Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Sunday, May 16, 2010
New Series
Hi folks of the blogging world. I must apologize for my previous posting. Now that I read it myself, I realize it was extremely hard to read, and had a lot of unnecessary personal junk filler that you don't need to know. Over the next few postings, I'm going to attempt to keep it simple, short, and more interesting. Getting back to basics, as it were.
Keep your eyes peeled here!
Neal
Thursday, May 13, 2010
It's Been A Long Time...
...Since I Wrote A Blog Post!
Cue crazy rock music from my parents era.
Yeah, but it's definitely been a while. Whew! But a lot of things have happened since my last posting, so now at least I'll have a few good solid postings filled with interesting and compelling material with which to sink your literary teeth into. Such will be the words of my musings, that your brain will liken it to buttermilk tarts, venison smoked on an open fire, and the finest wines from the vineyards of Europe (complete with toe jam from those who trample the grapes). Your soul will be filled with longing for more, like an addiction, or lusting.
Or, instead, you'll just come back next time for another blog posting. Sound better? Good, then off we go!
Sitting down to this posting, I must first regale you with my most recent findings on the nature of the human body. Now, far be it from me to claim to be an expert on the human body. Far from it. I know very little about a veritable mountain of information available about the great machine that is the human body. But through recent experience and deprivation, i have discovered another two items about myself that I never thought possible.
Number one, I can safely and accurately function without proper sleep for days on end. While I am loathe to admit this, as my father will surely be reading this and be hearkening to awake me at ungodly hours once I get home, it is sadly true. No more can I use the excuse, I need my sleep. Frankly, sleep has now become a brief respite to the wonders and realities of the waking world; And undisturbed sleep, well, that is truly a dream without peer. I do not believe I can recall a time in recent history where I have attained a full night of undisturbed sleep, well, anything over 4 hours. Unfortunate, yes, but enlightening also. I've proven to myself that while uncomfortable and taxing, I can function quite well over the course of three to four days on minimal to know sleep, only rest. It's almost a meditative thing, though I wish i could make the time fly faster. At the writing of this blog it's actually 5:45AM, an ungodly hour if ever there was one. I would not have realized it existed save for the many ski trips I've taken over the years, as well as last night when I spent the entire night awake. At 4AM I simply could not take lying in bed and wide awake, so I marched down to the hotel lobby to finish my book. That nearly completed, I had to occupy my thoughts further with some typing, as my eyes were starting to grow blurry and the couch too comfortable. Considering I'm not supposed to be in this hotel, only at the behest of my friend here on business, I consider falling asleep in the lobby a bad thing.
Dad, if you wake me up at 5 when I get home, I will be forced to beat you, regardless of how fit you've become and how badly you will now be beating me at running.
That's another thing that I've found. Ok, so now make it three things. I'll be re-visiting the fact of my ever-changing demeanor towards life, stress, and what really matters. I touched on it briefly in the last blog post. But the other item that just caught my attention was my latent fitness. While my father has been training diligently during my absence as his running partner in crime, I've been wandering aimlessly around cities for hours on end. But with that, I've tried to get to a climbing gym once or twice, and I did go out for two runs. Funny thing, that even though I haven't done a lick of training for months, I've actually help up pretty well. Sure, my strength is a lot to be desired, but somehow it doesn't feel like I've lost too much in the process. In fact, it feels like I'm losing all the unnecessary, and keeping only what's needed for my activities. I mean, heck, if I can still run for over thirty minutes without breaking much of a sweat, I still think I'm doing alright. Although, with my new love of climbing, I may have to harass the YMCA to see where they put their climbing apparatus. Blasted move of location took away my climbing wall. Buggers. They should have set it up down in the park as a bouldering wall. It would have been a great move for the city, but of course, they'd never think of that. But in any case, it is rather interesting to still be able to do things that I could do before, albeit at a lesser extent. The more I learn about how the body operated, both through experience and through classical learning, the more I'm amazed at the biological machine we've been graced with. Maybe I'll get into the health industry one day, maybe not. That actually brings me to my final point.
I spoke last time about how I've been altering my thinking patterns as I go. The real crux of the matter, is that not one year ago, actually, less than a year ago, if I thought too much about the lack of obvious direction in my life, or comparing myself to my hitched, successful, or otherwise job-oriented peers, I would have gone into a hyperventilating fit. Well, maybe not quite as bad as I described, but certainly not far off it. I was a complete mess at times, and had to go with the reliable "Dad-on-the-other-end-of-a-phone" treatment to calm me down. It works, but I think that since I'm 24 now, I should be able to handle most things without too much guidance. Wait until I end up tying the knot. Whew, Dad's gonna need another mortgage for that phone bill. Ha ha ha. But in any case, I've found that circumstances and situations that would have caused me to freak out before, are just not fazing me as much any more. For example, I lost a 32 Gigabyte iPod touch within my first 12 hours of being in Australia. Of course it was fully loaded and I had bought songs and such from iTunes on the way. Gotta have some variety, right? Was I upset, oh yeah! But after the next day when I went searching for the expensive mini-jukebox, I didn't think about it much more than that. The same thing when arriving in town with no place to stay, like I did in Tokyo. Normally, a cause for distress; Now, a cause for a brief look around and a good walk to find where I'm going to lay my head for the evening. And the final one, the bastard of them all, is monetary! Normally, a lack of funds would cause my blood to freeze, my veins to run cold, and my heart beat in palpitations so fast a hummingbird's wings would seem slow by comparison. I think now, I'm finally fully coming to terms with not having money, and even being in debt. For the first time in my life, I actually owe serious amounts of cash to a cash-flow institution. Mastercard and Visa are gonna love me when I get back, as every waking moment will be spend tryin to pay off the blasted cards. But strangely, no panic! I've finally got some of the monetary maturity that people like my Mom, Dad, Aiden and Frank Coleman, and other successful people in my life have possessed for quite some time. It's a remarkable sensation, knowing that even though you owe money, I have the abilities and knowledge to get myself out of the situation and back into the black. Red's only a good color when we're talking about blood and shirts.
Well, enough about personal musings. Time for the stuff you've been waiting for. You didn't come to this website to read my personal growth entries, otherwise I label thee stalkers of the first degree! I jest. But no, you came here to read my musings and observations on what I've seen, heard, smelt, tasted, and touched. Well, I've got plenty of info to update you on, and lots to talk about. Unfortunately, I just realized (now that my brain has activated after eating some of the hotel breakfast that I'm not supposed to eat, or even be staying at. Shhhhhh,) that I have packed my previous Moleskin notepad in my travel bag which is upstairs in the room, that I probably shouldn't go up to until later. Gah! Alright, well, maybe I can update you in a less than chronological order then. Sound good? Ok, to Japan it is, and we'll visit the rest of Australia and Taronga Zoo another day.
I started a new notepad when I headed to Tokyo, as the other one finally ran out. I tell ya, those notebooks Mike gave me are the best investment ever. Thanks Mike! Oh, which reminds me, I gotta call him and wish him happy birthday. He's 25 today! Wow, how time flies. Be right back, gotta make a phone call.
Ok, I'm back. Mike, you never picked up. Of course, that's understandable for a guy in your position. Crazy amount of work coming your way still I would surmise. I'll try calling after work. Got the timer on my watch set and everything.
As I was saying, I started my new notebook when I was getting ready to head to Tokyo for a 24 hour stopover, then up to Vancouver. yes, I'm back in Canada. Gotta get some visa stuff ready to jobs in South Korea. Me's gonna be un English teacher, hyuk! Or so I hope. I'll jsut keep firing off resumes, and since they don't start till August, well, most of them, I should be able to get in with a Public School of my choosing. No Hagwons for me, uh uh. Not with the horror stories I've read and heard about them. But yeah, the notebook, right. I took the liberty of writing down everything I wanted to see in the time I was there. It included the following:
As a separate note, I think that all airlines should be forced to install cameras down by the landing gear. It was so cool to watch on the TV screens int he jet as the plane taxied down the runway and then lifted off. It was especially cool when they turned on the downward facing camera as well, so you could see the ground getting smaller and smaller. I only wish that they would leave that downward camera, or even the front-facing one, on while they landed. Now that would be a rush to see. Although, I suppose it would cause a smattering of discomfort to some of the more flight-sensitive clientele. Bah on them! Still, cool feature, get it!
