When the Cheshire emerges...

I pop out to try and get stuff done before any chance of big rain - and I find myself now stuck in the Mitcham Library as I look outside to see it absolutely bucketing down amidst the thunderstorm. I massively underestimated the conditions - although not yet cold, shorts and thongs + wet ground = bad idea. I don't have my to-do list on me (which written up last night comes to an entire page), the sound is getting stronger meaning the rain volume is increasing. How am I going to get home?... Shiiiiiiit, looks like I might just be camping out here for a while. My umbrella won't stand up to this! At least the library has good electricity reserves - the, what, 12 people in here had a laugh about it.

It's dark. And I still needed to make one big stop at the Post Office. IIIIIIIII don't reckon that's going to happen hey? Hm.

Wow, what a morning... wake up at 1:45am to discover FIFA have delayed the announcements of the World Cup 2018/2022. Good thing I didn't wake up earlier. But I was glad to discover OneHD were talking to none other than Hamish McDonald, who was trying to get updates via Twitter while talking with Brad McEwen. Man I love this guy. Best young journalist ever. Seriously, he puts a smile on my face. WHY DON'T WE GET AL-JAZEERA ENGLISH IN AUSTRALIAAAA?! So I felt better that I hadn't missed the big call AND felt in the loop because of the discussion.



Took the advice and went on Twitter. Early reports tweeted on there first rang true: Russia (you could see the distaste on Prince William's face, it was kind of funny. Oh, and the VP blocking Vodianova - that right? - in the official photos: hilarious) and then... QATAR. Ok, so Russia I can handle, never done Eastern Europe, cool. But Qatar?! REALLY? I've only seen Doha Airport, and after spending six hours in the place it wasn't that great. Pluuuuus the humidity is ri-DI-culous. And they're not even the size of TASMANIA. WHAAAAT?! I did not know this. Read somewhere we should've just based our bid out of there... could we have done any better? I don't know. All I do is that money talks. Money talks. Dirty cash I want you, dirty cash I need you oh. Disappointing.


In other European news, ITALY HAVE APPLIED FOR EUROVISION 2011. Another total left-of-field result. They've had a 13-year absence. To quote from the press release sent to my email (I'm trying to get tickets, okay?):




"We are eager to show the Italian people how the contest has evolved over the past 13 years. I am sure they will be positively surprised!" (Jorgen Franck)



So they're good enough for it now are they? What's Berlusconi been doing all this time? Shocked it's taken him this long... whether Dusseldorf will be better for it who knows. But this is the biggest news to hit the Contest in years. Maybe as big as the whole TATU controversy. Ah TATU. Those were the days...

Ok, so I obviously bought a shiteload of clothes while away. Two months is a long time. Excuse the shoddy photography.

Greece and London Part One: surprised I didn't like much clothes-wise on the islands. But London was the big one...



L-R: Santorini dress, 49P/New Look military jacket, 15P/You for New Look skirt, 5P/Maribou tie-dye dress/H&M black slip, 7.99P/Maribou handkerchief top
*Forgot to include a baggy 3/4 sleeve khaki mesh-type top from Zara I picked up for 7.95P*

Portobello Road proper/Camden hidden gems



L-R: tenki dress, 15P/vintage striped dress, 18P/vintage winter dress, 18P/floral dress, 10P/green pantaloons, 8P

During-tour buys and presents:



L-R: silk scarf from Venice, 25E/Fishbowl t-shirt for New Yorker (Krakow), possibly 54.90Zloty/Episode (Amsterdam) baggy tee, price unknown/Tally Weijl (Greece) dressy tank, price unknown/Murphy's (Santorini) promo T-shirt, priceless ;D

Novelty Tees:



L-R: Topdeck Spirit of Europe tee/Schnaps Museum (Vienna) promo tee, 10E/Topdeck Hoff Berlin tee/Amsterdam tee/Busabout La Tomatina 2010 tee

London Take Two: I just had to go back didn't I?



L-R: Topshop cropped tee, 14P. Camden Markets: vintage dress, 15P/tank top, 4P/skirt, 2P. Episode skirt, 13P

Spain... and er, tights for our Berlin pub crawl:



L-R: Shambala harem pants from Peniscola, 21E/shorts from Barcelona, 19,95E/H&M pink tights from Berlin, 5E

Now keep in mind this is only clothes. Bags, shoes and jewellry to come if anyone's interested.

I won't say too much on the final few places, only because I've been writing so much down for my personal records - and I'm starting to procrastinate from doing it, which isn't good.

Mallorca ended up being different to what I expected - perhaps that's because I was under the impression I'd be hitting the clubs, beaching it, sleeping and not much else. What I ended up doing was seeing all the important sights and areas thanks to our host Michel (good) and buying three pairs of shoes in as many days although my suitcase surely wouldn't allow for it (even better). When we did hit the clubs (on the Sunday night) it was exactly what I expected though - drunk Brits being bogan everywhere. Fantastic. Missed out on Deadmau5 by two nights at BCM (their main club where DJ Sammy performs every Friday - !) - I didn't get to go there which was a huge bummer but finding out I'd miss out on them killed me.

Barcelona was a great night, we really should've stayed there longer like we originally planned. Only as a transition between Mallorca and Athens we ended up having arguably the best accommodation all trip (with towels... and SOAP!), the best central location AND good luck with two clubs. Funny story time: dancing with Helen, then an Argentinean guy whose cousins had befriended us decides to get real close and ask me: 'Can I bite you? Pleeease?' I almost went into hysterics. Gold. We only had about four hours sleep before leaving to catch our flight, where I happen to bump into Beth from Tomatina. Small world.

