GMG Classical Music Forum

The Back Room => The Diner => Topic started by: Thatfabulousalien on May 26, 2017, 05:14:15 PM

Title: Nah
Post by: Thatfabulousalien on May 26, 2017, 05:14:15 PM
Not interested aye?  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on May 26, 2017, 05:22:59 PM
You are already in Saturday down there, right? Which means tomorrow is Sunday... which means you have assignments due on Sunday?   ???
Isn't the concept of "the weekend" known to Australia?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on May 28, 2017, 07:24:56 PM
An early start to the day by beginning 'Mickey Baker's Complete Course in Jazz Guitar'

[asin]0825652804[/asin]

I spent a couple of hours with it and although it felt kind of like being dropped in the deep end that's okay, because I'm not easily intimidated by things. And it'll make a nice contrast to my trapeze lessons later this afternoon.
So that's my random daily, personal adventures and stuff for today. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mirror Image on May 28, 2017, 07:42:42 PM
Quote from: NikF on May 28, 2017, 07:24:56 PM
An early start to the day by beginning 'Mickey Baker's Complete Course in Jazz Guitar'

[asin]0825652804[/asin]

I spent a couple of hours with it and although it felt kind of like being dropped in the deep end that's okay, because I'm not easily intimidated by things. And it'll make a nice contrast to my trapeze lessons later this afternoon.
So that's my random daily, personal adventures and stuff for today. ;D

Very cool. In some respects, I could be considered a jazz guitarist, but I certainly don't claim to be one because I'm just not that good. Speaking of tutorials, books, and such, I remember working my way through a good bit of a book by Mick Goodrick titled The Advancing Guitarist that helped me out earlier on, but I couldn't even recall what I learned from it now. The thing is, whenever you've played for as long as I have, you tend to forget things easily and I've probably written more pieces that I've forgotten about than I actually remember. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on May 28, 2017, 08:01:53 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on May 28, 2017, 07:42:42 PM
Very cool. In some respects, I could be considered a jazz guitarist, but I certainly don't claim to be one because I'm just not that good. Speaking of tutorials, books, and such, I remember working my way through a good bit of a book by Mick Goodrick titled The Advancing Guitarist that helped me out earlier on, but I couldn't even recall what I learned from it now. The thing is, whenever you've played for as long as I have, you tend to forget things easily and I've probably written more pieces that I've forgotten about than I actually remember. :)

That's interesting. Do you play often? I knew you played guitar, but not about the jazz. :) Also, it's good that I have a potential source for info if I want advice or an insight into a particular aspect of what I'm learning? ;D
I'm also working through the Fred Noad book with a classical guitar. But I've been meaning to make a start on the jazz one for some time now. I'm already finding it challenging, but that's cool with me. 8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mirror Image on May 28, 2017, 08:20:22 PM
Quote from: NikF on May 28, 2017, 08:01:53 PM
That's interesting. Do you play often? I knew you played guitar, but not about the jazz. :) Also, it's good that I have a potential source for info if I want advice or an insight into a particular aspect of what I'm learning? ;D
I'm also working through the Fred Noad book with a classical guitar. But I've been meaning to make a start on the jazz one for some time now. I'm already finding it challenging, but that's cool with me. 8)

Oh yes, I still play quite a bit. When I practice these days, I'm mostly working on pieces or trying to come up with some new ideas. I'm not sure how much help I can be to you as I've had other people approach me for lessons and I had to turn them down because I really haven't the slightest idea of what I'm doing on the guitar most of the time. :) It's certainly flattering to have those few people approach me for lessons, though. If you couldn't tell already, I'm quite modest about my own playing and talent, but pretty much anyone is a better player than me. That's cool that you're learning classical-style playing, because that's very helpful to learn, especially when it comes to fingerpicking. I'm not too good with my fingers and still use a plectrum.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on May 28, 2017, 08:38:47 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on May 28, 2017, 08:20:22 PM
Oh yes, I still play quite a bit. When I practice these days, I'm mostly working on pieces or trying to come up with some new ideas. I'm not sure how much help I can be to you as I've had other people approach me for lessons and I had to turn them down because I really haven't the slightest idea of what I'm doing on the guitar most of the time. :) It's certainly flattering to have those few people approach me for lessons, though. If you couldn't tell already, I'm quite modest about my own playing and talent, but pretty much anyone is a better player than me. That's cool that you're learning classical-style playing, because that's very helpful to learn, especially when it comes to fingerpicking. I'm not too good with my fingers and still use a plectrum.

That you still play and practice and try to come up with ideas - all of that is good and positive. I believe it important to move forward. At least, that's what I always try to do in everything. And I never quit.
Yeah, the finger picking, it's something else. I got bits and pieces from Danny Gatton and Joe Pass - the former using a combo of guitar pick and then the remaining fingers technique adapted from banjo rolls. I find it flexible as hell and at least twice as difficult ;D But as I said, it's all cool. And it helps keep me from hanging around street corners.  :laugh:
Anyway, keep enjoying playing.  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mirror Image on May 28, 2017, 08:50:28 PM
Quote from: NikF on May 28, 2017, 08:38:47 PM
That you still play and practice and try to come up with ideas - all of that is good and positive. I believe it important to move forward. At least, that's what I always try to do in everything. And I never quit.
Yeah, the finger picking, it's something else. I got bits and pieces from Danny Gatton and Joe Pass - the former using a combo of guitar pick and then the remaining fingers technique adapted from banjo rolls. I find it flexible as hell and at least twice as difficult ;D But as I said, it's all cool. And it helps keep me from hanging around street corners.  :laugh:
Anyway, keep enjoying playing.  8)

That's very true and I'm glad to hearing you're enjoying playing. That's the most important thing. Yep, the technique with the plectrum and fingers is referred to as hybrid picking and I should really work on that because there's some passages that are difficult to play with just the plectrum. Guys like Wes Montgomery and John Abercrombie, however, only use their thumbs and that's quite difficult to do, but I do find that you have much more control whenever you're using your fingers.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: TheGSMoeller on May 29, 2017, 03:22:30 AM
Anyone from Tennessee?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on May 30, 2017, 03:49:59 PM
Today a small mystery was solved.
During the hot days of summer my ex used to leave a bowl of water by our gate for passing dogs and another on garden wall for cats. I've continued to do so this year, but I was disappointed to find the bowl for dogs was being stolen. Then today came a knock at the door courtesy of a guy bearing the stolen bowls. He had a sidekick - a wild eyed border collie - who was identified as the thief. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: XB-70 Valkyrie on May 30, 2017, 07:16:07 PM
I am authoring yet another peer-reviewed scientific paper, and uh, well doctor, for all the good it will do me I may as well  ***** ** ** ** ***!

In a recent conversation, my aunt actually was shocked to find that scientific journals don't PAY me for these articles!

(http://www.planetsrk.com/community/styles/default/xenforo/smilies/custom/batch1/rofl.gif)

(http://www.planetsrk.com/community/styles/default/xenforo/smilies/custom/batch1/rofl.gif)

(http://www.planetsrk.com/community/styles/default/xenforo/smilies/custom/batch1/rofl.gif)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on May 30, 2017, 07:33:13 PM
Quote from: XB-70 Valkyrie on May 30, 2017, 07:16:07 PM
I am authoring yet another peer-reviewed scientific paper, and uh, well doctor, for all the good it will do me I may as well  ***** ** ** ** ***!

In a recent conversation, my aunt actually was shocked to find that scientific journals don't PAY me for these articles!

(http://www.planetsrk.com/community/styles/default/xenforo/smilies/custom/batch1/rofl.gif)

(http://www.planetsrk.com/community/styles/default/xenforo/smilies/custom/batch1/rofl.gif)

(http://www.planetsrk.com/community/styles/default/xenforo/smilies/custom/batch1/rofl.gif)

Ha, indeed... and let's not start talking about those journals that, in addition, actually ASK YOU TO PAY THEM if you want your article to be  published!  :laugh: >:(
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on May 31, 2017, 06:27:44 AM
Woke, weighed myself (159lbs - but I want to see how I feel at about 150-153 now), lifted weights followed by 3x3 minute rounds on the heavy bag, buzzed hair (number 0 - no guard on clippers), showered and shaved, put on a new (fitted ;)) white T-shirt, filled water bowls in garden for wandering cats and dogs, left broadband connection open (for wandering illegal downloaders? ;D), up the hill to a local shop and bought a pint of milk, walked along the road drinking the milk directly out the carton because I'm as common as muck, entered the park, said "Hi" to the guy trimming topiary, found an empty bench and started to read my book ('Girl, 20' by Kingsley Amis), realised I forgot to put on sunblock, watched a dog run past that had a tail like a propeller, started to feel the sun on my freshly shaved head, left the park, went to the deli (steak sandwich and a tomato and feta salad), down the hill, waved to my amateur violinist neighbour driving by, washed hands, eat, tea (Co-op 99), shower, and now considering a single malt and some jazz in the garden or if it's too warm then more tea and an episode of 'American Gods'.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: XB-70 Valkyrie on June 01, 2017, 07:49:28 PM
Woke up this mornin', got myself a gun!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 02, 2017, 04:33:41 PM
Today at short notice (and out of the goodness of my dark heart) I set up a medium format slide projector for an art student's installation. Her mother was there and it was obvious she liked me, but she got all flustered and awkward about it. ;D The venue had a coffee bar and so I took her in there and got her to write her number on a napkin because I don't always carry a phone.
It was a nice night and so I walked home, including passing a group of feral street urchins and then further up the road a staggering drunk dude who couldn't hold a tune.
Now I'm sitting and drinking a (Talisker) single malt ahead of my date with Julie London in the 'What Jazz are you listening to now?' thread.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 05, 2017, 07:18:59 AM
Yesterday I was supposed to meet my friend but we had to rearrange for today. So this morning we went and tried out a few guitars in order to start narrowing down the choices available to me. Afterwards we met his new-ish girlfriend (his latest pixie/Edie Sedgwick clone ;D) for lunch. We settled for a humble cafe and the waitress - nearer my age than theirs - took their orders first and then looked at me, rolled her eyes and almost begrudgingly asked "And what about you?" Charming. :o I don't know what I did to deserve that. ??? I've never met her before in my life. :laugh:
So I just said "Any chance of a cup of tea, please?" I got it along with a spinach and onion omelette. We ate, we left, Iain put his nymphet in a taxi and then helped me remove some stuff from my house. A thrill a minute, veritable adrenaline rush, exotic lifestyle, well worthy of documentation.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 05, 2017, 01:53:35 PM

     (https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XdeDwzKXtVhxTrKL0rktWQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjtzbT0xO3c9NDAwO2g9NTAw/http://media.zenfs.com/en-US/homerun/the_guardian_765/aa876e42fb3b9c428fab44a4a5cd3dc9)
                                                                                                                                                                                            (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/shocked.gif)


                                                                                                                                                                            (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/shocked.gif)

                                                                                                                                                             (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/shocked.gif)
                                                                                                                                                   (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/huh.gif)

                                                                                                                                         (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/smiley.gif)

     I was thinking I'd sure like to be that guy, except I hate mowing the lawn. (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/smiley.gif)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 06, 2017, 02:55:16 AM
What is today? Today is shoe shine day. Once a week it takes me anywhere between about 40 to 60 minutes depending on how many pairs I am shining. I have two identical pairs of these boots (and much like work cameras, there's a third pair still boxed ;D) in rotation -

(http://i.imgur.com/bRT0wYq.jpg)

- along with a brown pair of boots and a black pair of brogues. But the black boots are sturdy, look good with a leather jacket, and receive compliments from women. Bonus: they also lend themselves nicely to splashing in puddles and if required, running away from the cops.
I might look like crap, but my boots are always cool. 8) Shoe shine day. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: vandermolen on June 07, 2017, 12:50:53 AM
Quote from: NikF on May 30, 2017, 03:49:59 PM
Today a small mystery was solved.
During the hot days of summer my ex used to leave a bowl of water by our gate for passing dogs and another on garden wall for cats. I've continued to do so this year, but I was disappointed to find the bowl for dogs was being stolen. Then today came a knock at the door courtesy of a guy bearing the stolen bowls. He had a sidekick - a wild eyed border collie - who was identified as the thief. ;D
Excellent!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 07, 2017, 04:39:21 AM
Quote from: Neil Asuolubaftaht on June 06, 2017, 07:38:54 PM
I'm going to a Bill Frisell concert tonight!!!  ;D ;D ;D

I'm so thrilled about it, I just got my tickets  8)

Cool. Hope you enjoy it. Let me know if he plays a Telecaster?



Other news:

(Not my photo)

(http://i.imgur.com/XtEKFjY.jpg)

This is the pond I run around in the mornings. I always count the ducks (nine) to make sure they're all there ;D and then make my way to the path just visible here on the left, where I run sprint intervals. At this time of year the good weather means a variety of people use that path too, so tomorrow (after going to vote!) I'm going to try out the purpose built hill trail and see if it's quieter.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on June 07, 2017, 07:15:45 AM
ooh, sunshine.

Which has been in very short supply this week in the Sunshine State.  Good thing Karl did not pick this week to make his visit.

(http://d2ioe7v385j9xr.cloudfront.net/148_fb5afa92-c033-4526-ab94-dea4e2caee0e/b86e1b76-05b2-4c21-b195-f929cd83c745.jpg)

Not my photo or anything, but quite representative of the way things have been here since Monday night, and will remain so through at least tomorrow night.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 07, 2017, 10:39:18 AM
Quote from: NikF on June 07, 2017, 04:39:21 AM
Cool. Hope you enjoy it. Let me know if he plays a Telecaster?


     My X-caster is pink!!.....therefore, I win. (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/smiley.gif)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on June 07, 2017, 05:30:04 PM
Today I selected 12 piano pieces that I learned in the past ten years to relearn them. Also two new pieces (Babbitt's semisimple variations and Ligeti's pour Irina; the resonance of the strings in the Ligeti etude make it sound really good and expressive when you play it! the fast part has irregular, Aksak-like rhythmic patterns of the form 3+3+2+3+2+3+...+etc. which I love)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 07, 2017, 09:29:57 PM
Quote from: drogulus on June 07, 2017, 10:39:18 AM
     My X-caster is pink!!.....therefore, I win. (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/smiley.gif)

I occasionally wear a pink T-shirt but I don't own a pink guitar (and it looks like my next guitar is going to be butterscotch) so yeah, you win. ;D


Quote from: Neil Asuolubaftaht on June 07, 2017, 05:01:35 PM
Yep, he was playing his classic tele.
In the Q&A the day before, he mentioned how he prefers taking one guitar on tour but still feels envious of bands that have twelve guitars on a rack and a guitar tech  :laugh: He's such a cool guy and the concert was astounding, best show I've been to this year.
The drummer was  ??? no shit, one of the best drummers I've seen. A perfect compliment to Bill's really warm and well-articulated guitar style. The whole band (which was a quartet) was just such an inspiring performance to experience.

It inspired me that much that I immediately started writing four new (jazz) guitar pieces last night  ;D

Glad to hear you got so much from it. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 07, 2017, 11:52:52 PM
ENTIRE COMPOSITION FOLIO IS DUE TOMORROW AND IVE BARELY TYPESET HALF OF THE COMPOSITIONS IM SUBMITTING HAVENT HAD TIME THIS WEEK BECAUSE OF OTHER EXAMS PLUS OTHER STUFF ON EVERY NIGHT THREE CHOIR REHEARSALS THIS WEEK I WONT GET ANY SLEEP TONIGT BECAUSE I HAVE TO FINISH MY FOLIO AND THEN WRITE UP A TONNE OF STUFF I NEED FOR MY COMPOSITION JOURNAL AND IN SHORT I HAVE CHOIR TONIGHT AND I HAVE TO GET THIS ALL DONE IN THE NEXT 23 HOURS NO SLEEP FOR ME
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 08, 2017, 01:54:10 AM
BS. You're young and so can probably do all of that and more while standing on your head. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 08, 2017, 10:41:10 PM
I have 20 minutes to get my scores bound. Thanks Nik and Alien ^_^ I'll do my best to submit my folio on time. I don't usually get stressed but sometimes I do feel the pressure..... :P
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 09, 2017, 12:00:02 PM
Quote from: NikF on June 07, 2017, 09:29:57 PM
I occasionally wear a pink T-shirt but I don't own a pink guitar (and it looks like my next guitar is going to be butterscotch) so yeah, you win. ;D


      Let me take a wild guess....

      (http://www.guitarworld.com/sites/default/files/public/styles/article_gallery_slider/public/Telecaster_1.jpg)

      I can't justify getting another guitar now, I don't have room, but if I did I would be sorely tempted to get this one.

      (http://images.epiphone.com/News/Features/2016/Bonamassa-Firebird-1/N_100116B18.jpg)

      In 1968 I saw Cream play in a giant barn like hockey rink. Clapton played his Gibson Firebird I through a double stack of Marshall Superleads and it was the most ferocious guitar sound I ever heard, like the "Beano" sound taken to a higher power, like what Joe Bonnamassa does here but less polite:

     https://www.youtube.com/v/FHilYw2oQuI

     
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 09, 2017, 11:21:22 PM
Quote from: drogulus on June 09, 2017, 12:00:02 PM
      Let me take a wild guess....

      (http://www.guitarworld.com/sites/default/files/public/styles/article_gallery_slider/public/Telecaster_1.jpg)

      I can't justify getting another guitar now, I don't have room, but if I did I would be sorely tempted to get this one.

      (http://images.epiphone.com/News/Features/2016/Bonamassa-Firebird-1/N_100116B18.jpg)

      In 1968 I saw Cream play in a giant barn like hockey rink. Clapton played his Gibson Firebird I through a double stack of Marshall Superleads and it was the most ferocious guitar sound I ever heard, like the "Beano" sound taken to a higher power, like what Joe Bonnamassa does here but less polite:

     https://www.youtube.com/v/FHilYw2oQuI

   

Yeah, you're right. Although the bridge on the one in that photo would need to go.
My colour choice comes down to 'that's the colour they make it in'. I could go via the Fender custom shop (or another maker - it doesn't need to say 'Fender' on the headstock) but I won't spend that kind of money because I'm cheap as hell. And the current 52 reissue (with a neck pickup change) will get me 95% of the way.


You'll know better than I about how much room you have for guitars. But I'm sure with a little creativity you could fit one more in - especially with only one pickup. ;D
I'm looking to get reduce the number of guitars I own. They're nice to have and play, but I don't need them all.

Thanks for posting the link. As ever, Bonnamassa makes doing what he does appear almost effortless.
Clapton/Cream - must have been incredible to be there. Not just for the music, but the experience as a whole.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 13, 2017, 09:30:33 AM
Quote from: NikF on May 31, 2017, 06:27:44 AM
Woke, weighed myself (159lbs - but I want to see how I feel at about 150-153 now)

Two weeks later: today I weighed myself and I've made it to 154lbs. I feel good, but I think I feel even better at around my usual 160lbs/72kg.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 13, 2017, 01:44:26 PM
Dress rehearsal tonight for choir. We heard our soloists yesterday at the 'general rehearsal' and they are really fantastic. Looking forward to the upcoming concert conducted by Sir Andrew Davis of Haydn's The Creation.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 13, 2017, 01:56:36 PM
Quote from: jessop on June 13, 2017, 01:44:26 PM
Dress rehearsal tonight for choir. We heard our soloists yesterday at the 'general rehearsal' and they are really fantastic. Looking forward to the upcoming concert conducted by Sir Andrew Davis of Haydn's The Creation.

Cool. And I know you'll be concentrating on the performance, but whenever possible find a moment to take in as much of the experience as you can - everything you think and see and hear and feel. A snapshot with a wide angled lens and deep depth of field. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 13, 2017, 02:05:18 PM
Quote from: NikF on June 13, 2017, 01:56:36 PM
Cool. And I know you'll be concentrating on the performance, but whenever possible find a moment to take in as much of the experience as you can - everything you think and see and hear and feel. A snapshot with a wide angled lens and deep depth of field. ;D

I will take a photo of the concert hall from where I'm standing as well ^_^
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 13, 2017, 02:09:28 PM
Quote from: jessop on June 13, 2017, 02:05:18 PM
I will take a photo of the concert hall from where I'm standing as well ^_^

8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 14, 2017, 05:08:22 AM
Just a quick photo on my phone. Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Chorus in Hamer Hall (Arts Centre Melbourne), Sir Andrew Davis on the podium I think just confirming something with the concertmaster.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 14, 2017, 05:22:37 AM
Looks good!  :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 14, 2017, 11:20:41 AM
This evening was an extra session at the gym in lieu of being on the trapeze (although I'll be back to that soon) and I found it busy. There are two periods each year when this happens; post new year, then again before people go on holiday and want to look good for the beach. But a few stay on and become regulars which is cool, because although I mind my own business in the gym I wish I could tell them that while looking in good shape is their priority now, that if they keep exercising then when they reach my age (109) they'll really feel the benefit.
Anyway, on they way home I bought a couple of cheeseburgers and chips (fries) and a tomato salad and fed my face.  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 15, 2017, 08:47:07 AM
     I'm taking Amp III (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,26956.0.html) on my vacation to Maine. There's a guy up there who'll fix it for me even without a schematic. I may be able to bring it back when we're ready to return. This is quite a stroke of good fortune, as this guy is expert in the kind of amp mine is modeled on.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 15, 2017, 09:09:54 AM
I was wondering about your amp after you hadn't posted an update. Anyway, hope he gets to the root of the issue and it's resolved to your satisfaction.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 15, 2017, 10:04:32 AM
Quote from: NikF on June 15, 2017, 09:09:54 AM
I was wondering about your amp after you hadn't posted an update. Anyway, hope he gets to the root of the issue and it's resolved to your satisfaction.

     Why.......? Oh OK, thanks. (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/smiley.gif)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 15, 2017, 10:29:06 AM
Quote from: drogulus on June 15, 2017, 10:04:32 AM
     Why.......?

I'm going to give you a serious answer. Two reasons -

1) You explained that you had approached an amp builder with some specific ideas for a design that he wasn't especially known for. And you mentioned that if all went well, you would have a fair idea of what your next amp design will be. That alone was interesting to me, because although many of the details you spoke of were way over my head I enjoyed hearing about the process, the method behind the thinking that went in to your idea and how you imparted that to the builder.
Then you posted more details, this time concerning problems you were having and how you couldn't just take it to some local dude to try and fix. Finally, the cliffhanger was that you were waiting for the builder to get back to you. And that was it. Ah, and at one point you posted a cool old black and white photo.  8)

2) Because generally speaking, I'm interested in more than only what is currently happening in my own small world. :)

Quote
Oh OK, thanks. (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/smiley.gif)

You're welcome. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 15, 2017, 11:54:45 AM
     
Quote from: NikF on June 15, 2017, 10:29:06 AM
I'm going to give you a serious answer.


     You lost me. (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/smiley.gif)

     I did ask the builder if he had anything I could take to the tech and he said he'd look for it, but he's probably busy and I don't want to pester him about it.

     I originally thought the hifi-ish driver/inverter stage might have a role but now I see that was kind of a dumb idea, now I have a much better view of the problem. The hum is coming from somewhere between the input and the volume control which is early in the circuit, because the volume controls the hum level and there's none at all with the volume off. That narrows it down considerably. The tone control not working comes from having the wrong cap values on the treble pot. Actually it is working but an octave too high, a tone control for dogs!

     There probably shouldn't be an Amp IV or a Bonamassa Firebird. I live in a fairly small apartment.

      A funny thing occurred to me, one of my amps has a Fender/Marshall tone stack with typical interaction as the bass and treble controls change the mids, one with the Vox top boost stack that interacts in weirdly unpredictable ways until you learn how it works, and the Ampeg style where the mids are mostly unaffected by the adjustments just like a hifi.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 15, 2017, 12:03:55 PM
Quote from: drogulus on June 15, 2017, 11:54:45 AM
     
     You lost me. (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/smiley.gif)

     I did ask the builder if he had anything I could take to the tech and he said he'd look for it, but he's probably busy and I don't want to pester him about it.

     I originally thought the hifi-ish driver/inverter stage might have a role but now I see that was kind of a dumb idea, now I have a much better view of the problem. The hum is coming from somewhere between the input and the volume control which is early in the circuit, because the volume controls the hum level and there's none at all with the volume off. That narrows it down considerably. The tone control not working comes from having the wrong cap values on the treble pot. Actually it is working but an octave too high, a tone control for dogs!

     There probably shouldn't be an Amp IV or a Bonamassa Firebird. I live in a fairly small apartment.

      A funny thing occurred to me, one of my amps has a Fender/Marshall tone stack with typical interaction as the bass and treble controls change the mids, one with the Vox top boost stack that interacts in weirdly unpredictable ways until you learn how it works, and the Ampeg style where the mids are mostly unafftected by the adjustments just like a hifi.

Because it's interesting. And if you're still lost after me saying that, well, better call a professional search party in. ;D
Thanks for the update. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 15, 2017, 12:14:49 PM
     The other day the Cowcat carried a baby bunny into our yard, probably to play with it and then kill it. I alerted the Spy Novel Queen, the Cowcat's spiritual adviser, and she ran downstairs and performed an intervention while I watched from my perch at the front window. You should have seen that baby bunny take off! It hid under a car and was later nowhere to be found. I think it escaped.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 15, 2017, 12:24:54 PM
Quote from: drogulus on June 15, 2017, 12:14:49 PM
     The other day the Cowcat carried a baby bunny into our yard, probably to play with it and then kill it. I alerted the Spy Novel Queen, the Cowcat's spiritual adviser, and she ran downstairs and performed an intervention while I watched from my perch at the front window. You should have seen that baby bunny take off! It hid under a car and was later nowhere to be found. I think it escaped.

See, that's not interesting. That's just BS. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 15, 2017, 05:13:30 PM
I am going down to Geelong today (about an hour out of Melbourne) for the next performance of The Creation. Never been to this hall before, should be fun!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 15, 2017, 06:06:48 PM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on June 15, 2017, 06:04:24 PM
Good luck, have fun!  :D


(btw, I have a approx 9 hour bus drive next week  ??? , cause I'm going back up to my parents again for a few weeks)
Curiously, where do you live in relation to Wellington?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on June 15, 2017, 10:28:40 PM
Finally finished a research article on which I have been working since January. Nothing really big, but hey, as the saying goes, something is... well, just something  :D :-\ $:)

Now the circus of sending it to 445686644 different journals until the editor in one of them, by god's grace, falls asleep in his chair and thus forgets to throw my draft to the nay box. Result: article being published  :laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 16, 2017, 01:25:14 AM
^ those sound like good odds.  ;D In any case, congrats.



I've just selected what I'm wearing for my date today. It's a Henley T-shirt and it's of the fitted variety in an attempt to make my v-taper more of a V-taper - because my ageing carcass needs all the help it can get.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 16, 2017, 04:15:20 AM
Quote from: aleazk on June 15, 2017, 10:28:40 PM
Finally finished a research article on which I have been working since January. Nothing really big, but hey, as the saying goes, something is... well, just something  :D :-\ $:)

Now the circus of sending it to 445686644 different journals until the editor in one of them, by god's grace, falls asleep in his chair and thus forgets to throw my draft to the nay box. Result: article being published  :laugh:
I'm happy for you! Best of luck with publication! :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: nodogen on June 18, 2017, 05:10:52 AM
It's Fathers Day. I'm not a father but I got a Fathers Day card. Which is nice. (as is the Amazon voucher ☺️ )
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 18, 2017, 05:18:51 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on June 18, 2017, 03:51:09 AM
I'm considering staying up all night because it's gonna be a fucking loooong bus ride, plus at least I wouldn't risk being late for the bus  ;)

How many hours will you be on the bus?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: North Star on June 18, 2017, 05:40:07 AM
Quote from: NikF on June 18, 2017, 05:18:51 AM
How many hours will you be on the bus?
I have a hunch it might be several...
http://distancecalculator.globefeed.com/Australia_Distance_Calculator.asp
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 18, 2017, 05:42:34 AM
Yeah, that's why I was asking. Although I thought he was from NZ. 
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: North Star on June 18, 2017, 05:44:16 AM
Quote from: NikF on June 18, 2017, 05:42:34 AM
Yeah, that's why I was asking. Although I thought he was from NZ.
Oh yeah, you might be right.  :-[ I can't remember everything about all these refugees.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 18, 2017, 05:49:46 AM
Quote from: North Star on June 18, 2017, 05:44:16 AM
Oh yeah, you might be right.  :-[ I can't remember everything about all these refugees.  :laugh:

Wait until you're my age and see how confusing it (or even everything) gets then.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 18, 2017, 05:52:13 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on June 18, 2017, 05:51:05 AM
It's both, Aussie living in NZ   :P

:laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: nodogen on June 18, 2017, 05:59:12 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on June 18, 2017, 05:51:05 AM
It's both, Aussie living in NZ   :P

That's just unnecessarily confusing. Why can't everyone just come from the same place? And stay there.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 18, 2017, 06:06:31 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on June 18, 2017, 05:55:01 AM
But yeah, I'm staying up all night (it's almost 2am in the morning already).

Watching movies, then reading and writing shit when my computer starts to heat up  :laugh:


Lots of munchies too  >:D

See, I had you figured more of a Dennis Lillee than a Richard Hadlee. Huh.

