New Photos and Weather Report
Still sorting through the huge pile of photos I have in front of me, but did find the ones from the final party in Hechtsheim where Ethel's mum came along. You can see them at Photos->Parties->Final Party.
There are also some other photos taken in the final weeks that might be of interest, go to Photos->Others->Final Shots to see them.
Although you might be outside sunbathing on the beach or wearing shorts, I am pleased to announce that the temperatures here have increased to a massive +10 degrees ! This is, admittedly, only because it is raining, but at least it's not so cold any more.
The new term starts tomorrow so back to revising now. Ciao.
Sunday, January 06, 2002
Friday, January 04, 2002
Happy New 2002 !
Yes, it's finally here, another year goes by and we ask ourselves what we have actually managed to achieve in the last 12 months. This is usually answered with a resounding "nothing". However, this year I want to stand up and say that I finished an amazing 12 Erasmus months and got to know some really nice people. In fact this new year will signify a new beginning to me - I don't know how yet, but it will.
I am finally up in Birmingham for good now, managing to chat with Jordi, Javi, Alberto (Jordi's friend) and Elena Carasco over the internet at night. In fact I seem to be chatting all the time...
Apart from working at the international office of my university again, I am basically trying to catch up with work for this following semester, which promises to be very hard considering it's my final one.
Went and saw "The Lord of the Rings" tonight with Rebecca. We both enjoyed it very much. Despite not having read the book yet I have to say it really was a good film. Worth seeing.
Another question is up in my poll section if anybody is interested in voting, and Jordi is updating his website on a regular basis as well.
OK, got to go and get some shut-eye.
Wishing you all the best for this year.
Yes, it's finally here, another year goes by and we ask ourselves what we have actually managed to achieve in the last 12 months. This is usually answered with a resounding "nothing". However, this year I want to stand up and say that I finished an amazing 12 Erasmus months and got to know some really nice people. In fact this new year will signify a new beginning to me - I don't know how yet, but it will.
I am finally up in Birmingham for good now, managing to chat with Jordi, Javi, Alberto (Jordi's friend) and Elena Carasco over the internet at night. In fact I seem to be chatting all the time...
Apart from working at the international office of my university again, I am basically trying to catch up with work for this following semester, which promises to be very hard considering it's my final one.
Went and saw "The Lord of the Rings" tonight with Rebecca. We both enjoyed it very much. Despite not having read the book yet I have to say it really was a good film. Worth seeing.
Another question is up in my poll section if anybody is interested in voting, and Jordi is updating his website on a regular basis as well.
OK, got to go and get some shut-eye.
Wishing you all the best for this year.
Sunday, December 23, 2001
Extra Bits and Bobs
A few more things that I have now remembered.
Whilst in Rome we visited a school to pick up a friend of Daniella who was visiting her sister. However, it proved difficult as the gates were locked. After ringing the bell, and telling the operator who we were visiting we were allowed in. On entering the school I was in for a bit of a shock. Children were running around the corridors, standing around, doing as they wished. And there were no teachers in sight. Later on I was informed that it was a student occupation, that occurs about once a year in Italy. I can't remember what they were protesting about, but they basically took over the whole school and wouldn't allow teachers in. Even though this action is illegal, nobody seems to mind as it always lasts only 5 days, generally right before christmas so that they have an extended holiday. This got me thinking that we never have any decent student revolts in England any more (remembering those TV pictures of the 60s).
As everyone knows, I like my food. So I decided to bring back some typical products from Italy for my parents for Christmas. This included a Panettone (light bread with raisins and orange in it) which we are currently eating, some Turrone which is yet to be started, some coffee which I will be drinking on returning to Birmingham, and a bottle of lemon liquor. I also managed to cook Spaghetti a la Carbonara for my family last night, which turned out really well.
Any of you wanting to know what I'm doing for new year (yes, Jordi, I got your 3 SMSs sent from my website) I am still awaiting a cheap price offer on tickets, so cannot guarantee anything yet. However, as some of you have mentioned in the voting page of this website that you want to spend new year with me, if you see any special offers, please let me know. I am open to going anywhere (well, not Afghanistan) as long as someone else will be there (it's a bit boring on my own).
OK, that's about it for now. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year (if I don't see you beforehand).
A few more things that I have now remembered.
Whilst in Rome we visited a school to pick up a friend of Daniella who was visiting her sister. However, it proved difficult as the gates were locked. After ringing the bell, and telling the operator who we were visiting we were allowed in. On entering the school I was in for a bit of a shock. Children were running around the corridors, standing around, doing as they wished. And there were no teachers in sight. Later on I was informed that it was a student occupation, that occurs about once a year in Italy. I can't remember what they were protesting about, but they basically took over the whole school and wouldn't allow teachers in. Even though this action is illegal, nobody seems to mind as it always lasts only 5 days, generally right before christmas so that they have an extended holiday. This got me thinking that we never have any decent student revolts in England any more (remembering those TV pictures of the 60s).
As everyone knows, I like my food. So I decided to bring back some typical products from Italy for my parents for Christmas. This included a Panettone (light bread with raisins and orange in it) which we are currently eating, some Turrone which is yet to be started, some coffee which I will be drinking on returning to Birmingham, and a bottle of lemon liquor. I also managed to cook Spaghetti a la Carbonara for my family last night, which turned out really well.
