maintains the dynasty at Moncrieff Street and hosted a Mad Hatter's party last night.

From MadHat

Gattica and Annie joined us on the Autumnal Belgian-style Ale.

From MadHat

A blaze of an astounding proportion was stoked.

From MadHat

Elene could partake of the punch freely as she was wearing protection.

From MadHat

Beanies didn't make the grade, so Ben applies the bumble-bee and poses with Lauren and Hodgo.

From MadHat

Fireworks guy went all-out on this head-gear and Evan presents him with a massive gourd (not shown) in front of the lamp-post from Narnia.

From MadHat

Stu brings something back

2009-03-26T14:07:00.001+11:00

Click to Play

Stuey dances at Jo and Pete's wedding reception at The Quarry in Cowra, March 2009.

Jo marries Pete in Cowra

2009-03-26T13:55:00.003+11:00

Jo Apthorpe married Peter Brown at the Cowra Catholic Church on Saturday, 21st of March. Paula poses with the newly-married couple on the steps of the church.

From JPBrown

Shortly after the ceremony, guests were whisked to the Quarry for the reception.

From JPBrown

Andy and Shaun join me in celebrating the happy couple before that start their honeymoon in Africa.

From JPBrown

The bridal bouquet is captured by a surprising character.

From JPBrown

The dancefloor knocks it up another notch.

From JPBrown

Stuey and Ange amaze even Terry Lovitt (or not).

From JPBrown