Anyway, give us an idea of the journey time so I can sneer and call you weak. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 18, 2017, 07:05:12 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on June 18, 2017, 06:51:50 AM
I don't do sports.................... :laugh:


Travel time, around 12 hours, NO SHIT, I am serious  :-[

:o

And somewhere within those 12 hours you'll have stuff like a sugar crash and caffeine withdrawl to deal with and perhaps worse...a seat next to someone who doesn't like Twin Peaks.  ???
Ah, you'll be fine, because although you're not a Dennis Lillee at least you're not a whinging pom.  :laugh:




Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: North Star on June 18, 2017, 07:08:21 AM
Quote from: NikF on June 18, 2017, 07:05:12 AM
and perhaps worse...a seat next to someone who doesn't like Twin Peaks.  ???
Or even worse than that - someone who doesn't like Xenakis!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: nodogen on June 18, 2017, 07:13:08 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on June 18, 2017, 06:51:50 AM
Travel time, around 12 hours, NO SHIT, I am serious  :-[

Obviously at some point during those 12 hours you will achieve what is known as Arse Death.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 18, 2017, 07:47:52 AM
I was 19 (or 20?) the first time I travelled to seek my fortune in London. It was just over 400 miles/640 km and took about eight hours, because I opted for the cheapest service I could find which meant stopping at every nook and cranny on the way. I had a camera bag, a sports bag, and sustenance in the form of half a loaf of boiled egg sandwiches, one pint of milk, and a (glass) bottle of Irn Bru. None of the other passengers spoke to me about Xenakis, but maybe if I had bought a more expensive ticket or travelled by train they would have.  ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 18, 2017, 05:32:51 PM
So how's the bus trip
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 19, 2017, 04:22:41 AM
Sleep well :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 19, 2017, 11:51:26 AM
I've been to the gym because I don't make excuses. 8)
Afterwards on the way back I went to a cafe and had a fish tea (deep fried fillet of haddock, served with chips, salad, two slices of bread and butter, and a pot of tea) and then a casual stroll along the road and halfway up the hill and now I'm home and will drink whisky. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 20, 2017, 05:15:01 AM
To try and cut a long story short...

A few months ago I put my house up for sale. Then last month a neighbour two houses further away had structural work done to their house during which some movement was noted under the property.
Since then, they and my immediate neighbour and myself have had borehole tests all over our properties and the road outside. There will also be further checks on the 'made ground' underneath the houses and then finally an analysis of the soil. My house is a c-listed building, and I've always tried to ensure it's well kept and in a condition fitting that category - once in a while people would stop and take photos of it (or maybe they were only taking photos of my ex  :o :laugh:)  - but right now it's a mess and the appearance is approaching that of a building site. And that's not even taking into account a worst case *scenario. Anyway, all of this isn't my idea of a good time. But as ever I am being cool.


* the scenario being similar to 'Quatermass and the Pit' https://i.imgur.com/SZDxVgl.jpg - although I've got to say that would be kind of cool, especially if my insurance covered it. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 20, 2017, 09:08:32 AM

    This Quatermass stuff happens to me from time to time. It's not all Cowcats and bunnies, you know. What if there's a wormhole in a space under the basement that takes you to the Andromeda galaxy where I'm told the shrimp donuts are to die for?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 20, 2017, 11:50:47 AM
Quote from: drogulus on June 20, 2017, 09:08:32 AM
    This Quatermass stuff happens to me from time to time. It's not all Cowcats and bunnies, you know. What if there's a wormhole in a space under the basement that takes you to the Andromeda galaxy where I'm told the shrimp donuts are to die for?

I can never go back there again. The last time I went I got caught flirting with the mayor's daughter and was tarred and feathered and run out of town.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 21, 2017, 02:27:29 PM
I'd like to call on my baby tonight,
and give my all to my baby tonight,
but I can't play ball with my baby tonight,
cause it's too darn hot it's too darn hot.

At the gym tonight during what was apparently the hottest day in June for 40 years. I walked home slowly, stopped in the deli to collect a takeaway tomato, olive and feta pasta salad, then in to a service station to buy milk, up the hill and through the gate and straight to take a shower.
I noticed I've no bread. If I were uncouth I'd have yelled out a window to my neighbour across the road to ask if she has any and if she would like a small portion of my salad, but I settled for sending a SMS - all in all an example of me being a good neighbour. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on June 21, 2017, 03:21:35 PM
Today was the final class in a course I was taking given by a top researcher in a cutting edge topic... sounds good, isn't? Well, unfortunately, it was not... I'm rather dissapointed... the guy spendend half of the semester reviewing stuff that we all already knew since that stuff was just the basic prerequisite for a course on this topic... and he knew that all of the people there was very familiar with that material... why he did that then? I don't know... maybe he came here to take some paid vacations... that was the main hypothesis among us, since that material was zero effort for him... and even for us... When he finally got to say something about the advanced topic... it was all rushed... I already knew the basics of this topic and I didn't learn anything new from this course... all the students were hoping for an intensive and deep course and we only got just a handful of hand-waving explanations... rant off.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 21, 2017, 04:03:33 PM
Quote from: aleazk on June 21, 2017, 03:21:35 PM
Today was the final class in a course I was taking given by a top researcher in a cutting edge topic... sounds good, isn't? Well, unfortunately, it was not... I'm rather dissapointed... the guy spendend half of the semester reviewing stuff that we all already knew since that stuff was just the basic prerequisite for a course on this topic... and he knew that all of the people there was very familiar with that material... why he did that then? I don't know... maybe he came here to take some paid vacations... that was the main hypothesis among us, since that material was zero effort for him... and even for us... When he finally got to say something about the advanced topic... it was all rushed... I already knew the basics of this topic and I didn't learn anything new from this course... all the students were hoping for an intensive and deep course and we only got just a handful of hand-waving explanations... rant off.

Sounds pretty terrible. Maybe you could run some classes.......a summer course? ;)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on June 21, 2017, 05:52:49 PM
Quote from: aleazk on June 21, 2017, 03:21:35 PM
Today was the final class in a course I was taking given by a top researcher in a cutting edge topic... sounds good, isn't? Well, unfortunately, it was not... I'm rather dissapointed... the guy spendend half of the semester reviewing stuff that we all already knew since that stuff was just the basic prerequisite for a course on this topic... and he knew that all of the people there was very familiar with that material... why he did that then? I don't know... maybe he came here to take some paid vacations... that was the main hypothesis among us, since that material was zero effort for him... and even for us... When he finally got to say something about the advanced topic... it was all rushed... I already knew the basics of this topic and I didn't learn anything new from this course... all the students were hoping for an intensive and deep course and we only got just a handful of hand-waving explanations... rant off.

My most disappointing course in college was on Yeats with Richard Ellman, who at that time was THE Yeats expert, having authored the best biography, etc. He came by special arrangement each spring to teach one course. My class with him was the first year, so everyone expected much....I learned almost nothing.  The upside was we all got As and since he actually spent half the semester in residence, I had extra free time for the last half of spring semester.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 21, 2017, 07:31:07 PM
     I went to the doctor today. They took my blood pressure and my pulse. I'm supposed to have a physical soon.

     On the whole I'm healthy. Is that normal, I mean should I be the way I am? I'm a little puzzled, if you asked me 10, 15 years ago I might have predicted I'd be, I don't know, 68 years old in more than just years, like really falling apart. People around me are getting sick and dying, their vision is going and their hearing, too, and then some die. My bass tech up and died not long after I got an email from him saying I can come pick up my Polish bass with the new pickup and blend pot. Why do J basses have 2 tone pots and a volume pot? I never understood that. So Jim is dead, a renowned figure.

     What else......oh, my binary has family in St.Louis we'll visit in maybe October, her cousin who was raised with her as a kind of brother. There's a lot of cousin/brother stuff going on in that family, I can't keep track of it, not that it matters to anyone much, they all know who they are to each other and it's OK by them that I don't.

     The cousin works at Raytheon and I tease him about cruise missiles. He'll retire soon, he's 70. Another family member worked at RCA years back and has patents on something vacuum tube related, I haven't found out what. The guy is long dead and the daughter doesn't have the facts at hand. The RCA radio manual is where many guitar amp designs came from. Raytheon tubes were used in early missile guidance systems. You can still buy them for your guitar amp, they are not as expensive as the best 1950s RCAs, but very good.

     (https://www.kcanostubes.com/sites/default/files/styles/uc_product_full/public/ray%20blackplate%20JRP.jpg?itok=yX_Xf9Zj)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 22, 2017, 07:00:59 AM
Quote from: drogulus on June 21, 2017, 07:31:07 PM
     I went to the doctor today. They took my blood pressure and my pulse. I'm supposed to have a physical soon.

     On the whole I'm healthy. Is that normal, I mean should I be the way I am? I'm a little puzzled, if you asked me 10, 15 years ago I might have predicted I'd be, I don't know, 68 years old in more than just years, like really falling apart. People around me are getting sick and dying, their vision is going and their hearing, too, and then some die. My bass tech up and died not long after I got an email from him saying I can come pick up my Polish bass with the new pickup and blend pot. Why do J basses have 2 tone pots and a volume pot? I never understood that. So Jim is dead, a renowned figure.

     What else......oh, my binary has family in St.Louis we'll visit in maybe October, her cousin who was raised with her as a kind of brother. There's a lot of cousin/brother stuff going on in that family, I can't keep track of it, not that it matters to anyone much, they all know who they are to each other and it's OK by them that I don't.

     The cousin works at Raytheon and I tease him about cruise missiles. He'll retire soon, he's 70. Another family member worked at RCA years back and has patents on something vacuum tube related, I haven't found out what. The guy is long dead and the daughter doesn't have the facts at hand. The RCA radio manual is where many guitar amp designs came from. Raytheon tubes were used in early missile guidance systems. You can still buy them for your guitar amp, they are not as expensive as the best 1950s RCAs, but very good.

     (https://www.kcanostubes.com/sites/default/files/styles/uc_product_full/public/ray%20blackplate%20JRP.jpg?itok=yX_Xf9Zj)

Well, healthy is good. And it's all anyone can hope for.
I cant remember the last time I had a cold or flu or even a headache. That's because I eat, exercise and sleep like an adult. But it's no guarantee I'm always going to be healthy. Sometimes out of nowhere life just trips a person up. Having said that, I don't worry about that happening. ;D

When I get my new guitar I'll maybe think about a new amp. But it'll probably be solid state. :o


e: and my 'daily personal adventure for today' is that I finally oiled the gate after listening to workmen opening and shutting it what seemed like every few minutes. A thrilling day indeed.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 22, 2017, 07:57:15 AM
Quote from: NikF on June 22, 2017, 07:00:59 AM
Well, healthy is good. And it's all anyone can hope for.
I cant remember the last time I had a cold or flu or even a headache. That's because I eat, exercise and sleep like an adult. But it's no guarantee I'm always going to be healthy. Sometimes out of nowhere life just trips a person up. Having said that, I don't worry about that happening. ;D

When I get my new guitar I'll maybe think about a new amp. But it'll probably be solid state. :o


e: and my 'daily personal adventure for today' is that I finally oiled the gate after listening to workmen opening and shutting it what seemed like every few minutes. A thrilling day indeed.  :laugh:


      Yeah I don't do that. I do avoid solid state amps like an adult, that's about it. Seriously, there are very good ones, not even expensive ones.

      Maybe I should start a guitars and basses and amps conversation for people with gearheadish interests, but haven't I tried? I was thinking about general philosophical stuff too, like "why is there something rather than everything?", like that. Then there's economics and investing.

      I took the trolley to the Star Market to buy nonadult food. It would be a boring life for anyone but me. I don't get boredom.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 22, 2017, 08:55:43 AM
Quote from: drogulus on June 22, 2017, 07:57:15 AM
      Yeah I don't do that. I do avoid solid state amps like an adult, that's about it. Seriously, there are very good ones, not even expensive ones.

      Maybe I should start a guitars and basses and amps conversation for people with gearheadish interests, but haven't I tried? I was thinking about general philosophical stuff too, like "why is there something rather than everything?", like that. Then there's economics and investing.

      I took the trolley to the Star Market to buy nonadult food. It would be a boring life for anyone but me. I don't get boredom.

Yeah, a gearhead thread would be fun. I don't know a lot about that stuff but it wouldn't prevent me from posting in it. ;D Solid state amps - sure, I can think of a few. You should make the thread.

I'm sure a general philosophical thread would be of interest too. But I forecast that at some point if/when Objectivism is discussed the more insecure and babyish posters will start to cry and run away as soon as someone laughs at Ayn Rand's hat.

Eating like an adult = it's all 'adult food' if people want it to be. And it's all 'healthy food' too. I don't eat a whole box of donuts every day, but because I'm an adult I can control myself enough to enjoy a couple of donuts every day.

So what did you buy from the Star Market. Shrimp donuts?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 22, 2017, 09:20:43 AM
Quote from: NikF on June 22, 2017, 08:55:43 AM


So what did you buy from the Star Market. Shrimp donuts?

     As if....I got pork chops and kielbasa, scalloped potooties, Mexican sodas, can o' beans. I got salad veg's in the house. We're going to Maine tomorrow for vacation and the amp thing so I shopped lite, to have something on deck for when we get back.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 22, 2017, 09:42:48 AM
Quote from: drogulus on June 22, 2017, 09:20:43 AM
     As if....I got pork chops and kielbasa, scalloped potooties, Mexican sodas, can o' beans. I got salad veg's in the house. We're going to Maine tomorrow for vacation and the amp thing so I shopped lite, to have something on deck for when we get back.

Yeah, that's sensible. And it's far more sensible than "When I get back I'll just order a takeaway curry to be delivered".

Maine? Sounds good. Hope you enjoy it. And while you're there, if you visit Crabapple Cove and see Hawkeye, tell him I always thought he was really funny apart from the episodes that painted him as a victim in an attempt to elicit sympathy. Those were a drag.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 23, 2017, 05:47:28 AM
Going to the gym and then to Edinburgh to meet with friends. Returning early tomorrow for lunch and then I'm attending a concert.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on June 23, 2017, 01:51:56 PM
Seeing The Cunning Little Vixen with two of my composer friends this evening.

I find that the composition students at the conservatory I attend are the most supportive and wholesome people I have ever met. Everyone just loves each other and we are always enthusiastic about each other's work and achievements.

I have absolutely no idea why the instrumental departments have so much rivalry in them between the students and also in the staff. I am doing my major in composition but also a minor in music performance as part of my bachelor of music, so at the moment I can really see the difference between both worlds.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on June 24, 2017, 12:39:24 PM

     I'm in Maine on vacation. I left Ogunquit out of my cosmology, now it's in. It's an ampcation, too as I took no.3 up to an expert in South Portland yesterday, and I called him today. He said it's ready to go, so we will pick it up tomorrow. He said a tube was bad, not what I expected to hear. I think an interrogation will be necessary, not menacing, but how could I have missed a bad tube?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 25, 2017, 09:15:27 AM
I had a pleasant weekend, mostly due to the fact I was in a different city with different people. Now I'm home and parboiling some potatoes (Maris Piper) which I'll then roast and serve with beef sausages and gravy (gravy = brown sausages in a pan, then remove and keep warm, dump some onion into the pan, then flour, then stock, bung in some thyme,  bring to boil, add more stock/flour as needed, return sausages to pan) and feed my face. Much like myself, simple, cheap and easy. 8)
After that it's a shower, then an early night of bed and a book.

Quote from: drogulus on June 24, 2017, 12:39:24 PM
     I'm in Maine on vacation. I left Ogunquit out of my cosmology, now it's in. It's an ampcation, too as I took no.3 up to an expert in South Portland yesterday, and I called him today. He said it's ready to go, so we will pick it up tomorrow. He said a tube was bad, not what I expected to hear. I think an interrogation will be necessary, not menacing, but how could I have missed a bad tube?

At work I mostly used two lenses, each mounted on a different camera body. One day we had a bunch of students come in from local college or some place to see how professionals work. Wow. My assistant (and friend and arch nemesis etc) handed me a camera. I took a photo of the back of my hand, lifted the camera to my eye, got the shots, and eventually handed it back. Then I was handed the camera with the longer focal length. I took a photo of the back of my hand...but the shutter wouldn't release. I lifted it to my eye - nothing. I looked at the beautiful model and told her "I'll just be a moment..." and noticed she was surreptitiously gesturing with an elegant finger. Ah. I walked up to her "Thanks..." and used her to hide the fact I was taking the lens cap off.
It happens.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on June 26, 2017, 10:30:13 AM
I went to the gym this afternoon. And that's the important thing, that I went. More exactly, I had a busy weekend and so didn't feel like working out today. It happens sometimes. But I went and worked as hard as I felt I could. If there's a secret to this (and other) stuff it's that no matter how you're feeling or what might be going on in your life, you move forward. And even if it's movement that's not readily apparent to others and is perhaps only barely perceptible to yourself, just keep moving forward.


e: and now with a single malt in hand I'm developing some MF black and white stuff from more than one year ago.  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on July 02, 2017, 06:50:42 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 01, 2017, 08:38:54 PM
Also got a new phone and the autocorrect is pissing me off  >:(

That's the purpose of autocorrect, after all.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on July 02, 2017, 06:54:01 AM

     There's a Turkish restaurant near the Walgreens in My Cosmology, maybe four blocks. I love the grape leaves appetizer.

     I'm suffering from the loss of a source for fried smelts. A Greek restaurant near me closed and now I have nowhere to go.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: nodogen on July 02, 2017, 07:00:32 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 01, 2017, 08:38:54 PM
Also got a new phone and the autocorrect is pissing me off  >:(

Really? I've got it on this device and it's never a prostitute. In fart, it makes for far easier posturing as it saves me having to tyre a lot of worms. You'll get used to it, it's a real boot for Lazarus people like me.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 02, 2017, 09:22:40 PM
This morning I'm going to the gym. And all being well, in just over one month from now I'll be back on the trapeze. And perhaps even have my house sold. :o But right now, the gym -

"...and if you form the habit of taking such exercises, you will see what mighty shoulders you develop, what sinews, what vigour and that chicks dig them." –  Epictetus, Discourses, II, 19 [3]b
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on July 04, 2017, 12:46:43 PM
Until the airlines here finally put some planes to connect my native city with the one in which I live now... I had to sit 8 hours on a bus each trip... so I know what it feels, bro  :'(  :-\ :-X:laugh:

Now it's just a 50 mins fly  ;D ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on July 04, 2017, 12:50:42 PM
Not to mention the 85384 stops in ghost towns... people in and out constantly... junk food in the floor... babies crying... all types of smells... once I got a cold later because someone in the bus had a cold...
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on July 04, 2017, 12:53:10 PM
... and, of course...

(http://static.fjcdn.com/pictures/A_496de8_2127591.jpg)

:laugh:

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on July 04, 2017, 01:31:10 PM
Just returned from a day long trip to Houston, Texas. Everything is bigger than expected and everything is more spread out than expected.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 04, 2017, 02:29:04 PM
Quote from: Scarpia on July 04, 2017, 01:31:10 PM
Just returned from a day long trip to Houston, Texas. Everything is bigger than expected and everything is more spread out than expected.

Isn't everything bigger in Texas?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 04, 2017, 02:30:28 PM
I had the first rehearsal of Mozart's Requiem with choir on Monday. Second one this evening. We don't have as many rehearsals as usual to learn this before Richard Egarr comes to conduct.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 04, 2017, 09:25:13 PM
Today - gym. I'll get some milk and a burger on the way home and then for an hour or so sleep the sleep of the innocent.

Tonight - a few of us are having dinner here http://www.monocafebar.com and then going to see 'Timon of Athens' performed by https://www.bardinthebotanics.co.uk/ Due to inclement weather the venue is now -

(http://i.imgur.com/tGNDTWP.jpg)

I also have tickets for 'Measure for Measure' later in the month, but don't know if I'll be attending yet.

Finally, the house is almost empty now and the reverb offered by the bare walls and floors tempts me to recreate a hammer blow a la Mahler's 6th.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 04, 2017, 10:36:58 PM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 04, 2017, 10:30:19 PM
I have just gotten home and had a shower after my 1̶1̶ ̶h̶o̶u̶r̶s̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶b̶e̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶t̶o̶r̶t̶u̶r̶e̶d̶ ̶b̶y̶ ̶o̶n̶e̶ ̶o̶l̶d̶ ̶f̶r̶i̶e̶n̶d̶s̶ ̶m̶o̶t̶h̶e̶r̶s̶  very long bus drive and I've come to the conclusion that my life's purpose is to be a chicken farmer

At which point you discover you're allergic to feathers.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 06, 2017, 03:16:56 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 06, 2017, 12:33:12 AM
Nik, you got anything on flat conduct?  :-X

Short answer: No. Just be a man (but not a macho dick) and stay calm and confident, regardless.

Long answer: Probably the most valuable advice in that specific situation is 'Don't sh-t on your own doorstep'. I'll just repeat that and give you a chance to let it sink in; 'Don't sh-t on your own doorstep'.

But you probably don't want to hear that. And I want to give advice. ;D So...

Is your flatmate flirting with you? I don't know. But if I were in your shoes I would flirt back, although not drag it out too long or take it too far. And I would enjoy it, because flirting is fun and doesn't necessarily have to mean anything more. Bonus: when you are a relatively Young Person™ it's also an ideal, no pressure, and free of charge opportunity to gain experience in talking with the sex you want to sex.   8)

Quote
When Uni starts up again, I'm sure I'll be raking up the girls but for now....   :laugh:

I'm sure you will and in the process receive a fine education and end up with a greater cult following than David Lynch.  ???  :laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 06, 2017, 04:10:00 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 06, 2017, 04:00:00 AM
Now that I think about it, this should've gone on the dating thread shouldn't it  :laugh:

Maybe. But based on your above piece I'm considering commissioning you to write the sales blurb for the advert selling my house. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 06, 2017, 04:33:26 AM
I have decided to try to learn German again (using various internet resources and people I find on the internet).

Alien, if you ever want to write an opera with a German libretto (a much nicer language to sing than English) I will see if I can one day somehow help create it. :laugh:

Your imagination is, as usual, amazing.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on July 06, 2017, 08:38:13 AM
Quote from: jessop on July 04, 2017, 02:29:04 PM
Isn't everything bigger in Texas?

Houston especially. The rental car center at International Airport is roughly the size of the Metropolitan Opera House, in New York.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 06, 2017, 10:37:09 PM
Gym day. Or more nominally, gym day as leg day in the form of sprint intervals around the pond in the park. My age means that I'm finding benefit in having Thursday to Sunday as days off for my upper body. It helps keep the occasional little tendonitis-like symptoms under control. I'll probably still do a couple of pull ups on a tree, but as long as my form is good it should be okay.

When I'm finished I'll trundle home and shower. Then a walk into town and a wander around a couple of guitar shops (I'm quite sure what my purchase is going to be) followed by finding somewhere cool for lunch.
Tonight I'll be watching a film or two in the company of my neighbour and her friends.

Ah, and for anyone following the saga of the problems with my house, I received a letter - hand delivered - early this morning confirming that everything is fine below the building. Hooray. But I'll be happier when the house next to mine gets the all clear too, because I'm wary of any issue that it has eventually having potential to extend into my property. But the letter today is a good start.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 06, 2017, 11:13:10 PM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 06, 2017, 11:08:02 PM
I'm about to see Debussy's Jeux with Mozart concert 20 and Brahms piano concerto  8)

Which Brahms PC? Better not be the d minor... >:(
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 06, 2017, 11:32:29 PM
Quote from: NikF on July 06, 2017, 11:13:10 PM
Which Brahms PC? Better not be the d minor... >:(

I believe he means the second.........I think
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 06, 2017, 11:37:15 PM
Quote from: jessop on July 06, 2017, 11:32:29 PM
I believe he means the second.........I think

He better mean that.  >:(

And shouldn't you be at a rehearsal?  >:(

>:(
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 06, 2017, 11:50:54 PM
Quote from: NikF on July 06, 2017, 11:37:15 PM
He better mean that.  >:(

And shouldn't you be at a rehearsal?  >:(

>:(
:laugh:

Normally a run around a pond in a park wouldn't make someone grumpy like you! ;D
Next rehearsal for choir is on the 10th. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 07, 2017, 12:00:02 AM
Quote from: jessop on July 06, 2017, 11:50:54 PM
:laugh:

Normally a run around a pond in a park wouldn't make someone grumpy like you! ;D
Next rehearsal for choir is on the 10th. :)

:laugh: I dont usually need to psyche myself up to exercise, but this morning it's raining so heavily I'll be wet through before I get to the park. So --->  >:(

I hope your rehearsals continue to go well - like I said to you a while back, the whole experience is going to be great. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 07, 2017, 08:48:04 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 07, 2017, 12:48:38 AM

[I was never here]

>:(
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 07, 2017, 02:29:32 PM
The d minor isn't that bad is it? I really like it.....
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 07, 2017, 05:20:56 PM
19th century composers were fuckboys
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on July 07, 2017, 05:28:45 PM
Quote from: NikF on July 07, 2017, 12:00:02 AM
:laugh: I dont usually need to psyche myself up to exercise, but this morning it's raining so heavily I'll be wet through before I get to the park. So --->  >:(


You can think of that in two ways
Increased drag and weight of wet clothes means more resistance means better quality of exercise
OR
You will have already taken your shower by the time you get back home.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 07, 2017, 08:33:21 PM
Quote from: jessop on July 07, 2017, 02:29:32 PM
The d minor isn't that bad is it? I really like it.....

Sometimes the d minor is all that gets me out of bed in the morning.

Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 07, 2017, 03:47:45 PM
Explain. Now.  :-\


Nothing. Just keeping you on your toes. ;D

Quote
Is it cause he was hitting up Clara Schumann?  :blank:

Although come to think of it...  >:(

Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on July 07, 2017, 05:28:45 PM
You can think of that in two ways
Increased drag and weight of wet clothes means more resistance means better quality of exercise
OR
You will have already taken your shower by the time you get back home.

True. A couple more layers of t-shirts, sweats and knitted watchman's caps and then each pull up becomes even more of a herculean task.
I've considered combining exercise with showering and shaving before. A sachet of shower gel and a Bic take up little room. And I'm not too proud to be seen taking my post workout nap by sleeping on a park bench.  8)

Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 07, 2017, 05:41:16 PM

Though I really liked that piano concerto. There where bits that reminded me heavily of Mahler, some Beethoven (expectedly), Tchaikovsky?, even Scriabin  ??? at one point (a harmonically tense cadenza I think). It's not a Brahms work I'm as familiar with I admit  ::)

I've posted many times before of how an ex-girlfriend would regularly exhort me to listen to Brahms; "I don't understand why you don't like Brahms. His music is so manly!"  :laugh: and her patience paid off when I finally heard a recording of the d minor (Curzon/Szell/LSO) that led to my small world becoming bigger. I'll always be grateful to her for that.

Quote from: jessop on July 07, 2017, 05:20:56 PM
19th century composers were fuckboys

You should make a video for YouTube. A series of jump cuts. Screenplay by the alien dude.

XCU jessop "19th century composers were fuckboys"

;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 07, 2017, 08:43:18 PM
Goodness me, what makes any music manly??? :o
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 07, 2017, 09:12:32 PM
Quote from: jessop on July 07, 2017, 08:43:18 PM
Goodness me, what makes any music manly??? :o

;D I'm aware that's most probably a rhetorical question, but...

I think that was down to her frustration. She and I came from very different backgrounds. She was educated (at that point finishing up her doctorate) and bright and warm and wonderful. Her mother was a music teacher who had once played in one of the German radio orchestras and her father was an architect. But I'm just an ordinary guy. I'm like a man you see waiting for a bus. ;D Socially we were a world apart.

Up to that point my listening was mostly Shostakovich, Prokofiev, Gershwin and Stravinsky, that kind of stuff. In some ways I'm not very good at expressing myself which led to me saying things to her like "Mozart? Mozart is too fussy and delicate and his music sounds like he'd be good at crochet or something". So she invested huge patience and understanding (as have most of the women in my life :laugh: ) to help me see the error of my ways and so lead me from ignorance. The tactic she employed was to try and make music more accessible to me in a manner I could relate to. The fact that English wasn't her first language might also have something to do with it.

For the most part it worked. Brahms is an obvious one. And Schumann and Chopin. Then Mahler.
Imagine what a gift that is to give someone, to help open such a world to them. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 07, 2017, 09:50:19 PM
And now, down the hill and along the road to the baker. Buy a loaf (a white bloomer, I think) still warm and then back home to toast it, spread with slightly salted butter. Take it to the window with a cup of tea and eat while looking to see what's going on with any early visitors in the garden.  :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 08, 2017, 11:51:04 PM
Had a lovely afternoon today. Saw a waterfall, had a picnic. The weather was beautiful.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 09, 2017, 12:02:46 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 08, 2017, 10:46:44 PM
Tired, sore, headachey on a wet, cold and miserable afternoon  :'( :'( :'(

Quote from: jessop on July 08, 2017, 11:51:04 PM
Had a lovely afternoon today. Saw a waterfall, had a picnic. The weather was beautiful.