Any of you wanting to know what I'm doing for new year (yes, Jordi, I got your 3 SMSs sent from my website) I am still awaiting a cheap price offer on tickets, so cannot guarantee anything yet. However, as some of you have mentioned in the voting page of this website that you want to spend new year with me, if you see any special offers, please let me know. I am open to going anywhere (well, not Afghanistan) as long as someone else will be there (it's a bit boring on my own).
OK, that's about it for now. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year (if I don't see you beforehand).
Rome and Lots of Other News
After a few time problems, I am now able to update you on what has been happening over the last week or so.
Rome
So I spent 7 days in the capital of Italy. So what? These were no ordinary touristy sightseeing days. These were friend-keeping days !
I arrived at Rome airport to be met by Giulia and Daniella in her car and started what was to be an insight into their typical lifestyles.
Most mornings were spent at the the Second University of Rome "Tor Vergata" studying alongside Giulia. When I say studying I don't mean in a library in silence with no breaks, oh no, I mean in a classroom being able to talk, play cards, smoke and go to the bar for some lunch whenever you want. Of course, a lot of studying did get done by us (yes, I too have to study on holiday), but in a much more relaxed atmosphere than in England.
Daniella was working most days (not the weekends), but still managed to go out to pubs with us in the evenings. Chiarra works some days too (3 a week, I think) but came out with us, as did many of their friends.
It is hard for me to remember everything that happened on this trip, by I'll mention the most memorable moments here.
I slept at Daniella's for the first 4 nights (the bed kindly being donated by her grandmother), where I picked up a lot of italian, and practised a bit of english with her mother and brother. In fact, I got to talk quite a lot here as her mother managed to ask about 20 questions a minute, which got divided between Daniella and myself.
The following 2 nights I stayed at Chiarra's as Daniella had to get up early to work. Here I got to talk about football and politics with her father and take her dog 'Oliver' for a walk in the local park.
My final night I returned to Daniella's whilst my bags were left at Chiarra's (ie had to wear the same clothes again).
We visited a few of the pubs in the city centre, including a discopub called Geronimo's where Chiarra and I managed to put on a very fine dance.
We also got taken by Cynthia (I know I've spelt her name wrong, and apologise in advance) to a pub she said was always full and really cool. We were the only people there. Afterwards, she suggested a nearby bar where we would be able to find some people. We arrived there to find it closed for the night. We decided that her suggestions were not on the recommended list.
However, she did redeem herself when on my final night she took us to a pub underground called 'Transylvania'. This was themed on vampires, offered metre-long tubes of beer, and had semi-naked women getting the clients (male and female) to drink beer off of their bodies. Unfortunately, I was stuck with my back facing them whilst Cynthia and Daniella looked at them all night. They didn't get to our table though. Pity. After this we were then taken to a Bingo hall. We stayed for a few games, got very close, but didn't win anything in the end.
I got taken to many houses of friends, for the belated birthday of Daniella (Happy Birthday, by the way), and for some cream cakes just been brought back from Napoli (where they don't speak italian proper - only kidding). Got to know lots of new people, who I would all like to thank for such a great time whilst I was there, even if I can't remember any of there names.
Traffic. Now this is something that always causes great debate to foreigners - how bad is the traffic in Rome. Well, I would like to go down on record as saying that although it always seems chaotic, busy, disorganised, it is in fact a great factor that makes Rome what it is. Without the traffic the city wouldn't have as much of it's charm. I really enjoyed myself being driven around the city by the 3 italians, especially when Chiarra took me on her 'motorino' through all the traffic to the city centre and back to the university. If I thought that going on Jordi's 'Moto' at high speed through Valencia was an adrenaline rush, it was nothing compared with weaving in and out of some of the busiest traffic in europe on a small yellow scooter. What fun !
Trying desperately to think what else to talk about, the problem is that I enjoyed myself so much, even though it was not as action-packed as my last visit to Rome of 3 days. I ate some great italian food, both at the houses of Daniella and Chiarra, and in some of the local restaurants. We played some great arcade games in the games hall (including spot-the-difference from Mainz).
And of course the women. If it wasn't for the fact that I am a sensible young studious man, I would have run off with any one of the thousands of beautiful women that I met in Rome (known and unknown). It certainly proved that it wasn't just the hot summer weather that made them look good.
I also managed to take a few hours out in Bologna. Well, it actually took the whole day because of the train delays, but I did manage to see most of the city, the university buildings and the ambience that the city encases.
Well, as you can see, I really had an excellent time, and would like to thank all people involved for providing accomodation, food, chauffeuring services and great company. As I've said before, the offer is always open for you to visit my home country too.
A bit of other news
Laurent has got in touch to say that things are going well for him, he is studying, and still managing to keep on partying, but he is not intending to visit afghanistan in the next few weeks.
El Gordo, the biggest lottery in the world, was drawn yesterday. Unfortunately I didn't have a ticket. If however, any of you did, and it happens to be the winning one, please don't hesitate in contacting me so I can buy you a beer :)
Also, due to time and money pressures, I will only manage to send out email christmas greetings this year, but nevertheles wish you all the best for the coming year, and hope we will all meet up again soon.
Off to the grotto.
After a few time problems, I am now able to update you on what has been happening over the last week or so.