Right, landing in Tokyo was another experience altogether. I don't even remember if there was a customs department going in or out of the country. Couldn't tell you at all. I've completely forgotten. Ha ha ha. I do, however, remember the lady who helped me at the customer service desk. For the life of me, I can't remember her name (still haven't got much better with that task) but I do remember her service. She was, by far, the best customer service representative I've ever had, in any country, in any business area. Hands down. She was just so, cheery, helpful and took care of everything I needed. She's definitely the benchmark for all customer service agents. And what's more, she spoke English better than I did! Bonus! Still, this young lady gave me four or five different maps, set up my lodgings for the night, showed me where to store my baggage at the airport, and even gave me suggestions on where to go and what to do based on kind of night-life I wanted to have. Kudos!
So, I ended up staying in the Asakusa district, near the temples and gates that surround the more traditional-styled area. There was this little place, and even now I don't have my camera on me so I can't tell you the name, but it was of a more traditional style room. About $60 buck or so for a one person room, but done with tatami floors and low tea tables and the like. Now, while the futon was thin, the floors hard-ish, the tea pot amazing and the noise outside the window rather quiet for a busy area, I have to comment mostly on the bathroom. While I've heard of space-saving endeavors, I believe the Japanese have it figured out better than anyone else in the world. I believe the dimensions of the room were 6 ft high (maybe), 5-6 ft deep (to the back of the tub from the door), and about 4 feet wide (If that. From one shoulder to my fingers on my other arm outstretched.) Basically, anyone taller or wider than me, and they ain't gonna fit! The tap system was quite ingenious though, running both the shower and sink on one tap. Great way of saving space and money. Oh, and you know how if we put water in thermos' back in Canada, 9 chances out of 10 if you check it the next day it won't be hot? Well, save for very expensive tea kettles and water bottles at least. Well, the one that was in my room was already filled with water when i got there, piping hot, and when I checked it the next morning in order to have some green tea (I'm in japan, gotta do it) it was still hot enough for tea! Fantastic!
Then it was off to wander. I started my day quite early, somewhere in the viscinity of 6 and 7, and headed out the door to the Hozomon and Kaminarimon gates leading to the Sensoji temple. The area has been turned into a great tourist attraction, what with the long walkway leading through the two gates up to the temple being lined off with whatever shops you can imagine. I only caught a glimpse of what was there, as when I arrived all the shops were pretty much closed down, and when I got up the next morning I was already moved on to another district by the time they opened up around 10. I did get to say a prayer at Sensoji temple though, and watch the monks do pieces of their ceremonies and chants. Quite cool! They now have a few of my previous yen in the temple coffers. No pictures though, uot of respect, and the big glaring sign of a camera with a cross through it.
The night before, I have wandered around the area, trying not to get lost too often, and began to notice things. First off, I got drawn in to try one of the video game arcades they had. Hey, I'm in Japan, pretty much the birthplace of all things cool and technological, so sue me! But yeah, they had some crazy games like a full 3D Mech Game, a full-Sized DJ game that puts DJ Hero to shame, and even a Japanese drumming game that was waaaay more fun than any DDR or Band Hero game ever invented. I want one...of everything! Next door there was even a batting cage and caged-in mini soccer field for 5 or five or three on three games. Quite great ideas, and definitely something I'll be partaking of when I visit next time. Oh yes, there will be a next time, have no fear. I have a list of some of the stuff I could make a killing off in arcades back home. But, I digress in my geek-ness.
After the temple district, and my breakfast at McDonalds in one of the alleyways next tot he temple, it was off to find the legendary Akihabara, mecca of all things Geekery. From machines to Manga, it was all there. Anything you could possibly want to own, view, or even just stare at could be found, but not if you weren't looking for it. For example, more of the signs outside shops were in Japanese, of course, while some had English subtexts posted on them as well. They all look pretty simple from the outside...until you realize that each one has 7 to 8 floors, plus a floor or two underground, and all are filled with different wares. Oh yeah, now we're talking Space Savers R Us on an entirely different level. I ended up in one of the major arcades there, where they had an Anime expo/info area as well, just under all the offices that towered above in the same building. Again, since it wasn't open at the time, I never got to see that part of the builsing. But that's not the point. The point is, I found God's Toilet!
Oh yes, do not be fooled by imitators people. I have found God's Toilet, for if any god or diety or supernatural being ever owned a toilet, it would be Japanese in make. The think had a heated seat. A heat seat! Let me rephrase that again...no, that just about does it. A heated seat! Holy crap that was cool! And then there were heated water jets to clear out your bottom, and differing pressure controls depending on if you wanted to be dampened, cleaned out from 'arse' to ears, or jettisoned off the seat into the stratosphere...or the office above. But yeah, enough on the toilet. Five or six lines of text on something you crap in is enough.
Then I wandered off to hit up downtown Shinjuku, but on the way, I stopped off at the Imperial Palace area. Bloody hell, that place is big, and I mean properly big. You could walk for an hour and not circumvent it. And of course, I didn't. Once I found out that it was closed on Mondays (curse it all), I immediately toddled off towards Shinjuku. On the way, I privately mused about three items. The first being, how safe I felt in Japan. There's a police box pretty much on every street corner, and they're all so bloody professional and friendly. More than once during my arrival night I asked them to point me in the right direction, which they did with a bow and a smile. Quite great blokes them. And ladies too, I did get directions from one of the female cops as well. She was pretty! Ahem, right them, second item of thought provocation was the cleanliness of the city. While there were cleaners everwhere, I wouldhave thought a place with millions upon millions of people in such a packed area would have been a little bit dirty. Au Contraire, the whole city was cleaner than back home...or anywhere for that matter. Probably the cleanest city I've seen in a long time. Number three! I have to say, this struck me the hardest. Anywhere I've gone so far, there's been at least a good share of foreigners and Caucasian people. So honestly, I kinda blended in. However, after stepping off the plane in Tokyo, I had to say,
"Neal, we are not in Kansas anymore!"
It's the first time I've truly felt like a foreigner in a strange land. But still, best damn experience I've had in a long time. And the shopkeepers, my god! They're all so polite, even if they don't want to be. Everyone working there welcomes you as you enter, says goodbye when you leave, and are smiling all the time. Well, except for one poor white girl working in a tourist-themed gift shop on the 7th floor, she looked like she had not woken up yet. She's forgiven!
Unfortunately, this was the end of my tour around Tokyo, as once I got to Shinjuku, I had to get back on the train headed for the airport for being late for an international flight is a definite no no. Though, I don't know what I was worrying for. The Japanese airport was more efficient than a McDonald lineup. Actually, I think I got signed in and through security faster than i usually get served at any fast food joint, including drive-through services. Every airport service personnel who's reading this, I want you to get on a plight to Tokyo and see for yourself. Now go!
Ya know, for as much of a pain as it is to have to head back home, even if it is to get paperwork done in hopes of heading to Korea soon, it's good to have people put it in perspective for you. If you're reading this, you know who you are. They pointed out that I've circumvented the world, almost. Once I hit home, I will have. Crazy stuff eh? When you put it in that kind of perspective, not 100 years ago that would have been a huge undertaking. Today it merely requires money, patience, and a really comfortable seat. And really, it's not even that much money. I travelled to a hell of a lot of places, covering Toronto, Cuba, Barcelona, Venice, Frankfurt, Berlin, London, Singapore, Perth, Sydney, Tokyo, Vancouver, and Regina all for about $10,000. And I didn't even try and save too much money. I bought gifts to bring or send home, I stayed in proper bug-free lodgings (most of the time) and ate very well. I was entertained, traveled when I wanted, and never quibbled too much about costs of transport. It really makes a lot more sense, when you put it that way. Thanks for the sagely advice. Once again, you're still the wiser one of us two.
Right then, before I go, I have a comment for you to ponder over. You've probably all heard of the 9 circles of hell, or was it 7. In any case, I believe I've found the lowest circle of hell. It involves extended length, non-stop flights, with no food to eat, and crying children all around.
Later days,
Neal
Cue crazy rock music from my parents era.
Yeah, but it's definitely been a while. Whew! But a lot of things have happened since my last posting, so now at least I'll have a few good solid postings filled with interesting and compelling material with which to sink your literary teeth into. Such will be the words of my musings, that your brain will liken it to buttermilk tarts, venison smoked on an open fire, and the finest wines from the vineyards of Europe (complete with toe jam from those who trample the grapes). Your soul will be filled with longing for more, like an addiction, or lusting.