;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 09, 2017, 12:18:59 AM
I'm taking a walk to the other side of town where there's a farmer's market. There are a couple of cheesemakers who have stalls and I might find something cool and good. :) Of course, nowadays such markets often attract hipsters and other special snowflakes who head straight for the artisan confectionery to buy stuff like fish caramels. The hell with that crap.  >:(
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 09, 2017, 02:49:39 AM
Quote from: NikF on July 09, 2017, 12:18:59 AM
I'm taking a walk to the other side of town where there's a farmer's market. There are a couple of cheesemakers who have stalls and I might find something cool and good. :) Of course, nowadays such markets often attract hipsters and other special snowflakes who head straight for the artisan confectionery to buy stuff like fish caramels. The hell with that crap.  >:(
Fish caramels sound gross

Tell us what cheeses you find! I do like cheese, particularly a bit of Danish Blue.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 09, 2017, 04:53:24 AM
Quote from: jessop on July 09, 2017, 02:49:39 AM
Fish caramels sound gross

Tell us what cheeses you find! I do like cheese, particularly a bit of Danish Blue.

I just invented the idea of fish caramels in an attempt to poke fun at the more unlikely/eclectic combos of flavours some people enjoy. ;D

I only bought one cheese. Nothing very exotic, just a traditional Scottish soft cheese called Highland Crowdie.
From another stall I bought a small jar of homemade tomato and chilli relish, which I'm hoping will be good with the cheese and some oatcakes. 8)

I can't remember eating Danish Blue. But today I saw some Lanark Blue and one other I've forgotten the name of. Maybe next time I'll get a small piece of that too. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 09, 2017, 04:57:37 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 09, 2017, 04:15:45 AM
On one hand with music; you are giving people a soundtrack to immersed in, that can only be vague (even with lyrics) and then you got film on the other hand; which you are giving people a fully imagined portrayal of a story, often with deeper themes, symbols or messages.

I just wish that I had picked up the camera earlier  :(

Yeah, but you should start at the beginning with this stuff.

I've noticed how you sometimes listen to/watch the same thing over and over. So if I were you (which I'm sure is a horrible thought for both of us  :laugh: ) I'd do this:
The next time you're in the mood for repeated viewings, watch one of your favourite films throughout with the volume down. When it finishes, immediately watch it again, still with no volume. The reason for doing this is to find the rhythm. To begin with, look only for the rhythm of stationary objects within the frame. Nothing more.
If you were at film school you would be doing that on a regular basis as a matter of course.

After that, study the Principle of Contrast and Affinity - I've a feeling that might be right up your street.

Also, it's never too late to make a start on something.

That's all I have to say on the matter. ;D

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 09, 2017, 03:13:27 PM
Quote from: NikF on July 09, 2017, 04:53:24 AM
I just invented the idea of fish caramels in an attempt to poke fun at the more unlikely/eclectic combos of flavours some people enjoy. ;D

I only bought one cheese. Nothing very exotic, just a traditional Scottish soft cheese called Highland Crowdie.
From another stall I bought a small jar of homemade tomato and chilli relish, which I'm hoping will be good with the cheese and some oatcakes. 8)

I can't remember eating Danish Blue. But today I saw some Lanark Blue and one other I've forgotten the name of. Maybe next time I'll get a small piece of that too. :)

Oh that sounds nice! I am sure they will go together very well. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 09, 2017, 09:43:45 PM
Today is a gym day but also the once a month shave my head day. No guard on the clippers and so it ends up as short as it can be without using a razor. And it's the quickest haircut in the world - three or four minutes. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Crudblud on July 10, 2017, 04:40:28 AM
Yesterday evening my mother drove me to visit a Border Collie puppy for sale. The puppy was lovely, but the woman trying to sell it was bizarrely fascinating. She told us that the dog had come to live with her as of yesterday, from some place in Dorset, which is about a four-and-a-half hour drive from Sheffield, where we live and also where the woman lives. The puppy was obviously very much at home in that house, and was clearly attached to the woman, both behaviours I would only expect to see in a dog that had been settled somewhere for at least a few weeks, if not a few months. But she carried on with the tale, saying that she had not been forewarned of the puppy's mouthiness, which is not only common in puppies but in the Border Collie as a breed—their nipping comes from their herding instinct, as they are farm dogs bred for working with sheep and other livestock—and was so angry with the previous owner for this omission that she had broken off contact completely.

We asked to take the puppy out in the garden to see how it behaved when outside. Immediately we noticed several turds on the lawn, which had obviously been there for many days. The woman said "she only goes toilet on this part of the garden," and my mother said "I thought you only got her yesterday," and the woman said "Yeah, I did," as if it were not at all strange that the dog had learned to go in a particular spot in just one day. Then I asked to take her on the lead for a little walk on the pavement, and she said that was fine, and so I took her, but almost immediately the woman called to her, and the dog pulled to return, reinforcing once more the dog's attachment to her. She had said that the dog was very good on the lead, and for a very young Collie she wasn't bad, my previous Collie, Charlie (see the pet memorial thread), was probably worse at that age, but the woman seemed uneasy at the prospect of the dog being allowed to speak for itself, as it were.

When we returned inside the house, we naturally asked for the dog's veterinary documents showing that she had been fully vaccinated and so forth, but the woman said that she did not have them. She said once more that she would not talk to the previous owners, so I asked for their phone number, and she said "I highly doubt they'll tell you anything," and kept trying to deflect on further questioning, offering instead to "phone vets in their area," which I took as a good time to suggest that we leave. So we left, spending the return journey discussing approximately how much bullshit she'd been trying to feed us. All in all quite a fun Sunday evening, although I am concerned for that puppy which, while it didn't appear to have been abused in any way, certainly did not appear to be in capable hands. My theory is that the woman had purchased the dog from a farm at eight weeks, as is common for Collie pups, has now realised that she cannot handle it, and is too proud to admit this. If she had only been honest and presented the documentation I may well have given her the money and taken the dog, but there was clearly something very strange going on there.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 11, 2017, 12:44:00 AM
Quote from: Crudblud on July 10, 2017, 04:40:28 AM
Yesterday evening my mother drove me to visit a Border Collie puppy for sale. The puppy was lovely, but the woman trying to sell it was bizarrely fascinating. She told us that the dog had come to live with her as of yesterday, from some place in Dorset, which is about a four-and-a-half hour drive from Sheffield, where we live and also where the woman lives. The puppy was obviously very much at home in that house, and was clearly attached to the woman, both behaviours I would only expect to see in a dog that had been settled somewhere for at least a few weeks, if not a few months. But she carried on with the tale, saying that she had not been forewarned of the puppy's mouthiness, which is not only common in puppies but in the Border Collie as a breed—their nipping comes from their herding instinct, as they are farm dogs bred for working with sheep and other livestock—and was so angry with the previous owner for this omission that she had broken off contact completely.

We asked to take the puppy out in the garden to see how it behaved when outside. Immediately we noticed several turds on the lawn, which had obviously been there for many days. The woman said "she only goes toilet on this part of the garden," and my mother said "I thought you only got her yesterday," and the woman said "Yeah, I did," as if it were not at all strange that the dog had learned to go in a particular spot in just one day. Then I asked to take her on the lead for a little walk on the pavement, and she said that was fine, and so I took her, but almost immediately the woman called to her, and the dog pulled to return, reinforcing once more the dog's attachment to her. She had said that the dog was very good on the lead, and for a very young Collie she wasn't bad, my previous Collie, Charlie (see the pet memorial thread), was probably worse at that age, but the woman seemed uneasy at the prospect of the dog being allowed to speak for itself, as it were.

When we returned inside the house, we naturally asked for the dog's veterinary documents showing that she had been fully vaccinated and so forth, but the woman said that she did not have them. She said once more that she would not talk to the previous owners, so I asked for their phone number, and she said "I highly doubt they'll tell you anything," and kept trying to deflect on further questioning, offering instead to "phone vets in their area," which I took as a good time to suggest that we leave. So we left, spending the return journey discussing approximately how much bullshit she'd been trying to feed us. All in all quite a fun Sunday evening, although I am concerned for that puppy which, while it didn't appear to have been abused in any way, certainly did not appear to be in capable hands. My theory is that the woman had purchased the dog from a farm at eight weeks, as is common for Collie pups, has now realised that she cannot handle it, and is too proud to admit this. If she had only been honest and presented the documentation I may well have given her the money and taken the dog, but there was clearly something very strange going on there.

Yeah, sounds like you called that one right. It all appears inconsistent and dodgy as hell. But on a more positive note, it's great that you feel ready to welcome a new little friend into your life. Good stuff.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 11, 2017, 01:40:18 AM
I'm off for a gentle run around the park and alongside the golf course. At some point I'll do this because it's more of a challenge outside than indoors at home or a gym. This guy is Steve Cotter. He does kettlebell instructional videos but also a lot of other stuff with a minimum of broscience -

http://www.youtube.com/v/gpTKt9Jwmuk

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proprioception

It's part of the reason I feel good. I think it's easy for some people to get all worked up about stuff in the course of an ordinary day, but there's no need to be that way. Sure, it takes time and patience, but those are always a worthwhile investment. Some dude cuts you off at a junction, gets your coffee order wrong, bruises your little ego on Twitter, craps in your hat? - stay calm. It's never worth losing your cool.
That video is only thirty seconds long. Give it a try? If you do, start with your eyes open. And stay calm. Everything's cool.  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 11, 2017, 04:45:03 AM
You know, I should benefit from taking that exercise up.

Quote from: NikF on July 11, 2017, 01:40:18 AM
[...] Some dude cuts you off at a junction, gets your coffee order wrong, bruises your little ego on Twitter, craps in your hat? - stay calm. It's never worth losing your cool.

You ain't kiddin'.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 11, 2017, 09:57:30 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 11, 2017, 04:45:03 AM
You know, I should benefit from taking that exercise up.


Good stuff. And if you do, keep in mind that while keeping your balance is a success, the real goal is to always keep your cool throughout.  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 11, 2017, 10:19:59 AM
Quote from: NikF on July 11, 2017, 09:57:30 AM
Good stuff. And if you do, keep in mind that while keeping your balance is a success, the real goal is to always keep your cool throughout.  8)

Verily.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 11, 2017, 10:56:09 PM
Today it is a gym day. And it is foggy. In July? Well, it won't make the weights any heavier.
After my workout I'm meeting Iain (and his lovely model girlfriend :-*) at the Ichiban Noodle Bar for lunch.
Then I'm probably going to see another friend and colleague who is doing a job for a fashion retailer.
I don't know what I'm doing after that, although anything can happen. Anything. Zombie holocaust? Ninja swarm? Giant robot invasion? Ethel Merman mass hallucinations? You can never know for sure. But I won't see it in my way, regardless. 8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Crudblud on July 11, 2017, 11:45:40 PM
Quote from: NikF on July 11, 2017, 12:44:00 AM
Yeah, sounds like you called that one right. It all appears inconsistent and dodgy as hell. But on a more positive note, it's great that you feel ready to welcome a new little friend into your life. Good stuff.

She never got back in touch either, so I guess she's really committed to getting a sucker to take that dog no questions asked. It worries me, because while in all likelihood the dog has had its vaccinations, any doubt on that front is a serious risk.

But yeah, the house feels so empty without a dog around. I'm currently looking into getting a rescue, but the homecheck procedure is pretty stringent, I'm not sure how it's going to be possible to convince them the small garden won't be a problem. From what I understand they're obsessed with gardens.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 12, 2017, 12:10:09 AM
Quote from: Crudblud on July 11, 2017, 11:45:40 PM
But yeah, the house feels so empty without a dog around. I'm currently looking into getting a rescue, but the homecheck procedure is pretty stringent, I'm not sure how it's going to be possible to convince them the small garden won't be a problem. From what I understand they're obsessed with gardens.

It might indeed be that they're obsessed with gardens and that they think your garden too small. It might also be that they view any shortcoming in the size of the garden as an acceptable compromise when the home considered as a whole is a warm and loving one. It's hard to know. And there's not really anything you can do about it. All you can be sure of is that eventually you'll find yourself with a new friend.
Do keep us updated?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Crudblud on July 12, 2017, 06:03:52 AM
Quote from: NikF on July 12, 2017, 12:10:09 AM
It might indeed be that they're obsessed with gardens and that they think your garden too small. It might also be that they view any shortcoming in the size of the garden as an acceptable compromise when the home considered as a whole is a warm and loving one. It's hard to know. And there's not really anything you can do about it. All you can be sure of is that eventually you'll find yourself with a new friend.
Do keep us updated?

I guess it depends on whether they think quick and easy access to the Peak District national park and other countryside is a plus or not. When it comes to giving a dog plenty of safe off-lead running you're kind of spoilt for choice around here, so to me the garden is a total non-issue, but they can only rely on what they see for themselves. Today I'm feeling cautiously optimistic, but really the odds are not stacked in my favour. I will be posting more about it when there's news.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Ghost Sonata on July 12, 2017, 06:15:50 AM
Quote from: NikF on July 12, 2017, 12:10:09 AM
It might indeed be that they're obsessed with gardens and that they think your garden too small. It might also be that they view any shortcoming in the size of the garden as an acceptable compromise when the home considered as a whole is a warm and loving one. It's hard to know. And there's not really anything you can do about it. All you can be sure of is that eventually you'll find yourself with a new friend.
Do keep us updated?

My granny rescued a mutt named Fred whose idea of a garden was something on which to sit.  Preferred granny's potato plants most of all.  Most dogs have impressed me over the years as being intelligent creatures, one way or another (eg: I'm told our family dog, Chubby, saved my life as a toddler when I wanted to cross a road and he latched onto my diaper and refused to let go).  But not Fred; he died doing what he most enjoyed, chasing cars - he was obsessed with them. 
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on July 12, 2017, 07:28:59 AM
Quote from: Crudblud on July 12, 2017, 06:03:52 AM
I guess it depends on whether they think quick and easy access to the Peak District national park and other countryside is a plus or not. When it comes to giving a dog plenty of safe off-lead running you're kind of spoilt for choice around here, so to me the garden is a total non-issue, but they can only rely on what they see for themselves. Today I'm feeling cautiously optimistic, but really the odds are not stacked in my favour. I will be posting more about it when there's news.

Good luck.  I must say that, as a Yank, the process you're having to go through is a bit boggling.   
This is how it works with my local Humane Society.  Apparently all that's needed is to pay the fee, pick the pet, and off you go.

http://humanebroward.com/adoptions/
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on July 12, 2017, 09:52:12 PM
I started to typeset on the computer a set of very detailed notes (nearly three notebooks) on a subject in general relativity (called global methods) which I took five years ago when I was studying it (and a bit obsessed). The final goal would be to make those notes into a textbook. I think this is the right time for this because, with all the new stuff about colliding/merging black holes from the ligo gravitational waves detectors, likely there will be a new peak of interest on this from many young researchers. These methods are necessary to prove some very hard theorems that give some very general results about the dynamics of such systems. These results were obtained in the 1970s, mostly by S.Hawking, so there's nothing really very new (maybe except for some few things). Nevertheless, any researcher entering into the field of black hole mergers has to be familiar with these results since they provide the general big picture on which one further investigates the details. The theorems as well as the methods are presented in a book by Hawking which is infamously hard to read because it uses an awkward notation and redaction style. Worse, the proof of one of the most important theorems (the one that says that the resulting black hole stabilizes to a configuration that can be described by only three parameters, which are mass, angular momentum and charge, and which is called a Kerr black hole) is scattered in many different papers by different authors, where each contributed to solve some part of the proof. This theorem can actually be seen in the wave profile obtained by ligo, since the merging ends in a ringdown (in my opinion, that should be enough to give a Nobel prize to Hawking and all the other authors that contributed to that proof). My book aims to be more accessible and readable.

On the other hand, I have been also typesetting for some time now another set of notes with the hope to complete a very ambituous  book about mathematical quantum mechanics which goes from the basics to quantum gravity. I have two and a half chapters of eight so far, as well as several appendices which develop with some detail many topics that are needed for reading the book.

So far, progress is steady but somewhat slow. I wish I could do it faster.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 12, 2017, 11:14:52 PM
Quote from: aleazk on July 12, 2017, 09:52:12 PM
I started to typeset on the computer a set of very detailed notes (nearly three notebooks) on a subject in general relativity (called global methods) which I took five years ago when I was studying it (and a bit obsessed). The final goal would be to make those notes into a textbook. I think this is the right time for this because, with all the new stuff about colliding/merging black holes from the ligo gravitational waves detectors, likely there will be a new peak of interest on this from many young researchers. These methods are necessary to prove some very hard theorems that give some very general results about the dynamics of such systems. These results were obtained in the 1970s, mostly by S.Hawking, so there's nothing really very new (maybe except for some few things). Nevertheless, any researcher entering into the field of black hole mergers has to be familiar with these results since they provide the general big picture on which one further investigates the details. The theorems as well as the methods are presented in a book by Hawking which is infamously hard to read because it uses an awkward notation and redaction style. Worse, the proof of one of the most important theorems (the one that says that the resulting black hole stabilizes to a configuration that can be described by only three parameters, which are mass, angular momentum and charge, and which is called a Kerr black hole) is scattered in many different papers by different authors, where each contributed to solve some part of the proof. This theorem can actually be seen in the wave profile obtained by ligo, since the merging ends in a ringdown (in my opinion, that should be enough to give a Nobel prize to Hawking and all the other authors that contributed to that proof). My book aims to be more accessible and readable.

On the other hand, I have been also typesetting for some time now another set of notes with the hope to complete a very ambituous  book about mathematical quantum mechanics which goes from the basics to quantum gravity. I have two and a half chapters of eight so far, as well as several appendices which develop with some detail many topics that are needed for reading the book.

So far, progress is steady but somewhat slow. I wish I could do it faster.

It wont help you right now now, but "This too will pass". You'll get it done. :)


My day -
Rain. And I'm mowing the lawn today. *mumble grumble*
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 13, 2017, 02:02:35 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 13, 2017, 12:17:31 AM
My eyes are sore  :'( :'(

Give your them a long, slow massage - from the inside.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 13, 2017, 02:23:56 AM


Quote from: NikF on July 12, 2017, 11:14:52 PM
My day -
Rain. And I'm mowing the lawn today. *mumble grumble*


Yester even, at-times-torrential downpour, and flash floods. It was actually a curiously relaxing time, driving in this sonically immersive experience while playing Scarlatti on the car sound system. But it helped that I wasn't going far, nor was in any hurry. Cool was maintained, without strain.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 13, 2017, 02:45:12 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 13, 2017, 02:23:56 AM


Yester even, at-times-torrential downpour, and flash floods. It was actually a curiously relaxing time, driving in this sonically immersive experience while playing Scarlatti on the car sound system. But it helped that I wasn't going far, nor was in any hurry. Cool was maintained, without strain.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Reading that has gone some way to warm the cockles of my dark and cynical heart. Good stuff.  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: bwv 1080 on July 13, 2017, 07:58:15 PM
Quote from: aleazk on July 12, 2017, 09:52:12 PM
I started to typeset on the computer a set of very detailed notes (nearly three notebooks) on a subject in general relativity (called global methods) which I took five years ago when I was studying it (and a bit obsessed). The final goal would be to make those notes into a textbook. I think this is the right time for this because, with all the new stuff about colliding/merging black holes from the ligo gravitational waves detectors, likely there will be a new peak of interest on this from many young researchers. These methods are necessary to prove some very hard theorems that give some very general results about the dynamics of such systems. These results were obtained in the 1970s, mostly by S.Hawking, so there's nothing really very new (maybe except for some few things). Nevertheless, any researcher entering into the field of black hole mergers has to be familiar with these results since they provide the general big picture on which one further investigates the details. The theorems as well as the methods are presented in a book by Hawking which is infamously hard to read because it uses an awkward notation and redaction style. Worse, the proof of one of the most important theorems (the one that says that the resulting black hole stabilizes to a configuration that can be described by only three parameters, which are mass, angular momentum and charge, and which is called a Kerr black hole) is scattered in many different papers by different authors, where each contributed to solve some part of the proof. This theorem can actually be seen in the wave profile obtained by ligo, since the merging ends in a ringdown (in my opinion, that should be enough to give a Nobel prize to Hawking and all the other authors that contributed to that proof). My book aims to be more accessible and readable.

On the other hand, I have been also typesetting for some time now another set of notes with the hope to complete a very ambituous  book about mathematical quantum mechanics which goes from the basics to quantum gravity. I have two and a half chapters of eight so far, as well as several appendices which develop with some detail many topics that are needed for reading the book.

So far, progress is steady but somewhat slow. I wish I could do it faster.

Cool, do you have a link to a general explanation, is this a set of solutions to the field equations? (I don't really know this stuff, but have enough of an interest in physics and math to learn to some precision what I dont know)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: bwv 1080 on July 13, 2017, 08:08:58 PM
Have a 15 yo nonverbal autistic son and been trying for 5 months to get on a 10+ year waitlist for medicaid benefits that he will be eligible for as an adult
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 13, 2017, 11:40:01 PM
A beautiful morning. I'll make the most of it, because for all I know today might be summer.

To the park and run sprint intervals. I'm feeling strong, feeling solid, and with stamina to spare. It now seems that my broken ankle was a lifetime ago. It's all good.

Then to town and look at guitars. Specifically, to try a couple of custom shop instruments. They're too much guitar for me, but I'm interested in seeing what they're all about.

Tonight it's over the road to visit my neighbour and her friends. They've a 'Games of Thrones' season premiere party arranged for Saturday that I'm avoiding, because they get too excited and constantly deem everything "brilliant" and "amazing" and exclaim "oh my god I can't believe what that dragon just did!"

And speaking of Game of Thrones (and not just an excuse to post a photo of this actress who appeared in it) a while back I mentioned photographing women and incorporating 'the warning sign/triangle'. Here's an example with the three reds - dress, lips and nails.

(http://i.imgur.com/qN00Kzw.jpg)


Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on July 14, 2017, 08:57:37 AM
Quote from: bwv 1080 on July 13, 2017, 07:58:15 PM
Cool, do you have a link to a general explanation, is this a set of solutions to the field equations? (I don't really know this stuff, but have enough of an interest in physics and math to learn to some precision what I dont know)

The Kerr black hole? Yes, it's an exact solution.

This link should be perfect then: https://arxiv.org/abs/hep-th/9409195
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Crudblud on July 14, 2017, 12:54:57 PM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on July 12, 2017, 07:28:59 AM
Good luck.  I must say that, as a Yank, the process you're having to go through is a bit boggling.   
This is how it works with my local Humane Society.  Apparently all that's needed is to pay the fee, pick the pet, and off you go.

http://humanebroward.com/adoptions/

They're just trying to make sure the dogs go to a good home I guess. In any case, the more I look into it the less worried I am. I've arranged a homecheck for Thursday, so hopefully the dog I want to adopt is still available by the time I'm approved (yes, I am that confident about it right now).
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on July 14, 2017, 12:59:05 PM
Excellent! If you can, post a pic do we can all admire.
Title: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 14, 2017, 03:18:51 PM
Airlines: ain't they somethin'. (Full story to follow, perhaps Sunday.)

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 15, 2017, 06:46:41 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 14, 2017, 03:18:51 PM
Airlines: ain't they somethin'. (Full story to follow, perhaps Sunday.)

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

My wife was booked on a flight which was to leave Boston 9pm last night.  I got home from work, and the plan was that I would drive her to the airport, we would leave at 6 (one allows for heavy traffic in and around Boston on Friday evening).

While she was completing her packing (I do not want to mislead you into thinking that this was procrastination on her part:  she had three artistic projects she was working to wrap up before traveling) the airline deluged her cell phone and our landline with automated messages that her flight had been cancelled, and the airline had moved her to a flight leaving Sunday morning. Since she has a meeting early this afternoon, that change was not going to work at all, at all.  I checked the airline's website, and (with no word as to just why, of course) all the Boston-to-DC flights were canceled.

My wife called their customer service number;  and she must have been on hold near an hour before we agreed she should just hang up.  Before she dropped the call, though, we decided that, since there appeared no expectation of resolving the matter by phone or internet, I should just go ahead and take her to the airport, and talk to a person live (of course, bringing bags and prepared to travel, unlikely though that seemed).

So it was that, although with greatly reduced expectations we drove to Logan Airport at pretty much the time that we had originally planned.  We knew that the airline would have to accommodate us with some other flight, but we also have a meeting today, so either they get us there in good order, or we get a refund, and need a Plan B.  Another airline?  My thought was that with more than one cancellation, there was quite a population of passengers needing some other way to fly, and that this was why the best they could offer was a Sunday flight 36 hours later.

A train?  It was then too late to get my wife on an Acela for DC, and I did not like the idea of her traveling alone on an overnight train (9pm-ish departure from South Station, arriving at Union Station ca. 6am)

We were on Route 16 East in Medford when I told the love of my life to give up on being "on hold" with the airline;  they were clearly in the throes of managing many displaced travelers.

The best Plan B we could come up with was, she and I would share the wheel driving to north Jersey;  I would stay overnight with my brother, and get on a bus back for Boston.  She would go on drive the remaining 4 hours to DC.

We pull in at Logan, I drop my wife and her bags off at the departures curb, I go and park the car, make my way to find my wife and mom-in-law in the queue for the ticketing desk.  Not surprisingly, a long-ish line, and moving slowly (as the airline agents stress-test their juggling skills).  I call my brother to give him more detail (he had already assured me that we were welcome), and to report that we are in line, still not yet sure just the plan will be.

In the event (as you may already have surmised by the fact that I am writing this morning, rather than Sunday) and contrary to expectations (though, of course, we went to the airport ready for this) they fitted my wife onto an 8:30 departure (and so, a shade earlier than her original booking, and a vessel and crew which were in fact the cancelled 7pm departure) and she arrived at her destination pretty much at the time when her ride was expecting to fetch her from DCA.

There has got to be a better way . . . .
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 16, 2017, 02:13:33 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 15, 2017, 06:46:41 AM
My wife was booked on a flight which was to leave Boston 9pm last night.  I got home from work, and the plan was that I would drive her to the airport, we would leave at 6 (one allows for heavy traffic in and around Boston on Friday evening).

While she was completing her packing (I do not want to mislead you into thinking that this was procrastination on her part:  she had three artistic projects she was working to wrap up before traveling) the airline deluged her cell phone and our landline with automated messages that her flight had been cancelled, and the airline had moved her to a flight leaving Sunday morning. Since she has a meeting early this afternoon, that change was not going to work at all, at all.  I checked the airline's website, and (with no word as to just why, of course) all the Boston-to-DC flights were canceled.

My wife called their customer service number;  and she must have been on hold near an hour before we agreed she should just hang up.  Before she dropped the call, though, we decided that, since there appeared no expectation of resolving the matter by phone or internet, I should just go ahead and take her to the airport, and talk to a person live (of course, bringing bags and prepared to travel, unlikely though that seemed).

So it was that, although with greatly reduced expectations we drove to Logan Airport at pretty much the time that we had originally planned.  We knew that the airline would have to accommodate us with some other flight, but we also have a meeting today, so either they get us there in good order, or we get a refund, and need a Plan B.  Another airline?  My thought was that with more than one cancellation, there was quite a population of passengers needing some other way to fly, and that this was why the best they could offer was a Sunday flight 36 hours later.

A train?  It was then too late to get my wife on an Acela for DC, and I did not like the idea of her traveling alone on an overnight train (9pm-ish departure from South Station, arriving at Union Station ca. 6am)

We were on Route 16 East in Medford when I told the love of my life to give up on being "on hold" with the airline;  they were clearly in the throes of managing many displaced travelers.

The best Plan B we could come up with was, she and I would share the wheel driving to north Jersey;  I would stay overnight with my brother, and get on a bus back for Boston.  She would go on drive the remaining 4 hours to DC.

We pull in at Logan, I drop my wife and her bags off at the departures curb, I go and park the car, make my way to find my wife and mom-in-law in the queue for the ticketing desk.  Not surprisingly, a long-ish line, and moving slowly (as the airline agents stress-test their juggling skills).  I call my brother to give him more detail (he had already assured me that we were welcome), and to report that we are in line, still not yet sure just the plan will be.

In the event (as you may already have surmised by the fact that I am writing this morning, rather than Sunday) and contrary to expectations (though, of course, we went to the airport ready for this) they fitted my wife onto an 8:30 departure (and so, a shade earlier than her original booking, and a vessel and crew which were in fact the cancelled 7pm departure) and she arrived at her destination pretty much at the time when her ride was expecting to fetch her from DCA.

There has got to be a better way . . . .

Indeed, but until then as you moved through the airport your calmness was so pure that it extended out and those nearby suddenly felt themselves cool, relaxed and at peace with the world, some almost moved to tears of bliss? That's one one of those rhetorical questions, BTW. Good stuff.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on July 16, 2017, 05:04:20 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 14, 2017, 06:11:40 PM
You would never believe it:


THE WEATHER IS AMAZING TODAY!!!!!  :o :o :o :-* :-* :-*


Gonna be heading off for a nice long walk in a little!  ;)

Well you know what, it has started raining a bit here. More to come this week.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 17, 2017, 05:14:19 AM
Quote from: NikF on July 16, 2017, 02:13:33 AM
Indeed, but until then as you moved through the airport your calmness was so pure that it extended out and those nearby suddenly felt themselves cool, relaxed and at peace with the world, some almost moved to tears of bliss? That's one one of those rhetorical questions, BTW. Good stuff.