Rome
So I spent 7 days in the capital of Italy. So what? These were no ordinary touristy sightseeing days. These were friend-keeping days !
I arrived at Rome airport to be met by Giulia and Daniella in her car and started what was to be an insight into their typical lifestyles.
Most mornings were spent at the the Second University of Rome "Tor Vergata" studying alongside Giulia. When I say studying I don't mean in a library in silence with no breaks, oh no, I mean in a classroom being able to talk, play cards, smoke and go to the bar for some lunch whenever you want. Of course, a lot of studying did get done by us (yes, I too have to study on holiday), but in a much more relaxed atmosphere than in England.
Daniella was working most days (not the weekends), but still managed to go out to pubs with us in the evenings. Chiarra works some days too (3 a week, I think) but came out with us, as did many of their friends.
It is hard for me to remember everything that happened on this trip, by I'll mention the most memorable moments here.
I slept at Daniella's for the first 4 nights (the bed kindly being donated by her grandmother), where I picked up a lot of italian, and practised a bit of english with her mother and brother. In fact, I got to talk quite a lot here as her mother managed to ask about 20 questions a minute, which got divided between Daniella and myself.
The following 2 nights I stayed at Chiarra's as Daniella had to get up early to work. Here I got to talk about football and politics with her father and take her dog 'Oliver' for a walk in the local park.
My final night I returned to Daniella's whilst my bags were left at Chiarra's (ie had to wear the same clothes again).
We visited a few of the pubs in the city centre, including a discopub called Geronimo's where Chiarra and I managed to put on a very fine dance.
We also got taken by Cynthia (I know I've spelt her name wrong, and apologise in advance) to a pub she said was always full and really cool. We were the only people there. Afterwards, she suggested a nearby bar where we would be able to find some people. We arrived there to find it closed for the night. We decided that her suggestions were not on the recommended list.
However, she did redeem herself when on my final night she took us to a pub underground called 'Transylvania'. This was themed on vampires, offered metre-long tubes of beer, and had semi-naked women getting the clients (male and female) to drink beer off of their bodies. Unfortunately, I was stuck with my back facing them whilst Cynthia and Daniella looked at them all night. They didn't get to our table though. Pity. After this we were then taken to a Bingo hall. We stayed for a few games, got very close, but didn't win anything in the end.
I got taken to many houses of friends, for the belated birthday of Daniella (Happy Birthday, by the way), and for some cream cakes just been brought back from Napoli (where they don't speak italian proper - only kidding). Got to know lots of new people, who I would all like to thank for such a great time whilst I was there, even if I can't remember any of there names.
Traffic. Now this is something that always causes great debate to foreigners - how bad is the traffic in Rome. Well, I would like to go down on record as saying that although it always seems chaotic, busy, disorganised, it is in fact a great factor that makes Rome what it is. Without the traffic the city wouldn't have as much of it's charm. I really enjoyed myself being driven around the city by the 3 italians, especially when Chiarra took me on her 'motorino' through all the traffic to the city centre and back to the university. If I thought that going on Jordi's 'Moto' at high speed through Valencia was an adrenaline rush, it was nothing compared with weaving in and out of some of the busiest traffic in europe on a small yellow scooter. What fun !
Trying desperately to think what else to talk about, the problem is that I enjoyed myself so much, even though it was not as action-packed as my last visit to Rome of 3 days. I ate some great italian food, both at the houses of Daniella and Chiarra, and in some of the local restaurants. We played some great arcade games in the games hall (including spot-the-difference from Mainz).
And of course the women. If it wasn't for the fact that I am a sensible young studious man, I would have run off with any one of the thousands of beautiful women that I met in Rome (known and unknown). It certainly proved that it wasn't just the hot summer weather that made them look good.
I also managed to take a few hours out in Bologna. Well, it actually took the whole day because of the train delays, but I did manage to see most of the city, the university buildings and the ambience that the city encases.
Well, as you can see, I really had an excellent time, and would like to thank all people involved for providing accomodation, food, chauffeuring services and great company. As I've said before, the offer is always open for you to visit my home country too.
A bit of other news
Laurent has got in touch to say that things are going well for him, he is studying, and still managing to keep on partying, but he is not intending to visit afghanistan in the next few weeks.
El Gordo, the biggest lottery in the world, was drawn yesterday. Unfortunately I didn't have a ticket. If however, any of you did, and it happens to be the winning one, please don't hesitate in contacting me so I can buy you a beer :)
Also, due to time and money pressures, I will only manage to send out email christmas greetings this year, but nevertheles wish you all the best for the coming year, and hope we will all meet up again soon.
Off to the grotto.
Thursday, December 13, 2001
When in Rome, do like the Romans
As you can guess, I am now on my way to Italy. Well, I'll be leaving to get the train to get the bus to get the plane soon.
This semester officially ends on friday the 14th of december, so only a few more days to go anyway. The weather is definitely looking like it will be snowing soon ( -2 degrees predicted for friday in Birmingham ).
That's it for now, hope everyone manages to get back to their homes ok.
Later
As you can guess, I am now on my way to Italy. Well, I'll be leaving to get the train to get the bus to get the plane soon.
This semester officially ends on friday the 14th of december, so only a few more days to go anyway. The weather is definitely looking like it will be snowing soon ( -2 degrees predicted for friday in Birmingham ).