Athens was great as a bookend to Nemea because I saw a totally different side of Greece, the one seriously affected by their current economic struggle. Student transport ticket for 90mins: 50 Euro cents. Cheeeeap. And they think things have skyrocketed. But spending time with my mum's side was great; went for coffee everyday - around a marina, Glyfada (which is a really nice area) - and returned to my love: the pite. Went to a restaurant which was constantly packed called Georgia's Pites where they seriously had the best yiros' I've ever had in my entire life. These didn't have chips in them like anywhere else but they tasted incredible.

Saw the Acropolis and surroundings: the Parthenon is colossal. I didn't want to leave it; so so beautiful. Think I cried a little. Saw Hadrian's Gate and the Temple of Zeus and then most of Ancient Agora where Helen had slight issues... climbing some steps, which of course are marble and therefore slippery, and an exasperated Helen says to me: 'MORE marble?!' I just turn and say: 'Dude, it's Ancient Greece. Of course there's marble.' That, with Barcelona two days before brought arguably the two best quotes of the trip. Genius.

Loved the Monestiraki and Plaka areas... felt drawn to Athens - and not just because everyone dresses impeccably. Caught myself imagining an older version of me there with a husband and kids walking around the streets. I must've looked local enough; a (hottt) TV presenter approaches me with mike and all. Couldn't help him out - need to brush up on my Greek properly I've decided. Didn't matter for the club we went to though... like Mykonos, looked like something out of a film. Every girl in heels (and me caught out wearing flats because I didn't know we were going) and really good mix of Greek and English music made for a great night out.

Before we knew it the five days were over and we were going home. No major dramas getting back to Oz, except for the freezing night-stay in Melbs. A horrible wake-up call. But I went to Sydney to shop and sightsee a bit more five days after coming back to Adelaide. After THAT I was shopped out AND aware I was really home. Which got me down for a bit. But I think I'm okay now. Looking at all my clothes makes me happy anyway.

Getting back to London was both sad and relieving. Sad because the tour was over and relieving because I was in London again, where I had more shopping to do. Only problem was, with the presents I’d kept locked up in my London hostel AND what I’d bought over the tour left next to little room in the suitcase. But as long as I got to Spain after these two days to send stuff home there, I’d be fine.

That was until I entered Topshop on Oxford St. Woah. So so overwhelming, on the ground floor alone I grabbed five different accessories and struggling to hold them all I had to contain myself. Tried on about 15 things on one floor and felt sorry for the fitting room controller, who like me normally had to deal with swapping clothes etc etc. That was before the Vintage floor. O.M.G. I just about passed out with excitement at the pieces they had in there – sadly left behind an 80s prom dress worth GBP99 and a pair of vintage shoes. Heartbreaking. Having to pick only one pair of shoes because of bloody weight restraints killed me. Killed me. I vow to return.

Being the day before the Aussie election and not having exempted ourselves, headed to Australia House to vote. Tbh, I didn’t know who I was voting for; I just remember feeling sick and being given water before I put my ballot through. But it was fun all the same, not something you do every day. Got to the Camden Markets (second time for me) soon after: more amazing this time because I scoured just about every corner of those stables. With the help of Anthony of course, my patient partner-in-crime! And I introduced him to the world of crepes – albeit the messiest crepe he’ll ever eat in his life; certainly was for me. Speaking of food, finally had Indian in London and it was really good. Really enjoy eating it now… now I’m hungry thinking about it!

Second day was all for Jana because it was her birthday! Went to the Tower of London, which was interesting – but it was so so cold! Borough Markets for a fantastic lunch at the request of Angela (best falafel wrap I’ve ever had, think my body went into shock because of its goodness). Then went to the British Museum with Helen to see relics of the Parthenon. Oh that made me angry. It’s not just one or two things, it’s a whole frickin’ gallery. Half the thing is in this museum and they refuse to give it back to Athens. It’s an absolute joke. Breathe… Okay, so went out to Leicester Square and had nice Italian for dinner at Jana’s request which was nice.

I began my solo journey well, arriving at the airport nice and early. Weighed my suitcase – 25.1kg. Oh no. 50P excess fee unless I can get it down by putting things in my hand luggage and fit THAT and my huge handbag into the metal box thing. Half an hour later I manage to do it and get my suitcase to 21.9kg. 10P fee, 40P SAVED. Boo-yah. Next thing I know I’m at the train station in Valencia about to make my way to the hostel – in the HEEEEEEAT (that's a good thing, I was SO excited). Only problem is my ticket wouldn’t let me past the gate. About to attempt jumping over when a local family came to my rescue. Bless them. But haven’t had so many steps in my entire trip than getting out of that bloody station. Knackered. Then it turns out I was put in the sister hostel ‘around the corner.’ The Spanish don’t give good directions. Over an hour later I found it and was about to collapse from dehydration and muscle failure. After all, I was lugging around at least 30kg.

Recovered, I saw plenty of Valencia, had a nice day trip to Peniscola (yes, make the jokes if you must, everyone else was at the time) and got lost on our bike ride. Beautiful places they both are, easy to get around. But at Bunol, Tomatina was the big one. Couldn’t tell you how many people there were, I heard 30,000 somewhere. Pretty much in the middle of the packed main street until we got pushed up with the crowd onto level ground higher up. Ended up seeing more of an overview than getting pummelled. Except one un-squashed tomato that hit me square in the right eye from the balcony of a local 20m above. And then a wet t-shirt flung into it 30 seconds later. And then another tomato landing on my wrist as I covered my battered eye. I clearly needed to move. But actually a bit disappointed I didn’t have a black eye from it all. Plenty of tears, lost shoes, ripped clothes… absolutely nuts. Just lucky we weren’t in direct sun. While slightly disappointed I wasn’t covered in red (by the time we reached the street itself the hour had finished), I still had a great time. Going to send 7.425kg of stuff at the Post Office later was a highlight when the man knew I’d been to Tomatina because he pointed out a seed in my hair. Awesome. Our last night was a pretty messy pub crawl where I’d finally washed my hair (quote of the night: ‘It’s cleeeeean!!!’), plenty of dancing was done and drinks downed like they were going out of fashion.