Rhetorical or no, the vibe was earnest, but cool. How far it radiated, I could not say, but there was certainly a noticeable impact on those in the immediate vicinity  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 17, 2017, 05:58:38 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 17, 2017, 05:14:19 AM
Rhetorical or no, the vibe was earnest, but cool. How far it radiated, I could not say, but there was certainly a noticeable impact on those in the immediate vicinity  8)

That's the stuff. And next thing you know people start getting drawn to you and even the feathered light on the very limit of yer halo tickles under the chin of the grumpiest of grumpy pants, with the result being a little  ---> :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 17, 2017, 08:50:27 AM
Before the gym today I passed a guitar shop without going in, because I've reconsidered my decision to buy a new guitar.
I already have a guitar that I like. It was a gift from my ex and she invested a lot of time and effort into getting it for me. And so I should play it and enjoy it.

I was at the gym later than usual and found it busier than usual. My pull up/chin up form is great right now.

On the way back I stopped in the deli and ordered a takeaway of fettuccine Alfredo and a side of spinach salad. I had it with a pint of milk. Simple man, simple tastes etc.

Intrigue: when I reached the house and opened the gate a ginger blur bolted past my ankles. Apparently there's a new catte exploring the neighbourhood. Maybe next time he'll stop and introduce himself?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 18, 2017, 04:17:45 AM
A beautiful morning and so a fine non gym day for casually strolling to town. I bought a couple of t-shirts - one pink, one kind of charcoal grey (tip: even if you're in good shape never be tempted to buy your t-shirts one size too small. It'll only make you seem a try hard dick) - which passed time until the concert hall box office opened. On the way back I went to a shop I've been told sells old theatre memorabilia and other cool stuff. Sometimes those places have books (example) -

(http://i.imgur.com/LoDrev2.jpg)

that can be difficult for me to find elsewhere, but today this one was closed.

And now to start some ribollita. It's cheap and cheerful and because it incorporates leftovers my grandmother would have firmly approved.
Title: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 20, 2017, 12:35:41 PM
My wife's return flight was gratefully normal. But she was landing here in Boston at 11:30PM. I anticipated, and catnapped well before heading off to Logan. It was after midnight when we returned home, of course; I did nudge my alarm (before retiring) so that it didn't go off until 5. Arising at (well, near) my wonted hour was no difficulty... I didn't feel tired, really. I was just a little slower than normal. And now, at the work day's end, I am not wiped out.  As an added bonus, before yesterday's catnap, I got a little composing done. And I feel that I can do a little work tonight, before dedicating the bulk of the evening to restorative relaxation. Cool has been fully maintained.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 20, 2017, 03:27:45 PM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 20, 2017, 12:35:41 PM
My wife's return flight was gratefully normal. But she was landing here in Boston at 11:30PM. I anticipated, and catnapped well before heading off to Logan. It was after midnight when we returned home, of course; I did nudge my alarm (before retiring) so that it didn't go off until 5. Arising at (well, near) my wonted hour was no difficulty... I didn't feel tired, really. I was just a little slower than normal. And now, at the work day's end, I am not wiped out.  As an added bonus, before yesterday's catnap, I got a little composing done. And I feel that I can do a little work tonight, before dedicating the bulk of the evening to restorative relaxation. Cool has been fully maintained.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

A safe journey home for yer missus and another fine display of coolness from yourself. Good stuff.
Title: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 20, 2017, 04:34:24 PM
Each day, seek the cool, behold its benevolent gaze.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Sef on July 21, 2017, 10:01:42 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 15, 2017, 06:46:41 AM
My wife was booked on a flight which was to leave Boston 9pm last night.  I got home from work, and the plan was that I would drive her to the airport, we would leave at 6 (one allows for heavy traffic in and around Boston on Friday evening).

While she was completing her packing (I do not want to mislead you into thinking that this was procrastination on her part:  she had three artistic projects she was working to wrap up before traveling) the airline deluged her cell phone and our landline with automated messages that her flight had been cancelled, and the airline had moved her to a flight leaving Sunday morning. Since she has a meeting early this afternoon, that change was not going to work at all, at all.  I checked the airline's website, and (with no word as to just why, of course) all the Boston-to-DC flights were canceled.

My wife called their customer service number;  and she must have been on hold near an hour before we agreed she should just hang up.  Before she dropped the call, though, we decided that, since there appeared no expectation of resolving the matter by phone or internet, I should just go ahead and take her to the airport, and talk to a person live (of course, bringing bags and prepared to travel, unlikely though that seemed).

So it was that, although with greatly reduced expectations we drove to Logan Airport at pretty much the time that we had originally planned.  We knew that the airline would have to accommodate us with some other flight, but we also have a meeting today, so either they get us there in good order, or we get a refund, and need a Plan B.  Another airline?  My thought was that with more than one cancellation, there was quite a population of passengers needing some other way to fly, and that this was why the best they could offer was a Sunday flight 36 hours later.

A train?  It was then too late to get my wife on an Acela for DC, and I did not like the idea of her traveling alone on an overnight train (9pm-ish departure from South Station, arriving at Union Station ca. 6am)

We were on Route 16 East in Medford when I told the love of my life to give up on being "on hold" with the airline;  they were clearly in the throes of managing many displaced travelers.

The best Plan B we could come up with was, she and I would share the wheel driving to north Jersey;  I would stay overnight with my brother, and get on a bus back for Boston.  She would go on drive the remaining 4 hours to DC.

We pull in at Logan, I drop my wife and her bags off at the departures curb, I go and park the car, make my way to find my wife and mom-in-law in the queue for the ticketing desk.  Not surprisingly, a long-ish line, and moving slowly (as the airline agents stress-test their juggling skills).  I call my brother to give him more detail (he had already assured me that we were welcome), and to report that we are in line, still not yet sure just the plan will be.

In the event (as you may already have surmised by the fact that I am writing this morning, rather than Sunday) and contrary to expectations (though, of course, we went to the airport ready for this) they fitted my wife onto an 8:30 departure (and so, a shade earlier than her original booking, and a vessel and crew which were in fact the cancelled 7pm departure) and she arrived at her destination pretty much at the time when her ride was expecting to fetch her from DCA.

There has got to be a better way . . . .
Sounds rather familiar to a recent experience I had with American from Boston in late May with my wife - but without the happy ending. Returning to Chicago on their last flight of the day I got a text informing me that the flight was cancelled and that I was booked on the first flight the next day. All hotels were fully booked and we know no one in the area. Went to the airport anyway to discuss the situation but with no positive resolution. There were no weather issues and I never did get an explanation for the cancellation other than it wasn't the airlines fault and that therefore they had no duty to offer us anything - which they dutifully didn't. Had to sleep on the departure terminal floor. Not something that bothered me too greatly as I'm a seasoned traveler and back in my youth used to hitchhike all over Europe, sleeping under hedges etc, but my wife is used to her creature comforts! I did complain, and got $200 in vouchers for my trouble, but still, you're right Karl, there has to be a better way.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 21, 2017, 01:28:22 PM
Friday night in the gym, young guys doing endless reps of bicep curls in order to get the pump before going out. ;D Ah, I hope it pays dividends for them. :)   
I'm at least twice their age and have no need for the pump. I required only the strength to eat my fish and chips bought on the way home. 8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on July 22, 2017, 06:30:09 AM
After my computer kept loosing wifi connection I clicked the "diagnose the problem" button in the Microsoft network settings dialog . For the first time in my lifetime, it actually claimed to have found a problem and now it works better. Now I have some statistics. It works approximately 0.5% of the time.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 25, 2017, 04:44:05 AM
Well, we all hope you are well, and all the circumstances improve!

Let the cool be maintained.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on July 25, 2017, 08:32:28 AM
Quote from: Scarpia on July 22, 2017, 06:30:09 AM
After my computer kept loosing wifi connection I clicked the "diagnose the problem" button in the Microsoft network settings dialog . For the first time in my lifetime, it actually claimed to have found a problem and now it works better. Now I have some statistics. It works approximately 0.5% of the time.

Problem's back. Maybe that $6 Wifi adapter wasn't such a great choice. :(
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on July 25, 2017, 08:35:35 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 25, 2017, 04:44:05 AM
Well, we all hope you are well, and all the circumstances improve!

Let the cool be maintained.

Ditto.
And if /when you manage contact with John (MI) please let us know.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on July 25, 2017, 08:41:48 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 24, 2017, 08:39:37 PM
Well I'm back. Things have been going on in my personal life that I'm not even willing to talk about here, I'm getting counselling now and will hopefully be getting better soon

Hoping for a quick resolution of difficulties.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 26, 2017, 11:34:40 AM
Today has been about going to the gym. It was nominally a back day. I got home and ordered an Indian takeaway (palak paneer with steamed basmati rice) and then had a nap. When I woke I continued the task I've been attending to recently, that of decorating the house in preparation for sale.

An aside: when I was walking home from the gym a woman sitting in her car waiting for the lights to change turned my head by turning her head to smile at me. She had dark hair styled perfectly for the shape of her face and so for a moment a frame within a frame. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 26, 2017, 11:35:09 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 25, 2017, 08:26:23 PM
I'm now well into my first week back at Uni and loving the shit out of it.

You know all the contemporary and modernist music I passionately rave on about every day? well some of it is being taught here  8)

Good stuff.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ritter on July 27, 2017, 06:45:08 AM
Quote from: NikF on July 26, 2017, 11:34:40 AM
An aside: when I was walking home from the gym a woman sitting in her car waiting for the lights to change turned my head by turning her head to smile at me. She had dark hair styled perfectly for the shape of her face and so for a moment a frame within a frame. :)
Good stuff... you're quite a master in poetically catching the magic of an instant. Keep 'em coming!  :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 27, 2017, 09:28:27 PM
Quote from: ritter on July 27, 2017, 06:45:08 AM
Good stuff... you're quite a master in poetically catching the magic of an instant. Keep 'em coming!  :)

Thanks. :) It''s just that even when I'm not behind a camera I still love seeing and making pictures. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Crudblud on July 27, 2017, 11:03:07 PM
I am approved to adopt me a pup. Will probably be paying next week.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 27, 2017, 11:16:03 PM
Quote from: Crudblud on July 27, 2017, 11:03:07 PM
I am approved to adopt me a pup. Will probably be paying next week.

Good stuff. I'm happy for you and for whoever you adopt. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 28, 2017, 06:37:08 AM

If this is an imposition here, I can relocate it to the HQ's.

I finished my Symphony in January (just before the inauguration which, reliable sources relate, enjoyed the Largest Crowd Ever).  Also, just before a Greater Boston Choral Consortium 'speed-dating' event where I was to be part of the Triad delegation.  Since Triad is a collective of composer-conductors, it was going to be entirely appropriate for me to present myself as a composer.

Of course, people would ask, "What have you been working on?"  And I should have the enormous pleasure of saying, "In fact, I have just finished my Symphony № 1."

Well, now:  what if I should meet an orchestra conductor, who might then follow up with, "Really?  Do you have a score?  I should like to see it."  What if that should happen, and I, sorry enough not to have brought hard copy with me?  Insupportable.  So of course, I brought a copy with me.

And I did meet an orchestra conductor (Channing Yu of the Mercury Orchestra);  and he did ask what my recent work was, and I said, "A Symphony."  And lo! he did indeed ask to have a look.

Now, maybe he was being polite (and no fault at all to him).  Absolutely true it is, that the 'speed-dating' event was not the time for him to curl up with my score and study it.  So he was going to pass it back across the table to me, when I said, "No, please – do take it with you, and have a look at your convenience."  In any case, there was no need for me to take the score back home with me.  In the flurry of the table-touring of that event, Channing did not furnish me with any contact info.  Perhaps he told me, "Check my website";  or, perhaps, that was my own problem-solving.

However, on his website, I did not manage to find more than one e-mail address to which to send (as distinct, probably, from a webpage message form), and that address began with "info@..." Well, to that address I did (the very evening that we met) send a "Hi, nice to have met you" message.  The conductor is a busy chap, so I did not take it as significant when a few days passed and I heard nothing;  and, well, I am often somewhat busy myself, so beyond that initial buffer, this particular contact drifted to the edge of my radar, and at some imperceptible time, off the scanner entirely.

In April, I am not sure just what prompted me to think of it, and I sent a second message on 7 April.

Now, by a curious coincidence, it was not at that January meeting that I was first aware of Channing.  A few days before, I had shared the good news of the Symphony's completion with a violinist friend – and, yes, I asked him if he knew of anyone to whom it might be a goodish idea to forward the score.  And in his reply, Stephen told me of the Mercury Orchestra, directed by Channing Yu.

Well, perhaps two weeks ago, Stephen sent email inviting me to a brace of concerts which the Mercurials were to play.  And I decided that I would go to Wednesday evening's free concert at the Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade, for it would be an excellent opportunity to visit with Stephen in person (the first time in some few years, really), and possibly to see Channing again.

The concert was to begin at 19:00, and was publicized as running until 20:45.  But there was introductory yammer from (I think) Ron Della Chiesa (a radio fixture, quite handily typified by his weekly Strictly Sinatra Saturday broadcast);  and then Channing took some minutes to greet the audience, to speak in general terms about the program, and about the plot of Die Meistersinger, and then to walk them through the concert suite.  Between the pre-performance chat buffer, and (quite possibly) a slower reading of the music (though not absolutely languorous, by any means!), it was half past 8 by the time the intermission started.  I did manage to get Stephen's attention, and he clambered down from the stage, and we caught up very nicely;  it was not just we two, as a couple from his home neighborhood soon joined, and it was a more generally social chat.

The time having drawn already to 20:45 I was regretfully unable to linger for the Strauss (Der Rosenkavalier Suite), and thus double-plus-regretfully unable to try to get Channing's ear – for I needed to get me back home (about 20 minutes of walking, 20 minutes on the 'T', 20 minutes driving), as my alarm typically goes off at 04:30.

So in my message of the next morning to Stephen, to say, "How nice to see you again!," I added a postscript explaining the silence from the "info@..." address, and asking if he knew of a better?  He did . . . and I have sent a message thither . . . and . . . we wait again.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 28, 2017, 06:51:51 AM
I believe that easily belongs in this thread. And as an account it's both interesting and intriguing :). I hope your latest email does the trick. Do keep us informed? But in the meantime, as my auld granny was fond of reminding people  - "Whit's fur ye'll no go by ye!"
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 28, 2017, 08:39:18 AM
Thanks!  Will follow up as may chance.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on July 28, 2017, 10:16:43 AM
Quote from: Crudblud on July 27, 2017, 11:03:07 PM
I am approved to adopt me a pup. Will probably be paying next week.

Yeah!  Please pictures when pup finally makes it to your hearth.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 28, 2017, 10:19:40 AM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on July 28, 2017, 10:16:43 AM
Yeah!  Please pictures when pup finally makes it to your hearth.

+1 :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on July 30, 2017, 06:39:09 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on July 29, 2017, 05:15:21 PM
At the moment it also seems that all I want or can listen to is Lassus, Machaut, Josquin, Bach and Webern for some reason.

Anything else and I feel the sudden urge to turn it off  :'(

Go with the musical flow.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: BasilValentine on July 30, 2017, 11:19:37 AM
I saw a bear! After seeing many piles of bear scat on a ridge with frequent open ledges, I spotted this feller on the next ledge down:

It was hard to get a sense of scale but I think he was a youngster, maybe 150 to 200 lbs? He — and I — were there looking for blueberries. He seemed to have eaten most of them.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 31, 2017, 10:43:54 PM
Quote from: BasilValentine on July 30, 2017, 11:19:37 AM
I saw a bear! After seeing many piles of bear scat on a ridge with frequent open ledges, I spotted this feller on the next ledge down:

It was hard to get a sense of scale but I think he was a youngster, maybe 150 to 200 lbs? He — and I — were there looking for blueberries. He seemed to have eaten most of them.

Good stuff. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on July 31, 2017, 10:46:07 PM
Today I'm going to lunch with friends. Our small circle increasingly decreases with the latest regular absentee being Iain, who has been dating a beautiful young woman he worked with months ago on a fashion shoot. So that's us reduced in number to three. But it'll still be fun. Think of it as a meeting similar to the 'Algonquin Round Table', only our version has none of the sophistication, talent, charm, or wit. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 01, 2017, 01:07:51 AM
What did you have?  :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 01, 2017, 01:16:00 PM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 01, 2017, 01:07:51 AM
What did you have?  :)

I had pan fried fillet of sea bass with salsa verde, roast potatoes and greens. :) 
And I believe that for an instant, the spirit of Woollcott looked down over the proceedings and struggled to produce even a soupçon of a pithy remark, before sadly shaking his head and evaporating into the ether.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 01, 2017, 11:36:02 PM
I've just finished shaving my head and now I'm off to the gym. I always keep myself hydrated and so the excesses of yesterday should have minimal impact, but even if it does it'll pass. There's a Russian/Polish deli I'll have a look in on the way back. Maybe pelmeni or the even more humble vareniki. In either case, a pleasant lesson in humility with butter and mustard. And sometimes quick and easy and cheap and cheerful is the way to go.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 02, 2017, 01:06:46 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 01, 2017, 01:16:00 PM
I had pan fried fillet of sea bass with salsa verde, roast potatoes and greens. :) 
And I believe that for an instant, the spirit of Woollcott looked down over the proceedings and struggled to produce even a soupçon of a pithy remark, before sadly shaking his head and evaporating into the ether.

Very nice.

Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on August 01, 2017, 11:52:57 PM
It's been like this for years, but I keep getting Mahler's 9th in my head. That symphony never stops haunting my mind and disturbing my day  :'(

Not so nice.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 02, 2017, 09:14:38 AM
This was good reading for me, maybe it will be for you:

It's no wonder we sometimes describe stressed-out behavior as "running in circles." It's exhausting — and usually gets us nowhere.

Unchecked stress not only saps energy and productivity, it can affect mental and physical health too. But there are healthy ways to stop spinning — and feel more in control.

Adopt the four A's
For a happier, healthier and more productive approach to stressors, try practicing these four habits:

1. Avoid. It's often the smaller, everyday hassles that wear us down. So figure out what routinely wrecks your calm — and find ways to steer clear if possible.

For instance, if sitting in heavy traffic makes you edgy, take a more scenic route home. Or adjust your schedule, if possible, to miss the worst of it.

2. Alter. Sometimes stressful situations can't be avoided. You can't make the line at the market move faster. But you might give the self-checkout lane a try — or try to pick less rushed times to do your shopping.

When these kinds of annoyances come up, think about what changes you could make to regain control. Here's another example: Maybe long phone calls with a pessimistic loved one leave you drained. Let the person know you only have a few minutes to chat. Set a timer. When it buzzes, it's your cue to go.

3. Adapt. When you can't change a situation, it may be time to change how you respond to it. Sometimes simply shifting your point of view makes problems seem smaller.

Perhaps you're hosting a get-together — and stressing over the details. Try this: Focus on how much you enjoy time with your friends, rather than the need for a perfectly clean home or a magazine-worthy meal.

Or when something upsets you, look at the big picture. Will this matter in a week, a month or even a year? If not, it may not be worth getting worked up over.

4. Accept. There are some big stressors in life that may be out of your hands — such as a serious illness or breakup. It's natural to feel overwhelmed and upset when something like this happens. Sharing how you feel may bring you some peace, even if you can't change the situation.

Look for the silver lining, such as gratitude for the people supporting you through a tough time. Try to let go of negative feelings. That may help give you a sense of comfort and control. It isn't always easy — but even trying might help you feel better.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 02, 2017, 04:33:43 PM
I'll add this in the light of the last few posts made in this thread. And there's a tl:dr.

After weeks of having my home and the neighbouring properties and part of the main road dug up due to the ground being unstable, we received the all clear. Hooray! That meant I was able to repair the damage done and finally get on with selling my house. But last week it started all over again with excavations of the houses behind ours and has entailed digging up part of our gardens. Boo! My polite, middle-class neighbours are furious. A few of them are behaving with hostility towards the workmen. One was even shaking too much to open his copy of the Daily Mail (Dear Daily Mail, why oh why oh why etc) Certainly, I too want the disturbance and inconvenience to end, but I know there's nothing I can do about it. The situation is unfortunate enough as it is, so why get stressed or angry and make myself feel worse? Ah, I know we all deal with things differently.

No one is forcing me to get stressed or upset or worry about stuff. So if I do get stressed or upset or worried then it's my fault because I'm not in control of myself and my life. And my way of taking responsibility is to man up and stop being a fragile, whining little *bitch. Is the unpleasant situation at hand literally going to kill me? No. So stfu.

Life is unfair. I eat, exercise and rest like an adult, but I know that doesn't entitle me to good health. When I walk along the road I have a "good morning" or a nod or a smile ready for anyone (including cattes and dogges) who I feel might welcome it, but I don't believe anyone is obliged to offer me the same in return. And although I've now only very little of the charm I possessed as a young man I still know what/what not to say to a woman (and back in the glory day there were rare times when me simply saying "Hello" to a girl was enough to make her blush  :laugh:) but I accept it's no guarantee that it'll lead to her giving me access to the good stuff. Life is unfair.

Of course, like everyone else I'm not perfect and so sometimes in the space of half a breath there's again the teenage me with the unbridled propensity to deal with someone or something by immediately putting my fist through their face, no questions asked, free of charge, yours to keep with no obligation regardless... But then I breathe out and let it go, because only I can force myself to choke on my own anger.

tl:dr: What I'm saying is, that I've a finite number of years to live and so bollocks to allowing anyone or anything decide how I feel during those years.

There are many methods and approaches to living a good life. I hope everyone finds their own way there too.


* I'm aware that using 'bitch' in this manner is wrong. But as I said, I'm far from perfect.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 03, 2017, 01:06:08 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 02, 2017, 04:33:43 PM
I'll add this in the light of the last few posts made in this thread. And there's a tl:dr.

After weeks of having my home and the neighbouring properties and part of the main road dug up due to the ground being unstable, we received the all clear. Hooray! That meant I was able to repair the damage done and finally get on with selling my house. But last week it started all over again with excavations of the houses behind ours and has entailed digging up part of our gardens. Boo! My polite, middle-class neighbours are furious. A few of them are behaving with hostility towards the workmen. One was even shaking too much to open his copy of the Daily Mail (Dear Daily Mail, why oh why oh why etc) Certainly, I too want the disturbance and inconvenience to end, but I know there's nothing I can do about it. The situation is unfortunate enough as it is, so why get stressed or angry and make myself feel worse? Ah, I know we all deal with things differently.

No one is forcing me to get stressed or upset or worry about stuff. So if I do get stressed or upset or worried then it's my fault because I'm not in control of myself and my life. And my way of taking responsibility is to man up and stop being a fragile, whining little *bitch. Is the unpleasant situation at hand literally going to kill me? No. So stfu.

Life is unfair. I eat, exercise and rest like an adult, but I know that doesn't entitle me to good health. When I walk along the road I have a "good morning" or a nod or a smile ready for anyone (including cattes and dogges) who I feel might welcome it, but I don't believe anyone is obliged to offer me the same in return. And although I've now only very little of the charm I possessed as a young man I still know what/what not to say to a woman (and back in the glory day there were rare times when me simply saying "Hello" to a girl was enough to make her blush  :laugh:) but I accept it's no guarantee that it'll lead to her giving me access to the good stuff. Life is unfair.

Of course, like everyone else I'm not perfect and so sometimes in the space of half a breath there's again the teenage me with the unbridled propensity to deal with someone or something by immediately putting my fist through their face, no questions asked, free of charge, yours to keep with no obligation regardless... But then I breathe out and let it go, because only I can force myself to choke on my own anger.

tl:dr: What I'm saying is, that I've a finite number of years to live and so bollocks to allowing anyone or anything decide how I feel during those years.

There are many methods and approaches to living a good life. I hope everyone finds their own way there too.


* I'm aware that using 'bitch' in this manner is wrong. But as I said, I'm far from perfect.

I enjoyed all that, and no one obliged me to read every last bit, but I did.  Ah, free will, how sweet it is (or, can be . . . .)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 03, 2017, 01:06:31 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on August 02, 2017, 05:47:07 PM
I am hungry like the wolf  :D

Nearby sheep do seem nervous.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 03, 2017, 01:23:08 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 03, 2017, 01:06:08 AM
I enjoyed all that, and no one obliged me to read every last bit, but I did.  Ah, free will, how sweet it is (or, can be . . . .)

Good stuff. Thanks, k a rl h e nn i ng.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 04, 2017, 12:47:25 AM
It looks like it's going to rain. If it stays dry any longer I'll take my chances and instead of running sprint intervals around the duck pond in the park I'll trundle into town and the gym where I'll squat and press legs and I can feel it already, God(s) help me. ;D This is because I'm going on a date tonight with a woman my friend Iain referred to as 'a posh bint'. How charming. Anyway, the gym isn't (directly) for her benefit because I like the way it can help make me feel. Also, it's a dinner date and although by that time the post workout pump will have mostly subsided it'll rise again with the combo of food, drink along with the precursor of a few pushups and pullups before leaving the house to meet her.
My somewhat unstructured black linen suit and a palest of pale pink shirt are out and waiting for me to wear with the faint impression of having had a nap in them. And already my shoes have been carefully polished because that's always a date aperitif which is both fulfilling and grounding and so a small pleasure in itself.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 04, 2017, 05:40:38 AM
Yesterday was a day of non-drama, weather-wise.  The forecast was clear, but a slight chance of showers in the afternoon.  For my commute into Boston, if the weather is clement I like to take the (express) bus, which entails a 10-ish-minute walk from home to the town centre, and a less-than-10-minute (but fully exposed to the elements) walk from the Old State House to the office.  If the weather is threatening, my preferred Plan B (from a variety of options) is to take the Red Line . . . it's a 20-min. drive to the Alewife T Station, the transport itself is no additional cost, and the walk from the Downtown Crossing T Station to the office is partly sheltered.

So on a day when the forecast is iffy, the game is, Which method to select?  Bringing a brolly in case, I chose the walking-&-bus course yesterday, and the chances broke hard in my favor;  never needed to open the accessory.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 04, 2017, 06:13:44 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 04, 2017, 05:40:38 AM
Yesterday was a day of non-drama, weather-wise.  The forecast was clear, but a slight chance of showers in the afternoon.  For my commute into Boston, if the weather is clement I like to take the (express) bus, which entails a 10-ish-minute walk from home to the town centre, and a less-than-10-minute (but fully exposed to the elements) walk from the Old State House to the office.  If the weather is threatening, my preferred Plan B (from a variety of options) is to take the Red Line . . . it's a 20-min. drive to the Alewife T Station, the transport itself is no additional cost, and the walk from the Downtown Crossing T Station to the office is partly sheltered.

So on a day when the forecast is iffy, the game is, Which method to select?  Bringing a brolly in case, I chose the walking-&-bus course yesterday, and the chances broke hard in my favor;  never needed to open the accessory.

That 20 (in total) minute walk is valuable in the pursuit of good health if taken on a regular basis. :) But yeah, the weather's a game changer. I don't carry an umbrella but I do have a watchman's cap (as seen in current profile photo) in my pocket.

I've just been told by Google that my usual walk or trundle into town from home is just over one mile, see?
(http://i.imgur.com/E6tMe5v.jpg)

The venue for the BBC SSO is approximately where it says 'George Square' (my studio was just around the corner from there) while the Royal Concert Hall and the RSNO are five minutes further to the North and the gym I use is maybe five minutes south of the square.
I know I'm giving my location away but I don't care because I'll be moving house soon.

You sometimes mention the public library. Do you have far to travel for that?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 04, 2017, 08:41:21 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 04, 2017, 06:13:44 AM
You sometimes mention the public library. Do you have far to travel for that?

Practically always the North End branch.  There and back to the office is a nice half hour's walk.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 04, 2017, 09:53:05 PM
Yeah, that's a nice distance for a walk to the library. :) Weather permitting, of course. Over here the West of Scotland weather will change every five minutes. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 06, 2017, 08:13:38 PM
This morning I'm going to the gym as early as possible.
Tonight I've a 'Game of Thrones' viewing to attend with my neighbour and her chums. I pointed out that I haven't seen the first two episodes yet, but that's not a problem because "We won't mind watching them again".  :o ;D

e: and it proved to be one of those early morning relatively quiet workouts when the weights and time both easily fly. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 07, 2017, 03:03:28 AM
Nice!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 07, 2017, 09:58:28 PM
I'm going to stretch my legs via an easy run to -

(http://i.imgur.com/6B1LjHw.jpg)

- in total it'll be almost seven miles (9km?) there and back. I plan to use the time to deeply consider such matters as: if I should move to Edinburgh full time, if I should have my gold capped front tooth replaced with something more natural looking/less yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum, attending https://www.bbc.co.uk/events/e2pc8g in the company of a charming young woman (redhead, albeit faux) or going alone to hear http://www.rsno.org.uk/concert-listing/concert-information/?c_id=725&action=Read%20More (having never heard it live before), if I should take my desk or buy a new one when I move house, accepting the request of a former colleague to help with their part in a photography project, and what I should buy and cook to eat tonight.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 08, 2017, 09:13:01 PM
Wednesday. A gym day. Back and biceps day. Only in my case I don't directly train biceps due to the back exercises (chin ups and pull ups, dumbbell rows and barbell rows) hitting them too. Curls are for gymbros. But if you insist on working your arms anyway, concentrate on your triceps because they make up about two thirds of your upper arm and will fill a sleeve nicely when viewed from almost any angle. And talking of sleeves...