That's it for now, hope everyone manages to get back to their homes ok.
Later
Friday, December 07, 2001
Swiss Birthday
Yep, that's right, no sooner had you packed away the candles and finished eating up the cake, when along comes another birthday. This time in the form of our man Laurent's. Whatever he's doing, and wherever he's doing it, we will celebrate with him (okay, maybe we won't hitchhike from the middle of the road, but we'll give it a good go :).
So what have you been up to recently? Anything interesting you want to tell the rest of us ?
Just send me an email/SMS/phonecall and I'll let the world know.
Anyway, got to go, lots to prepare tomorrow.
Loves and kisses.
Yep, that's right, no sooner had you packed away the candles and finished eating up the cake, when along comes another birthday. This time in the form of our man Laurent's. Whatever he's doing, and wherever he's doing it, we will celebrate with him (okay, maybe we won't hitchhike from the middle of the road, but we'll give it a good go :).
So what have you been up to recently? Anything interesting you want to tell the rest of us ?
Just send me an email/SMS/phonecall and I'll let the world know.
Anyway, got to go, lots to prepare tomorrow.
Loves and kisses.
Wednesday, December 05, 2001
Birthday Wishes and Christmas Market
OK, I admit it, I have been a bit inundated with lots of things to sort out before this term ends and the snow starts falling.
But now I'm back with avengence.
Today is the birthday of Pili, Fernando, and Elisabetta, so all together now:
"Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday dear Pili, Fernando and Elisabetta,
Happy Birthday to you"
I know we would all like to be there to celebrate with them, but unfortunately flights aren't that cheap (although I am working on that - look out for 'marcus lloyd tours' soon ! ).
What else then...oh yes, quite astounding, this. If any of you who were in Mainz last year visited all the christmas markets, you will know that the frankfurt one wasn't very good. Well, I now know why !
In Birmingham we have the Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt at the moment, which is really good (excellent Gluehwein and Thuringer sausages), which means that in Frankfurt is probably the Birmingham Christmas Market. That must explain it :)
Anyway, went to this market tonight straight after uni, met up with Sophia and Rebecca beforehand, and had a great night there. Spoke to all the stall owners in german (even the ones that didn't speak it !), bought lots of german sweet foody things, and had a few mugfulls of Gluehwein. Mmmmm. The market is here until December 20th, so hopfully I'll get chance to visit it again.
Well, that will be about it then, except to say that it looks like I have found my perfect course at the Universitat de Alacant. I am now just trying to sort out application procedures and a bit more course detail, but it looks like my most viable/preferred option.
So, off I trot, bye
OK, I admit it, I have been a bit inundated with lots of things to sort out before this term ends and the snow starts falling.
But now I'm back with avengence.
Today is the birthday of Pili, Fernando, and Elisabetta, so all together now:
"Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday dear Pili, Fernando and Elisabetta,
Happy Birthday to you"
I know we would all like to be there to celebrate with them, but unfortunately flights aren't that cheap (although I am working on that - look out for 'marcus lloyd tours' soon ! ).
What else then...oh yes, quite astounding, this. If any of you who were in Mainz last year visited all the christmas markets, you will know that the frankfurt one wasn't very good. Well, I now know why !
In Birmingham we have the Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt at the moment, which is really good (excellent Gluehwein and Thuringer sausages), which means that in Frankfurt is probably the Birmingham Christmas Market. That must explain it :)
Anyway, went to this market tonight straight after uni, met up with Sophia and Rebecca beforehand, and had a great night there. Spoke to all the stall owners in german (even the ones that didn't speak it !), bought lots of german sweet foody things, and had a few mugfulls of Gluehwein. Mmmmm. The market is here until December 20th, so hopfully I'll get chance to visit it again.
Well, that will be about it then, except to say that it looks like I have found my perfect course at the Universitat de Alacant. I am now just trying to sort out application procedures and a bit more course detail, but it looks like my most viable/preferred option.
So, off I trot, bye
Wednesday, November 28, 2001
Timetable
Due to the recent circumstances (you know who you are), I have decided to put up my timetable of when I am in lectures and when I am at work. This is not to discourage you from SMSing me at these times, just to warn you that I will not be able to reply until I have finished the lecture.
I am still getting up at 7am every morning, so if you really feel the urge to SMS me before you get out of bed, feel free. And anytime up until 1am as well. Just remember these times are GMT. You will have to add on another hour if you are in mainland europe.
okay, that's it for now, good to here Luca passed his english exam,
bye,
Due to the recent circumstances (you know who you are), I have decided to put up my timetable of when I am in lectures and when I am at work. This is not to discourage you from SMSing me at these times, just to warn you that I will not be able to reply until I have finished the lecture.
I am still getting up at 7am every morning, so if you really feel the urge to SMS me before you get out of bed, feel free. And anytime up until 1am as well. Just remember these times are GMT. You will have to add on another hour if you are in mainland europe.
okay, that's it for now, good to here Luca passed his english exam,
bye,
Tuesday, November 27, 2001
Only Me
Yep, that time of the week again when I say what's up, what's down, and what's just not making sense.
The project was finally handed in, so the stress has gone down.
My flights are now booked, I'm off from 13th to 20th to Rome, so less worrying on that account as well.
Have not got any emails recently, which is slightly worrying. Is anyone still out there? Anyone want to talk to me?