More steps again lugging my crap (still not feeling lighter) down the Metro – got on the plane with the (mostly hot) Mallorcan/Baleares Islands soccer team Atletico Baleares and got to the island safe and sound after a clear highlight of my overall trip and a week I could, and will never, possibly forget…

Don't mind me writing this when I'm back in cold Adelaide but I wanted to get it out because otherwise it's unfinished business!

Uh, with the Viennese theme park, as if I didn't say I had the biggest fairy floss you've ever seen in your life! It was seriously the length of my torso. Buried my face in it. The rest of Vienna was good even though Sunday meant things weren't open. Average cake/coffee at a cafe, the Film Museum wasn't open during the summer, and I had an interesting encounter with a man and his laptop. Bratislava was gorgeous for what we could see in about 90 minutes - although half of that was in a cafe drinking hot coffees (I had some banana-infused latte in a martini glass, quite amazing) because it was pissing down with rain. The poor market stalls in the main square... My camera decided to not turn on when it felt like it so a few photo ops missed on top of their castle. Got my Slovakian Maccas (bit of a Greek flavour with beef and tzaztiki in a herbed bun) and we moved on - after half the group returned 20 mins late with boxes of pizza in their hands. Ha, I thought we would run late when we took a wrong turn.

Budapest proved (to my Yiayia's truth) to be beautiful and really interesting (except for Topdeck's new choice of hotel, it was horrible). Visited the Terror Museum which gave a whole book's worth of info pages about the Hungarian Jews in WWII and the Communist era that followed, definitely worth seeing. Walking around was beautiful; their markets a little disappointing for lack of clothes though (although every second shop was traditional clothing but that wasn't what I was after. I discovered later Angela trying on a vest made for an awesome photo). Fell asleep after getting a drink with the girls in the afternoon. Outside. In broad daylight. Apparently they were scared because I wouldn't wake up. Must love the Hungarian sun. Oops. The food: A-MA-ZING. First night's dinner (under 3000 florints which is less than AUD$20) was the most massive souvlaki on a stick I've ever eaten in my life (it was like... oh, I can't describe it, just too good), second night grabbed a traditional Goulash soup which was incredible. Still sick so thought that might be good for the immune system. But so so good. And so cheap, unbelievable. Oh, and tried a cinnamon ice-cream (gelati-style). YUM.

Nightlife was really interesting. But the ride to Rio on night one was more so... maxi-cab driver refused to give us the right change because he rorted us way more than what our tour guide had agreed, pushing us all out as we try to argue, Amy (guide) rocks up and hops in the back seat to push the point, he drives off with doors still open, Amy hanging on for dear life to the back of the front passenger seat and Angela sitting in the front. 20 mins later, discover he drove them down the street, couldn't get the door open to push Amy out, continued yelling abuse in Hungarian but gave in. So I got my 100 florints back. Above and beyond the call of duty for Amy, who in her tipsy state said that should never happen again. Hilarious all the same. And trying to sleep when one of the guys comes into our room going 'sound check, sound check' to see if we could hear them shouting next door. We could.

Krakow was next, a smaller city than Poland's capital Warsaw - but stunning again. The main sq is huge, and the markets in the middle sell all kinds of lovely trinkets. Regret not buying a jewellry box, but bought an amber cross for my charm bracelet - amber's a huge export for them apparently, 80% of the stalls were selling it! Had a corridor party on the first night which was almost as cool as Party 211 in Rome and then made our way into town (I was one of the last to get in a taxi - and then the other girls' taxi who left before mine had taken them the wrong way and they had to be rescued by one of the boys). First pub was okay (I'd decided not to drink for fear of wrecking my throat too much before the big three - Prague, Berlin and Amsterdam) but a lot of us just wanted to dance. The second pub wasn’t that much better, very local though which was cool. But it stank of cigarettes way too much for me to handle so I preferred to get my Polish Maccas fix at approx 1:30am before heading home.

The day was good - licked the wall of a mine (all made of salt so had a nice taste to it), then nearly died in the lift up - the most rickety thing with 9 of us in there. Had a pretzel as Kat and I had discussed, then Some of the better pasta I had in Europe – in a shopping centre food court. Then ice-cream, then found the most awesome jewellry/souvenir shop hidden in a little alley. Bought stuff (it's all hand-painted, amazing)... but I was thinking of a pendant, Kat saw stuff on the way out. Two minutes later we were buying it all.

Had an early night to be prepared for the next morning – our visit to Auschwitz. Every person on the bus chose to take the tour which was fantastic. I was getting emotional before we went in as I read the information posted outside and I knew I wasn’t going to contain myself for the whole tour.