Or, instead, you'll just come back next time for another blog posting. Sound better? Good, then off we go!
Sitting down to this posting, I must first regale you with my most recent findings on the nature of the human body. Now, far be it from me to claim to be an expert on the human body. Far from it. I know very little about a veritable mountain of information available about the great machine that is the human body. But through recent experience and deprivation, i have discovered another two items about myself that I never thought possible.
Number one, I can safely and accurately function without proper sleep for days on end. While I am loathe to admit this, as my father will surely be reading this and be hearkening to awake me at ungodly hours once I get home, it is sadly true. No more can I use the excuse, I need my sleep. Frankly, sleep has now become a brief respite to the wonders and realities of the waking world; And undisturbed sleep, well, that is truly a dream without peer. I do not believe I can recall a time in recent history where I have attained a full night of undisturbed sleep, well, anything over 4 hours. Unfortunate, yes, but enlightening also. I've proven to myself that while uncomfortable and taxing, I can function quite well over the course of three to four days on minimal to know sleep, only rest. It's almost a meditative thing, though I wish i could make the time fly faster. At the writing of this blog it's actually 5:45AM, an ungodly hour if ever there was one. I would not have realized it existed save for the many ski trips I've taken over the years, as well as last night when I spent the entire night awake. At 4AM I simply could not take lying in bed and wide awake, so I marched down to the hotel lobby to finish my book. That nearly completed, I had to occupy my thoughts further with some typing, as my eyes were starting to grow blurry and the couch too comfortable. Considering I'm not supposed to be in this hotel, only at the behest of my friend here on business, I consider falling asleep in the lobby a bad thing.
Dad, if you wake me up at 5 when I get home, I will be forced to beat you, regardless of how fit you've become and how badly you will now be beating me at running.
That's another thing that I've found. Ok, so now make it three things. I'll be re-visiting the fact of my ever-changing demeanor towards life, stress, and what really matters. I touched on it briefly in the last blog post. But the other item that just caught my attention was my latent fitness. While my father has been training diligently during my absence as his running partner in crime, I've been wandering aimlessly around cities for hours on end. But with that, I've tried to get to a climbing gym once or twice, and I did go out for two runs. Funny thing, that even though I haven't done a lick of training for months, I've actually help up pretty well. Sure, my strength is a lot to be desired, but somehow it doesn't feel like I've lost too much in the process. In fact, it feels like I'm losing all the unnecessary, and keeping only what's needed for my activities. I mean, heck, if I can still run for over thirty minutes without breaking much of a sweat, I still think I'm doing alright. Although, with my new love of climbing, I may have to harass the YMCA to see where they put their climbing apparatus. Blasted move of location took away my climbing wall. Buggers. They should have set it up down in the park as a bouldering wall. It would have been a great move for the city, but of course, they'd never think of that. But in any case, it is rather interesting to still be able to do things that I could do before, albeit at a lesser extent. The more I learn about how the body operated, both through experience and through classical learning, the more I'm amazed at the biological machine we've been graced with. Maybe I'll get into the health industry one day, maybe not. That actually brings me to my final point.
I spoke last time about how I've been altering my thinking patterns as I go. The real crux of the matter, is that not one year ago, actually, less than a year ago, if I thought too much about the lack of obvious direction in my life, or comparing myself to my hitched, successful, or otherwise job-oriented peers, I would have gone into a hyperventilating fit. Well, maybe not quite as bad as I described, but certainly not far off it. I was a complete mess at times, and had to go with the reliable "Dad-on-the-other-end-of-a-phone" treatment to calm me down. It works, but I think that since I'm 24 now, I should be able to handle most things without too much guidance. Wait until I end up tying the knot. Whew, Dad's gonna need another mortgage for that phone bill. Ha ha ha. But in any case, I've found that circumstances and situations that would have caused me to freak out before, are just not fazing me as much any more. For example, I lost a 32 Gigabyte iPod touch within my first 12 hours of being in Australia. Of course it was fully loaded and I had bought songs and such from iTunes on the way. Gotta have some variety, right? Was I upset, oh yeah! But after the next day when I went searching for the expensive mini-jukebox, I didn't think about it much more than that. The same thing when arriving in town with no place to stay, like I did in Tokyo. Normally, a cause for distress; Now, a cause for a brief look around and a good walk to find where I'm going to lay my head for the evening. And the final one, the bastard of them all, is monetary! Normally, a lack of funds would cause my blood to freeze, my veins to run cold, and my heart beat in palpitations so fast a hummingbird's wings would seem slow by comparison. I think now, I'm finally fully coming to terms with not having money, and even being in debt. For the first time in my life, I actually owe serious amounts of cash to a cash-flow institution. Mastercard and Visa are gonna love me when I get back, as every waking moment will be spend tryin to pay off the blasted cards. But strangely, no panic! I've finally got some of the monetary maturity that people like my Mom, Dad, Aiden and Frank Coleman, and other successful people in my life have possessed for quite some time. It's a remarkable sensation, knowing that even though you owe money, I have the abilities and knowledge to get myself out of the situation and back into the black. Red's only a good color when we're talking about blood and shirts.
Well, enough about personal musings. Time for the stuff you've been waiting for. You didn't come to this website to read my personal growth entries, otherwise I label thee stalkers of the first degree! I jest. But no, you came here to read my musings and observations on what I've seen, heard, smelt, tasted, and touched. Well, I've got plenty of info to update you on, and lots to talk about. Unfortunately, I just realized (now that my brain has activated after eating some of the hotel breakfast that I'm not supposed to eat, or even be staying at. Shhhhhh,) that I have packed my previous Moleskin notepad in my travel bag which is upstairs in the room, that I probably shouldn't go up to until later. Gah! Alright, well, maybe I can update you in a less than chronological order then. Sound good? Ok, to Japan it is, and we'll visit the rest of Australia and Taronga Zoo another day.
I started a new notepad when I headed to Tokyo, as the other one finally ran out. I tell ya, those notebooks Mike gave me are the best investment ever. Thanks Mike! Oh, which reminds me, I gotta call him and wish him happy birthday. He's 25 today! Wow, how time flies. Be right back, gotta make a phone call.
Ok, I'm back. Mike, you never picked up. Of course, that's understandable for a guy in your position. Crazy amount of work coming your way still I would surmise. I'll try calling after work. Got the timer on my watch set and everything.
As I was saying, I started my new notebook when I was getting ready to head to Tokyo for a 24 hour stopover, then up to Vancouver. yes, I'm back in Canada. Gotta get some visa stuff ready to jobs in South Korea. Me's gonna be un English teacher, hyuk! Or so I hope. I'll jsut keep firing off resumes, and since they don't start till August, well, most of them, I should be able to get in with a Public School of my choosing. No Hagwons for me, uh uh. Not with the horror stories I've read and heard about them. But yeah, the notebook, right. I took the liberty of writing down everything I wanted to see in the time I was there. It included the following:
- Akihabara (Tech District)
- Asakusa(Temples, tourist shops)
- Imperial Palace (Royalty, duh!)
- Kokusaitenjojijo (Toyko Big Sight, some famous architectural building I read about online.)
- Roppongi (Cosmopolitan at its finest, more tourists than locals. Hard to fathom that.)
- Ryogoku/Kokugikan (Sumos!)
- Shinjuku (Neon and nightlife. Partay!)
- Kabuki-cho (Red light district. What? I haven't hit Amsterdam yet.)
- Yoyogi park (Veritable freakish fashion show by the locals every day, not on purpose.)
- Tusikiji (Fish market. Just don't eat anything.)
- Harajuku (Meiji Jingu Temple)
As a separate note, I think that all airlines should be forced to install cameras down by the landing gear. It was so cool to watch on the TV screens int he jet as the plane taxied down the runway and then lifted off. It was especially cool when they turned on the downward facing camera as well, so you could see the ground getting smaller and smaller. I only wish that they would leave that downward camera, or even the front-facing one, on while they landed. Now that would be a rush to see. Although, I suppose it would cause a smattering of discomfort to some of the more flight-sensitive clientele. Bah on them! Still, cool feature, get it!