As I have yet to receive information from anyone abroad, I have no more news to publicise.
Till next time.
Yep, that time of the week again when I say what's up, what's down, and what's just not making sense.
The project was finally handed in, so the stress has gone down.
My flights are now booked, I'm off from 13th to 20th to Rome, so less worrying on that account as well.
Have not got any emails recently, which is slightly worrying. Is anyone still out there? Anyone want to talk to me?
As I have yet to receive information from anyone abroad, I have no more news to publicise.
Till next time.
Tuesday, November 20, 2001
Catch-up
OK, where do I start? Am in the final week of my C++ project, which those of you who have programmed, will know, is a very stressful time, especially trying to get anything to work !!! However, despite missing a brazilian party on friday, and a spanish trip to cambridge, I finally did manage to take time out and see a video with Sophia and Rebecca on sunday night. Got back home to find I had been locked out of the house. Oh, what fun.
Looks like Jordi has been a bit busy lately. It's just a pity that Jen can't understand spanish, otherwise she might be able to elaborate on what Jordi mentions on his website :)
As for holidays. Some of you may remember me talking about going abroad for new year. Well that isn't going to happen, seeing as the prices are a bit high, and I'm trying to get myself out of the debt I've built up over the last months (mainly interrail).
However, I will be going to Italy around mid-december (13th-20th). This is mainly because of two reasons:
1) I am probably going to study a masters in Bologna next year, so want to visit the city before I decide.
2) To see the italians (Giulia, Daniella, Chiarra) in Rome, as it's been a long while without their company.
The specifics are yet to be worked out, but this is likely to be my last holiday until I finish my degree in July !!!
The only other opportunity to see any of you is if you come and visit me here in good ol' blighty.
Whilst chatting to Giulia about my trip, she got a phonecall to say that she is now an aunt !! Yep, we can now all offically call her "aunty Giulia" or, if you prefer "zia Giulia". So why not send her your wishes with an internet postcard.
Have luckily managed to find someone from Barcelona on the internet who is teaching, or rather letting me practise, my catalan. Hopefully I should be able to see the results before my first written exam next week !!
OK, that's about it for the moment. I'm sure more will happen to be told soon. In the meantime, sleep safe.
OK, where do I start? Am in the final week of my C++ project, which those of you who have programmed, will know, is a very stressful time, especially trying to get anything to work !!! However, despite missing a brazilian party on friday, and a spanish trip to cambridge, I finally did manage to take time out and see a video with Sophia and Rebecca on sunday night. Got back home to find I had been locked out of the house. Oh, what fun.
Looks like Jordi has been a bit busy lately. It's just a pity that Jen can't understand spanish, otherwise she might be able to elaborate on what Jordi mentions on his website :)
As for holidays. Some of you may remember me talking about going abroad for new year. Well that isn't going to happen, seeing as the prices are a bit high, and I'm trying to get myself out of the debt I've built up over the last months (mainly interrail).
However, I will be going to Italy around mid-december (13th-20th). This is mainly because of two reasons:
1) I am probably going to study a masters in Bologna next year, so want to visit the city before I decide.
2) To see the italians (Giulia, Daniella, Chiarra) in Rome, as it's been a long while without their company.
The specifics are yet to be worked out, but this is likely to be my last holiday until I finish my degree in July !!!
The only other opportunity to see any of you is if you come and visit me here in good ol' blighty.
Whilst chatting to Giulia about my trip, she got a phonecall to say that she is now an aunt !! Yep, we can now all offically call her "aunty Giulia" or, if you prefer "zia Giulia". So why not send her your wishes with an internet postcard.
Have luckily managed to find someone from Barcelona on the internet who is teaching, or rather letting me practise, my catalan. Hopefully I should be able to see the results before my first written exam next week !!
OK, that's about it for the moment. I'm sure more will happen to be told soon. In the meantime, sleep safe.
Wednesday, November 14, 2001
More Photos
Even though no-one sees fit to write to me any more, I have managed to put up some more photos from last semester. Go to Parties->Astafest to see the Mainz Student Union's summer party, Parties->English Girls Leaving to see how we celebrated Sophia and Rebecca going away, Birthdays->Diana for photos of her birthday party, Others->Wakeup Call to see the reactions of people when you wake them up the morning after a party, Others->Random Hechtsheim for various photos taken during the year, Meals->Mexican for Laurent's culinary delights, Meals->Big Breakfast to see how many people can fit round a breakfast table, and Meals->Roast to see Jordi's Roast Dinner he made us.
So enjoy.
Even though no-one sees fit to write to me any more, I have managed to put up some more photos from last semester. Go to Parties->Astafest to see the Mainz Student Union's summer party, Parties->English Girls Leaving to see how we celebrated Sophia and Rebecca going away, Birthdays->Diana for photos of her birthday party, Others->Wakeup Call to see the reactions of people when you wake them up the morning after a party, Others->Random Hechtsheim for various photos taken during the year, Meals->Mexican for Laurent's culinary delights, Meals->Big Breakfast to see how many people can fit round a breakfast table, and Meals->Roast to see Jordi's Roast Dinner he made us.
So enjoy.