It was the most sobering experience of my life and I pretty much can’t think about it without getting tears in my eyes. As we were walked through the rooms and everything was put into context by the guide I was just stunned. Images that will forever stick in my head come from those rooms where photographs weren’t allowed. And for good reason. Shit… Ummm, I had to walk out of one of those prematurely and felt so holed up I couldn’t even bring myself to look at anything besides my tissue. And when we went through one of the few remaining gas chambers even the guide didn’t talk out of respect, merely gestured to the vents as we took the 15-second walk through. And then I see some idiot tourist taking a photo. No fucking respect at all. I felt like punching the bastard. Also saw the Birkenau part, and then as I thanked the tour guide personally afterwards started blubbering in front of her. She was so strong. Oh man, you’d have to have real guts to walk through that place every day and retain integrity and level emotion.

Night tour in Prague proved fun – beautiful city, good nightlife. Double Trouble music bar, then the 5-storey club everyone was so excited about. But for me where it had a little less expectation than for others it turned out more fun – a few were disappointed but I enjoyed it enough. Stayed fair late (so it must’ve been good); for the ride home hopped out of taxi #1 after he was going to charge way too much, and taxi #2 had to do. We may be tourists but we know a rip-off when we hear it! At least the alcohol’s cheap. Real cheeeeeap.

Prague was next, and again, a beautiful place. Their main clock is incredible and the bugle played every hour is worth a watch. Got lost in the backstreets trying to find Mozart's house (sure I walked past it), found the coolest vintage shop - but she didn't take EFTPOS and that ruined any chance for me that day. So badly wanted to do the Pub Crawl but so buggered from the day that we gave it a miss.

Next day was my Yiayia’s 70th birthday so made a call and got some interest from bus-mates with my broken sore-throated Greek. Stop in Dresden was on a Sunday so no chance to do much. Has such interesting history with its buildings though – half restored (literally, you can see the burnt black stones mixed in with the new ones) after WWII after its’ bombing was one of the war’s biggest controversies. Had a picnic with my pre-made lunch and found an Ayers Rock Café.

Then drove straight into Berlin for a drive tour and first up was the Berlin Wall. The East Side Gallery part, where artists have painted murals, including a famous one of two presidents kissing. I was in such awe just walking past it, feeling the suppression of these people as their city was split in two. Then I remembered I had a pen – light blue but all the same I did my best to write on there. Then everyone saw I had it and it wasn’t seen again until late that night. I could’ve spent half the day there, 10 minutes wasn’t nearly enough. It was even weirder walking past it across the road in darkness as we headed to a club further down. A club which only five of us got into out of at least 12-15 (others booted for being too ‘young’, not dressed up enough, not dressed right). I was surprised when I got in after being asked how old I was and showing him my passport, but once I got in I understood perfectly why (wearing my floral dress and small-heeled black peep-toes). The. Most. Indie-ish. Crowd. EVER. It was like The Garden of Unearthly Delights on steroids. Two dancefloors, a swing on a fairy light-lit tree, overlooking a river… absolutely nuts. Three of us and new friend Pete were spotted staring at a couple about to totally go for it on a ledge high up by some seats overlooking everything. They said we should have fun too. Uh, not right there thankyou! Definitely an experience to last a while in there – and then the satisfaction of the Maccas we passed being open at 3:30am when it looked closed was incredible.

Berlin day: guide took us around major Berlin sites, I stood on East and West Berlin at the same time, made the long trek to the Ampelmann store (amazing, I could’ve bought half the shop - and the one next to it actually). If you have no idea about Amplemann, Google him. Best traffic light man EV-ER. Also hunted for something pink for our upcoming ‘P & pink’ pub crawl – found rose-patterned leggings on sale at H&M. Not that I couldn’t have found something there, with no less than three stores on the one side of the strip. AAARGH! Awesome apple strudel in the café right by Checkpoint Charlie before getting ready. That was a highlight – Allie getting wrapped by Brodie in glad-wrap because she was going as Plastic. Once she was done the inevitable question came up: ‘how do I pee?’ Hilarious. I went as Pretty in Pink as one of my London buys has a Molly Ringwald style to it. Leggings made it look rather garish. And Lauren went as Penny. Got just about everything right, esp. the poses for photos. Excellent. Good night, all the pubs/clubs had something different about them, and I downed my first full bottle of beer ever, a Beck’s Gold. Aaaaand, we were encouraged to leave our bottles on the sidewalk because they pick them up to recycle. That felt so wrong. Best thing about locations were that last club was literally across the street from our (pretty awesome) hostel. That helped when it started to spit…

Berlin-Amsterdam was a long drive, but that didn’t mean I wanted to get out of the bus. Freeeezing as we went into the cheese and clogs factory, where the creepiest guy showed us how to carve the hole in a clog – he was seriously on some happy pills. And then his face is on the brochure and I almost tear up in laughter. No-one else managed to see this in there! Bought some smoked cheese on the basis I’d eat it before going home.

Wow, there’s so much I could say about Amsterdam, what an awesome place. After the first night that is. Went through the Red Light District and down Skinny Alley where all the expensive sex workers are – seeing them just stand behind their windows in suggestive lingerie one after the other was nuts. And then we went to a sex show. Thinking to myself ‘it’s just one of those things you have to do – when in Amsterdam…’ I walked out with two minds. The strippers were fine in their slight vulgarity, but live sex on stage (which I’d been warned about) was really discomforting. That's all I'll say about it.

The next day was more ‘normal’; did a bike tour around the city, which is built on canals – and to put the rumours straight I’m officially stating for the record I DID NOT CRASH INTO A CAR. After went to Anne Frank’s house where I gladly waited almost two hours to get in. Wow. After the emotion of Auschwitz a few days before, I didn’t expect as much here. Had tried reading it again but only got a ¼ through from the last week (bus time didn’t equal down time) so details were hazy for not having read it properly in so long. But as soon as I saw the pictures of film stars on the wallpaper it dawned on me I was standing where she’d slept, and written so much. Again, I tear up thinking about this. I was in tears for 99% of the rest of it. Seeing it and picturing it in my head was so unreal, but I forced myself just as I did with Auschwitz that it was real and that people were here. The window in the attic, the stove where the mothers would cook… unbelievable. Can’t believe some people don’t even know who she is. For goodness sake, brush up on your general knowledge – that makes me angry. Almost walked away with half the store but contained myself. It was so lovely to see the diary there in so many languages.

