Thinking a bit about the various variations of my chosen profession, writing, had me reminiscing a bit about a man I spent a lot of time with in the late ‘80s. Out of choice, initially, and then because he’d kind of moved in and couldn’t be evicted. The man was American poet E. E. Cummings …
It’s becoming increasingly obvious that despite our best efforts, one simple DIY job will generally spawn several more; when this principle is combined with the immutable law that no DIY job is as simple as it first appears, you have a rule or constant that indicates that a man’s work is never done. Worse, the …
How do you describe the complex phenomenon of the sophisticated man-about-town? His ease in all kinds of company, his subtle air of mystery, his discreet comings and goings? You know the type – well-travelled, cultured, ageless and self-assured; friend to many, intimate of few. This is Cruise, subject of today’s post: a nuggety Jack Russell …
As a semi-pro freelance writer, I've developed some pet hates when it comes to cliché-ed phrases -- and one of the most tooth-grinding is 'sneak-peek'. Let's face it, this twee substitute for the perfectly good 'preview' or even 'glimpse' has had its day and should be taken out back and humanely shot. What follows is …
Further to our recent maunderings about Aussie wildlife – and thanks to the commentator who correctly reminded me that Salties are definitely apex predators – it’s time to grasp the nettle that is the Australian magpie. You know those videos you see on the internet where dogs and cats do what they do when …
So – Aussie wildlife. What is it and how does it stack up? Well, I have to say, having grown up in Africa, initial impressions of what Aus has to offer might appear a tad underwhelming. But that’s because not only does Africa boast extremely impressive beasts like the ‘big five’ (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo …
Just a quick report-back on the idea I floated in that post about building fires. Today was our opportunity to bring the principle of curves to the structure of the daily firelighting ritual. Triangles and rectangles, we said, were all very well, but the addition of curvilinear logs might add some variety. I said curves …
Busy times in Braidwood today, with no chance for deep thought, so here's a short photo-walk around town. In these times of protest and disorder, it's probably instructive to recall that we've been here before -- but that doesn't mean that this time can't be different. We came across this tribute to Bob Dylan on …
Quick confession: we still haven’t decided on which model of woodburner to insert into the fireplace in the main living area of Corner Cottage. It’s not like we haven’t continued researching the possibilities – which are numerous – but various issues have contributed to an ongoing state of indecision. So in the meantime, it’s open …
Here’s a little tale about enthusiasm. Misguided enthusiasm in the service of a cause which didn’t really need any particular focus or dedication . . . but I want to say the enthusiasm is laudable in itself. Remember my posts about how chilly it’s been of a night here in Braidwood? And also how we’ve …
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