Tuesday, November 13, 2001
Hold your horses
Just thought I'd write a quick note to explain that I have a lot of work on at the moment, in particular finishing my computing project for 10 days time. However, I am also making changes to the website. Some of them you will notice straight away (for instance the new layout of the photos pages - still being improved), and some of them won't become apparent until another feature is added that utilises the previous one.
So take heart, not all is lost. However, to scan in and publish about 500 photos from my interrail trip is going to take a bit of time, especially as it requires more server space than I can currently afford.
I do notice, however, that I haven't received any emails for at least a week, which means you don't have much time either (or you just don't want to talk to me).
Anyway, this wasn't a moaning entry, only an informative one.
So good writing.
Moi
Just thought I'd write a quick note to explain that I have a lot of work on at the moment, in particular finishing my computing project for 10 days time. However, I am also making changes to the website. Some of them you will notice straight away (for instance the new layout of the photos pages - still being improved), and some of them won't become apparent until another feature is added that utilises the previous one.
So take heart, not all is lost. However, to scan in and publish about 500 photos from my interrail trip is going to take a bit of time, especially as it requires more server space than I can currently afford.
I do notice, however, that I haven't received any emails for at least a week, which means you don't have much time either (or you just don't want to talk to me).
Anyway, this wasn't a moaning entry, only an informative one.
So good writing.
Moi
Monday, November 12, 2001
Phoneline and Icelandic
Well, finally we got our house phoneline sorted today. That means we can now phone people without taking out a second mortgage (not that I've got a house of my own). This also means that I now have access to the internet from home, so no more late nights at uni trying to research something for my course, now I can do it from the comfort of my bed with a cup of coffee/hot chocolate.
Whilst taking full use of this internet access, I came across a webpage of icelandic slang. Take a look, and then send Geir an email :)
Well, finally we got our house phoneline sorted today. That means we can now phone people without taking out a second mortgage (not that I've got a house of my own). This also means that I now have access to the internet from home, so no more late nights at uni trying to research something for my course, now I can do it from the comfort of my bed with a cup of coffee/hot chocolate.
Whilst taking full use of this internet access, I came across a webpage of icelandic slang. Take a look, and then send Geir an email :)
Friday, November 09, 2001
Brrrr
It's freezing here. Forecasters aren't expecting it to get into double figures (ie it will stay about 7 degrees maximum). Our back porch is now acting as a second fridge as we are able to keep milk and eggs out there. Will try making ice-cubes later on in the month...
Well, I'm off to warm myself up,
keep snug
It's freezing here. Forecasters aren't expecting it to get into double figures (ie it will stay about 7 degrees maximum). Our back porch is now acting as a second fridge as we are able to keep milk and eggs out there. Will try making ice-cubes later on in the month...
Well, I'm off to warm myself up,
keep snug
Thursday, November 08, 2001
Snow
So how's the weather by you? As anyone who has been in England over the last few days will know we are now in the grip of winter, temperatures barely going above 5 degrees. Snow has hit most parts of the country today, and Birmingham is definitely feeling it bad.
Might have to start wearing clothes (winter ones, that is).
As can be seen, Jordi has got his website running, but alas Jen (from Birmingham) is not yet ready to write one in English. Let's hope she changes her mind.
Lots of my time seems to be spent programming my C++ project and doing things for the web, but I should try to concentrate more on learning some of the physics this year, before it's time for the exams.
Got a great portable sundial (compass included) from Mavi. Unfortunately due to the snow there doesn't seem to be any use in the winter. Or maybe that's just another excuse for me to go over to Spain and use the sun there to tell the time. Or I could use it to help me get to lectures, although I think it may not be accurate enough to 5 minutes.
Posts on how I get on with telling the time this new way shall be forthcoming, so watch this space.
Well, that's about it for now, have fun,
So how's the weather by you? As anyone who has been in England over the last few days will know we are now in the grip of winter, temperatures barely going above 5 degrees. Snow has hit most parts of the country today, and Birmingham is definitely feeling it bad.
Might have to start wearing clothes (winter ones, that is).
As can be seen, Jordi has got his website running, but alas Jen (from Birmingham) is not yet ready to write one in English. Let's hope she changes her mind.
Lots of my time seems to be spent programming my C++ project and doing things for the web, but I should try to concentrate more on learning some of the physics this year, before it's time for the exams.
Got a great portable sundial (compass included) from Mavi. Unfortunately due to the snow there doesn't seem to be any use in the winter. Or maybe that's just another excuse for me to go over to Spain and use the sun there to tell the time. Or I could use it to help me get to lectures, although I think it may not be accurate enough to 5 minutes.
Posts on how I get on with telling the time this new way shall be forthcoming, so watch this space.
Well, that's about it for now, have fun,
Tuesday, November 06, 2001
Back in the UK and Jordi's Webpage
Well, after packing my bags (only took 5 minutes due to the lack of bringing anything with me because of the security at the airport) managed to get off to Uni on the local transport system that has been the curse of people arriving late for lectures all of last year. Subsequently checked times of the trains from Mainz to Frankfurt Flughafen, and then the buses from there to Frankfurt Hahn. It actually takes as long getting from Mainz to Frankfurt Hahn as it does from London-Hahn-London !!!! And nearly as expensive.
Met up with Jen (english girl from Birmingham - my replacement), Javi (guy from Madrid - replacement for my room), Jordi, and most of the other Erasmus people from last year (Fernando, Natian, Alberto, Jordi...) and this one (Eva, Nuria, Anna...) in what was to be my last meal in the institution that is THE MENSA.