Found an orange feather boa for our last night out (being their national colour), discovered my first Episode store, and went in the Vincent Van Gogh museum which is pretty impressive. Canal cruise at dusk went mental (unlimited wine for an hour, you can imagine the line-up on the tiny boat), then first club went off. Second was a dud before heading home.

Last ride: slept for large part of it, which annoyed me because wanted to make the most of it. But the Backseat Bandits did encourage Amy to set a challenge, so before our stop in Bruges we’d named all the capital cities of our visited countries and figured out about half the flags for them. The stop was beautiful – I set off solo immediately to find Maccas as part of my Odyssey (seriously, I AM going to write a blog on that v.v.soon), but found a closed Tintin Shop – DEVO, another small goal shot, a great and cheap chocolatier and a castle that I reckon ¾ of the crew didn’t see. Busy place too, would’ve loved to spend more time there. In Bruges had played on the bus but didn’t watch it. Should have really, will make an effort. Dropped Jo off at the station after - sad because she was the first to go – it can’t be over! Then Paddy left us at the port and we really were going back to London. Everyone was pretty knackered on the ferry and so glad to get off we were the first bus packed and ready to go. Slept for a lot of that too.

Sad farewelling everyone; it was an absolutely amazing 24 days we had together and I miss every one of you still! But there’s still more of my trip to come… phew!

Ok, so haven't been able to write on here for some time, and writing this is slightly difficult because I'm working with a German keyboard in Austria.

So I'm in Vienna, halfway through my Topdeck tour, and it's been amazing so far. London was a great lead-up though too, so let me go through that...

Highlights were definitely the people we met: walking tour through London introduced Helen and I to sisters Eleina and Anita, and then roommates Teghan and Kelsey (also sisters). It's a very cool thing experiencing sights and sounds of a city with people you're just getting to know and I had a great time with everything - London Eye, Buckingham Palace, getting 'hung, drawn and quartered' like Guy Fawkes (I volunteered to provide a demonstration because I found our Irish tour guide funny), etc.

Helen and I had done a tour to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath (which was a horribly gloomy day with a stern tour guide and a bus full of older people and families - but the sights were nice), but even though that was a mammoth driving day that was nothing compared to my birthday.

Madame Tussaud's, Portobello Road (and the markets), Mamma Mia! on the West End and then managing to find a good r&b club from a guy offering entry tickets on the street meant that my 21st ended up being incredibly awesome. Great to have Helen to share that with.

Mingling with the tour got off to a slow start but really kicked off in our Swiss campsite's bar. Dancing on the seats was the norm, and the bar became the centre of which in-bus gossip began. Beforehand, Paris was beautiful and I was much more in awe of the Eiffel Tower than I thought I would be. Getting to climb it and seeing how far we walked all day (from the Louvre, where I fought to get a centre position at the Mona Lisa and succeeded, to Notre Dame back to the Tower - at least 1.5hrs walking) was awesome. Switzerland gave me the opportunity to push myself like never before... I decided to jump out of a helicopter from 12000 feet (4000 metres). And I was surprisingly calm about it. Even afterwards. No jitters. Just knowing the accomplishment of achieving such a scary thing. It was one of the most exciting things I've ever done in my life and something I'll never forget.

Nice in the French Riviera was relaxing at the beach (pebbles, again) because on Sundays Europe decides to close its doors. Also travelled to Monte Carlo in Monaco to visit their casino (as used in Bond films etc) - underwhelmed. Beautiful building but empty and definitely not within my gambling range!

Italy was 5 nights... Leaning Tower of Pisa shots were fun, tried unsuccessfully to lick it, Florence was pretty but didn't get to see enough (especially M'angelo's David), Rome was too busy - 90000 PEOPLE AT ST PETER'S SQUARE to see the Pope's address (as opposed to an avg 10000 - once-a-year convergence of 70000 from across Europe of altar kids helped there, some of who howled Hunn-ga-ri-aaaa at us in a Metro station quite forcefully), and not knowing where to go was annoying. Did love the Trevi Fountain though, tossed coins in and tried a La Dolce Vita shot. Oh, and ate a takeaway pizza through the streets, felt very Italian - not that they really do that but whatever...

We had some people leave us in Rome and others join us. New group are younger and have already injected life into the partying which is good. Although Angela and I didn't need them in Florence - the discoteca at the campsite went off for us - we killed the d.f. and shat all over the 15yo's who didn't know Eminem's Without Me. Only ones on d.f. by 2am. But the biggest came after getting to Venice - through Verona, which I was ußer excited about. Total awe washed over me as I visited Juliet's house and saw all the names graffitied on the wall. Stuck a note up and left my legacy, that's definitely been a highlight too. Only spent an hour there though, not enough...

So Venice got off to an absolute flier with a Toga Party at the campsite's bar. It got very messy very quickly with plenty of Silvio's Special's flowing: 4 shots and a Bacardi Breezer. Details were still emerging 2 days later - a Gappie (gap-year camper on another Topdeck tour there) was rumoured to be kicked off his tour for starting a fight with one of our boys and then subsequently everyone else, an in-bus hook-up that included an accidental punch in the face that the female does still not recall, and another female being caught eating a potplant (and nutella) cross-legged on her bed cuddling it are just a few stories. Let the good times roll...