Right, landing in Tokyo was another experience altogether. I don't even remember if there was a customs department going in or out of the country. Couldn't tell you at all. I've completely forgotten. Ha ha ha. I do, however, remember the lady who helped me at the customer service desk. For the life of me, I can't remember her name (still haven't got much better with that task) but I do remember her service. She was, by far, the best customer service representative I've ever had, in any country, in any business area. Hands down. She was just so, cheery, helpful and took care of everything I needed. She's definitely the benchmark for all customer service agents. And what's more, she spoke English better than I did! Bonus! Still, this young lady gave me four or five different maps, set up my lodgings for the night, showed me where to store my baggage at the airport, and even gave me suggestions on where to go and what to do based on kind of night-life I wanted to have. Kudos!
So, I ended up staying in the Asakusa district, near the temples and gates that surround the more traditional-styled area. There was this little place, and even now I don't have my camera on me so I can't tell you the name, but it was of a more traditional style room. About $60 buck or so for a one person room, but done with tatami floors and low tea tables and the like. Now, while the futon was thin, the floors hard-ish, the tea pot amazing and the noise outside the window rather quiet for a busy area, I have to comment mostly on the bathroom. While I've heard of space-saving endeavors, I believe the Japanese have it figured out better than anyone else in the world. I believe the dimensions of the room were 6 ft high (maybe), 5-6 ft deep (to the back of the tub from the door), and about 4 feet wide (If that. From one shoulder to my fingers on my other arm outstretched.) Basically, anyone taller or wider than me, and they ain't gonna fit! The tap system was quite ingenious though, running both the shower and sink on one tap. Great way of saving space and money. Oh, and you know how if we put water in thermos' back in Canada, 9 chances out of 10 if you check it the next day it won't be hot? Well, save for very expensive tea kettles and water bottles at least. Well, the one that was in my room was already filled with water when i got there, piping hot, and when I checked it the next morning in order to have some green tea (I'm in japan, gotta do it) it was still hot enough for tea! Fantastic!
Then it was off to wander. I started my day quite early, somewhere in the viscinity of 6 and 7, and headed out the door to the Hozomon and Kaminarimon gates leading to the Sensoji temple. The area has been turned into a great tourist attraction, what with the long walkway leading through the two gates up to the temple being lined off with whatever shops you can imagine. I only caught a glimpse of what was there, as when I arrived all the shops were pretty much closed down, and when I got up the next morning I was already moved on to another district by the time they opened up around 10. I did get to say a prayer at Sensoji temple though, and watch the monks do pieces of their ceremonies and chants. Quite cool! They now have a few of my previous yen in the temple coffers. No pictures though, uot of respect, and the big glaring sign of a camera with a cross through it.
The night before, I have wandered around the area, trying not to get lost too often, and began to notice things. First off, I got drawn in to try one of the video game arcades they had. Hey, I'm in Japan, pretty much the birthplace of all things cool and technological, so sue me! But yeah, they had some crazy games like a full 3D Mech Game, a full-Sized DJ game that puts DJ Hero to shame, and even a Japanese drumming game that was waaaay more fun than any DDR or Band Hero game ever invented. I want one...of everything! Next door there was even a batting cage and caged-in mini soccer field for 5 or five or three on three games. Quite great ideas, and definitely something I'll be partaking of when I visit next time. Oh yes, there will be a next time, have no fear. I have a list of some of the stuff I could make a killing off in arcades back home. But, I digress in my geek-ness.
After the temple district, and my breakfast at McDonalds in one of the alleyways next tot he temple, it was off to find the legendary Akihabara, mecca of all things Geekery. From machines to Manga, it was all there. Anything you could possibly want to own, view, or even just stare at could be found, but not if you weren't looking for it. For example, more of the signs outside shops were in Japanese, of course, while some had English subtexts posted on them as well. They all look pretty simple from the outside...until you realize that each one has 7 to 8 floors, plus a floor or two underground, and all are filled with different wares. Oh yeah, now we're talking Space Savers R Us on an entirely different level. I ended up in one of the major arcades there, where they had an Anime expo/info area as well, just under all the offices that towered above in the same building. Again, since it wasn't open at the time, I never got to see that part of the builsing. But that's not the point. The point is, I found God's Toilet!
Oh yes, do not be fooled by imitators people. I have found God's Toilet, for if any god or diety or supernatural being ever owned a toilet, it would be Japanese in make. The think had a heated seat. A heat seat! Let me rephrase that again...no, that just about does it. A heated seat! Holy crap that was cool! And then there were heated water jets to clear out your bottom, and differing pressure controls depending on if you wanted to be dampened, cleaned out from 'arse' to ears, or jettisoned off the seat into the stratosphere...or the office above. But yeah, enough on the toilet. Five or six lines of text on something you crap in is enough.
Then I wandered off to hit up downtown Shinjuku, but on the way, I stopped off at the Imperial Palace area. Bloody hell, that place is big, and I mean properly big. You could walk for an hour and not circumvent it. And of course, I didn't. Once I found out that it was closed on Mondays (curse it all), I immediately toddled off towards Shinjuku. On the way, I privately mused about three items. The first being, how safe I felt in Japan. There's a police box pretty much on every street corner, and they're all so bloody professional and friendly. More than once during my arrival night I asked them to point me in the right direction, which they did with a bow and a smile. Quite great blokes them. And ladies too, I did get directions from one of the female cops as well. She was pretty! Ahem, right them, second item of thought provocation was the cleanliness of the city. While there were cleaners everwhere, I wouldhave thought a place with millions upon millions of people in such a packed area would have been a little bit dirty. Au Contraire, the whole city was cleaner than back home...or anywhere for that matter. Probably the cleanest city I've seen in a long time. Number three! I have to say, this struck me the hardest. Anywhere I've gone so far, there's been at least a good share of foreigners and Caucasian people. So honestly, I kinda blended in. However, after stepping off the plane in Tokyo, I had to say,
"Neal, we are not in Kansas anymore!"
It's the first time I've truly felt like a foreigner in a strange land. But still, best damn experience I've had in a long time. And the shopkeepers, my god! They're all so polite, even if they don't want to be. Everyone working there welcomes you as you enter, says goodbye when you leave, and are smiling all the time. Well, except for one poor white girl working in a tourist-themed gift shop on the 7th floor, she looked like she had not woken up yet. She's forgiven!
Unfortunately, this was the end of my tour around Tokyo, as once I got to Shinjuku, I had to get back on the train headed for the airport for being late for an international flight is a definite no no. Though, I don't know what I was worrying for. The Japanese airport was more efficient than a McDonald lineup. Actually, I think I got signed in and through security faster than i usually get served at any fast food joint, including drive-through services. Every airport service personnel who's reading this, I want you to get on a plight to Tokyo and see for yourself. Now go!
Ya know, for as much of a pain as it is to have to head back home, even if it is to get paperwork done in hopes of heading to Korea soon, it's good to have people put it in perspective for you. If you're reading this, you know who you are. They pointed out that I've circumvented the world, almost. Once I hit home, I will have. Crazy stuff eh? When you put it in that kind of perspective, not 100 years ago that would have been a huge undertaking. Today it merely requires money, patience, and a really comfortable seat. And really, it's not even that much money. I travelled to a hell of a lot of places, covering Toronto, Cuba, Barcelona, Venice, Frankfurt, Berlin, London, Singapore, Perth, Sydney, Tokyo, Vancouver, and Regina all for about $10,000. And I didn't even try and save too much money. I bought gifts to bring or send home, I stayed in proper bug-free lodgings (most of the time) and ate very well. I was entertained, traveled when I wanted, and never quibbled too much about costs of transport. It really makes a lot more sense, when you put it that way. Thanks for the sagely advice. Once again, you're still the wiser one of us two.
Right then, before I go, I have a comment for you to ponder over. You've probably all heard of the 9 circles of hell, or was it 7. In any case, I believe I've found the lowest circle of hell. It involves extended length, non-stop flights, with no food to eat, and crying children all around.
Later days,
Neal
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Show me the Money!
Hey dudes and dudettes, I just got paid! Yep, money, paper, paid son!
Alright, enough with my gangsta rap, yo! I got ta keep this thing nice and real, ya dig.