As only the old Erasmus students will know, the dearly loved upstairs cafeteria was closed. Well, not any more. It actually opened on the monday I left !! Had a very nice capuccino (even if you do have to pay in Euros).
Then the fun started.
Caught the bus back to to Mainz Hauptbahnhof (no problems there). Got the next train to Frankfurt Flughafen (the station has changed - it's got an upstairs now and looks really new, but still not finished). Then waited for the bus to take us to Hahn. It arrived full, nobody got off, and so there were 20 of us standing in the isle, with our bags (no room underneath) as the bus drove for nearly 2 hours along the motorway (yes, one without speed restrictions). So by the time we had arrived, I could no longer feel my hand, and my legs were attached to the floor. I then got back to London in time to see the train to Birmingham leave without me, so had another 3 hours to wait at the airport (some of the time spent talking to my parents who had brought me my post and a cake). I then had a 3.5 hour train journey and finally arrived there at 00:40. Getting a taxi, I managed to make it home by 1.30, and took about another hour unpacking all my stuff. Still got in for my 9am lecture though !
In order not to let Jordi get bored by another year in Mainz, I devised a cunning way to get him to actually do some work for once, and to stop him telling me to keep on updating my website. Yes, that's right, Jordi now has his very own, brand-spanking-new, donkey-punchingly fantastic webpage !!
You can check it out at http://www.uni-mainz.de/~garciajo.
OK, that's it for now, as I have just come out of spanish class and need to get home and eat something finally. Oh, in case you didn't know, it's national curry day today, so do your bit for the nation and eat a vindaloo tonight.
I think condolences should be handed out to Mavi though, as when we phoned her as the clock struck midnight for her birthday, she could hardly talk properly as a result of having her wisdom tooth taken out the day before. Another one comes out just before christmas, so you can feel even more sorry for her then.
Anyway, got to grub, see ya
Well, after packing my bags (only took 5 minutes due to the lack of bringing anything with me because of the security at the airport) managed to get off to Uni on the local transport system that has been the curse of people arriving late for lectures all of last year. Subsequently checked times of the trains from Mainz to Frankfurt Flughafen, and then the buses from there to Frankfurt Hahn. It actually takes as long getting from Mainz to Frankfurt Hahn as it does from London-Hahn-London !!!! And nearly as expensive.
Met up with Jen (english girl from Birmingham - my replacement), Javi (guy from Madrid - replacement for my room), Jordi, and most of the other Erasmus people from last year (Fernando, Natian, Alberto, Jordi...) and this one (Eva, Nuria, Anna...) in what was to be my last meal in the institution that is THE MENSA.
As only the old Erasmus students will know, the dearly loved upstairs cafeteria was closed. Well, not any more. It actually opened on the monday I left !! Had a very nice capuccino (even if you do have to pay in Euros).
Then the fun started.
Caught the bus back to to Mainz Hauptbahnhof (no problems there). Got the next train to Frankfurt Flughafen (the station has changed - it's got an upstairs now and looks really new, but still not finished). Then waited for the bus to take us to Hahn. It arrived full, nobody got off, and so there were 20 of us standing in the isle, with our bags (no room underneath) as the bus drove for nearly 2 hours along the motorway (yes, one without speed restrictions). So by the time we had arrived, I could no longer feel my hand, and my legs were attached to the floor. I then got back to London in time to see the train to Birmingham leave without me, so had another 3 hours to wait at the airport (some of the time spent talking to my parents who had brought me my post and a cake). I then had a 3.5 hour train journey and finally arrived there at 00:40. Getting a taxi, I managed to make it home by 1.30, and took about another hour unpacking all my stuff. Still got in for my 9am lecture though !
In order not to let Jordi get bored by another year in Mainz, I devised a cunning way to get him to actually do some work for once, and to stop him telling me to keep on updating my website. Yes, that's right, Jordi now has his very own, brand-spanking-new, donkey-punchingly fantastic webpage !!
You can check it out at http://www.uni-mainz.de/~garciajo.
OK, that's it for now, as I have just come out of spanish class and need to get home and eat something finally. Oh, in case you didn't know, it's national curry day today, so do your bit for the nation and eat a vindaloo tonight.
I think condolences should be handed out to Mavi though, as when we phoned her as the clock struck midnight for her birthday, she could hardly talk properly as a result of having her wisdom tooth taken out the day before. Another one comes out just before christmas, so you can feel even more sorry for her then.
Anyway, got to grub, see ya
Friday, November 02, 2001
Birthday Wishes
Thanks to all of you who sent me wishes for my birthday. Unfortunately my phone refuses to let me read my messages abroad, so I have to use someone else's phone to find out if I have received any.
Well, Having a fun time in Mainz at the moment. Good to meet up with a lot of last years ERASMUS students. Of course the moment I arrived here I got stuck in the backlog of paperwork and bureaucracy that is Germany. Never mind, I've officially signed out of the country now. So I don't care.
Have fun.
Marcus
Thanks to all of you who sent me wishes for my birthday. Unfortunately my phone refuses to let me read my messages abroad, so I have to use someone else's phone to find out if I have received any.