...after the gym and food I'm off to continue my search for a brown leather jacket. Something similar to this -

(http://i.imgur.com/3k4rSeS.jpg)

- although there's no way I'll look like *that. ;D Anyway, I've been trying to find such a jacket for a while with no success. So I'm thinking of checking out the import places. If I find one there I can take it elsewhere to have it altered and fitted.

Finally, it's a visit to my solicitor for house sale stuff and then home to stuff spinach and goat cheese and whatever else I can find into some huge portobello mushrooms that are nearing their use by date.

* but in my own way I'll still look good, and sometimes great. 8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on August 09, 2017, 07:11:23 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 08, 2017, 09:13:01 PM
Wednesday. A gym day. Back and biceps day. Only in my case I don't directly train biceps due to the back exercises (chin ups and pull ups, dumbbell rows and barbell rows) hitting them too. Curls are for gymbros. But if you insist on working your arms anyway, concentrate on your triceps because they make up about two thirds of your upper arm and will fill a sleeve nicely when viewed from almost any angle. And talking of sleeves...

...after the gym and food I'm off to continue my search for a brown leather jacket. Something similar to this -

(http://i.imgur.com/3k4rSeS.jpg)

- although there's no way I'll look like *that. ;D Anyway, I've been trying to find such a jacket for a while with no success. So I'm thinking of checking out the import places. If I find one there I can take it elsewhere to have it altered and fitted.

Finally, it's a visit to my solicitor for house sale stuff and then home to stuff spinach and goat cheese and whatever else I can find into some huge portobello mushrooms that are nearing their use by date.

* but in my own way I'll still look good, and sometimes great. 8)

Everything comes back into fashion, they say.  But that sort of style has been out of fashion for long enough you might need to stick to second hand shops.  Or estate sales. :P

TD
Started a new job yesterday.  Fundamentally the same as my old job, but a better commute, hours are not as crazy, and overall stress promises to be much lower.  Main problem will be finding health insurance for myself, but thanks to COBRA*, I should have a year or so to figure that out. I just have to hope Congress figures out how they want to destroy health insurance before then.

*For nonYanks: COBRA is a federal law that allows an employee to keep the health insurance they had through their old employer for up to 18 months, provided they pay the full premium every month.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 09, 2017, 08:03:12 AM
Huzzah for a better commute, less-crazy hours, and much lower overall stress!  I rejoice with thee  :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 09, 2017, 08:35:23 AM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on August 09, 2017, 07:11:23 AM
Everything comes back into fashion, they say.  But that sort of style has been out of fashion for long enough you might need to stick to second hand shops.  Or estate sales. :P

TD
Started a new job yesterday.  Fundamentally the same as my old job, but a better commute, hours are not as crazy, and overall stress promises to be much lower.  Main problem will be finding health insurance for myself, but thanks to COBRA*, I should have a year or so to figure that out. I just have to hope Congress figures out how they want to destroy health insurance before then.

*For nonYanks: COBRA is a federal law that allows an employee to keep the health insurance they had through their old employer for up to 18 months, provided they pay the full premium every month.

Ah, that's okay, because I've been out of fashion for a long time too. ;D In fact, there's a couple of places we used for wardrobe that had old/retro stuff and I could give them a call.

And congrats on your new job. Sounds good. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 09, 2017, 11:32:30 PM
This morning I'm going to the park in a more casual frame of mind. On the way I'll buy a pint of milk. It's usually easy to find a vacant bench. And there I think I'll read -

[asin]0811221806[/asin]

Piano Stories by Felisberto Hernandez

- I've no idea what to expect from it, but that's not necessarily a bad thing.

On the way back I'll check out the new greengrocer that's been recommended to me. If I get some floury potatoes I can do the cheap and cheerful roast potatoes/onions/thyme thing with a sirloin steak. And green beans. But if I take a nap and wake sans enthusiasm I'll just order a pizza and salad.  ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 10, 2017, 03:07:05 AM
Reading on a park bench is the height of civilized living, I think.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on August 12, 2017, 10:15:56 PM
I woke up with a strange tinnitus in my left ear. A day after, it's still there. I think I will need to see a doctor this monday then... I use my left ear to listen to music, please, I hope there is nothing wrong with it!  :(
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 13, 2017, 12:53:14 AM
Quote from: aleazk on August 12, 2017, 10:15:56 PM
I woke up with a strange tinnitus in my left ear. A day after, it's still there. I think I will need to see a doctor this monday then... I use my left ear to listen to music, please, I hope there is nothing wrong with it!  :(

If you're not feeling dizzy and don't have any other symptoms it might just be a build up of ear wax or an infection. But yeah, it's important not to mess around. A visit to the doctor will be the best way to deal with it, although depending on where you live it could improve by the time you get an appointment. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on August 13, 2017, 02:14:52 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 13, 2017, 12:53:14 AM
If you're not feeling dizzy and don't have any other symptoms it might just be a build up of ear wax or an infection. But yeah, it's important not to mess around. A visit to the doctor will be the best way to deal with it, although depending on where you live it could improve by the time you get an appointment. ;D

Now I seem to feel better... but... ha... curiously, I slept wearing earplugs (very noisy around this part of the woods...) and the thing started when I woke up... it seems the ear wax diagnosis is right on the spot. Thank you, Dr.Nik!  :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 13, 2017, 02:22:50 AM
Quote from: aleazk on August 13, 2017, 02:14:52 AM
Now I seem to feel better... but... ha... curiously, I slept wearing earplugs (very noisy around this part of the woods...) and the thing started when I woke up... it seems the ear wax diagnosis is right on the spot. Thank you, Dr.Nik!  :)

Glad to hear it.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 13, 2017, 05:50:08 AM
I must admit that I am fortunate to have avoided disaster (in a sense);  it is a long while since I backed up the electronic folders with my compositional work, but the task is now done — when I first hit Copy Here, the estimate it gave for the duration of the task was seven hours plus, but I knew that would prove inaccurate.  Shan't wait so long before running the drill again.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 13, 2017, 06:52:38 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 13, 2017, 05:50:08 AM
I must admit that I am fortunate to have avoided disaster (in a sense);  it is a long while since I backed up the electronic folders with my compositional work, but the task is now done — when I first hit Copy Here, the estimate it gave for the duration of the task was seven hours plus, but I knew that would prove inaccurate.  Shan't wait so long before running the drill again.

Peace of mind.

Until this year I'd four copies (original stored locally, three elsewhere) of most of my professional work. But it's not catalogued with much consistency.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 13, 2017, 11:03:22 PM
Today I'm walking into town to drop off my guitar at the guitar repair guy and then I'll continue on the short distance to the end of the street, around the corner and along a few blocks by the riverside until I reach the gym.

(http://i.imgur.com/xXRN9Ih.jpg)

(Panorama by John Knox. About 200 years later my gym is located roughly where the light toned building at the far end of the bridge is.)
If I go early enough I'll have a late breakfast after my workout, but if I don't I'll grab a couple of cheeseburgers from a nearby cafe - and that's a no lose situation right there. 8)


e: on the way home I bought a suede jacket -

(http://i.imgur.com/yM6fy3z.jpg)

I have the same style in grey wool and also another in navy blue brushed silk. But that's enough jackets for now because most of the time I'll still be wearing my leather jacket.

Also, unlike the model in the photo the jacket won't be worn with jeans, because I quit wearing jeans when I was 40 (and when I was 50 I quit wearing gym shoes outside the gym) but it'll still be part of a good number of fits.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 14, 2017, 04:05:55 AM
Yesterday was the day of sleep by stages.  The missus was to return on a bus, and would not arrive in Boston much before midnight—which is well past my bedtime.  The plan was that I would catch a good nap before heading to South Station to pick her up.  A happy improvisation was a 90-minute nap in the afternoon.

—My latest Music Which Just Sends Me Into the Blissful Deep-Relaxation Zone is, Schoenberg's arrangement of Joh. Strauss II's Roses From the South for harmonium, piano & string quartet.  This is not at all the same as "boring music," no, no, no.—

I was awakened from the nap by a call from my old mate Paul, who rang from the beach down Boca Raton way.  He caught me up on his new job at St-Paul's-in-the-Cabana (it's all going splendidly).

I then relaxed by watching the 1966 Batman movie and the fourth Indiana Jones adventure, eating a lovely broiled salmon during the latter.  At eight o'clock, the missus confirmed that she was aboard a bus, and trundling up West 59th Street.  So I lay down to rest again.

When my alarm went off at 10:50pm (my alarm plays the CD and track which I have selected, in this case Granados's Allegro de concierto), I felt very fresh, felt that I had gotten good rest, and it was not any wrench to get up, attire, and make my way to South Station.

Maria's bus had left a bit more than half an hour later than scheduled, but the traffic is light enough at that time, that I counted on their making up the time.  Which they did, and then some;  my mom-in-law & I did not have a tedious wait at the station.

When we got home, the hay I did hit, and passed back into sleep without great effort.  And this morning I awoke perfectly well rested . . . I am not at all the "work zombie" I might have been.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on August 14, 2017, 06:47:30 PM
Quote from: NikF on August 13, 2017, 11:03:22 PM
Today I'm walking into town to drop off my guitar at the guitar repair guy and then I'll continue on the short distance to the end of the street, around the corner and along a few blocks by the riverside until I reach the gym.

(http://i.imgur.com/xXRN9Ih.jpg)

(Panorama by John Knox. About 200 years later my gym is located roughly where the light toned building at the far end of the bridge is.)
If I go early enough I'll have a late breakfast after my workout, but if I don't I'll grab a couple of cheeseburgers from a nearby cafe - and that's a no lose situation right there. 8)





e: on the way home I bought a suede jacket -

(http://i.imgur.com/yM6fy3z.jpg)

I have the same style in grey wool and also another in navy blue brushed silk. But that's enough jackets for now because most of the time I'll still be wearing my leather jacket.

Also, unlike the model in the photo the jacket won't be worn with jeans, because I quit wearing jeans when I was 40 (and when I was 50 I quit wearing gym shoes outside the gym) but it'll still be part of a good number of fits.

Huzza on finding the jacket.  But really:  I am 58, and when not at work (where we are expected to dress "professionally", I wear jeans all the time. When I want to feel dressy I have designer jeans, mostly Guess. Otherwise I wear Levis and Old Navy. Khakis and chinos make me feel overdressed.  I don't wear sneakers every day, because I like to wear sandals.  This is South Florida after all.

My one concession to age is not wearing skinny jeans.  Slim fit is sexy enough works well for me.

Funny thing is, that although I was a child of the 60s, and was a teenager in the 70s, I never wore a pair of jeans until I was 20, in college, and living away from home.

(BTW, my mental picture of you pegged you about 40 y.o.)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on August 15, 2017, 05:04:23 PM
Quote from: aleazk on July 12, 2017, 09:52:12 PM
I started to typeset on the computer a set of very detailed notes (nearly three notebooks) on a subject in general relativity (called global methods) which I took five years ago when I was studying it (and a bit obsessed). The final goal would be to make those notes into a textbook. I think this is the right time for this because, with all the new stuff about colliding/merging black holes from the ligo gravitational waves detectors, likely there will be a new peak of interest on this from many young researchers. These methods are necessary to prove some very hard theorems that give some very general results about the dynamics of such systems. These results were obtained in the 1970s, mostly by S.Hawking, so there's nothing really very new (maybe except for some few things). Nevertheless, any researcher entering into the field of black hole mergers has to be familiar with these results since they provide the general big picture on which one further investigates the details. The theorems as well as the methods are presented in a book by Hawking which is infamously hard to read because it uses an awkward notation and redaction style. Worse, the proof of one of the most important theorems (the one that says that the resulting black hole stabilizes to a configuration that can be described by only three parameters, which are mass, angular momentum and charge, and which is called a Kerr black hole) is scattered in many different papers by different authors, where each contributed to solve some part of the proof. This theorem can actually be seen in the wave profile obtained by ligo, since the merging ends in a ringdown (in my opinion, that should be enough to give a Nobel prize to Hawking and all the other authors that contributed to that proof). My book aims to be more accessible and readable.

On the other hand, I have been also typesetting for some time now another set of notes with the hope to complete a very ambituous  book about mathematical quantum mechanics which goes from the basics to quantum gravity. I have two and a half chapters of eight so far, as well as several appendices which develop with some detail many topics that are needed for reading the book.

So far, progress is steady but somewhat slow. I wish I could do it faster.

I have been working quite hard on these projects lately... again, progress is steady but somewhat slow. I really get very tired after so many hours of such a monotonous task (from the physical point of view, intellectually is quite fun) of being seated in front of a screen in the same position... and I still have a whole very dense, minuscule calligraphy notebook of handwritten stuff which I want to include in these things... not sure if it's worth the pain... I mean, the prize is beautiful... but the process is really draining.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 16, 2017, 01:28:05 AM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on August 14, 2017, 06:47:30 PM
Huzza on finding the jacket.  But really:  I am 58, and when not at work (where we are expected to dress "professionally", I wear jeans all the time. When I want to feel dressy I have designer jeans, mostly Guess. Otherwise I wear Levis and Old Navy. Khakis and chinos make me feel overdressed.  I don't wear sneakers every day, because I like to wear sandals.

Yeah, I'm aware that jeans can be styled in a number of ways. And you certainly sound like you've got your look together. :)
My reasons for not wearing them are many and range from stuff like while the exercise hasn't quite made my thighs resemble the those of a cyclist, they're way out of proportion and so it's difficult to find a fit. And then there's the fact that I like the leather jacket, silk scarf, boots, T-shirt combo but the jeans are then (for my taste) overkill.
It's funny though, because quite often I worked with the same group of people who knew my fashion likes/dislikes and on one occasion wardrobe made me a denim camera strap. ;D

Quote
This is South Florida after all.

Over the years I've travelled to both the east and west coasts of the US, but outside of the novels of Carl Hiaasen I've never been to Florida although I've always thought it sounds bizarre cool.

Quote
(BTW, my mental picture of you pegged you about 40 y.o.)

I'm not sure I've ever felt my age. Emotionally and physically I feel about 30. And speaking of the physical...

...while Monday is nominally chest/triceps gym day, today is back/biceps. But because I don't directly work my biceps (the chin ups/weighted chin ups for my back take care of that) it's mostly a couple of different rows and a few sets of hammer curls. If I take a pair of gloves the heavy bag gets 3x3 minute rounds. I've no idea yet what I'll eat post workout.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 16, 2017, 01:30:48 AM
Quote from: aleazk on August 15, 2017, 05:04:23 PM
I have been working quite hard on these projects lately... again, progress is steady but somewhat slow. I really get very tired after so many hours of such a monotonous task (from the physical point of view, intellectually is quite fun) of being seated in front of a screen in the same position... and I still have a whole very dense, minuscule calligraphy notebook of handwritten stuff which I want to include in these things... not sure if it's worth the pain... I mean, the prize is beautiful... but the process is really draining.

I don't know anything about your work, but I do know that when I've a task that seems tiresome the memory of it fades quickly while the eventual reward remains lasting and the experience as a whole beneficial. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 16, 2017, 03:54:25 AM
Although the search for a replacement organist is still in progress, I have populated all the Sundays in September and October with subs.  Since I have not yet worked with any of these colleagues, I was loath to just hire any one for an entire month, so I have some four organists in a rotation.

It is not a crippling concern, but I wonder if the delay in finding a suitable accompanist may necessitate our forgoing the Christmas Concert this year.  My hope is still green:  we may yet find someone who is so reliable a musician, that he/she can come aboard and get right into the swing of it all.

Sure, the search is a bit of A Project, but (a) I am very fond of the HTUMC congregation, and I want to find them(/us) a good, suitable organist, and (b) since I am the Music Director, if I cannot get this done, who at the church could?  It's my job, of course.  Not just a job, though: a labor of love.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 16, 2017, 05:52:48 AM
When I got home from the gym there was a letter from the council member informing me that all the structural tests have finally finished and that they're sorry for the inconvenience. But I think I'll give it one more week before calling the estate agent and asking them to put the house on the market...
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 16, 2017, 05:54:38 AM
Festina lente . . . .
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 16, 2017, 06:08:46 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 16, 2017, 05:54:38 AM
Festina lente . . . .

Absolutely. And I like to think that's my default across the board.
Having said that, I've allowed a small celebration in the form of having (courtesy of my kind neighbour) a slice of Battenburg cake with a cup of tea.

(http://i.imgur.com/ojyYDVl.jpg)

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battenberg_cake
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Crudblud on August 16, 2017, 06:17:17 AM
Quote from: aleazk on August 15, 2017, 05:04:23 PM
I have been working quite hard on these projects lately... again, progress is steady but somewhat slow. I really get very tired after so many hours of such a monotonous task (from the physical point of view, intellectually is quite fun) of being seated in front of a screen in the same position... and I still have a whole very dense, minuscule calligraphy notebook of handwritten stuff which I want to include in these things... not sure if it's worth the pain... I mean, the prize is beautiful... but the process is really draining.

Take breaks every hour, do some exercise or get something to eat, it helps in my experience. I'm sure the effort will be worth it in the end.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 16, 2017, 06:25:26 AM
Definitely, regular breaks, and get off the tuchus.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on August 16, 2017, 05:34:18 PM
Quote from: NikF on August 16, 2017, 01:30:48 AM
I don't know anything about your work, but I do know that when I've a task that seems tiresome the memory of it fades quickly while the eventual reward remains lasting and the experience as a whole beneficial. :)

Yes, I try to focuss on that. After all, what would be the point of this life without those lasting things...
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on August 16, 2017, 05:41:56 PM
Quote from: Crudblud on August 16, 2017, 06:17:17 AM
Take breaks every hour, do some exercise or get something to eat, it helps in my experience. I'm sure the effort will be worth it in the end.

Quite true. A couple of years ago, I used to have better habits regarding that, but they have been slowly deteriorating. Anxiety to make some actual significative advance in the seemingly endless pile of notes doesn't help either.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on August 16, 2017, 09:51:01 PM
Well, I certainly cannot disagree with that!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Autumn Leaves on August 16, 2017, 11:52:29 PM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on August 16, 2017, 03:47:24 AM
No Pugg/Don Carlo, I don't give a shit, see  ;)

You really should actually post here, you've been registered to this site since 2014 and now you just visit here to look at my posts. I don't care that you value my posts like they're biblical scripture but you could at least do the favor of pitching in sometimes Pugg  ;)

I'm sure your opera knowledge would be valued around here.

I wrote a piece for you, the least you could do is acknowledge it, lol

But if you're going to be making sly references to me on TC, at least realize that you're not being clever and your not above me either.  :laugh:

Member "Don Carlo" = "Pugg" from Talk Classical? - I wondered about the (strange) behaviour of this member a few times..
I thought they may actually have been an Alt. identity of one of the other members so I guess I was wrong.
He seems "normal" on TC - I wonder why he doesn't respond/talks gibberish on this forum?.
Was/is he giving you a hard time on the other forum Alien?.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 17, 2017, 01:16:43 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on August 16, 2017, 10:56:53 PM
The more I think about it, the worst thing that could happen to a human would be physical torture over a long span of time.

Otherwise you die? your wife/girlfriend dies? your parents die? you loose your job? you gain a new job? you get happy? you get sad/depressed? you get lonely?

Things both within and outside of your control happens all the time, it's just life.

The former are things I almost feel a duty to attend to.
The latter aren't worth worrying about and so I don't worry about them, but I can control how I react to them.

Right now it's time for a walk to the park with a book and a carton of milk and take it from there.  8)


e: Rain stopped play
So the amended order of the day is -

Shave head.

Prepare (and start to cook) braised beef with red onions.

Polish shoes, probably while listening to recordings of 'Hancock's Half Hour' radio show.

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on August 17, 2017, 07:08:53 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on August 16, 2017, 10:40:01 PM
As a human ( :o ) it's one of those things we have to come to terms with. I'm highly cynical (and occasionally nihilistic) but the absurdist, which is my true self; can't help but see the stupidity and nonsensical nature of things.

Today, I experienced the ultimate medical crisis resulting into hysterical irony and think I've had a metaphorical brick smashed to my face. I feel like I am a different person completely between yesterday and today.

I'm not a Queen fan but the lyrics "Nothing really matters, anyone can see" keep resonating strongly with me right now, life is fucking pathetic, stupid, sinister, evil, dark, childish (yes, many adults are still kids inside), ironic, chaotic, aimless, abstract and so different from the way we choose to construct the way we see it in our minds. 


People are stupid, the internet is just a projection of the internal stupidity in our minds that we don't necessarily express directly in person, in real life.

Take it easy, Alien!  :) that bit*h, life, doesn't deserve that much attention, she's a c*nt!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 18, 2017, 11:10:17 AM
Friday night at the gym. I'm sure I've mentioned before that the majority of people there are young guys seeking the pump and a way to maintain it while they're clubbing. As a result of my training style and my diet (but mostly my age!) I keep it a long time and on top of that I'm as vascular as hell. Years ago I lived in a part of the city that was mostly creative types, students and student nurses. That's when I discovered that bulging veins are pr0n for the latter group.

Anyway, home now, fed (spinach and ricotta cannelloni from the deli) and watered (Chilean Sauvignon Blanc left by my ex) and I'm about to take up an invitation to spend the evening across the road watching a film with my lovely neighbour and her friends. They're all charming, but undoubtedly little twits and so the movie we watch will need to be one that presents them the opportunity to gasp in the most exaggerated manner as often as possible.
Title: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 18, 2017, 11:49:13 AM
On the Red Line headed homeward. Mamochka sent a message advising me that there is critical need of two large eggplants, and coffee. I just managed to avoid earnest rainfall in Boston; I'll have to take my chances in Lexington and Woburn. I do have me brolly.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170818/178d5dc5cf5ba708f12e7db709d8dd6e.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 19, 2017, 01:22:55 AM
While not a full blown hangover I woke feeling less than 100%. Last night I think we all drank more than usual. Anyway, as a cure I went for a slow run towards the park but felt exhausted before I got there. ;D

I've been invited to this performance in Edinburgh today:

https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/after-4-over-the-moon
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 21, 2017, 02:08:57 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 18, 2017, 11:49:13 AM
On the Red Line headed homeward. Mamochka sent a message advising me that there is critical need of two large eggplants, and coffee. I just managed to avoid earnest rainfall in Boston; I'll have to take my chances in Lexington and Woburn. I do have me brolly.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170818/178d5dc5cf5ba708f12e7db709d8dd6e.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Boston subway? Our subway is approximately the size of a child's model railway that takes about 30 minutes to run around in a complete circle.
(http://i.imgur.com/mSIJtss.jpg)


Boston is a part of the US I've never visited but often read about. It also looks like the sort of place that wouldn't let me in...
...huh, I don't care because I'm off to the gym, despite the weekend's Edinburgh International Festival shenanigans now manifesting in almost a lethargic outlook. So time for a cup of tea, half an hour or so Gerry Mulligan with Stan Getz, then I'll be ready and prepared to lift heavy stuff overhead, including my mood.

e: at the last moment I took a pair of bag gloves the same weight as my usual sparring gloves - 16oz - to the gym and after dumbbell chest and shoulder presses I worked the heavy bag and made it dance (which while a valid part of bag work is kind of a gimmick and easy if you know how) and felt okay throughout. Then a walk home including brief shelter from light rain while picking up some vegetable chow mein. Up the hill and the workout more apparent in the back of my thighs. Heavier rain. Did I leave the gate open? The exterior of my house is painted white but just now appears to encompass a range of grey(s) that would f-ck with the best efforts of Archer and Adams combined.

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on August 21, 2017, 06:02:14 PM
FYI  a schematic of Boston's subway/streetcar system, not including the bus routes which ramify in all directions.
If you look close enough:  the Fenway and Yawkey stations are the general location of Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox, the JFK/UMass stop represents the Kennedy Museum and Presidential Library. The hospital where I was born is in the general vicinity of Longwood Medical on the Green Line.
(http://www.mbta.com/uploadedimages/Schedules_and_Maps/System_Map/Survey%20Map%201%20lg.jpg)

But fret not. The place I have lived in all my adult life has a mass transit system that is pitiful even by Glasgow standards.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 22, 2017, 01:08:35 AM
Checking over my right shoulder, I see that I took the snap while we were stopped at Harvard Station.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 22, 2017, 03:28:21 AM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on August 21, 2017, 06:02:14 PM
FYI  a schematic of Boston's subway/streetcar system, not including the bus routes which ramify in all directions.
If you look close enough:  the Fenway and Yawkey stations are the general location of Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox, the JFK/UMass stop represents the Kennedy Museum and Presidential Library. The hospital where I was born is in the general vicinity of Longwood Medical on the Green Line.
(http://www.mbta.com/uploadedimages/Schedules_and_Maps/System_Map/Survey%20Map%201%20lg.jpg)


Yeah, that's a real transit system. Whenever possible and weather permitting I tend to walk everywhere, but the public transport option is one I appreciate.


Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 22, 2017, 01:08:35 AM
Checking over my right shoulder, I see that I took the snap while we were stopped at Harvard Station.

Can't read that on this tiny screen. I need to see stuff on a monitor.
Really, I should get around to having the computer components I bought the taken out their packaging and assembled, although it'll probably be obsolete by the time I find a new house.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 22, 2017, 03:50:30 AM
It's just the -ARD which is visible . . . The sight of the map (which our Jeffrey so kindly provided) did set me to wondering just where I had taken the snap.  You'd think I might remember but, well, I try not to sweat the small stuff.  And why should I give that trivial detail free rent in my brain, when I can just consult the photo?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: BasilValentine on August 22, 2017, 06:27:11 AM
Yesterday I ended up at an impromptu eclipse party on the summit ledge of a peak in the Adirondacks. My lady friend and I came unprepared but another couple arrived a few moments later with special glasses, contraband, and a pipe to smoke it in. A moment later a doctor and his wife arrived. We all shared the glasses while basking on the rocks. Turns out the doctor had sung in the chorus at the U.S. premiere of Shostakovich's 13th Symphony. I sang the chorus's first couple of phrases from the first movement. Descending just past the peak of the eclipse the quality of light was striking — like sunset light but at the wrong angle. Strange, beautiful day.
Title: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 22, 2017, 03:41:56 PM
Thumbs up!

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 22, 2017, 09:23:41 PM
Almost every day I wake around the same time, about 06:00. No matter when I went to bed, I wake at six. Usually before getting up I invest a few minutes in taking slow, deep, controlled breaths, but I'm on my feet by 06:30 at the latest, just as I am right now as I'm looking out the window and it's dull, dreich, and threatening to rain, still, good morning to you.

Back day at the gym today. I could really cut my three days a week at the gym down to two days, but it fills time by keeping me occupied and so reducing the likelihood of my standing around street corners and alternately leering or sneering.

But today will mostly be a tale of two ladies. The first is my accountant who I've an appointment with. She's kind of an old lady now and I think the only reason she hasn't retired yet is because she enjoys sighing while sadly shaking her head over me. The second lady is one who arrives driving a little van and takes away all my t-shirts and chinos and bed linen and stuff and - what happens next is amazing and truly wonderful - hours later returns with it all clean and ironed. Clearly, a magical happening. Actually, this should be a tale of three ladies with the third being the younger (late 30s? early 40s?) sister of the laundry lady, who whenever I've gone in to the laundry always takes her glasses off as soon as she sees me coming. Maybe she thinks she looks better without them and so wants to appear more attractive to me? Or perhaps she finds my features uncomely and so tries to blur out my ghastly visage, lest they affront and send her down with the vapours?

No, today should really be the tale of four ladies, with the fourth being my auld granny, who if she were still here would be horrified and berate me for not doing my own laundry.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Omicron9 on August 23, 2017, 06:48:31 AM
Starting my 4th cup of hot organic green tea.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 23, 2017, 07:10:27 AM
Hot green tea is my second beverage every weekday.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Omicron9 on August 23, 2017, 08:09:26 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 23, 2017, 07:10:27 AM
Hot green tea is my second beverage every weekday.

And what is your first?   :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 23, 2017, 08:24:41 AM
Quote from: Omicron9 on August 23, 2017, 08:09:26 AM
And what is your first?   :)

My wife and mom-in-law, being artists, keep later hours than can I, what with my reporting in to The Man every morning 8) My mom-in-law very thoughtfully makes a carafe of coffee in the French press last thing at night (well, I am asleep by then, so last thing at night is a figure of speech).  I don't know that it really wakes me up by virtue of the caffeine, but starting the day with a warmed-up cup of coffee, I find good comfort food.  A most agreeable ritual.


First thing I get to the office, I put the kettle on, and brew a cup of green tea;  another most a. r.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: nodogen on August 23, 2017, 08:46:24 AM
Just got back from my check up with a neurologist. I've had dalliances with epilepsy and now I need to set a new PB for how many digestive biscuits I can dunk in a big mug of Earl Grey....
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Omicron9 on August 23, 2017, 08:56:05 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 23, 2017, 08:24:41 AM
My wife and mom-in-law, being artists, keep later hours than can I, what with my reporting in to The Man every morning 8) My mom-in-law very thoughtfully makes a carafe of coffee in the French press last thing at night (well, I am asleep by then, so last thing at night is a figure of speech).  I don't know that it really wakes me up by virtue of the caffeine, but starting the day with a warmed-up cup of coffee, I find good comfort food.  A most agreeable ritual.


First thing I get to the office, I put the kettle on, and brew a cup of green tea;  another most a. r.