Ahem, as I was saying, I got paid, finally. Real income, after so many days of searching and sorting through the job ads and applications of unfathomable complexity. Why companies choose to make their job applications so crazy hard to complete, I'll never know. It's as if they don't want people applying for their positions. Or maybe, it's to whittle down the applicants into the more serious ones. Dunno, and don't really care, because at least I'm on the right track.
I'm not sure if you're gone through this sort of thing before, but when applying for jobs, after the first 100, you begin to get a bit disillusioned. I figure I've put out about 120 resumes so far, with little success. But that's okay, because the feeling you get when you finally get some results is worth more than anything. I mean, getting the detailing job was the first step. Then it was getting paid. Finally there was a gentleman I met at a festival I went to after I was paid this past Friday. Gil his name was, working one of the food stands at this festival. He was selling mini dutch pancakes and I tell ya, damn good! In any case, we got to talking, and he offered me a job working the festivals with his company. I still don't know exactly where I'll be, or what's going on, but bloody hell, I'm going to give him a call today just like he asked. Never look a gift horse in the mouth eh?
Speaking of this festival, it was quite neat. A little open-air grassy area down by the harbor front in Manly. The whole place was lit up with lights, the kind you would see at a garden party, nothing really fancy at all. There were live performers playing, two groups of which I had the chance to take in. One was a trio of a drummer, guitarist, and singer. They performed jazzy style songs, kinda like Diana Krall except a little more mainstream. The singer, now her voice was really good. Kinda funny too how different people can look when they take their glasses off as well. She put her glasses on after the show, and I scarcely recognized her, except for the dress she was wearing and that she was damn hot. Ha ha ha. But yeah, the other crew was like a modern Simon and Garfunkel. Both guys sang, one played guitar, and the other only harmonica. But boy could this dude wail on that harmonica. He made that thing dance, I tell you. All the food stalls were quite something else as well. There was everything from the mini Dutch pancakes, to Gozlemes, French crepes, Dimsum, Paella, Mexican food, Oktoberfest Bratwurst, and other various Asian foods. It seems to me, that Asian food is where its at around Australia. Everywhere I go is Asian food, Mexican, and other styles of food from all over the world. It's actually more difficult than I thought to find traditional Australian food fare. Meat pies are good though...mmmmmm. Nice and hearty, just like we would have made. Proper on ya!
Ya know how I mentioned the ABC (Another Bloody Castle) syndrome back when I visited Scotland? Well, now I have a new disease from Australia, it's called TPS (Triple Plate Service Syndrome). I swear, I'm not cut out to work the hospitality industry in Australia, given that you have to be able to carry three plates. And it's not just the three plates, it's how precicely they need to be carried. They can't be pressed to the body in any way, and you pretty much have to be able to move your arms around like a bird and not have the plates drop off or tilt even a fraction of a degree. Bah, I say, there's more to service than carrying plates. Trust me, I've seen a lot of the servers here and aside from the control over the plates they have, there's no actual good points to their service. They don't smile, don't laugh, and don't look like they even care about the service. Bah, foolish people. Well, that's that.
Funny point though, grocery store clerks here get paid more than restaurateurs. Figure that one out, eh?
Hostels are funny places too. What happens there, you could definitely do another reality TV show about. I mean, on one floor alone, someone was assaulted, there were people bleeding, and then there's projectile vomiting all over their own gear. Foolish travelers. Ya know, as an aside, I think the British, as a generalization, are the worst travelers ever. I know this doesn't go for all, because I've met some good travelers from Britain as well, but they're rare. They're noisy, uncouth, filthy, and of course bad drunks. They all drink this boxed wine, 'goon' they call it, because of how cheap it is. Oh, I think I can throw a few Germans in there as well, since I've had some dealings with them as well. My next step is to find a spot of my own to stay in. I hope that happens soon, as I'm gonna go insane otherwise. He he he, not that I'm not already completely gone off the deep end. :P
Alright, I think that will cover most of what I had to say this time. Next time I might talk about the spiders that hide in cars. Until then, catcha later,
Neal
Alright, enough with my gangsta rap, yo! I got ta keep this thing nice and real, ya dig.
Ahem, as I was saying, I got paid, finally. Real income, after so many days of searching and sorting through the job ads and applications of unfathomable complexity. Why companies choose to make their job applications so crazy hard to complete, I'll never know. It's as if they don't want people applying for their positions. Or maybe, it's to whittle down the applicants into the more serious ones. Dunno, and don't really care, because at least I'm on the right track.
I'm not sure if you're gone through this sort of thing before, but when applying for jobs, after the first 100, you begin to get a bit disillusioned. I figure I've put out about 120 resumes so far, with little success. But that's okay, because the feeling you get when you finally get some results is worth more than anything. I mean, getting the detailing job was the first step. Then it was getting paid. Finally there was a gentleman I met at a festival I went to after I was paid this past Friday. Gil his name was, working one of the food stands at this festival. He was selling mini dutch pancakes and I tell ya, damn good! In any case, we got to talking, and he offered me a job working the festivals with his company. I still don't know exactly where I'll be, or what's going on, but bloody hell, I'm going to give him a call today just like he asked. Never look a gift horse in the mouth eh?
Speaking of this festival, it was quite neat. A little open-air grassy area down by the harbor front in Manly. The whole place was lit up with lights, the kind you would see at a garden party, nothing really fancy at all. There were live performers playing, two groups of which I had the chance to take in. One was a trio of a drummer, guitarist, and singer. They performed jazzy style songs, kinda like Diana Krall except a little more mainstream. The singer, now her voice was really good. Kinda funny too how different people can look when they take their glasses off as well. She put her glasses on after the show, and I scarcely recognized her, except for the dress she was wearing and that she was damn hot. Ha ha ha. But yeah, the other crew was like a modern Simon and Garfunkel. Both guys sang, one played guitar, and the other only harmonica. But boy could this dude wail on that harmonica. He made that thing dance, I tell you. All the food stalls were quite something else as well. There was everything from the mini Dutch pancakes, to Gozlemes, French crepes, Dimsum, Paella, Mexican food, Oktoberfest Bratwurst, and other various Asian foods. It seems to me, that Asian food is where its at around Australia. Everywhere I go is Asian food, Mexican, and other styles of food from all over the world. It's actually more difficult than I thought to find traditional Australian food fare. Meat pies are good though...mmmmmm. Nice and hearty, just like we would have made. Proper on ya!
Ya know how I mentioned the ABC (Another Bloody Castle) syndrome back when I visited Scotland? Well, now I have a new disease from Australia, it's called TPS (Triple Plate Service Syndrome). I swear, I'm not cut out to work the hospitality industry in Australia, given that you have to be able to carry three plates. And it's not just the three plates, it's how precicely they need to be carried. They can't be pressed to the body in any way, and you pretty much have to be able to move your arms around like a bird and not have the plates drop off or tilt even a fraction of a degree. Bah, I say, there's more to service than carrying plates. Trust me, I've seen a lot of the servers here and aside from the control over the plates they have, there's no actual good points to their service. They don't smile, don't laugh, and don't look like they even care about the service. Bah, foolish people. Well, that's that.
Funny point though, grocery store clerks here get paid more than restaurateurs. Figure that one out, eh?
Hostels are funny places too. What happens there, you could definitely do another reality TV show about. I mean, on one floor alone, someone was assaulted, there were people bleeding, and then there's projectile vomiting all over their own gear. Foolish travelers. Ya know, as an aside, I think the British, as a generalization, are the worst travelers ever. I know this doesn't go for all, because I've met some good travelers from Britain as well, but they're rare. They're noisy, uncouth, filthy, and of course bad drunks. They all drink this boxed wine, 'goon' they call it, because of how cheap it is. Oh, I think I can throw a few Germans in there as well, since I've had some dealings with them as well. My next step is to find a spot of my own to stay in. I hope that happens soon, as I'm gonna go insane otherwise. He he he, not that I'm not already completely gone off the deep end. :P
Alright, I think that will cover most of what I had to say this time. Next time I might talk about the spiders that hide in cars. Until then, catcha later,
Neal
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Trees, and bushes, and high grass...
...And go wacking away in the sand with a tire iron. Oh, yeah! Great fun!
If you don't know where that's from, go check out Robin Williams' skit on Golf. Best skit ever!