These stories, embarrassments, get nominated for the cowbell, which has to be worn as a walk of shame until next midnight. Penny and Lauren have received the first joint awarding of this already for getting ready to leave Florence in a rush - an hour before schedule, in turn putting tour guide Amy into a fright. Hilarious.

Vienna today was alright, but again it's Sunday so nothing was open. Did go to Europe's biggest fun park last night and tested myself on rollercoasters... Awesome fun.

Think that's everything... Budapest through Bratislava tomorrow, getting really East now. Should get really interesting from here!

Sitting in Santorini on my last afternoon here, swaying slightly from the boat we had to take to the Red Beach to swim today. Haven't gotten seasick from any of the water travel yet so I think I'm okay with travelling. Not so much with the getting ready part - I feel I take longer than normal and my sleeping patterns are faaaaarked. London tomorrow should put things back into a sort of routine for me!

So the rest of Mykonos was eventful. TV Rock blew the roof off, we stayed until 4:30 which was a huge effort considering Jana was sick (yet downed 5 drinks), and I had 7 and Penny 6 drinks (I was the better off lol). 'In The Air' was incredible, and I felt like the Mykonos stay was fulfilled.

Plenty of shopping, plenty of hot bronzed bodies... it was awesome. Actually, it wasn't just guys with the looks, all the girls were some of the most glamorous I think I've ever seen in my life. Slight inadequacy there?... Food was pretty good (pites amazing - I've had one at least every 2nd day even in Santorini), people mostly friendly, but transport is ridiculous. We stayed on the wrong part of the island - two buses to Paradise Beach with the day-club and awesomeness. But at least Santorini is easier... interesting because the island's HUGE!

Went to the Black Beach at Kamari on our first day, and the shopping there was nice. Food not so much. However, I certainly wasn't going in one restaurant after being pretty much hounded by a maitre'd who thought he had the world's greatest pick up line. Obviously thought I didn't know much Greek and therefore didn't understand what 'yiasou' meant... walking past a second time, he starts again... 'I'm the best yiasou. I'll give you the best yiasou you've ever had!' Shouting this down the street mind you. Actual humiliation. Having said that, he was the rotten egg. Greek guys here are so different to those in Australia...

Yesterday we walked on the active volcano just off the coast, and then made it up to Oia to watch one of the world's most beautiful sunsets - and it was stunning. And with all the people watching it, it felt really special. It's a more picturesque town than Fira (town centre where we are), and it finally felt like we were in 'Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants'.

Today was the Red Beach, where we had to get a boat out. It was alright, bit windy. I'm not a fan of pebble beaches, and that's what they've all been. Note to self: buy water shoe thingys. But the water's all so clear.

Clubbing in Santorini's actually really good. District within the town centre is close and all play good music. Jana and I stayed out until 4 or so going between three clubs (including one Greek which was awesome - even if I don't understand all the lyrics, the music's great). Hoping to go to Perissa tonight for Helen and I's final night out. Then London tomorrow - CLOTHES SHOPPING, FINALLY!

Don't have much time...

Ok so spent the last 6 days in Nemea, Greece, about an hour or so from Athens, past Corinthos on the Pelopponnese. My paternal grandpa is from a smaller village just outside Nemea called Dafni but most of my family don't live there now bcoz it's pretty small. Didn't see much of it (disappointing), but Nemea is great. About 29,000 live there, and very friendly and hospitable people. And they love their coffee. So I'm not a huge coffee drinker right? I had 3 frappes in 24 hrs and w jetlag it wasn't good. Yes, there was a bit of that and I didn't feel myself for days. Neither did my face :/ So to say the least I've stuck to OJ since.

Helen's learnt a bit of Greek which is great... My fam don't speak a lot so it's been a challenge but have understood more than expected so everyone wins! It was a learning curve for me too, and the places we've seen have been incredible. Didn't expect it to be that mountainous. But it's mountain after mountain after mountain... after mountain. Beautiful. Nafplio is amazing; Greece's first capital city... Went in Palamidi Castle where Kolokotroni led us to victory vs the Turks 200 years ago and was then jailed, and the night after it ate under it in the town centre. At 11pm on a Monday night and it was PACKED. The pizza here has tastier cheese and their pites (yiros') are AMAZING. Nothing's the same here!

Olympia was the big one for me and we went yesterday. I almost cried seeing the first stones, felt sooo privileged to be there. Missed the flogya (flame basin thing), bit annoyed because there weren't exactly any signs and the site's HUGE. Buuuut I did run on the ancient Stadio with ghosts of champions past. And there's video proof haha :)

Also watched the World Cup final... Well half of it, and then 3mins from the finish it cut out. Happy with Spain winning.

Now in Mykonos where the water's beautifully clear and it's extremely hot. Heard about back home... Ewwww. Funniest thing ever: love TV Rock's 'In The Air' after seeing 'Kings of Mykonos: Wog Boy 2' right? I've made it my Eurotrash song. And what loud poster do I see outside my hotel today? TV ROCK IN THE FLESH TOMORROW NIGHT! That's not coincidence, that's fate! I'll hear my song as it should be heard, yayyy!

Dear Diary,

Quickest entry ever: watched Uruguay vs The Netherlands as the last game in Australia and was impressed with the Oranje by the end of the game.

Boy was I wrong with my prediction... after a 14hr flight between Melbourne and Doha, the only way I found out about Germany vs Spain while being in Doha Airport for 7 hours was the cover of their only English paper The Gulf Times. So Spain beat Germany 1-0? Ha, the octopus was right again! Awesome...