Well, Having a fun time in Mainz at the moment. Good to meet up with a lot of last years ERASMUS students. Of course the moment I arrived here I got stuck in the backlog of paperwork and bureaucracy that is Germany. Never mind, I've officially signed out of the country now. So I don't care.
Have fun.
Marcus
Wednesday, October 17, 2001
Bon Dia and SMS Function
Em dic Marcus, soc de Anglaterra i visc a Birmingham. Tinc vint-i-dos anys. Aquest es el meu diari:
Yep, that's right, the catalan classes have started, and oh what fun they are. I really am considering doing further study in this field as it interests me so much.
As you may have gathered from the title, the SMS function is now working again, so you can send me messages to my mobile phone to keep me awake during lectures.
Well, got lots of other work to do now,
ciao
Em dic Marcus, soc de Anglaterra i visc a Birmingham. Tinc vint-i-dos anys. Aquest es el meu diari:
Yep, that's right, the catalan classes have started, and oh what fun they are. I really am considering doing further study in this field as it interests me so much.
As you may have gathered from the title, the SMS function is now working again, so you can send me messages to my mobile phone to keep me awake during lectures.
Well, got lots of other work to do now,
ciao
Monday, October 15, 2001
Busy Times
Managed to phone a few of you last night with my new international telephone card. Didn't last long though. I talked to Elena P, Gloria, Giulia, but everyone else was engaged all night !! That is, all except Mavi, who sounded like she was in a bar or a disco (new job or just partying?) because I couldn't hear a thing she was saying (although maybe the phone was at fault).
Well, you may not have noticed anything new on the website yet, but I promise you will soon. In the meantime I can tell you I have signed up for Catalan lessons (not just the language, culture studies as well), am still working at the international office every spare moment, and have lots of physics classes to go to and work to do for them.
All going well, I might even manage to sign up for the gym this week!
Apparently, Jordi's computer is now working again properly (until he installs those games again :)
Classes have started in Valencia, and Gloria, Pili and Ethel are now going in to lectures. Mainz apparently doesn't start for a bit yet (2 weeks?), but I will be keeping you up to date when I hear anything.
OK, that's it for now. Have a great time wherever you are, and drop me a line (or email) to say what's happening where you are.
Signing off.
Managed to phone a few of you last night with my new international telephone card. Didn't last long though. I talked to Elena P, Gloria, Giulia, but everyone else was engaged all night !! That is, all except Mavi, who sounded like she was in a bar or a disco (new job or just partying?) because I couldn't hear a thing she was saying (although maybe the phone was at fault).
Well, you may not have noticed anything new on the website yet, but I promise you will soon. In the meantime I can tell you I have signed up for Catalan lessons (not just the language, culture studies as well), am still working at the international office every spare moment, and have lots of physics classes to go to and work to do for them.
All going well, I might even manage to sign up for the gym this week!
Apparently, Jordi's computer is now working again properly (until he installs those games again :)
Classes have started in Valencia, and Gloria, Pili and Ethel are now going in to lectures. Mainz apparently doesn't start for a bit yet (2 weeks?), but I will be keeping you up to date when I hear anything.
OK, that's it for now. Have a great time wherever you are, and drop me a line (or email) to say what's happening where you are.
Signing off.
Thursday, October 04, 2001
Lacking in time
So, I even managed to beat my last record for not writing for over a week. This could be because of one of three reasons:
1) I have too much work to do and never seem to find the time to enjoy myself.
2) I am going out too often and am not sober enough to see the computer, yet alone use it.
3) I forgot.
Well, in fact it's a mixture of the three. Time seems to be flying by and I have lots of lectures to attend, but also seem to be managing to go out a couple of times in the week, but whilst trying to keep up to date with emails as well, I really haven't had a restful moment.
This will change.
From now on (as much as I can) I will be doing as much of my work as I can in as soon as I can, and not be spending too much time on the internet searching for things that I aren't that important. Also, I will be devoting more time to updating my website (which seems to be on the back-burner at the moment).
So, if you have any ideas how I can improve the website please email me and I'll try to incorporate them.
Also, if anyone knows of a free Email to SMS service out there that works could I be informed, as my old one stopped working.
Well, that's it, there (hopefully) will be more going on in the near future, and I will not have to listen about how lovely the weather in Spain is whilst I'm stuck here in Birmingham.
Bye for now,
So, I even managed to beat my last record for not writing for over a week. This could be because of one of three reasons:
1) I have too much work to do and never seem to find the time to enjoy myself.
2) I am going out too often and am not sober enough to see the computer, yet alone use it.
3) I forgot.
Well, in fact it's a mixture of the three. Time seems to be flying by and I have lots of lectures to attend, but also seem to be managing to go out a couple of times in the week, but whilst trying to keep up to date with emails as well, I really haven't had a restful moment.
This will change.
From now on (as much as I can) I will be doing as much of my work as I can in as soon as I can, and not be spending too much time on the internet searching for things that I aren't that important. Also, I will be devoting more time to updating my website (which seems to be on the back-burner at the moment).
So, if you have any ideas how I can improve the website please email me and I'll try to incorporate them.
Also, if anyone knows of a free Email to SMS service out there that works could I be informed, as my old one stopped working.
Well, that's it, there (hopefully) will be more going on in the near future, and I will not have to listen about how lovely the weather in Spain is whilst I'm stuck here in Birmingham.
Bye for now,
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