Cool.  Thank you for sharing the drink rituals.  Brewing coffee or tea = good ritual.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 24, 2017, 07:08:34 AM
I went into town to buy a potato peeler. On my way to the emporium of artisan potato peeling devices I stopped in http://www.cca-glasgow.com/ and after a browse took a seat in the cafe for lunch -

(http://i.imgur.com/Iwh10ns.jpg)

Face fed, I walked along the high street passing clothing stores, where I spied an unstructured jacket/blazer. I tried it on but didn't like the weight of it. Then I tried a second and bought it.

(http://i.imgur.com/5CCbzYb.jpg)

Finally, heading home I made two stops. The first at the tailoring lady to hand in my new jacket and have it altered, then into the whisky shop where I bought an Islay single malt.
All in all a fruitful outing, despite failing to come home with a potato peeler.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 24, 2017, 07:08:49 AM
When one thinks of a piece of music being "commissioned," one is apt to think of money changing hands (to the composer's advantage).  For an unknown such as I, being paid to write music is quite the rarity.  More often, I am asked to write a piece, with the intangible return of, the promise of a performance.  A year-ish ago, when my friend, veteran flutist Peter H. Bloom, asked me to write a piece for his trio, Ensemble Aubade (playing the instruments of the celebrated Debussy Sonata for flute, viola & harp), I knew (a) that I could write a technically challenging piece, and (b) that it would indeed see multiple performances.

– even more performances, thanks to their suggestion that the new piece be written such, that the harp part could be executed on a piano.  The Ensemble often tours, and some of the venues to which they travel do not have a harp readily available.

Well, this is all ancient history, in a sense, because I wrote the piece (and its piano adaptation) last summer.  The Ensemble were planning to perform it in November, so when serious rehearsal was under way I was invited to attend a late-ish rehearsal, in part so that I could answer a couple of questions.  There was a suggestion or two (cast a couple of flute notes an octave higher, here;  modify the attack of the viola notes, there).  There were a couple of typos in the MS. (a C-flat which needed to be C-natural, an incorrectly marked metronome marking, e.g.)

I took note of all the emendations which I should need to make in the score.  I did not do the work just then, because the date of the première of Oxygen Footprint was the same weekend as (a) the première of The Young Lady Holding a Phone in Her Teeth for ten players (which I was going to conduct), and (b) that season's pair of Triad concerts.

Therefore, I had not made the changes to the score, before papers got shuffled, and my notes went I knew not where.

Time passed.

Ensemble Aubade took the (piano version of the) piece on their tour of the Midwest in April of this year, and also played it as part of a May Henningmusick event in Somerville, Mass.  When I learnt that they would play the harp version in Vermont this month, I marked my calendar.  That concert was this past Sunday, and it went beautifully.  One downstream beauty (as it were) is, that the occasion drew the attention of my publisher (who had already created a catalogue number for the piece), and at a time when he has some capacity.  So I got e-mail from him yesterday saying that he needs the Sibelius files of both versions, to make them available ASAP.  (A composer likes it, and likes it very much, when the publisher says "available ASAP.")

It so happened that I carried with me into the office a sack full of stuff to sort (because, yes, I had gotten tired of seeing this sack taking up space in a corner).  While sorting this stuff, what should I find, but the three-ring binder with the score of The Young Lady Holding a Phone in Her Teeth (from which I had conducted in November, and tucked into the pocket of the back cover of the binder, my list of emendations for the score of Oxygen Footprint.

Really: I had "just happened" to have the pile of stuff – in which I had 'lost' these crucial notes – with me, and I had found this sheet, at the time that e-mail from my publisher came in saying, "send me the Sibelius files instanter."

So directly I arrived home yesterday – I rested my eyes, actually . . . I lay down, closed my eyes, and listened to the Sibelius (the composer) Fourth Symphony – and once I had thus taken a little rest, I fired up Sibelius (the music notation software) to make the necessary changes, and sent them along to my publisher.

Last night (past my bedtime) he sent a PDF to proof, and this morning I sent in my list of corrigenda.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 24, 2017, 07:09:37 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 24, 2017, 07:08:34 AM
All in all a fruitful outing, despite failing to come home with a potato peeler.

One spud step at a time.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on August 24, 2017, 11:45:38 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 24, 2017, 07:08:34 AM
I went into town to buy a potato peeler. On my way to the emporium of artisan potato peeling devices I stopped in http://www.cca-glasgow.com/ and after a browse took a seat in the cafe for lunch -

(http://i.imgur.com/Iwh10ns.jpg)

Face fed, I walked along the high street passing clothing stores, where I spied an unstructured jacket/blazer. I tried it on but didn't like the weight of it. Then I tried a second and bought it.

(http://i.imgur.com/5CCbzYb.jpg)

Finally, heading home I made two stops. The first at the tailoring lady to hand in my new jacket and have it altered, then into the whisky shop where I bought an Islay single malt.
All in all a fruitful outing, despite failing to come home with a potato peeler.

Veggie haggis fritters? A triple contradiction in terms!
Good work on the jacket.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 24, 2017, 05:41:50 PM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on August 24, 2017, 11:45:38 AM
Veggie haggis fritters? A triple contradiction in terms!
Good work on the jacket.

Yeah, it's a vegan cafe, beloved and frequented by my neighbour and her little twit friends. The food is fresh and not bad at all, but yes, vegetarian haggis probably shouldn't exist. Also, the place it's located was one of the galleries that a lifetime ago I had a few pieces exhibited in during my 'I want to be a combo of Brando, Rocky Marciano and Jeanloup Sieff' period. ;D

Jacket - I have an unstructured black linen suit (and another in what's described as 'ecru') but today's purchase is heavier in merino wool, and as you know the cut is only half the battle with the weight going a long way to determine much of how it appears when being worn.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 25, 2017, 12:59:40 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 24, 2017, 05:41:50 PM
Jacket - I have an unstructured black linen suit (and another in what's described as 'ecru') but today's purchase is heavier in merino wool, and as you know the cut is only half the battle with the weight going a long way to determine much of how it appears when being worn.


There is both technique, and room for art.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 25, 2017, 01:11:25 AM
Conquer!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Omicron9 on August 25, 2017, 05:05:49 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 24, 2017, 07:08:49 AM
When one thinks of a piece of music being "commissioned," one is apt to think of money changing hands (to the composer's advantage).  For an unknown such as I, being paid to write music is quite the rarity.  More often, I am asked to write a piece, with the intangible return of, the promise of a performance.  A year-ish ago, when my friend, veteran flutist Peter H. Bloom, asked me to write a piece for his trio, Ensemble Aubade (playing the instruments of the celebrated Debussy Sonata for flute, viola & harp), I knew (a) that I could write a technically challenging piece, and (b) that it would indeed see multiple performances.

– even more performances, thanks to their suggestion that the new piece be written such, that the harp part could be executed on a piano.  The Ensemble often tours, and some of the venues to which they travel do not have a harp readily available.

Well, this is all ancient history, in a sense, because I wrote the piece (and its piano adaptation) last summer.  The Ensemble were planning to perform it in November, so when serious rehearsal was under way I was invited to attend a late-ish rehearsal, in part so that I could answer a couple of questions.  There was a suggestion or two (cast a couple of flute notes an octave higher, here;  modify the attack of the viola notes, there).  There were a couple of typos in the MS. (a C-flat which needed to be C-natural, an incorrectly marked metronome marking, e.g.)

I took note of all the emendations which I should need to make in the score.  I did not do the work just then, because the date of the première of Oxygen Footprint was the same weekend as (a) the première of The Young Lady Holding a Phone in Her Teeth for ten players (which I was going to conduct), and (b) that season's pair of Triad concerts.

Therefore, I had not made the changes to the score, before papers got shuffled, and my notes went I knew not where.

Time passed.

Ensemble Aubade took the (piano version of the) piece on their tour of the Midwest in April of this year, and also played it as part of a May Henningmusick event in Somerville, Mass.  When I learnt that they would play the harp version in Vermont this month, I marked my calendar.  That concert was this past Sunday, and it went beautifully.  One downstream beauty (as it were) is, that the occasion drew the attention of my publisher (who had already created a catalogue number for the piece), and at a time when he has some capacity.  So I got e-mail from him yesterday saying that he needs the Sibelius files of both versions, to make them available ASAP.  (A composer likes it, and likes it very much, when the publisher says "available ASAP.")

It so happened that I carried with me into the office a sack full of stuff to sort (because, yes, I had gotten tired of seeing this sack taking up space in a corner).  While sorting this stuff, what should I find, but the three-ring binder with the score of The Young Lady Holding a Phone in Her Teeth (from which I had conducted in November, and tucked into the pocket of the back cover of the binder, my list of emendations for the score of Oxygen Footprint.

Really: I had "just happened" to have the pile of stuff – in which I had 'lost' these crucial notes – with me, and I had found this sheet, at the time that e-mail from my publisher came in saying, "send me the Sibelius files instanter."

So directly I arrived home yesterday – I rested my eyes, actually . . . I lay down, closed my eyes, and listened to the Sibelius (the composer) Fourth Symphony – and once I had thus taken a little rest, I fired up Sibelius (the music notation software) to make the necessary changes, and sent them along to my publisher.

Last night (past my bedtime) he sent a PDF to proof, and this morning I sent in my list of corrigenda.

Excellent, Dr. Henning.  Another testament to the healing powers of Sibelius 4th.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 25, 2017, 05:19:52 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 24, 2017, 05:41:50 PM
Jacket - I have an unstructured black linen suit (and another in what's described as 'ecru') but today's purchase is heavier in merino wool, and as you know the cut is only half the battle with the weight going a long way to determine much of how it appears when being worn.

Your jacket quest sets my easily distracted mind to thinking about neckwear.  It might be an eccentricity, but I do enjoy wearing neckties. (I have a theory about disaffection for ties, which I may relate later.)  I do not, though, like spending much money on ties.  There's a boutique a short walk from the office, and twice a year their window sports a sign "All Ties ½ Off," but at their prices, even 50% is more than I like to disgorge for a tie.

Happily, it is always easy to find a tie I like at Marshall's (one of a number of cheap-retail chains) for <$10.

What am I about, posting all this here?  Sometimes, it is my misfortune, once I have bought a dashing tie which I like, the first time I wear it, I manage to water-stain it (e.g.)  Technically, I could "get away" with wearing it to work, where hardly anyone would notice such a detail.  But my wife and mom-in-law are artists, and nothing escapes their eye. "Also," as I hear Nero Wolfe say, "damn it, there is my self-esteem."  So I have two ties, which I like, very much, but which I have only worn once, for the above reason.

Well, where is the problem?  Take the ties to a cleaner!  There is a cleaners a short walk from home, and I took the ties there . . . a couple of days later, I picked them up, paid the modest $5 apiece.  And (silly of me, of course) not thinking that they were difficult articles to clean (and the stains not being of any trying variety), I did not check them until I got home . . . and the stains had not been removed.  I might have taken them back, but when I had dropped them off, I did specifically ask, "You can take care of these, yes?" (another reason I did not bother verifying upon pick-up).

My feeling is that I do like to patronize local, if they do the job;  I was not in the humor to micromanage this business relationship.  There are things I just won't sweat.

There is a cleaners near the office, and Wednesday I finally organized myself enough to bring my ties to them, pointing out the objectionable stains, and wishing to confirm that they can make it right.  Peculiarities of our mismatched schedules mean that it will be Monday before I pick them up.

But hope waxes strong.  (Wearing another tie here.)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 25, 2017, 07:29:42 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 25, 2017, 05:19:52 AM
Your jacket quest sets my easily distracted mind to thinking about neckwear.  It might be an eccentricity, but I do enjoy wearing neckties. (I have a theory about disaffection for ties, which I may relate later.)  I do not, though, like spending much money on ties.  There's a boutique a short walk from the office, and twice a year their window sports a sign "All Ties ½ Off," but at their prices, even 50% is more than I like to disgorge for a tie.

Happily, it is always easy to find a tie I like at Marshall's (one of a number of cheap-retail chains) for <$10.

What am I about, posting all this here?  Sometimes, it is my misfortune, once I have bought a dashing tie which I like, the first time I wear it, I manage to water-stain it (e.g.)  Technically, I could "get away" with wearing it to work, where hardly anyone would notice such a detail.  But my wife and mom-in-law are artists, and nothing escapes their eye. "Also," as I hear Nero Wolfe say, "damn it, there is my self-esteem."  So I have two ties, which I like, very much, but which I have only worn once, for the above reason.

Well, where is the problem?  Take the ties to a cleaner!  There is a cleaners a short walk from home, and I took the ties there . . . a couple of days later, I picked them up, paid the modest $5 apiece.  And (silly of me, of course) not thinking that they were difficult articles to clean (and the stains not being of any trying variety), I did not check them until I got home . . . and the stains had not been removed.  I might have taken them back, but when I had dropped them off, I did specifically ask, "You can take care of these, yes?" (another reason I did not bother verifying upon pick-up).

My feeling is that I do like to patronize local, if they do the job;  I was not in the humor to micromanage this business relationship.  There are things I just won't sweat.

There is a cleaners near the office, and Wednesday I finally organized myself enough to bring my ties to them, pointing out the objectionable stains, and wishing to confirm that they can make it right.  Peculiarities of our mismatched schedules mean that it will be Monday before I pick them up.

But hope waxes strong.  (Wearing another tie here.)

See, this is where the value of having a cleaner guy (or tailoring alteration guy/lady or used book guy or guitar repair guy or whatever) that you can unquestionably rely on becomes increasingly apparent. When you find a tie (or in my case, a silk scarf) that suits your look, broadens your horizons, affects the local property values, or simply tickles yer fancy, it can be hugely disappointing to have it put out of commission and then when it's returned to your wardrobe to still not be fit for purpose.

My solution to this is kind of drastic. If I find a scarf I really like, I buy two of them. Then I wear one that I've nominated as 'dead man walking' so that when the inevitable happens I can bring the other off the bench without missing a beat. None of this 'Darrin is played by Dick York Sargent' nonsense - it fools no one, aye, and certainly not your wife, who would probably be able to spot it in poor lighting and from the other side of the room.

Also, I'm all for hearing about 'disaffection for ties theory'. But at your leisure, of course.

And I can't quote attachments, but, good stuff.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 25, 2017, 08:53:26 AM
To approach the theory in a roundabout manner . . . I have an unusually tall nephew (now a sophomore in college).  In a family of generally tall men, he now towers at least 8 inches above any of the rest of us.

In retrospect, I've felt for my brother, trying to keep his boy in clothes that more or less fit him, a young man who grew out of clothes before they had a chance to be worn.

. . . On the odd occasion when I have heard a chap say that he hates ties (and, mind you, everyone is at liberty to like or dislike any accessory or garment, for any reason he or she finds suitable) chances are high that the reason given is, finding that it constricts the neck.

I propose that neckwear is not the culprit in this complaint.  I mean, it is the simplest solution, not to tighten the tie's knot past one's comfort, right?

No, the problem is, a shirt whose collar is too tight.

And the more I've thought about it, the more I am inclined to consider this a prejudice formed as a young man, when one was compelled to wear a tie, but was wearing a shirt whose neck size was grown out of.

So there's my theory:  if we all made sure to buy shirts of the proper collar measurement, the incidence of complaints of neckties being "too tight" would be reduced to zero.

This is my goal.  I have a purpose in life.  Now.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 25, 2017, 09:11:56 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 25, 2017, 08:53:26 AM
To approach the theory in a roundabout manner . . . I have an unusually tall nephew (now a sophomore in college).  In a family of generally tall men, he now towers at least 8 inches above any of the rest of us.

In retrospect, I've felt for my brother, trying to keep his boy in clothes that more or less fit him, a young man who grew out of clothes before they had a chance to be worn.

. . . On the odd occasion when I have heard a chap say that he hates ties (and, mind you, everyone is at liberty to like or dislike any accessory or garment, for any reason he or she finds suitable) chances are high that the reason given is, finding that it constricts the neck.

I propose that neckwear is not the culprit in this complaint.  I mean, it is the simplest solution, not to tighten the tie's knot past one's comfort, right?

No, the problem is, a shirt whose collar is too tight.

And the more I've thought about it, the more I am inclined to consider this a prejudice formed as a young man, when one was compelled to wear a tie, but was wearing a shirt whose neck size was grown out of.

So there's my theory:  if we all made sure to buy shirts of the proper collar measurement, the incidence of complaints of neckties being "too tight" would be reduced to zero.

This is my goal.  I have a purpose in life.  Now.

Yeah, sounds like a perfectly valid theory. And a noble cause. Let me know if you set up a Patreon. ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on August 25, 2017, 09:19:44 AM
I propose a competing theory.

Ties are almost inevitably part of "dressing up", and in my experience not liking ties is a stand-in or symbol for not liking to get "dressed up", and probably links back to those days of boyhood when immature youth was forced into shirt, tie, dress shoes, suit jacket and pants to attend church or some function at a "fancy" restaurant--and when the termination of that necessity, the first burst of liberation, was signalled by undoing the tie as rapidly as possible.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 25, 2017, 09:31:50 AM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on August 25, 2017, 09:19:44 AM
I propose a competing theory.

Ties are almost inevitably part of "dressing up", and in my experience not liking ties is a stand-in or symbol for not liking to get "dressed up", and probably links back to those days of boyhood when immature youth was forced into shirt, tie, dress shoes, suit jacket and pants to attend church or some function at a "fancy" restaurant--and when the termination of that necessity, the first burst of liberation, was signalled by undoing the tie as rapidly as possible.

I'm not made of money and can only support one Patreon at a time.  ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 25, 2017, 09:44:10 AM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on August 25, 2017, 09:19:44 AM
I propose a competing theory.

Ties are almost inevitably part of "dressing up", and in my experience not liking ties is a stand-in or symbol for not liking to get "dressed up", and probably links back to those days of boyhood when immature youth was forced into shirt, tie, dress shoes, suit jacket and pants to attend church or some function at a "fancy" restaurant--and when the termination of that necessity, the first burst of liberation, was signalled by undoing the tie as rapidly as possible.

Perhaps they complement rather than compete?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 25, 2017, 09:49:39 AM
Must say that I believe that neckwear must be elective!  Liberté, Fraternité, Vêtements Chics de cou!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on August 25, 2017, 10:06:05 PM
I'M FRIGGIN' TIRED OF SEEING DONALD TRUMP'S FRIGGIN' ORANGE FACE EVERY SINGLE FRIGGIN' DAY AS I WAKE UP AND OPEN THE NEWS!

And I'm not even from the US... nor live in the US...

I knew this would happen, that's why I wanted him to lose the election (besides, of course, all the racist, misogynist, astonishing retrograde, awful stuff... duh)

AND THAT'S HIS FACE... I TRY TO NOT READ THE STUFF BELOW HIS FACE BECAUSE IT'S ALWAYS SOMETHING INCREDIBLY, BRUTALLY, STUPID AND IGNORANT.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 26, 2017, 09:21:24 PM
Due to a distraction causing a lost exercise day I'm making up for it by going for a run (including some sprint intervals) right now and then later taking a walk with my neighbour. We've decided we're going to walk no matter how accurate the forecast for rain proves to be. Having said that, if it stays dry we can gallivant as far a veggie cafe that she likes in town and have breakfast there. If not, it'll be a short round trip to the nearby 24hr place for eggs, bread and milk, then on our return I'll cook a couple of omelettes. After that? Well, her little twit friends are visiting this afternoon and I might join them later to pffft at any and all of their over enthusiastic hyper exclamations.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 27, 2017, 04:51:25 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 26, 2017, 09:21:24 PM
[...] and I might join them later to pffft at any and all of their over enthusiastic hyper exclamations.

Have you considered the possibility, that this is why they do it?  They could be playing you.  (I know you'd be cool about it, bien sûr.)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 27, 2017, 06:25:45 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 27, 2017, 04:51:25 AM
Have you considered the possibility, that this is why they do it?  They could be playing you.  (I know you'd be cool about it, bien sûr.)

Yes, there's every chance it's part of the Best. Ruse. Ever.
But I believe it's mostly them showing off and wanting stimulation and attention, both from me and each other. I'm happy to play along. Maybe I'm cooler than you think?  :)
Anyway, I'm convinced that the time will come when (perhaps while watching an episode of 'Game of Thrones' ) they'll achieve a state of peak hype, when the air above the couch will become so sparse and thin as a result of their *gasps* becoming deeply synchronised that'll they'll all get light-headed and slumber, then wake up and start all over again.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 27, 2017, 06:56:51 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 27, 2017, 06:25:45 AM
Yes, there's every chance it's part of the Best. Ruse. Ever.
But I believe it's mostly them showing off and wanting stimulation and attention, both from me and each other. I'm happy to play along. Maybe I'm cooler than you think?  :)

I should not be surprised, though I give you substantial cool cred  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 27, 2017, 08:37:06 PM
Oh dear... I only smoked cigarettes for two years. I quit decades ago, but sometimes in the early am - maybe once or twice a year, I get a craving for one. But it passes in a moment.
The brand I smoked were these -
(http://i.imgur.com/x2YsG5P.jpg)
And I had a party trick, that when I was finished with them I'd crush them out (with my bare fingers) without even flinching. I bet i can still do it. I must try.  :)

Anyway, as usual, today is a gym day for chest/triceps/shoulders. The exercises for the first two overlap somewhat. And the shoulder press is no fun for the third. But no use in complaining and no one is forcing me to exercise.

A quick look in the kitchen reveals that while stuff like basmati rice, chickpeas (garbanzo beans), couscous, red lentils, udon noodles, kidney beans, orzo (risoni) etc are all in abundance, complete proteins are scarce. So along with the weekly fresh fruit and vegetable shop there will be a visit to the butcher. And if that includes a few slices of smoked salmon I can make kedgeree topped with a soft poached egg.

And as far as I know that's it for the day. I'm not sure yet if I'll have company for the evening, but I'm easy about that in any case because I've been looking forward to reading a few bits and pieces from this -

A Capote Reader: Truman Capote.

[asin]0141185309[/asin]

Almost all of them will be new to me.  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 28, 2017, 04:23:45 AM
Smoked salmon is a joy.

Today will be the moment pf neckwear truth:  Will the stains have been removed?  I don't want to go all Lady Macbeth about them . . . but I do hope to wear those natty ties, again . . . .
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 28, 2017, 07:14:14 AM
The result is:  not quite, but they'll try again.  There may be nothing for it.

I shall be guided by thee, and buy two of each next time  0:)

Still, I'll pick these up on Thursday, and see if they are any better . . . .
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 28, 2017, 08:30:59 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 28, 2017, 07:14:14 AM
The result is:  not quite, but they'll try again.  There may be nothing for it.

I shall be guided by thee, and buy two of each next time  0:)

Still, I'll pick these up on Thursday, and see if they are any better . . . .

Shame about the results of the cleaning. Hopefully the second attempt does the trick.

Yeah, if possible buying two is the way to go.

Longer and more convoluted option -
"Considered having your neckties custom made from a material easy to clean? Might be more feasible than you think!"

I rarely complained about anything at work, but years and years ago we had a male model wearing a cheap velour jacket that wasn't very diffuse and reflected light unevenly. A pain (because it slowed us down) and when we finished I commented on never having to see it ever again. Weeks later wardrobe sent me a camera strap they had covered in the material from the jacket (although pro models obviously get paid, sometimes they also get pieces from the shoot free or at a discount) and it started a trend of colleagues gifting me custom camera straps. The number of scarves I own is rivalled by the number of 'unique' ( ???) camera straps. 
Neckties featuring selected images and designs from Looney Tunes/Merrie Melodies screencaps/random stuff awaits you.

(http://i.imgur.com/PVxCME2.jpg)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 28, 2017, 08:57:13 AM
You've opened up a whole new world unto me!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 28, 2017, 09:23:58 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 28, 2017, 08:57:13 AM
You've opened up a whole new world unto me!

Aye, but it's a potential rabbit hole, then the next few thing you know -

"Ah, I think I'll wear my new photorealistic replica recreation of the -
'A paper inside had a typewritten note saying, 'Archie Goodwin, keep this until you hear from me, JNV.' The envelope and paper were the engraved stationery of James Neville Vance. Also in the envelope was a four-in-hand-necktie, cream-coloured with brown diagonal stripes, and it had a spot on it, a large brown stain'"
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 28, 2017, 03:16:23 PM
Today the estate agent is coming and bringing a photographer to take photos of the house. I'll stay out of their way.

After they're gone I'm thinking of going to get a GoPro type camera so I can document for posterity my increasingly slower runs around the neighbourhood/into town/through the park.

Then I'm going with charming neighbour to meet one of her twit little friends who in turn has a friend moving into student accommodation with no elevator. So I'm to carry the heavier stuff up to the second (third in the US?) floor and not swear, not even once.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 30, 2017, 03:08:19 AM
Today has now become about tidying and cleaning the house. It's always tidy/clean, but the estate agent called to say they already have a potential buyer who wants to view it tomorrow. I'd planned to visit the gym this afternoon but now my exercise will come via polishing and dusting and stuff. But no complaints, because I want it sold as soon as possible.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 30, 2017, 03:19:10 AM
Conquer!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Autumn Leaves on August 30, 2017, 07:32:18 PM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on August 30, 2017, 04:15:26 PM
Looking for part time work at the moment and I'm about to send off about 30 CVs  8)

Good luck Alien! :) - are you going to keep studying full-time as well?.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Autumn Leaves on August 30, 2017, 07:45:12 PM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on August 30, 2017, 07:40:09 PM
Yep I am, it's a bitch  :D

That's great Alien - you have my respect :).
When I was studying FT I got by with a student loan supplement but it's not really to be recommended as you end up in a lot of debt (though i did eventually pay it off once I started working).
What sort of jobs are you looking for?.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Autumn Leaves on August 30, 2017, 08:04:11 PM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on August 30, 2017, 07:55:21 PM
Literally anything, I'm that kind of person.

Stacking shelves? sure
Washing dishes? sure
Administration? sure
Cleaning toilets? sure
Looking after elderly? sure
Serving food? sure

As long as there isn't any serious physical harm (getting an arm chopped off  :laugh: ) I'll apply for it.

A certain amount of hours per week on minimum wage will satisfy me whatever it is. Actually, perhaps the worse the job = the more you enjoy actually being around the (often very sterile) people at Uni  :laugh: 


(Though seriously, I was cleaning toilets at one point last year and it's actually a great chance to switch your mind of and think about deep thoughts while doing something productive 🤔 )

I'm a (depending on your viewpoint) educated person and I still have to work a shitty job so I understand where you're coming from - One can't be too fussy about their chosen profession these days it seems..
I agree having a mindless Job (mine's certainly like that) gives you a chance to think about better stuff.
Are you going to buy any CD's or stuff like that with your earnings?.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 30, 2017, 09:26:16 PM
Today is about waiting in for the first prospective buyers to view the house. Before they arrive I'm thinking of changing some of the lighting in the hallway, because at the moment it's probably capable of making Frank Gehry wake up in a cold sweat. But it's an easy fix. Also, another viewing has been arranged for Friday.

Yesterday I signed up for my next series of trapeze lessons. Now I'm thinking of adding an extra set one day a week through in Edinburgh. I'd prefer to check it out first in person though.

But before any of that, it's time for a three egg spinach omelette with some focaccia and a pint of milk.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 31, 2017, 03:12:06 AM
Today, I pick up the ties.  I doubt they will be restored as I had wished, but I am sure the cleaners have done all that can reasonably be asked of them.

On the other hand, maybe later I shall report that they look great.

Either way, cool will be maintained.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Omicron9 on August 31, 2017, 07:24:44 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 25, 2017, 07:29:42 AM
See, this is where the value of having a cleaner guy (or tailoring alteration guy/lady or used book guy or guitar repair guy or whatever) that you can unquestionably rely on becomes increasingly apparent. When you find a tie (or in my case, a silk scarf) that suits your look, broadens your horizons, affects the local property values, or simply tickles yer fancy, it can be hugely disappointing to have it put out of commission and then when it's returned to your wardrobe to still not be fit for purpose.

My solution to this is kind of drastic. If I find a scarf I really like, I buy two of them. Then I wear one that I've nominated as 'dead man walking' so that when the inevitable happens I can bring the other off the bench without missing a beat. None of this 'Darrin is played by Dick York Sargent' nonsense - it fools no one, aye, and certainly not your wife, who would probably be able to spot it in poor lighting and from the other side of the room.

Also, I'm all for hearing about 'disaffection for ties theory'. But at your leisure, of course.

And I can't quote attachments, but, good stuff.

NikF,

I'm not one for neckties; not at all.  However, I live where winter is the long season, and as such, have quite a collection of scarves.  It is not unusual for me to wear two at a time.  I smiled at your "dead man walking" system, and may adopt it for my own purposes.  Enjoyable thread.

Regards,
-09
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 31, 2017, 08:48:54 AM
I am back from the cleaners.  Rejoice with me, for in fact, the ties are so much improved, that they are very nearly Like New!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on August 31, 2017, 10:40:57 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 31, 2017, 08:48:54 AM
I am back from the cleaners.  Rejoice with me, for in fact, the ties are so much improved, that they are very nearly Like New!

Goodness.  As long as the cleaners did not, so to speak, take you to the cleaners.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on August 31, 2017, 11:05:27 AM
The re-do was gratis;  the initial outlay for cleaning the two ties, plus the original cost of the ties themselves, does not rise to the level of the "All Ties ½ Off" at the nearby boutique.