Hoping to watch the final somehow here in Greece... we'll see how we go...

Dear Diary,

EXPLOOOOSIVE stuff last night, now THAT's what I'm talking about!!! The World Cup has continued to deliver in the finals series with near upsets, actual upsets and plenty of scandal and drama in between. Oh, and Paris Hilton being arrested and then let go over her friend's marijuana possession. Cover-up so Hilton didn't get more jail time - or (shock horror) a bad rep? TOO LATE, she dug her grave looooong ago.

Ok, the important stuff. Had to be out during the Germany vs Argentina game BUT utilised my Mobile TV package and ended up watching plenty of it on my phone. Yes, in a pub. They had no screens so I didn't have a choice. Unfortunately the sound option was cancelled out by the live music but with four of us crowding over a screen with about 80% clarity it still had a tense enough feel. One friend didn't want to know the score, so I obliged his wish... but when we start shouting OOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHH over Germany's third goal he's looking at us with a mix of envy and curiosity - I simply said 'Go... just go.' We didn't see him for a while.

Saw all the goals so feel proud I had a solid viewing of the game. And seeing Diego Maradona's face on the final whistle was priceless. Was debating staying up straight through until Paraguay vs Spain, but after a trip to Vili's for a Bacon and Cheese Sausage Roll left me with an upset stomach (but to be fair, it was triggered by the alcohol, the food was awesome as always) I needed a lie-down. An hour later, the last QF began.

So I discovered being on about 50 minutes sleep doesn't really work for me. Plus being in a warm, cosy room with my brother asleep kicking his legs around everywhere didn't help. The first half's a slight blur but what happened afterwards makes it irrelevant anyway except to say that it was a good contest in that both teams refused to concede. It was the same for most of the second half, except for the goal obviously. Which came more from luck anyway; any double crossbar hit will startle the defence. The goalie had no choice but to attempt a scramble back but had no chance. And this comes after yet another interesting series of events... that neither team could capitalise on penalties two minutes apart and that Paraguay should've had another crack at their's because the ref missed the Spanish encroachment in the box. Ended up sleeping in after going back to bed: with the 50 minutes before, hours of sleep: 5h50m.

Quite frankly, it was a scrape. After hearing so much about how Spain were meant to be the hot favourites, from what I've seen they haven't impressed. Even in this game against an impressive South American nation they just don't appear like a team deserving of the prize. As much as I hate to say it, I think Germany will take this out. They'll thump Spain (and while the Argentina pounding make the Socceroos look pretty good this'll look even better) and meet Uruguay in the final - haven't seen much of the Oranje crew but again, not overly impressed.

I'll miss it tonight. But the void's filled with the only game of Wimbledon I'll see in 2010 - the Men's Final. Eeeexcellent. I feel bad not having watched any tennis. But what's a girl to do?

Dear Diary,

Things have been rather hectic these past few days - organising a party will do that to you. And not to mention muddling your memory; can't remember what games I actually tried to watch four nights ago, that's deplorable.

So night 18: This is the hazy one... think I watched the beginning of Netherlands vs Slovakia and vaguely remember Dad waking me up saying 'You're missing the soccer, the soccer!!!' I remember brushing him off and somehow stumbling to bed, not knowing what time it was or even caring that I was missing out. Missed Brazil vs Chile completely and didn't know the score until a while later. Hours of sleep: something like 8, 8.5. That's the most I'd had in weeks. God knows I needed it.


Night 19: I was starting to prepare for my party here, so getting photos off an infected computer in a room whose TV doesn't get SBS made it hard for me to watch Paraguay vs Japan properly. Ended up being a tense game though (enough to make me sit down for the last bit of ET and the penalties), a shame Japan couldn't further Asia's aspirations. Was really keen on getting up for Spain vs Portugal so I did. Confident that Spain would win, and they did... don't remember too much of it again (wow, I'm really sounding like a broken record by now aren't I?). Hours of sleep: between games 2.5, after another 2 I think? So about 4.5.

Night 20: No matches! And I didn't even realise until later because there was so much I had to do anyway. Hours of sleep: 3.5. And THAT'S because photo collages don't magically create themselves.

Night 21: No matches here either I think (it's frying my brain so I'm giving up on trying to figure it out. Because I know I had to finish the collages and so still had a late night). Hours of sleep: 6.5.

Night 22: My party! And Brazil vs Netherlands was on! I was at the bar watching it on the screen above amidst the festivities and saw Brazil's goal early on. I had hoped the DJ would play 'Cup of Life' as I'd requested (hey, it's the World Cup and that's the best theme for it ever) but alas he did not. Total shame. Can't believe Brazil lost! That's so crazy! Maybe it was because they were wearing their blue and they're not used to wearing a duller colour. Maybe they passed to the Oranjes by mistake a bit because they got confused. Either way, the Cup's provided some really interesting upsets after an average start. Almost had another one with Ghana vs Uruguay too - Dad excitedly telling me in detail how the Ghanaian hit the crossbar with his penalty and then lost in the shootout. It's like with Japan but for Africa - but they should be so proud to have gotten so far, an awesome effort.


Hours of sleep: about 10.5. I KNOW, RIGHT? But when you're intoxicated you can't help it, and then find yourself getting to the duties of the day at 4 in the afternoon. Oops. Going to be out for Germany vs Argentina tonight, hopefully there's a screen where we're going. Or I'll tape it. OR I CAN WATCH IT ON MY PHONE! After all, I did pay for access, sweeeeet. Geez I'm smart sometimes. And Paraguay vs Spain should be good too, I can watch that at home.