Speaking of trees and bushes and high grass though, since my camera card seems to not be woking as such, and some of my pictures and videos of the botanical gardens are now missing in action until I can get another opinion from some data recovery specialists, I will have to attempt to describe what it is I saw through my meander into the jungle in the middle of suburbia, or urbia, as it was downtown.
Ahem!
Well, to start off I guess would be the general overlay. These are the Royal Botanical Gardens, if I'm not completely mistaken with the name. They're actually right next to the opera house. Well, that would actually be lying, somewhat. The gardens actually run a really long distance, but one of the main entrances to the gardens is down by the far side of the opera house, coming from the city. The gardens are really quite a bit bigger than I originally had thought. When we refer to botanical gardens in Canada, the biggest I've seen might be an acre or two, maybe three if you're lucky. But this place, well, I bet you could fit a minimum of 10 football fields in there. It's really more like a national park, including special greenhouse areas, outdoor jungles, copious amounts of wildlife, and open areas more like parks.
In the very center, or what I percieved to be the center, there were three buildings each shaped slightly different and made almost entirely of glass. Greenhouses, to be precise, parts of which were underground and parts above ground. Even just walking around outside was quite the experience, looking in on all the varieties of plants. The architecture alone fascinated me, as one of the greenhouses was shaped like a great pyramid of Egypt. Quite astonishing, really, and even more so from the inside. If you get the chance while you're down here, definitely go to the botanical gardens greenhouses in Sydney. They only cost $5 to get in, but the experience is definitely worth it. Once you're inside the greenhouses, they have each building turned into a specialized climate; one for high altitude, one for tropical, and one for native Australian. Alright, so I'm not that sure about the last one, since my pictures and documentation are currently in a state of limbo, but I know the first two are right.
And of course, this foliage is from all over the world. There's giant picture (pitcher?) plants like the ones back home, except these hang from vines and are at least twice the size. Then there are Venus fly traps, creeping vines, high-altitude moss (whoopie), and even tropical plants with broad leaves the length of my arm or even longer, and wider than my body. I think some of the plants might have been poisonous, I don't know, but at least I didn't try and find out. But each area was climate controlled, irrigated, and designed with regards to the specific climate. The high-altitude one was smaller, but steeply terraced, which the tropical one was mainly flat, lots of water, and plenty of tall leafy trees. Quite the spot to play hide and seek in, if it weren't for the damn spiders and all that. I swear, if it weren't for the fact that almost anything around here can kill you, Australia would be paradise on earth.
Oh, then there were the bats. If I ever get my data back from the SD card, we'll be all set because I even took videos to show you where I was walking and all that. But for now, we'll deal with the Flying Foxes through prose and literary means. I'm pretty sure I just made a big boo boo there in terms of grammatical structure and context, but frankly, I don't care at the moment. Take our local bats, then put them on steroids, and picture something out of an Indiana Jones or a vampire movie, and yeah, you're got the size of these things. And they were everywhere! One of the attendants of the park said there were about 20,000 of them. Unfortunately, as much as it's rather cool to look at them, they are causing a lot of damage to the trees and surrounding area, so now they're trying to get rid of them. Apparently, they even put sprinklers in the trees. Unfortunately, that didn't work. Resilient little buggers, aren't they? Still, quite cool looking, all red and fuzzy. Definitely cooler than our local bats which just look too small to be of any real interest.
And of course, there's the birds of the area. Cockatoos, and, well, a huge amount of other local birds I don't know the name of. They're everywhere! But, the real stars of the bird kingdom in that area have to be the Cockatoos. On top of being very tame, well, tame enough to be fed, they would even sit on people's arms and allow people to pick them up for a time. Some of the other birds would do this too, but not with as much frequency. They're really like giant, colorful Grey jays back home. Very intelligent, but very calm as well.
Oh, as I side note before I clue up, I went to see the Book of Eli last night...but I changed my mind and went to see date night instead. To be honest, it was kinda contrived, and definitely only a one-time viewing. It's not something to own, that's for sure.
Right then, I'm off to plan my day for tomorrow. Working, following up on leads, all that jazz.
Later days,
Neal
P.S. If you have an interesting topic you want written on, just let me know, and I'll see what I can do. Always looking to flex my linguistic muscles, that's for sure. This piece was rushed, definitely. No flow. Blah!
If you don't know where that's from, go check out Robin Williams' skit on Golf. Best skit ever!
Speaking of trees and bushes and high grass though, since my camera card seems to not be woking as such, and some of my pictures and videos of the botanical gardens are now missing in action until I can get another opinion from some data recovery specialists, I will have to attempt to describe what it is I saw through my meander into the jungle in the middle of suburbia, or urbia, as it was downtown.
Ahem!
Well, to start off I guess would be the general overlay. These are the Royal Botanical Gardens, if I'm not completely mistaken with the name. They're actually right next to the opera house. Well, that would actually be lying, somewhat. The gardens actually run a really long distance, but one of the main entrances to the gardens is down by the far side of the opera house, coming from the city. The gardens are really quite a bit bigger than I originally had thought. When we refer to botanical gardens in Canada, the biggest I've seen might be an acre or two, maybe three if you're lucky. But this place, well, I bet you could fit a minimum of 10 football fields in there. It's really more like a national park, including special greenhouse areas, outdoor jungles, copious amounts of wildlife, and open areas more like parks.
In the very center, or what I percieved to be the center, there were three buildings each shaped slightly different and made almost entirely of glass. Greenhouses, to be precise, parts of which were underground and parts above ground. Even just walking around outside was quite the experience, looking in on all the varieties of plants. The architecture alone fascinated me, as one of the greenhouses was shaped like a great pyramid of Egypt. Quite astonishing, really, and even more so from the inside. If you get the chance while you're down here, definitely go to the botanical gardens greenhouses in Sydney. They only cost $5 to get in, but the experience is definitely worth it. Once you're inside the greenhouses, they have each building turned into a specialized climate; one for high altitude, one for tropical, and one for native Australian. Alright, so I'm not that sure about the last one, since my pictures and documentation are currently in a state of limbo, but I know the first two are right.
And of course, this foliage is from all over the world. There's giant picture (pitcher?) plants like the ones back home, except these hang from vines and are at least twice the size. Then there are Venus fly traps, creeping vines, high-altitude moss (whoopie), and even tropical plants with broad leaves the length of my arm or even longer, and wider than my body. I think some of the plants might have been poisonous, I don't know, but at least I didn't try and find out. But each area was climate controlled, irrigated, and designed with regards to the specific climate. The high-altitude one was smaller, but steeply terraced, which the tropical one was mainly flat, lots of water, and plenty of tall leafy trees. Quite the spot to play hide and seek in, if it weren't for the damn spiders and all that. I swear, if it weren't for the fact that almost anything around here can kill you, Australia would be paradise on earth.
Oh, then there were the bats. If I ever get my data back from the SD card, we'll be all set because I even took videos to show you where I was walking and all that. But for now, we'll deal with the Flying Foxes through prose and literary means. I'm pretty sure I just made a big boo boo there in terms of grammatical structure and context, but frankly, I don't care at the moment. Take our local bats, then put them on steroids, and picture something out of an Indiana Jones or a vampire movie, and yeah, you're got the size of these things. And they were everywhere! One of the attendants of the park said there were about 20,000 of them. Unfortunately, as much as it's rather cool to look at them, they are causing a lot of damage to the trees and surrounding area, so now they're trying to get rid of them. Apparently, they even put sprinklers in the trees. Unfortunately, that didn't work. Resilient little buggers, aren't they? Still, quite cool looking, all red and fuzzy. Definitely cooler than our local bats which just look too small to be of any real interest.
And of course, there's the birds of the area. Cockatoos, and, well, a huge amount of other local birds I don't know the name of. They're everywhere! But, the real stars of the bird kingdom in that area have to be the Cockatoos. On top of being very tame, well, tame enough to be fed, they would even sit on people's arms and allow people to pick them up for a time. Some of the other birds would do this too, but not with as much frequency. They're really like giant, colorful Grey jays back home. Very intelligent, but very calm as well.
Oh, as I side note before I clue up, I went to see the Book of Eli last night...but I changed my mind and went to see date night instead. To be honest, it was kinda contrived, and definitely only a one-time viewing. It's not something to own, that's for sure.
Right then, I'm off to plan my day for tomorrow. Working, following up on leads, all that jazz.