Verily, 'tis all good.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on August 31, 2017, 11:11:57 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 31, 2017, 11:05:27 AM
The re-do was gratis;  the initial outlay for cleaning the two ties, plus the original cost of the ties themselves, does not rise to the level of the "All Ties ½ Off" at the nearby boutique.

Verily, 'tis all good.

Aye verily. 
I got a box of English Breakfast tea for free this morning.  It was part of the clearance pile (nearing its expiration date), marked 2 for 2.99.  It rang up for 2.99 pure and simple.  Publix's policy in such instances is to give the item for free if the pricing is mislabelled.  What adds to the goodness is that the cashier instantly noticed and corrected it and marked it to zero before explaining to me why I was getting it for free.  So three cheers for Publix.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 31, 2017, 11:52:05 AM
Quote from: Omicron9 on August 31, 2017, 07:24:44 AM
NikF,

I'm not one for neckties; not at all.  However, I live where winter is the long season, and as such, have quite a collection of scarves.  It is not unusual for me to wear two at a time.  I smiled at your "dead man walking" system, and may adopt it for my own purposes.  Enjoyable thread.

Regards,
-09

That's serious scarf wearing indeed! Somewhere there's a thread I started (and have been meaning to bump, due to a new acquisition) devoted only to scarves and the wearing of.

But yeah, this is a fun thread in how it offers the pleasure of a peak into the day to day shenanigans and interesting (or sometimes whimsical) thoughts of forum members

I hope you'll contribute again, should you feel inclined. :)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on August 31, 2017, 11:53:15 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on August 31, 2017, 08:48:54 AM
I am back from the cleaners.  Rejoice with me, for in fact, the ties are so much improved, that they are very nearly Like New!

Excellent news! Your ties are restored, Jeffrey got free tea, and Mirror Image made it back through the portal before it closed. A fine day as a whole!
Good stuff.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on September 01, 2017, 04:23:02 AM
This morning the second prospective buyer of the house came to view it. When they left I went to the gym and after working out picked up some chicken tikka salad. I'd planned to get some fried beef/water chestnut/onions with noodles, but for some reason got the chicken tikka instead. Huh.

On returning home I turned my phone on and learned that the first couple who viewed the house yesterday have made an offer. It's a fixed price sale and so I've accepted it. Now (well, on Monday) I'll start house hunting. But I'm in no hurry because I've options as far as staying somewhere is concerned.

Tonight I might (if invited) go across the street to visit my charming neighbour, queen of the hyperventilating hive.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: North Star on September 01, 2017, 04:40:49 AM
Quote from: NikF on September 01, 2017, 04:23:02 AM
On returning home I turned my phone on and learned that the first couple who viewed the house yesterday have made an offer. It's a fixed price sale and so I've accepted it. Now (well, on Monday) I'll start house hunting. But I'm in no hurry because I've options as far as staying somewhere is concerned.
Congratulations and good luck.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on September 01, 2017, 05:59:16 AM
In the office, but no tie, today.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on September 01, 2017, 07:29:53 AM
Quote from: North Star on September 01, 2017, 04:40:49 AM
Congratulations and good luck.

Thanks. It's been a long time coming. But in the end the house sold itself.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on September 01, 2017, 07:41:16 AM
Huzzah!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Autumn Leaves on September 01, 2017, 08:08:58 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on August 30, 2017, 08:29:35 PM
Absolutely, for me it's a positive out of a potential negative. The job market's these days are often harder, even at very sub-standard jobs, anything is really sufficient tbh  :-[

Yes the job market seems to have toughened up a bit the last few years - I worry about my job quite often as I think I would have a hard time finding another one if I was made redundant.
You have the right attitude in looking for work though I think Alien - A lot of people are too proud or lazy to do certain stuff. I'll do pretty much anything to support my loved ones; that's a lot more important than my "ego" I think :).

Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on August 30, 2017, 08:29:35 PM
No  :laugh: I've given up buying CDs since loosing access to my stereo system (which is in storage). It's all digital and speakers for me this year  :-X I manage to cope though  :'(

While I really, really do miss putting Xenakis on full volume for extended hours and pissing the neighbors off  :-* :-* I have managed to cope. Life just gets so distracting to things like that I guess, so any music source (laptops, phones etc) is satisfying or at least bearable enough  :)

Haha, yes I'm pretty much all Digital too (though I still cling to the archaic practice of collecting CD's) - I agree that a big stereo system isn't necessary to enjoy the music. It's cool listening to stuff on your Audio Device/Phone as you can take it anywhere really.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Omicron9 on September 02, 2017, 09:03:49 AM
Quote from: NikF on August 31, 2017, 11:52:05 AM
That's serious scarf wearing indeed! Somewhere there's a thread I started (and have been meaning to bump, due to a new acquisition) devoted only to scarves and the wearing of.

But yeah, this is a fun thread in how it offers the pleasure of a peak into the day to day shenanigans and interesting (or sometimes whimsical) thoughts of forum members

I hope you'll contribute again, should you feel inclined. :)

Thank you, NikF.  I hope to see your scarf thread!

-09
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: North Star on September 02, 2017, 09:07:36 AM
Quote from: Omicron9 on September 02, 2017, 09:03:49 AM
Thank you, NikF.  I hope to see your scarf thread!

-09
Here (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,26790.msg1046249.html) you go. I hope it won't be for a while yet that I need my wool scarf..
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on September 02, 2017, 08:22:25 PM
Today we're off to  -

'Exhibition: Heavenly Creatures, Angels in faith, history and popular culture'.
http://events.glasgowlife.org.uk/event/2/exhibition-heavenly-creatures-angels-in-faith-history-and-popular-culture - which wasn't my choice. But as my auld granny used to say 'if you cant do something with good grace, then don't do it at all'.

Then ten minutes walking distance away, a crafts fair - http://www.merchantsquareglasgow.com/whats-on - again, not top of my list for places to be on a Sunday.

After that it's a visit to the box office around the corner to buy a ticket (or maybe tickets) for 'In the Spirit of Django with the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra and Martin Taylor.'
I'd be just as happy to hear Taylor in a solo setting, letting his thoughts and fingers meander through the music. But this might be a worthwhile gig to attend.

Finally, a late lunch nearby in a suitable vegetarian (or vegetarian friendly) restaurant. I don't mind, because I'll eat nearly anything. 8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on September 04, 2017, 09:09:27 PM
This week involves waking an hour earlier than usual in order to increase the available time for packing, finding misplaced stuff (North Star, if you read this then know that you being the most patient of souls will finally pay off before I move) and other preparation.

As part of the schedule for today I'm going to view a couple of flats/apartments, both of them located in the city centre. There's one in particular that on paper is appealing, due to it being on the top floor and looking down the street. The view should be kind of similar to this old one -

(https://i.imgur.com/FTHY6DS.jpg)

The other reason it has piqued me is because if you instead look up and across the street it's possible to see the corner of the studio I started working in (for the first year, part-time) when I was a street urchin.
There's no hurry to relocate and so this is partly about seeing what's available and the sort of prices being asked. In fact, I've another couple of viewings through in Edinburgh and almost consider that city my first choice.

Apparently moving house can be stressful. While I don't have the means to test my blood pressure I'm going to take my pulse at roughly the same time every day after one cup of coffee. As unscientific as it is I want to see how much it all gets to me.

56bpm
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Turbot nouveaux on September 09, 2017, 09:01:16 AM
Quote from: NikF on September 04, 2017, 09:09:27 PM
... I'm going to view a couple of flats/apartments, both of them located in the city centre. There's one in particular that on paper is appealing, due to it being on the top floor and looking down the street. The view should be kind of similar to this old one -

(https://i.imgur.com/FTHY6DS.jpg)



Union Street in Glasgow! Happy memories from the late 1980s / early 90s
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on September 11, 2017, 12:46:08 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on September 09, 2017, 02:53:50 AM
(above my post)

That's a beautiful picture Nik, I've been staring at that for several minutes  :o

Best of luck with your move :)

Thanks.

Quote from: Turbot nouveaux on September 09, 2017, 09:01:16 AM
Union Street in Glasgow! Happy memories from the late 1980s / early 90s

Yeah, well spotted.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on September 11, 2017, 12:47:41 AM
Answer PMs - trapeze lesson - "Give me your number" - home - pack - list - unpack - relist - thoughts for posters at the mercy of the elements - eat - sleep - repeat.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on September 11, 2017, 10:26:57 PM
Yesterday was my first day back on the trapeze after a few months. And while I'm fit and strong and have the capacity for copious amounts of physical exertion, my plan for this morning is to slowly regain the ability to raise my arms more than 90°
When I achieve that I'll set out for the local stores and businesses in order to blag cardboard boxes suitable for packing. Come evening it'll be time to take up the ongoing invitation to eat with my charming neighbour; "It'll be something with cannellini beans" - ah, the suspense...
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on September 12, 2017, 11:55:36 PM
Today I wait for the person who has bought one of my guitars to come and collect it. Then it's back to the lengthy groove of listing contents while packing boxes. Usually Wednesday is a gym day, but bodyweight stuff augmented by a few rounds on the heavy bag will need to suffice. Post workout face feeding consists of a nice sirloin steak (heat pan, add butter to pan, then immediately add seasoned steak to pan) and one pint of full fat milk. Into an evening that'll be brought to a close with a book. This is where it's at, where it's terminally oh so easy.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on September 16, 2017, 02:20:26 AM
The Algonquin Round Table on tour. This time last year I was at London women's Fashion Week, called in to salvage the efforts of amateurs, wannabes and generic attention seekers.*whip pan* This year will be the first in about three decades I'll have no official part in it although I'm sure I'll be occupied. But first to Wales, Welsh Wales, where amongst other shenanigans I'll make sure to employ an experienced eye for a repressed Gossamer. Then home to lock the door and hand over the keys. I wonder if we'll get listed at modemonline?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on September 18, 2017, 03:39:53 AM
To salvage, and not to savage?  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on September 21, 2017, 12:57:14 PM
Wow... first time in my life I won over the airline!  ;D

I missed my flight because I didn't arrive to the airport at time due to some *personal issues that required my presence at home* (cof cof... someone was playing the piano and forgot to check the clock... cof cof.)

So, I was expecting to be forced to pay some juicy penalty... but I was informed that, since the original flight was delayed, the airline gives free changes of flights in these cases... thus, I have a new flight now in a few hours and it was free... and they don't know that I was changing it because I arrived ridiculously late rather than due to some supposed incovenient caused by the delay of the original flight  :laugh: ;D 8) $:)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on September 22, 2017, 04:50:43 AM
Quote from: aleazk on September 21, 2017, 12:57:14 PM
Wow... first time in my life I won over the airline!  ;D

I missed my flight because I didn't arrive to the airport at time due to some *personal issues that required my presence at home* (cof cof... someone was playing the piano and forgot to check the clock... cof cof.)

So, I was expecting to be forced to pay some juicy penalty... but I was informed that, since the original flight was delayed, the airline gives free changes of flights in these cases... thus, I have a new flight now in a few hours and it was free... and they don't know that I was changing it because I arrived ridiculously late rather than due to some supposed incovenient caused by the delay of the original flight  :laugh: ;D 8) $:)

I love hearing stories like this.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on September 26, 2017, 11:27:27 AM
I walked to the library at lunchtime, to return three DVDs and check out a fourth which they had "on hold" for me.  The branch I can walk to is in the North End, which is Boston's equivalent of "Little Italy."  I saw a seafood ristorante / oyster bar I don't remember ever seeing before, with a typo in the name of the establishment, a misspelling which few of the many tourists to Boston might mark.  The place is called AquaPazza, and just when I was enjoying the name "Crazywater," I realized that it was missing the c in acqua.

Nothing to be done about it now, so cool was maintained.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on September 26, 2017, 08:43:08 PM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on September 26, 2017, 11:27:27 AM
I walked to the library at lunchtime, to return three DVDs and check out a fourth which they had "on hold" for me.  The branch I can walk to is in the North End, which is Boston's equivalent of "Little Italy."  I saw a seafood ristorante / oyster bar I don't remember ever seeing before, with a typo in the name of the establishment, a misspelling which few of the many tourists to Boston might mark.  The place is called AquaPazza, and just when I was enjoying the name "Crazywater," I realized that it was missing the c in acqua.

Nothing to be done about it now, so cool was maintained.

If you try to accuse them of a misspelling they can deflect your accusation by claiming

1) They were referring to the English word aqua
2) They were referring to the Latin word aqua
3) They were referring to the archaic spelling of the Italian word acqua
4) A name cannot be "misspelled" by the entity it refers to, you get to spell your name however you please.

Just sayin'
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on September 27, 2017, 03:07:39 AM
Quote from: Scarpia on September 26, 2017, 08:43:08 PM
If you try to accuse them of a misspelling they can deflect your accusation by claiming

1) They were referring to the English word aqua
2) They were referring to the Latin word aqua
3) They were referring to the archaic spelling of the Italian word acqua
4) A name cannot be "misspelled" by the entity it refers to, you get to spell your name however you please.

Just sayin'

All you say is true.  Another reason to just . . . maintain.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on September 27, 2017, 08:20:11 AM
Someone stole our baby carriage. What the ...!  >:(
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on September 27, 2017, 08:21:50 AM
Baby wasn't in it...
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on September 27, 2017, 08:42:44 AM
Quote from: Scarpia on September 27, 2017, 08:21:50 AM
Baby wasn't in it...

Well, that's good!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on September 27, 2017, 09:37:43 AM
    I went to Buffalo recently like I do every year to embed with the natives. These people have strange habits. They visit each other, I mean someone will just come over to sit and talk about all kinds of stuff about people they know and who died and who has a fatal disease and which high school class so and so was in and how she moved back and got married to this guy who doesn't work and is probably drinking himself to death. I sit there and take it all in and don't say very much, not because I don't know who they are talking about, though more often than not I don't, but because this kind of communication has no overlap with anything I know how to do.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on September 27, 2017, 09:55:40 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on September 26, 2017, 08:21:35 PM
I'm getting more and more serious about wanting to take on films/movies as a career instead of music. Keep in mind I'm not talking about really high-budget, hollywood stuff  :laugh: I'm interested in taking to what they are terming "Indie" films now days.

Starting with a batch of short films, I'm gonna start getting in contact with some film students and general film producers around here and start with helping with other's films firstly  8)

I have several short film scripts (in addition to all those fully-fledged, long form film scripts) in the works, that I'm using limitations as my basis of inspiration. See where I can take it, everything starting off with practical concerns.


I want to get a soundstage of sorts for my first "serious" short film, which I'll make after I actually...you know.....do some less-serious stuff first (to show I have the knack and ain't thinking outta my ass)  ;)

Good luck!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on September 27, 2017, 10:02:31 AM
Quote from: drogulus on September 27, 2017, 09:37:43 AM
    I went to Buffalo recently like I do every year to embed with the natives. These people have strange habits. They visit each other, I mean someone will just come over a sit and talk about all kinds of stuff about people they know and who died and who has a fatal disease and which high school class so and so was in and how she moved back and got married to this guy who doesn't work and is probably drinking himself to death. I sit there and take it all in and don't say very much, not because I don't know who they are talking about, though more often than not I don't, but because this kind of communication has no overlap with anything I know how to do.

First of all, viz, your annual mission to the Buffaloids:  that is one of the bravest things I've heard this month.

When I was in Buffalo (oh, I can talk quite calmly about it, now) my first roommate was, what was an occasional misfortune, the sort of personality whom, when on public transportation, any and everyone felt quite at liberty to start talking to, often about topics in which (to speak personally) I should probably have known someone for three or four years before I felt that they would really take an interest. "Do I have a sign on my back that reads, Talk to me!...?" he asked me.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on September 27, 2017, 10:19:17 AM

     
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on September 27, 2017, 10:02:31 AM
First of all, viz, your annual mission to the Buffaloids:  that is one of the bravest things I've heard this month.

When I was in Buffalo (oh, I can talk quite calmly about it, now) my first roommate was, what was an occasional misfortune, the sort of personality whom, when on public transportation, any and everyone felt quite at liberty to start talking to, often about topics in which (to speak personally) I should probably have known someone for three or four years before I felt that they would really take an interest. "Do I have a sign on my back that reads, Talk to me!...?" he asked me.

     Another thing is they can't read me. No one says so but I get the impression I am supposed to be a stuck up person from Boston. If I walk away to take refuge on a PC, look at email or stocks I don't exactly know how this is perceived, but somehow I'm an oddball. What's he doing over there?

    Part of the problem transcends regional culture. If I talk I'm usually 3 sentences away from an idea, then I get "the look", so I self censor. When I'm home its "yeah, he's like that, don't bother him".
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on September 28, 2017, 03:05:12 PM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on September 28, 2017, 02:50:08 PM
I may have just had the greatest, biggest revelation of the year which solves most of my passions, desires and career but I need to contemplate over it for a few more hours.

If so, I will be able to start taking action immediately and it will be another phase in my career   ;D

You think we are interested in the fact that you have had the "greatest, biggest revelation of the year" but we don't need to know that revelation is?

I guess we fill it in with our imagination.  You have been promoted from "assistant to the toilet cleaner" to "assistant toilet cleaner."
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mahlerian on September 28, 2017, 05:17:07 PM
I have an acceptance at one graduate program.  Here's hoping for the best for the future!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on September 30, 2017, 09:11:24 PM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on September 18, 2017, 03:39:53 AM
To salvage, and not to savage?  8)

Savaging helps no one. Hearts and flowers - that's me. All hearts and flowers. 8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 01, 2017, 02:56:15 AM
Quote from: Scarpia on September 28, 2017, 03:05:12 PM

Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on September 28, 2017, 02:50:08 PM
I may have just had the greatest, biggest revelation of the year which solves most of my passions, desires and career but I need to contemplate over it for a few more hours.

If so, I will be able to start taking action immediately and it will be another phase in my career   ;D



You think we are interested in the fact that you have had the "greatest, biggest revelation of the year" but we don't need to know that revelation is?

I guess we fill it in with our imagination.  You have been promoted from "assistant to the toilet cleaner" to "assistant toilet cleaner."

Is that what in social media they call "Vaguebooking"?  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 01, 2017, 02:56:26 AM
Quote from: NikF on September 30, 2017, 09:11:24 PM
Savaging helps no one. Hearts and flowers - that's me. All hearts and flowers. 8)

We know it!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Crudblud on October 01, 2017, 06:59:23 AM
In the process of searching for a part time job. It now strikes me as hilarious that ten years ago I could get a job in a specialist field (IT) with dubious qualifications just by making a good impression at the interview, but now I can't even find part time work at a shop when I literally live ten minutes on foot from a large-ish area full of shops. After the investors for the game I was composing/writing for disappeared, I decided that, rather than go back to being a freelancer hunting down any crappy soundtrack job I could find, most of which would equate to £100-200 for making up odds and ends on a job someone else had already basically finished, I would get something stable and routine that would allow me to bring in okay money and still have time to get on with the musical work I actually care about...

¡Ayayay, no es bueno!—as they say in the grand stereotypopolises of the western public consciousness.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 01, 2017, 08:13:07 AM
Quote from: Crudblud on October 01, 2017, 06:59:23 AM
In the process of searching for a part time job. It now strikes me as hilarious that ten years ago I could get a job in a specialist field (IT) with dubious qualifications just by making a good impression at the interview, but now I can't even find part time work at a shop when I literally live ten minutes on foot from a large-ish area full of shops. After the investors for the game I was composing/writing for disappeared, I decided that, rather than go back to being a freelancer hunting down any crappy soundtrack job I could find, most of which would equate to £100-200 for making up odds and ends on a job someone else had already basically finished, I would get something stable and routine that would allow me to bring in okay money and still have time to get on with the musical work I actually care about...

¡Ayayay, no es bueno!—as they say in the grand stereotypopolises of the western public consciousness.

Quel bummère, vraiment.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on October 01, 2017, 12:34:07 PM

     I watched my niece on YT last night. She was being a knight who says Ekki-Ekki-Ekki-Ekki-PTANG. Zoom-Boing. I hope she doesn't get type cast.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 02, 2017, 05:41:51 AM
It's going to sound Groundhog Day-ish, but that's misleading:  I had arranged with our substitute organist this week that I would be at the church so that she could have time at the console beginning at 7:45.

At eight o'clock, I was still the only soul at the church.

At 8:08, an e-mail message comes in from the secretary, "The organist cannot make it, call me when you get this."

Well, the only number I have for the church secretary, is the church office number.  And I know she is not there.  I reply, "What's your number?"  (No follow-up reply came yesterday.)

The children's choir director (who is one of my altos) calls and leaves me voice-mail (I'm not sure how I missed her call) that for some reason the secretary called her . . . the organist's car was vandalized last night, white splotches on the windshield, no good to drive in.  And of course the organist was distraught over not being able to meet her musical obligations with us.  Of course, it could not be helped.

Immediately upon getting the secretary's e-mail, above, I comb the hymnal for an easy-to-learn Plan B anthem.  I also find something for us to sing during Communion.

To rush to the conclusion, the service went very well, in spite of the apparent disaster (and largely, thanks to the children's choir director for gamely accompanying as well as she could, at last minute's notice, at the piano).  Cool was maintained.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on October 02, 2017, 02:41:14 PM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on October 02, 2017, 05:41:51 AM
It's going to sound Groundhog Day-ish, but that's misleading:  I had arranged with our substitute organist this week that I would be at the church so that she could have time at the console beginning at 7:45.

At eight o'clock, I was still the only soul at the church.

At 8:08, an e-mail message comes in from the secretary, "The organist cannot make it, call me when you get this."

Well, the only number I have for the church secretary, is the church office number.  And I know she is not there.  I reply, "What's your number?"  (No follow-up reply came yesterday.)

The children's choir director (who is one of my altos) calls and leaves me voice-mail (I'm not sure how I missed her call) that for some reason the secretary called her . . . the organist's car was vandalized last night, white splotches on the windshield, no good to drive in.  And of course the organist was distraught over not being able to meet her musical obligations with us.  Of course, it could not be helped.

Immediately upon getting the secretary's e-mail, above, I comb the hymnal for an easy-to-learn Plan B anthem.  I also find something for us to sing during Communion.

To rush to the conclusion, the service went very well, in spite of the apparent disaster (and largely, thanks to the children's choir director for gamely accompanying as well as she could, at last minute's notice, at the piano).  Cool was maintained.

FWIW, my cellphone sometimes goes direct to voicemail with no ringing to tell me there's a call. I have yet to figure out a reason for this.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on October 02, 2017, 02:50:18 PM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on October 02, 2017, 02:41:14 PM
FWIW, my cellphone sometimes goes direct to voicemail with no ringing to tell me there's a call. I have yet to figure out a reason for this.

It happens to me if the call comes when I have no cell signal.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on October 02, 2017, 03:01:46 PM
Quote from: Scarpia on October 02, 2017, 02:50:18 PM
It happens to me if the call comes when I have no cell signal.

Which is how it should work. But this happens when I have supposedly have it!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: anothername on October 05, 2017, 08:56:52 PM
wrong thread
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Crudblud on October 06, 2017, 07:10:19 AM
First batch of job application rejections coming through!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 06, 2017, 06:06:29 PM
Quote from: Crudblud on October 06, 2017, 07:10:19 AM
First batch of job application rejections coming through!

They do. Be strong.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mahlerian on October 06, 2017, 06:12:19 PM
So, a week-long trip to Egypt starts tomorrow.  I won't be taking my computer with me, but I'll return in a week.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 06, 2017, 06:13:48 PM
Quote from: Mahlerian on October 06, 2017, 06:12:19 PM
So, a week-long trip to Egypt starts tomorrow.  I won't be taking my computer with me, but I'll return in a week.

Safe travels & all good adventures to you!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mirror Image on October 06, 2017, 06:47:18 PM
Quote from: Mahlerian on October 06, 2017, 06:12:19 PM
So, a week-long trip to Egypt starts tomorrow.  I won't be taking my computer with me, but I'll return in a week.

Be safe, Mahlerian!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mahlerian on October 06, 2017, 06:47:56 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on October 06, 2017, 06:47:18 PM
Be safe, Mahlerian!

Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on October 06, 2017, 06:13:48 PM
Safe travels & all good adventures to you!

Thank you both!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on October 07, 2017, 03:29:03 AM
Be safe Mahlerian! Egypt seems like a quite exciting trip to make!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Turbot nouveaux on October 07, 2017, 09:06:31 AM
Quote from: α | ì Æ ñ on September 28, 2017, 02:50:08 PM
Scorpio

You may have just had the greatest, biggest revelation of the year which solves most of your passions, desires and career but you need to contemplate over it for a few more hours.

If so, you will be able to start taking action immediately and it will be another phase in your career.

You've been hired as a daily horoscope writer?  ;D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on October 08, 2017, 02:54:39 AM
Yesterday I had way too much coffee and planned a bunch of things I would like to try out in the kitchen and also for composition and guitar. Too much coffee tends to bring me a really productive kind of energy......well....a kind of productivity where I get sidetracked from my main work with cooking projects. I tried to make Daifukumochi twice this afternoon having never made it before and sort of making up but sort of following a recipe and I almost had it.....after about two hours. Immediately afterwards I realised I would feel guilty with myself if I didn't cook the meal I had planned from yesterday which I needed quite a bit of time on. I love cooking, but I do hope I don't spend most of every day in the kitchen.........
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 09, 2017, 05:26:09 AM
When I went for my afternoon walk at the pond yesterday, I counted on stopping at the Walgreen's before quite returning home.  The item I planned to pick up cost (as I thought) 99¢, so I did not take my wallet, but simply folded two singles and slid them into my pocket.

I enjoyed a relaxed walk, the peculiar (for October) humidity notwithstanding.

At Walgreen's, I find my item, but in fact it costs $1.89 (which is not a price increase, but I think I just misremembered).  My $2 is not going to cover the tax.

My first course of action, is to walk down the aisles with my eye on the floor (and especially near the registers) because it is not at all unusual to find a nickel, penny, what-have-you which someone dropped, either not marking it, or not much caring about the trivial loss.  But I found none.

So I approach the chap who is probably the senior staff member on duty, who has been restocking in aisle 9.  "Excuse me, this is a complete imposition, I know—but would you perhaps have a nickel?" He smiled, and indeed just suppressed a mild involuntary chuckle.  But in a second, he responded (in neutral tone), "Are you serious?"  Well, not serious, really . . . but I explained to him my situation.  And he said, "I'll check you out, we'll take care of you."

So I follow him to the Customer Service checkout counter, he rings my article up, and indeed, with the tax it came to $2.01.  "Not a great imposition," I said, "but of course a bit of an impertinence, nevertheless."  He smiled and said the store could absorb the loss.

Just a quiet but of neighborliness, really.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on October 09, 2017, 05:33:04 PM
On the corner of Healthy and Happy...
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mahlerian on October 15, 2017, 05:31:07 AM
Well, I'm back.  It was a great trip, and I got to see a whole bunch of things, but now I'm feeling dazed from the endless travel yesterday.  Four airports, countless security checkpoints, a few neigh-on inedible meal entrees...
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Crudblud on October 15, 2017, 06:44:32 AM
Welcome back!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 16, 2017, 05:37:21 AM
Although waiting in the service department of the Honda dealership was an unexpected activity early on Saturday, it did not really take over the entire morning.

The Background:

I first picked up the car in January, and of course it came with a full tank.  My use of the car is quite unusually light, so it was February before I needed to re-fuel.  By coincidence, we had enjoyed a bit of a swing in the weather:  the day before had seen freezing rain, and when I went to the gas station that morning, the thermometer had dipped rather below freezing.

The Honda salesman had not told me that my Civic has no gas cap.

This was my first experience with a "capless" gas tank, and the timing was unfortunate.  And in hindsight, it would all have been fine, if the temperature had been above freezing.  My most nearly intuitive guess at how to work this was, simply to press the fuel pump nozzle against the sort of indented disc which closes up the fuel funnel.  But it would not budge.  Yes, I know now that it was simply frozen to.  At the time, I was not sure if there was some other key piece of intelligence which would make it work.


I tried calling the Roadside Assistance number – not that I needed a tow truck, but just to ask someone how to proceed;  I could reach no one (off-hours on the weekend, I suppose – of course, if there had been an emergency, I could have pressed the number for that).  I tried calling the dealership's service desk – no one picked up.

I called again and the receptionist asked if she could be of any assistance. I explained my dilemma, but she was not sure what to suggest, as (so far as she knew) all I needed to do was press the nozzle against that disc.  I thanked her, and we rang off.

Well, I was tired of making fruitless phone calls, and I had no option but to introduce fuel into the car somehow;  so I jammed the nozzle hard against the disc, and I broke the ice.  So far, let's call it, so good.

Over the months, the disc behaved more or less (I suppose) as it ought:  it gave way when I introduced the nozzle; and when I removed the nozzle, the disc sprang back into position.

The last 3-4 times, however, it did not spring back quite into the position which (it seemed to me) was normal, although it did indeed still "seal" the funnel.  Once, the disc caught in the thick wire which was spiraled around the fuel nozzle, and it was a bit of a project to get the nozzle removed.

So now we come to yesterday.