Later days,
Neal
P.S. If you have an interesting topic you want written on, just let me know, and I'll see what I can do. Always looking to flex my linguistic muscles, that's for sure. This piece was rushed, definitely. No flow. Blah!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Musicals Revisited!
Yeah, sorry about that, looks like I forgot to put in about musicals. I did get to see Wicked, the one about the wicked witch of the west and her life before Dorothy came to town. Wel, turns out she has a name, it's Elphaba. I know, rockin' name, eh? But yeah, definitely another must-see musical. I got the tickets thought the Wicked Lottery, and have the button to prove it so pbbbtt. Yeah, for 30 bucks, front row center, and able to see all the action. Me likey very much! RIght, so get down here and see the musical!
Just do it!
Neal
Just do it!
Neal
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Job Hunting, Musicals, and City-Slickers
Well, it's been a great run so far, but if I don't get some income soon, I'll be up a small trickling body of water with an absence of any form of locomotion. It's a pain, really. Definitely not as easy to get a position here in Sydney than I would have thought, being a big city and all that. But I guess it is their low season, though I also didn't think bigger cities had low seasons. Ah well, minor stuff. Heck, at least I'm applying for a bit of everything now. I even went to a casting call for actors and all that.
Me! A casting call? Yeah, that's right, you heard me. Ha ha ha. Still, it turned out to be a bit of a scam as they wanted $160 to put me in the computer system. It would pay for itself in one shot, don't get me wrong, but the chances are probably pretty slim. So maybe another time, after I get some cash flow. Look out Hugh Jackman, Neal Oram's on the rise!
Riiiigggghhhhttttt!
Speaking of scams, there's definitely plenty of them out there, or at least, worse deals than usual. Even some recruiting agencies here charge you for being able to apply for their job boards. I ha a call today from some group in the city that sends people off for paid internships in the USA. Not bad, they bring you right up through the hotel and hospitality business in order to get up to manager level. Medical care, flights, all that is arranged. And of course, they want $6000 to pay for all this. Doesn't that defeat the purpose of being offered the working position. Or am I old-fashioned? I mean, I could have sworn that if someone wanted your talents to work for them, then they would foot the bill to get you over to their side of the fence. Or maybe this is just me getting used to seeing great promises but low expectations and even lower reality? Whatever. In truth there seems to be a lot of these get rich quick offers out there. "Full commission, make great pay" seems to be all the rage now. Trust me, I've paid my dues. It's definitely not all it's cracked up to be. At least there's plenty of needy backpackers to fill the supply lines of these corporations. I've spoken to a lot of the ones running these pyramid-esque schemes on the sides of the road, and they all seem to be backpackers, students, or were one or the other at one time. Doesn't $1000 a week seem great though? Hmmmm, would be nice, but still, as I've told myself many times now over the last few days and weeks really, I need the steady cash, not the dream of big cash with nothing to show for it.
Well, at least I do have something to help cover some of my living expenses, depending on how many hours I end up getting. I took a position as a car detailer up in the Brookvale area, north of Manly beach. So far, each of the shifts is only 6 hours, but the boss is excellent and the work is nothing to bother me about. It's just wash, wax, clean, polish, lather , rinse, repeat as necessary. Typically, I've got to be able to prepare a basic car for delivery or sale within 30 minutes. Right now, on the first day there, I was able to match that pretty good. Now, I definitely want to get that time down, because I've been told that the faster I am, the more hours I get, and that means the better chance at getting some cash flow. Case in point, I need the cash, fast! Damn funds are running so low that if this lack of monetary income continues for too much longer, I'll definitely be on a flight home in no time to either re-group or maybe head back to school. The thought has occurred to me, but I'll figure that out later on. For now, it's take it one day at a time and see if it all works out in the end. Hey Andre, looks like I'm doing your job for a while now eh? You did some detailing work back in University for a while, if I'm not mistaken. Any tips for me?
Here's something funny, rather, it's more of an observation. People in this day and age have an enviable amount of transport solutions available to them. Why, just look at the everyday commuter in a big city. There's walking, running, cycling, riding (motorcycle), car, bus, train, tram, ferry, scooter, skateboard, scooter, roller-skates, car-pooling, and perhaps even flights. But, while all of these types of transportation are not really odd or unique in their own rights, they can become rather interesting if you pair them up with different classes of people. This is what I am alluding to when I say 'an observation.' Now, I've seen plenty of odd ways of getting around, and to be honest, I've used some of them. But to see a business-man, dressed in full suit, tie, and even vest from what I could tell, riding a push scooter down the busiest street in Sydney during the height of the traffic, was really just the oddest thing I've seen in quite some time. I mean, can you picture it? Take someone like, well, any CEO of the Fortune 500 companies and put him on a scooter, not even a motorized one. Now, aside from Steve Jobs, who would really look alright on that scooter? Anyone? Yeah, that's my thoughts too.
Oh, but I did have an interesting occurrence with my camera the other day. Unfortunately, because of it, I may have to re-take all of my pictures concerning Sydney, and you may never get to see any of the videos I took that I haven't uploaded yet. Of course, there's quite a few I haven't uploaded. But, that being said, this is only the worst-case scenario. It seems as if the data is still on the SD card, as the space is still used up, but somehow it's hidden. I can't get access to it through computers, the camera itself, or even if I gnaw on it a little bit. That was a joke people, laugh a little, it's good for you. Honestly, if I didn't laugh at my situations over the last few months, I'd be in a real state right now. I mean, two of the biggest ones were losing my iPod within 12 hours of arriving in Australia, and the other is now my pictures might be gone for good. But, I think I'm finally starting to get the way a few really important people in my life think. They just seem to let everything roll off them, as if nothing is too big to handle with a little patience and time. Nothing is irreplaceable, and certainly everything can be dealt with in time. I know that this thought process seems a little 'Zen Buddhist' for most, but I know and continue to hold close a few people that exemplify this way of life and they seem to have all the answers. Well, if not all the answers, they're definitely some of the happiest and most content people I've ever had the chance of interacting with. So I feel like I've only scratched the surface, with worldly possessions taking a slightly lower rung on the ladder in recent times, but at least now I might be on a path to understanding myself, and what makes me tick.
Because let's be honest with ourselves, which one of us really knows what we truly want. And I'm not talking about simple wants, like gifts or some such nonsense, but what you want on a grand scale. To know which direction your life is going, to be determined to reach your desired path, and to do anything to get it. But the key to doing this without becoming disgruntled or self-destructive, I feel, is to combine that drive, that desire, with temperance. The flexibility to change your goals, or adapt to a new situation or set of circumstances is truly the most desirable trait in one who knows what they want in life. Unfortunately, at the moment, I can say that I don't know what I want or where I want to be in life. Sure, I've find out a few clues to guide me along the path.
I know I don't want to be stuck behind a desk all day, crunching numbers or having to answer to someones whims. That's just not me. I thought it might be, what with me taking the whole five years of business training and all that, but I guess I'll have to use those acquired skills in another arena. Maybe my own business or something. Don't know at the moment, and while it does cause me some worry, it's not all that concerning that I'll be losing sleep over it. No, leave me losing sleep to the blasted snoring and noisy individuals that take up most of the hostels in the world. They must really practice hard to be that rambunctious and unaware of their own cacophony levels.
Also, I know I love to travel. Sure, I've got some worries with eating different foods, and not understanding languages, and a low tolerance to heat and sun. But really, all this can be solved with copious application of common sense, enthusiasm, and SPF 45, not necessarily in that order and some may be combined from time to time. Just visiting new cultures has me pumped up. Sadly, this brings me to another realization.
I need cash. Now, there are many ways I could go about this. The avenues include everything from shining shoes, all the way up to robbery and extortion. I won't go into the logistics of each one, as that would take me writing a book and since I've already got my thoughts set on another two novels, I'll leave this topic along.Suffice it to say, money doesn't make the world go round...but it sure as hell helps when you want to explore it! Well, at least, fro my chosen lifestyle, I don't need to be ostentatiously rich (I can't believe I got ostentatiously right on the first try, no spell check! A-Booyah!) or even wildly rich, which is a comfort.
The issue remains with one of my final points...I need to be happy. Yep, unfortunately that's one of the prerequisites to my ideal lifestyle. Can't help it. It includes having close friends and family, and being healthy, wealthy, and wise in the manners of mind, body, and spirit. THis is where the conundrum comes into play. It's a real mind-bender, not unlike the puzzle I bought last week. I swear, that thing is going to be the death of me, or at least the cause of much frustration until I solve it. Blasted pride, causing me to choose a good and difficult one. Bah! Well, I needed something that won't cost me any more money to occupy my time. I spend enough as it is searching for jobs, eating, and just keeping my sanity in check for the time being.
All right, I'm done, now go back to your lives and wait for the next time around. Hopefully there will be good news about my pictures and videos, and I'll have them uploaded, or at least stored better.
Later days,
Neal
Me! A casting call? Yeah, that's right, you heard me. Ha ha ha. Still, it turned out to be a bit of a scam as they wanted $160 to put me in the computer system. It would pay for itself in one shot, don't get me wrong, but the chances are probably pretty slim. So maybe another time, after I get some cash flow. Look out Hugh Jackman, Neal Oram's on the rise!
Riiiigggghhhhttttt!
Speaking of scams, there's definitely plenty of them out there, or at least, worse deals than usual. Even some recruiting agencies here charge you for being able to apply for their job boards. I ha a call today from some group in the city that sends people off for paid internships in the USA. Not bad, they bring you right up through the hotel and hospitality business in order to get up to manager level. Medical care, flights, all that is arranged. And of course, they want $6000 to pay for all this. Doesn't that defeat the purpose of being offered the working position. Or am I old-fashioned? I mean, I could have sworn that if someone wanted your talents to work for them, then they would foot the bill to get you over to their side of the fence. Or maybe this is just me getting used to seeing great promises but low expectations and even lower reality? Whatever. In truth there seems to be a lot of these get rich quick offers out there. "Full commission, make great pay" seems to be all the rage now. Trust me, I've paid my dues. It's definitely not all it's cracked up to be. At least there's plenty of needy backpackers to fill the supply lines of these corporations. I've spoken to a lot of the ones running these pyramid-esque schemes on the sides of the road, and they all seem to be backpackers, students, or were one or the other at one time. Doesn't $1000 a week seem great though? Hmmmm, would be nice, but still, as I've told myself many times now over the last few days and weeks really, I need the steady cash, not the dream of big cash with nothing to show for it.
Well, at least I do have something to help cover some of my living expenses, depending on how many hours I end up getting. I took a position as a car detailer up in the Brookvale area, north of Manly beach. So far, each of the shifts is only 6 hours, but the boss is excellent and the work is nothing to bother me about. It's just wash, wax, clean, polish, lather , rinse, repeat as necessary. Typically, I've got to be able to prepare a basic car for delivery or sale within 30 minutes. Right now, on the first day there, I was able to match that pretty good. Now, I definitely want to get that time down, because I've been told that the faster I am, the more hours I get, and that means the better chance at getting some cash flow. Case in point, I need the cash, fast! Damn funds are running so low that if this lack of monetary income continues for too much longer, I'll definitely be on a flight home in no time to either re-group or maybe head back to school. The thought has occurred to me, but I'll figure that out later on. For now, it's take it one day at a time and see if it all works out in the end. Hey Andre, looks like I'm doing your job for a while now eh? You did some detailing work back in University for a while, if I'm not mistaken. Any tips for me?
Here's something funny, rather, it's more of an observation. People in this day and age have an enviable amount of transport solutions available to them. Why, just look at the everyday commuter in a big city. There's walking, running, cycling, riding (motorcycle), car, bus, train, tram, ferry, scooter, skateboard, scooter, roller-skates, car-pooling, and perhaps even flights. But, while all of these types of transportation are not really odd or unique in their own rights, they can become rather interesting if you pair them up with different classes of people. This is what I am alluding to when I say 'an observation.' Now, I've seen plenty of odd ways of getting around, and to be honest, I've used some of them. But to see a business-man, dressed in full suit, tie, and even vest from what I could tell, riding a push scooter down the busiest street in Sydney during the height of the traffic, was really just the oddest thing I've seen in quite some time. I mean, can you picture it? Take someone like, well, any CEO of the Fortune 500 companies and put him on a scooter, not even a motorized one. Now, aside from Steve Jobs, who would really look alright on that scooter? Anyone? Yeah, that's my thoughts too.
Oh, but I did have an interesting occurrence with my camera the other day. Unfortunately, because of it, I may have to re-take all of my pictures concerning Sydney, and you may never get to see any of the videos I took that I haven't uploaded yet. Of course, there's quite a few I haven't uploaded. But, that being said, this is only the worst-case scenario. It seems as if the data is still on the SD card, as the space is still used up, but somehow it's hidden. I can't get access to it through computers, the camera itself, or even if I gnaw on it a little bit. That was a joke people, laugh a little, it's good for you. Honestly, if I didn't laugh at my situations over the last few months, I'd be in a real state right now. I mean, two of the biggest ones were losing my iPod within 12 hours of arriving in Australia, and the other is now my pictures might be gone for good. But, I think I'm finally starting to get the way a few really important people in my life think. They just seem to let everything roll off them, as if nothing is too big to handle with a little patience and time. Nothing is irreplaceable, and certainly everything can be dealt with in time. I know that this thought process seems a little 'Zen Buddhist' for most, but I know and continue to hold close a few people that exemplify this way of life and they seem to have all the answers. Well, if not all the answers, they're definitely some of the happiest and most content people I've ever had the chance of interacting with. So I feel like I've only scratched the surface, with worldly possessions taking a slightly lower rung on the ladder in recent times, but at least now I might be on a path to understanding myself, and what makes me tick.
Because let's be honest with ourselves, which one of us really knows what we truly want. And I'm not talking about simple wants, like gifts or some such nonsense, but what you want on a grand scale. To know which direction your life is going, to be determined to reach your desired path, and to do anything to get it. But the key to doing this without becoming disgruntled or self-destructive, I feel, is to combine that drive, that desire, with temperance. The flexibility to change your goals, or adapt to a new situation or set of circumstances is truly the most desirable trait in one who knows what they want in life. Unfortunately, at the moment, I can say that I don't know what I want or where I want to be in life. Sure, I've find out a few clues to guide me along the path.
I know I don't want to be stuck behind a desk all day, crunching numbers or having to answer to someones whims. That's just not me. I thought it might be, what with me taking the whole five years of business training and all that, but I guess I'll have to use those acquired skills in another arena. Maybe my own business or something. Don't know at the moment, and while it does cause me some worry, it's not all that concerning that I'll be losing sleep over it. No, leave me losing sleep to the blasted snoring and noisy individuals that take up most of the hostels in the world. They must really practice hard to be that rambunctious and unaware of their own cacophony levels.
Also, I know I love to travel. Sure, I've got some worries with eating different foods, and not understanding languages, and a low tolerance to heat and sun. But really, all this can be solved with copious application of common sense, enthusiasm, and SPF 45, not necessarily in that order and some may be combined from time to time. Just visiting new cultures has me pumped up. Sadly, this brings me to another realization.
I need cash. Now, there are many ways I could go about this. The avenues include everything from shining shoes, all the way up to robbery and extortion. I won't go into the logistics of each one, as that would take me writing a book and since I've already got my thoughts set on another two novels, I'll leave this topic along.Suffice it to say, money doesn't make the world go round...but it sure as hell helps when you want to explore it! Well, at least, fro my chosen lifestyle, I don't need to be ostentatiously rich (I can't believe I got ostentatiously right on the first try, no spell check! A-Booyah!) or even wildly rich, which is a comfort.
The issue remains with one of my final points...I need to be happy. Yep, unfortunately that's one of the prerequisites to my ideal lifestyle. Can't help it. It includes having close friends and family, and being healthy, wealthy, and wise in the manners of mind, body, and spirit. THis is where the conundrum comes into play. It's a real mind-bender, not unlike the puzzle I bought last week. I swear, that thing is going to be the death of me, or at least the cause of much frustration until I solve it. Blasted pride, causing me to choose a good and difficult one. Bah! Well, I needed something that won't cost me any more money to occupy my time. I spend enough as it is searching for jobs, eating, and just keeping my sanity in check for the time being.
All right, I'm done, now go back to your lives and wait for the next time around. Hopefully there will be good news about my pictures and videos, and I'll have them uploaded, or at least stored better.
Later days,
Neal
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)