I set out from home with no urgent place to go – I figured on going to Stop 'n' Shop for a sack of ground coffee, some carrot juice, and breakfast bars – and saw that I might as well refuel the Civic.  When I removed the nozzle, the spring ejected the disc, which fell to the ground.  I picked it up, wrapped it up in a paper towel which I had handy, and drove two miles to the dealership.  It's early in the day, I thought, I should be able to get quick-ish advice on what to do.

I show the disc in the paper towel to the service desk chap, who asks me, "What's that?"  He wouldn't have asked that question, if my car had a simple gas cap, would he have?  I explained, and he politely excused himself while he went back to consult with a mechanic on how to proceed.

I step over to the sales floor, and I see my salesguy, Lance, withdrawing breakfast from a Dunkin Donuts sack.  We exchange greetings and pleasantries, and I explain why I am there.  His eyebrows rose, but he remained unruffled, and expressed confidence that they in Service would take care of me.  He gave me a card with his refreshed contact info, and excused himself as he had a meeting to go into.

I sit, and wait to be called by the Service chap.

When he does (to make it brief) he explains that of course they cannot simply replace the disc, but the whole jigger needs to be replaced, parts & labor will run to $340, although if they do something special as a consideration to me, I might get off at only $195.

"Begging your pardon, I absolutely refuse to be at any cost for this.  All I have ever done, is try to refuel the car."

So, he knows the full story now, there will need to be an "investigation," but he will "go to bat" for me, they have to wait until Tuesday for the part, but he will call me with the story Monday (i.e., today).

I thank him.  I go back out to Lance, and tell him about the $340 – or $195 if I am lucky!  And (without losing my cool) I reiterate that I absolutely refuse to pay a red cent (an obsolete expression referring to an as-yet-unoxidized copper penny).  Lance simply says that he is sure they will take good care of me, and that he (Lance) will be involved in the process.

So: that's all I know right now.  It is, of course, much too early for Philip to call me yet.
Title: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 16, 2017, 05:42:59 AM
The disc itself. Plastic, but textured to appear metallic. Slightly larger, but lighter, than a quarter.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171016/0bffa5a701b2349e19b6d71a50bc9437.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on October 16, 2017, 05:45:58 AM
What about the car warranty?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 16, 2017, 06:06:13 AM
Quote from: Scarpia on October 16, 2017, 05:45:58 AM
What about the car warranty?

Will ask, indeed.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on October 16, 2017, 07:19:17 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on October 16, 2017, 06:06:13 AM
Will ask, indeed.

3 Year/36,000 miles. Hopefully you didn't implicate yourself for willfully or negligently destroying it. 
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 16, 2017, 12:58:29 PM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on October 16, 2017, 05:37:21 AM
Although waiting in the service department of the Honda dealership was an unexpected activity early on Saturday, it did not really take over the entire morning.

The Background:

I first picked up the car in January, and of course it came with a full tank.  My use of the car is quite unusually light, so it was February before I needed to re-fuel.  By coincidence, we had enjoyed a bit of a swing in the weather:  the day before had seen freezing rain, and when I went to the gas station that morning, the thermometer had dipped rather below freezing.

The Honda salesman had not told me that my Civic has no gas cap.

This was my first experience with a “capless” gas tank, and the timing was unfortunate.  And in hindsight, it would all have been fine, if the temperature had been above freezing.  My most nearly intuitive guess at how to work this was, simply to press the fuel pump nozzle against the sort of indented disc which closes up the fuel funnel.  But it would not budge.  Yes, I know now that it was simply frozen to.  At the time, I was not sure if there was some other key piece of intelligence which would make it work.


I tried calling the Roadside Assistance number – not that I needed a tow truck, but just to ask someone how to proceed;  I could reach no one (off-hours on the weekend, I suppose – of course, if there had been an emergency, I could have pressed the number for that).  I tried calling the dealership’s service desk – no one picked up.

I called again and the receptionist asked if she could be of any assistance. I explained my dilemma, but she was not sure what to suggest, as (so far as she knew) all I needed to do was press the nozzle against that disc.  I thanked her, and we rang off.

Well, I was tired of making fruitless phone calls, and I had no option but to introduce fuel into the car somehow;  so I jammed the nozzle hard against the disc, and I broke the ice.  So far, let’s call it, so good.

Over the months, the disc behaved more or less (I suppose) as it ought:  it gave way when I introduced the nozzle; and when I removed the nozzle, the disc sprang back into position.

The last 3-4 times, however, it did not spring back quite into the position which (it seemed to me) was normal, although it did indeed still “seal” the funnel.  Once, the disc caught in the thick wire which was spiraled around the fuel nozzle, and it was a bit of a project to get the nozzle removed.

So now we come to yesterday.

I set out from home with no urgent place to go – I figured on going to Stop ’n’ Shop for a sack of ground coffee, some carrot juice, and breakfast bars – and saw that I might as well refuel the Civic.  When I removed the nozzle, the spring ejected the disc, which fell to the ground.  I picked it up, wrapped it up in a paper towel which I had handy, and drove two miles to the dealership.  It’s early in the day, I thought, I should be able to get quick-ish advice on what to do.

I show the disc in the paper towel to the service desk chap, who asks me, “What’s that?”  He wouldn’t have asked that question, if my car had a simple gas cap, would he have?  I explained, and he politely excused himself while he went back to consult with a mechanic on how to proceed.

I step over to the sales floor, and I see my salesguy, Lance, withdrawing breakfast from a Dunkin Donuts sack.  We exchange greetings and pleasantries, and I explain why I am there.  His eyebrows rose, but he remained unruffled, and expressed confidence that they in Service would take care of me.  He gave me a card with his refreshed contact info, and excused himself as he had a meeting to go into.

I sit, and wait to be called by the Service chap.

When he does (to make it brief) he explains that of course they cannot simply replace the disc, but the whole jigger needs to be replaced, parts &amp; labor will run to $340, although if they do something special as a consideration to me, I might get off at only $195.

“Begging your pardon, I absolutely refuse to be at any cost for this.  All I have ever done, is try to refuel the car.”

So, he knows the full story now, there will need to be an “investigation,” but he will “go to bat” for me, they have to wait until Tuesday for the part, but he will call me with the story Monday (i.e., today).

I thank him.  I go back out to Lance, and tell him about the $340 – or $195 if I am lucky!  And (without losing my cool) I reiterate that I absolutely refuse to pay a red cent (an obsolete expression referring to an as-yet-unoxidized copper penny).  Lance simply says that he is sure they will take good care of me, and that he (Lance) will be involved in the process.

So: that’s all I know right now.  It is, of course, much too early for Philip to call me yet.
The upshot: they will replace it at no cost to me as a one-time goodwill courtesy.

Still waiting for the part to arrive tomorrow.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on October 16, 2017, 01:09:37 PM
Good will? It wasn't covered by warranty?

I have a Honda with the same cap-less system. I recall the first time I filled it up the nozzle went in easily enough but at first it wouldn't come out. "Now, what the hell and I going to do?" I thought. But you are supposed to move the nozzle hand up and down to get the thing to release it. It was fine once I got the knack for it. I was not a fan of it at first, but now I've gotten to like it.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on October 19, 2017, 10:55:21 AM
I picked her back up yesterday, good to have her home again.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on November 08, 2017, 06:18:20 AM
Today I registered with another estate agent although I'm in no hurry to buy a property, because although I'm staying with my charming neighbour until the beginning of next week I've already secured long term accommodation. And while I tend not to worry about stuff it's nice to have that taken care of.

Tomorrow it's the gym (I weigh 164lbs - four more than before London) and then shopping to try and buy a pair of...wait for it...oxblood Chelsea boots. Why? Well, while in the aforementioned big smoke I blagged a Paul Smith bomber jacket during a photoshoot some dude was doing. It'll make a nice change from the leather jacket. And if oor Jeffrey Smith should read this post; oxblood boots, grey chinos, white t-shirt, black bomber jacket and blue Paisley silk scarf? Or too much le poseur?

(https://i.imgur.com/xMskVS9.jpg)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on November 08, 2017, 06:20:42 AM
You didn't ask me.  But FWIW, I'd certainly wear a blue Paisley silk scarf.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on November 08, 2017, 06:38:59 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on November 08, 2017, 06:20:42 AM
You didn't ask me.  But FWIW, I'd certainly wear a blue Paisley silk scarf.

oor Karl, your opinion in this (and any other matter) is both welcome and appreciated. I singled out Jeffrey on account of having discussed similar stuff with him before. And you would wear a blue silk Paisley scarf? - perhaps you should! It's not only generally smashing look, but also adds to the inherent coolness of the wearer. Oh yeah.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on November 08, 2017, 06:43:01 AM
My scarf this week has been blue (though neither silk nor paisley . . . .)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on November 08, 2017, 06:56:01 AM
Blue is always good. I've more scarves of the red/burgundy variety, but the blues are there in numbers too.
Today in the chilly och aye the noo climate my own choice of scarf was an oatmeal(ish) merino herringbone, which despite being a little staid by my standards served to keep my neck warm with just the merest soupçon of dashingness, he said modestly.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on November 08, 2017, 07:05:40 AM
Quote from: NikF on November 08, 2017, 06:56:01 AM
Blue is always good. I've more scarves of the red/burgundy variety, but the blues are there in numbers too.
Today in the chilly och aye the noo climate my own choice of scarf was an oatmeal(ish) merino herringbone, which despite being a little staid by my standards served to keep my neck warm with just the merest soupçon of dashingness, he said modestly.

Almost makes me wish it could get cold enough here to justify wearing a scarf of any kind...
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on November 08, 2017, 07:18:59 AM
But you see, silk is good for warm-weather scarf-sporting.  It would be rather too light for Boston in November, which is why my blue (non-paisley) scarf is merino.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on November 08, 2017, 07:31:47 AM
Quote from: Scarpia on November 08, 2017, 07:05:40 AM
Almost makes me wish it could get cold enough here to justify wearing a scarf of any kind...

I don't know what your climate is like, but when it's warm I often wear the thinnest of my silk scarves (even thinner than the paisley ) such as these -

(https://i.imgur.com/PPPWNO8.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/prb2vkM.jpg)


Karl, check out the second one, it's a doozy. With a grey shirt or t-shirt or sweater - Robert, is indeed, your uncle.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on November 08, 2017, 03:23:03 PM
Quote from: NikF on November 08, 2017, 06:18:20 AM
Today I registered with another estate agent although I'm in no hurry to buy a property, because although I'm staying with my charming neighbour until the beginning of next week I've already secured long term accommodation. And while I tend not to worry about stuff it's nice to have that taken care of.

Tomorrow it's the gym (I weigh 164lbs - four more than before London) and then shopping to try and buy a pair of...wait for it...oxblood Chelsea boots. Why? Well, while in the aforementioned big smoke I blagged a Paul Smith bomber jacket during a photoshoot some dude was doing. It'll make a nice change from the leather jacket. And if oor Jeffrey Smith should read this post; oxblood boots, grey chinos, white t-shirt, black bomber jacket and blue Paisley silk scarf? Or too much le poseur?

(https://i.imgur.com/xMskVS9.jpg)

Black bomber jackets are naturally scarfless...or no more than a monochrome black or grey merino if the cold requires it.  The oxblood boots are good, but Chelsea boots are getting fashionable, so be wary of looking like you want to be in fashion. My own boots are motorcycle boots (two pairs in black, one in brown) and I may get a Chelsea boot at winter's end, when they are on clearance.  But you would be surprised how thin on the ground black boots, Western boots, and motorcycle boots are in this neck of the woods. Brown chelseas, brown chukkas, hiking and construction boots...but slim pickings for anything else.

I did laugh: my father is named Paul Smith yet I've never seen him in a bomber jacket.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: You did it on November 08, 2017, 07:11:42 PM
Getting some Turkish food for dinner with my family (I'm on holiday) for the last night that I'm visiting them. I've got a long bus ride starting tomorrow morning too  ???
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on November 08, 2017, 08:22:01 PM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on November 08, 2017, 03:23:03 PM
Black bomber jackets are naturally scarfless...or no more than a monochrome black or grey merino if the cold requires it.  The oxblood boots are good, but Chelsea boots are getting fashionable, so be wary of looking like you want to be in fashion. My own boots are motorcycle boots (two pairs in black, one in brown) and I may get a Chelsea boot at winter's end, when they are on clearance.  But you would be surprised how thin on the ground black boots, Western boots, and motorcycle boots are in this neck of the woods. Brown chelseas, brown chukkas, hiking and construction boots...but slim pickings for anything else.

I did laugh: my father is named Paul Smith yet I've never seen him in a bomber jacket.

Yeah, motorcycle boots are cool, although I haven't worn a pair since I owned my old East German motorcyle (MZ) which was a longer ago than I like to remember.
And yes, I'm surprised black boots are hard to come by. They could almost be considered a key component of a wardrobe. 

Anyway, the jacket and hopefully new boots will receive their premiere on Saturday when taking my (cheap) seat among the cool kids to hear Pintscher conducting Stravinsky, Hosokawa,Takemitsu and Vivier - one of the reasons I've returned north for a spell.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on November 08, 2017, 09:20:25 PM
Quote from: NikF on November 08, 2017, 07:31:47 AM
I don't know what your climate is like, but when it's warm I often wear the thinnest of my silk scarves (even thinner than the paisley ) such as these -

You'd have me wandering out here in a scarf?  :)

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4533/26502854219_3b3a1e0974_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on November 08, 2017, 09:38:15 PM
Quote from: Scarpia on November 08, 2017, 09:20:25 PM
You'd have me wandering out here in a scarf?  :)

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4533/26502854219_3b3a1e0974_b.jpg)

I've not asked you to do anything. Although that sky doesn't look promising.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Parsifal on November 09, 2017, 07:34:57 AM
Quote from: NikF on November 08, 2017, 09:38:15 PM
I've not asked you to do anything. Although that sky doesn't look promising.

You've got a point, it did drizzle last night...
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: You did it on November 09, 2017, 09:12:16 AM
Got my long ass bus trip now, 10 hours too  :-[
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: You did it on November 09, 2017, 09:16:17 AM
What's the best option?

A loop of 4.33
Read a book
Listen/watch YouTube
Design a farmhouse
Drink the strange chemicals
Call for help
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on November 09, 2017, 10:05:10 AM
I'd go with Read a book.

I recommend Where's My Fortune Cookie?
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: drogulus on November 09, 2017, 10:37:44 AM
     I bought AAPL (https://seekingalpha.com/symbol/AAPL?s=aapl) yesterday, just a taste to wet my beak. (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/smiley.gif)

     In addition I might be growing FANGs (https://seekingalpha.com/symbol/QQQX). (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/Smileys/classic/cheesy.gif) Oh...wow...I just did.

     
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mahlerian on November 09, 2017, 03:05:57 PM
Farewell, GRE.  I will not miss thee.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: You did it on November 09, 2017, 08:09:40 PM
Finally over now, 11 hour trip in total  :'(
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: You did it on November 09, 2017, 08:38:33 PM
Quote from: Mahlerian on November 09, 2017, 03:05:57 PM
Farewell, GRE.  I will not miss thee.

:o Congrats Mahlerian!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on November 09, 2017, 09:59:18 PM
An early start. I've already had a run along the road and back and it's still dark and quiet, but not quite as atmospheric as during my recent mornings pounding the pavements in London. I find RVW Symphony No. 2  evocative of that, so bravo to him. Anyway...

To the lawyer today and final details vis a vis my ex-girlfriend receiving her share of the proceeds from the house sale. Financially it would have made more sense to arrange a 'Tenancy in Common' which would mean instead of owning the property together we would each own a distinct share, then rent it out to private tenants and split the resulting (and regular) income. But I didn't want to do that due to my desire for an absolutely clean break. In matters such as these I don't mind cutting off my nose despite my face.

It'll mark the last time she and I have anything to do with each other. And here's kind of a coincidence; there's a big shopping centre/mall that I often use as a shortcut when walking home from town. For the past few years inside the entrance there was one of those rolling advert installations with an advertisement that featured her and two other young women in clichéd posed scenario ('laughing girls wearing bodycon dresses amid party streamers and balloons') but at some point in the last month or so it has gone too.

And it's given me an idea for the dating thread. Actually, I've two ideas for it, because during my recent travels the number of Russian voices I heard made me think of the time I lived and worked in Russia and the women I knew before meeting Tanya. So my experiences of dating Russian women on their own turf might be worth a post.
The other idea is one that would bring things full circle and then close it; 'How to date Toots McGams'.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on November 11, 2017, 11:24:59 PM
There was was a three egg spinach and ricotta omelette and then it was gone. And nutmeg was added to the list of stuff to buy.
Up early on a Sunday with the memory of last night's concert still vivid;  Pintscher conducting (in this intance Stravinsky, Toshio Hosokawa, Takemitsu & Vivier) always seems to attract an audience visibly younger than usual and audibly enthusiastic.

Now, it's time to transfer and unpack, only taking a break for lunch at the popular deli along the road. I've the gym on Monday, but if all goes to plan with no further interruptions I can be finished and then London bound for another spell by Wednesday.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on November 13, 2017, 06:16:21 AM
While I have had a reasonably normal and useable speaking voice for almost two weeks now, I cannot yet sing, really.  There is perhaps a perfect fifth in the heart of my range in which I can sing, but I can also feel right away that I should only tire the vocal folds quickly.  There is nothing for it, but to wait it out.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on November 13, 2017, 11:38:52 PM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on November 13, 2017, 06:16:21 AM
While I have had a reasonably normal and useable speaking voice for almost two weeks now, I cannot yet sing, really.  There is perhaps a perfect fifth in the heart of my range in which I can sing, but I can also feel right away that I should only tire the vocal folds quickly.  There is nothing for it, but to wait it out.

Bravo! That's the spirit. Good stuff. I hope you feel better soon.

Other news - visiting my (used) book guy today. Meant to do it yesterday, but I forgot. Also, I need to buy one of those little drawstring gym bags for putting stuff (https://i.imgur.com/AyncuXU.jpg) in. The only one I have at hand belonged to my ex and has unicorns printed on it, and there are none of those in my life right now.

e: but after a closer look, the first order of the day will have to be shaving my hair - right into the wood.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on November 17, 2017, 01:22:34 AM
Train travel is romantic, even with my only company being a book of plays by Giraudoux, a pile of boiled egg sandwiches (prepared by my own hand and wrapped in the paper from the loaf of bread) and not one, but two pints of full fat milk. Also, I'm wearing a shell pink fitted T-shirt, which looks cool and should remain so throughout the journey if I refrain from dropping boiled egg all over it.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on November 20, 2017, 06:47:32 AM
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/2g7BNYczrSb5cWQd0z5WHC1/sounds-you-dont-hear-anymore?ns_mchannel=social&ns_campaign=bbc_radio_3&ns_source=facebook&ns_linkname=radio_and_music

Interesting! Definitely looking forward to hearing it!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: You did it on November 20, 2017, 12:32:57 PM
My bus card has malfunctioned (which had only just been topped up with $150  :'( :'( ) and I've been forced to cash out extra money just to get to university, till I have the time later this afternoon to go into the company's office to get it replace and the money transferred.

It scared the shit out of me yesterday morning when I hopped on the bus and swiped the card, only to have the machine tell me "please pay the driver". Like, money isn't easy to come by as as a university student and I'm getting it robbed essentially because of a malfunction. Just my luck!  >:(


Although weather's great and I have lots of assigned reading to get through  :laugh:
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Spineur on November 26, 2017, 09:29:16 AM
My goal in life: be like Marcel Rémy at his age

https://www.youtube.com/v/NUJnZeCc7Hw

A fantastic example.  Chapeau bas

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: aleazk on November 27, 2017, 04:57:46 AM
I started to give piano lessons... so far, my first and only student is... my flatmate :laugh: :(

He seems quite engaged with his hanon etudes*, though... lol .... but he still has to pay me two lessons... >:(

*and no, I don't recommend doing them like a trained monkey... just a bit of them to have some finger independence...it worked pretty well for me when I wasa beginnner...
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on December 13, 2017, 02:55:02 PM
Quote from: Spineur on November 26, 2017, 09:29:16 AM
My goal in life: be like Marcel Rémy at his age

https://www.youtube.com/v/NUJnZeCc7Hw

A fantastic example.  Chapeau bas

Indeed. Inspiring.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on December 13, 2017, 03:12:24 PM
'I'll be home for Christmas' - The Four Freshmen (I think) but also The Beach Boys. I don't care much for xmas - although it's cool for children - and I really view it as a time to get together with family. In my case, my friends are my family and I look forward to seeing them.

So the weekend will see me up north again. I'm tempted to about turn and book a flight/hotel somewhere warm instead, but I have stuff to do in both Scotland and England. And that reminds me; time to renew my gym membership (I pay cash upfront so there's no shenanigans with contracts) and check out the currrent flying trapeze facilities in Edinburgh. After that, concerts, the ballet and maybe a few plays, although I think all there is in December is the RSNO Christmas concert.

Resting pulse rate - 57bpm
Bodyweight - 159lbs
Charm - trace elements only, but it's still there.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on December 14, 2017, 01:36:54 AM
Good to see you (if this be seeing).

This evening is an expansion of our usual Thursday evening choir rehearsal at HTUMC, since we have our Christmas concerts (together with the choir of Second Congo in Beverly) this weekend.  Our harpist will rehearse with us tonight, so I am helping her move her instrument from Arlington to Danvers;  and that is a bit earlier than might be, as I had arranged to rehearse with our soprano and accompanist, the traditional vx/cl/pf O Holy Night which will be part of our Lessons & Carols on the 24th.

So, busy, but a good busy.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Crudblud on December 20, 2017, 06:32:14 AM
I am 28 now. Or I will be in another six hours or so—I didn't pop out until a little after 9pm, so I am told.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on December 20, 2017, 06:53:48 AM
Many years!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Baron Scarpia on January 03, 2018, 02:09:30 PM
I received, then sent a message that contained Cyrillic characters on a Yahoo Mail account. Immediately afterwards I was required to change my password, and subsequently I was forbidden to send any email at all. Any email I sent bounced with a return message "Error code 475: Suspicious activity was detected on your account" After I posted a complaint to Yahoo's customer service I could send mail again and I received an advisory that the problem could be avoided in the future by avoiding message with "spam-like characteristics."

Wow, they'll outsmart the Russian trolls who write in...get this...Russian!

Evidently the only real solution is to forget about Yahoo Mail.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: bwv 1080 on January 03, 2018, 02:18:28 PM
Quote from: Baron Scarpia on January 03, 2018, 02:09:30 PM

Evidently the only real solution is to forget about Yahoo Mail.

http://money.cnn.com/2017/10/03/technology/business/yahoo-breach-3-billion-accounts/index.html (http://money.cnn.com/2017/10/03/technology/business/yahoo-breach-3-billion-accounts/index.html)

yes
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on January 11, 2018, 07:36:10 AM
Right now I'm a bar near the train station - specifically, sitting at the bar with a single malt (Glenfiddich 12yo - not my first choice, but it's a 'spit and sawdust,' kind of place) before heading home.

Edinburgh won and so enticed me to lay down hard cash. It's cool here and Glasgow (including the RSNO and the BBC SSO) is only 60 minutes or so away by train. The best thing I did in 2017 was to finally sell my house. The coincidence there is that photos I'd started taking at that time attracted interest and turned into a commission. Oh my.
I hope that all those who post here that I came to consider as friends and who play(ed) their part in enriching my appreciation of music and stuff are happy and healthy.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: North Star on January 11, 2018, 07:42:05 AM
Happy New Year, NikF!
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on January 11, 2018, 07:58:45 AM
Quote from: North Star on January 11, 2018, 07:42:05 AM
Happy New Year, NikF!

Thank you. And "Hyva uutta vuotta" (?) If that fails, then "Aw ra best, an' up yer kilt wi' a blaw lamp!" to you and yours.

Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Karl Henning on January 11, 2018, 08:31:20 AM
Quote from: NikF on January 11, 2018, 07:36:10 AM
Right now I'm a bar near the train station - specifically, sitting at the bar with a single malt (Glenfiddich 12yo - not my first choice, but it's a 'spit and sawdust,' kind of place) before heading home.

Edinburgh won and so enticed me to lay down hard cash. It's cool here and Glasgow (including the RSNO and the BBC SSO) is only 60 minutes or so away by train. The best thing I did in 2017 was to finally sell my house. The coincidence there is that photos I'd started taking at that time attracted interest and turned into a commission. Oh my.
I hope that all those who post here that I came to consider as friends and who play(ed) their part in enriching my appreciation of music and stuff are happy and healthy.

I rejoice that the house is sold!

And, heck, to see yez.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on January 11, 2018, 09:31:29 AM
Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on January 11, 2018, 08:31:20 AM
I rejoice that the house is sold!

And, heck, to see yez.

Spasibo, Karlushka. Spasibo.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Sergeant Rock on January 11, 2018, 09:35:20 AM
Good to see you here again, Nik  8)

Sarge
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on January 11, 2018, 09:40:43 AM
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on January 11, 2018, 09:35:20 AM
Good to see you here again, Nik  8)

Sarge

Good to see you too, Sarge. And I hope that both you and the lovely (and womanly) Mrs. Rock are happy and well.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mirror Image on January 11, 2018, 04:57:34 PM
Quote from: NikF on January 11, 2018, 07:36:10 AM
Right now I'm a bar near the train station - specifically, sitting at the bar with a single malt (Glenfiddich 12yo - not my first choice, but it's a 'spit and sawdust,' kind of place) before heading home.

Edinburgh won and so enticed me to lay down hard cash. It's cool here and Glasgow (including the RSNO and the BBC SSO) is only 60 minutes or so away by train. The best thing I did in 2017 was to finally sell my house. The coincidence there is that photos I'd started taking at that time attracted interest and turned into a commission. Oh my.
I hope that all those who post here that I came to consider as friends and who play(ed) their part in enriching my appreciation of music and stuff are happy and healthy.

Congratulations on selling your house, Nik! Good to hear you're doing well. 8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on January 12, 2018, 10:02:08 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 11, 2018, 04:57:34 PM
Congratulations on selling your house, Nik! Good to hear you're doing well. 8)

Thanks, oor MI  8)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on January 12, 2018, 04:23:11 PM
Just spent five weeks in Japan. It was good.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: kishnevi on January 12, 2018, 05:09:10 PM
Quote from: jessop on January 12, 2018, 04:23:11 PM
Just spent five weeks in Japan. It was good.
:)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Mirror Image on January 12, 2018, 06:56:38 PM
Quote from: jessop on January 12, 2018, 04:23:11 PM
Just spent five weeks in Japan. It was good.

Awesome! I'd love to go there someday.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on January 12, 2018, 08:02:56 PM
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on January 12, 2018, 05:09:10 PM
:)
:D
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on January 13, 2018, 01:08:03 AM
New city, new gym. It'll probably still have the seasonal influx of those who made a resolution about fitness/weight loss over the new year. More power to them.

On the way back I'll pick-up a sirloin steak for this evening. And there's a jacket I had altered that can be collect today. Speaking of jackets, is there an opinion on owning two of the same piece, differing only in colour? I already have this one - (https://i.imgur.com/YPCxddR.jpg)

- but learned that it's now available in grey.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: Baron Scarpia on January 13, 2018, 07:29:16 AM
Quote from: NikF on January 13, 2018, 01:08:03 AMSpeaking of jackets, is there an opinion on owning two of the same piece, differing only in colour? I already have this one - (https://i.imgur.com/YPCxddR.jpg)

- but learned that it's now available in grey.

When I've done that I've more often than not regretted not taking the opportunity for a bit more diversity.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on January 13, 2018, 07:57:30 AM
Quote from: Baron Scarpia on January 13, 2018, 07:29:16 AM
When I've done that I've more often than not regretted not taking the opportunity for a bit more diversity.

Yeah, that's it, that's one of the reasons I'm hesitating. Also, I'm basically a cheapskate who doesn't like spending money on stuff.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on January 14, 2018, 10:38:09 AM
Gym tomorrow. Over the past two years I've gone from my three times a week workouts - a bro split - lasting about 90 minutes or so each (during my last relationship ending) to now taking just over 30 minutes each. The reason? - age. It's been taking longer and longer to recover. Oh my off days it's still gymnastics stuff (and return to the trapeze) along with an easy run.
The other change is in diet, which should eventually see an increase in bodyweight from about 160 lbs (72.5 kg) to 165ish lbs (about 75 kg) which means I won't appear as cut/ripped as before, but I don't mind that.

(https://i.imgur.com/ZEoPhx9.jpg)
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on January 28, 2018, 02:05:05 AM
Applied for a job. Casual ushering position. Need money because commissions and composition grants don't come by often.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on January 28, 2018, 02:22:07 AM
Quote from: jessop on January 28, 2018, 02:05:05 AM
Applied for a job. Casual ushering position. Need money because commissions and composition grants don't come by often.

That's great. I hope you get it. And if/when you do, take it easy.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: ComposerOfAvantGarde on January 28, 2018, 01:57:15 PM
Thank you. Currently also applying for an emerging composer grant.
Title: Re: Random Daily, Personal Adventures and Stuff
Post by: NikF on January 29, 2018, 09:32:14 PM
I've been fasting since last night for a medical test today. Every couple of years a check-up that lasts most of the morning is performed and when it's over I find somewhere cool for lunch, where the urge to play catch-up is successfully resisted. As for the medical, I feel great, just as I always feel great and so no problems are anticipated. But that's what the medical test is for.


e: lunch was two cheeseburgers, chips (fries) and one pint of full fat milk.