Dear Diary,

What a night of football we saw. How incredibly unlucky for the Poms. What a match-up it turned out to be. Germany vs England ended up being the game of the tournament so far - but not for all the right reasons. The refereeing continues to bring a blight to the game and its constant mentioning warrants more pressing questions.

Hoping for an England win, the 2-0 lead to Germany wasn't looking good. But two minutes of brilliance and the Poms were suddenly back in the game. But for Lampard's strike to unbelievably be called out shocked even us neutrals. Heck, Andy Roddick was even having a go at FIFA left, right and centre via Twitter. A great strike from at least thirty yards out, and it ends up playing out as the opposite to the debatable goal from the '66 Final.

A real shame to find they couldn't swing the momentum their way for most of the second half. The decision obviously affected them and only in the last 15 minutes did they look like making a serious threat again. Rooney made almost no impact, and their defence had to work too hard just to keep up. The 'Golden Generation' have had their day.

Hours of sleep: 3.5. Woke up for the second half of Argentina vs Mexico before going to work. Tevez's goal was awesome.

Dear Diary,

Oh how behind am I? Watching highlights of Ghana vs USA, the score of which I didn't know until about twenty minutes ago. I need to watch the news more intently. GOOOOOOOAAALLLLL! That goal from the Ghanian in extra time was awesome... Ok so the past two nights have been relatively - hang on, who's that guy? Andre Ayew apparently... - whoops, back on track. Relatively quiet, not a lot watched.

Managed to see most of the replay of Slovakia vs Italy. What a final fifteen minutes. I so wish I'd seen that live. That was incredible football. Looked like Italy were actually trying... my game of the night was Brazil vs Portugal. That was meant to be a showdown - and it was really boring. The commentator said it was a 3rd-string Brazilian team, and it showed. Not as many fancy skills or as high-tempo a game. I vaguely remember the second half starting and then went to bed what seemed like five minutes later. Hours of sleep: 5.5.

Last night was unfortunate - although a quiet Saturday night out was had, there was no way I could've stayed up to watch Ghana vs USA... although we did have a World Cup McDonalds experience - stayed in the Cross Rd restaurant past midnight when they normally shut it. Woo! But I was falling asleep (yes, in a public place. Think I've mentioned I have a tendency to do that) and so hit the hay as soon as I got home. Hours of sleep: 6.5? I don't remember what time I went to bed...

Plenty of hype surrounding England vs Germany... Ed Kavalee put it so well on Cup Fever (the SBS show) when he said that the World Cup's really started now. The business end of the tournament should bring some cracker contests! Would've loved to have gone out tonight; the Barmy Army supporters (they do call them that for football too right?) would be a fun bunch regardless of where you are. Time for Shrek to step up!

Dear Diary,

Ohhhhh, what did I MISS last night???? I don't know if I've been more shittier so far this Cup (actually, I have with the Socceroos not getting through, but still...). Was totally keen to watch Paraguay vs New Zealand because the All Whites have been the surprise packet of the tournament. So I was writing my last entry while watching the beginning of that... and then fell asleep. Again. I wake up at midnight to find the channel switched to SBS Two for the Slovakia vs Italy game and also find myself to be really groggy. Had no choice to retreat after such a draining 20-hour day.

Why am I so disappointed? Well, I wake up to this staring at me on the kitchen table:
























That's my father leaving me a note. He doesn't do that - for anything - unless it's rather important. Obviously it was. Diagram and all. Then Mum walks in asking me who was screaming so loud last night.

'It wasn't me! I went to bed...'

'Well, it must've been the boys, they were so loud...'

That was a kick in the guts. Then it clicked to me that Italy were out, especially when Mum said she heard about it on the news. Italy are out... that's a good feeling, although it'll never erase the pain of 2006. AND I MISSED IT.

Theeeeennn, I see EVERYONE's post on Facebook saying how amazing it was. AM I THE ONLY PERSON THAT DIDN'T WATCH IT??!?! To say I'm disappointed in myself is a massive understatement. Even watching a replay wouldn't help with this, it seems to be one of those things. Always seem to miss out on the good ones, and it's really frustrating me. Now it's making me laugh because of the fact that Dad was so hyped up about it. But I am really annoyed. Such is life.

Dear Diary,

It's now 10:54pm and I've been up since 3:30am for the Socceroos game (which was of course match of the night - although I'm a bit annoyed I missed USA; even though I'm not a fan of theirs that game would've been interesting. The only goal in the final minute!...). Hours of sleep: 5 or so... felt it at work all this afternoon and even a bit now. I'm still getting my head around the various events that have filled the day.


I don't know that I can say the Socceroos' loss is the biggest thing that happened. After all, we DID get a new Prime Minister (Julia Gillard - first female PM AND former Unley High scholar... represennnnnt!). But I certainly feel shattered by it. Confused, but shattered. Different environment for this one, I stayed at home with company in my dad and brother. I was hopeful, unlike so many others, that they were capable of a win and that miracles may happen. And for a while it looked like it might. The first goal from Cahill

Diary, I FELL ASLEEEEEEP! It's 7am exactly on Friday morning now, I'm hopeless. SO: The first goal from Cahill was amazing and by that point Mum was even up getting ready for work. So with my dad and brother sitting with me we all saw the marvel that he is. Even Mum got a bit excited. The boys and I were beside ourselves. And when Holman repeated his good form we couldn't believe the good fortune the soccer gods were finally displaying on our team. But alas, it wasn't the perfect game - the goal against us cut deep and the realisation that we still missed out on progressing even with a win still hurts. I didn't even have time to process... after getting ready at half time, I had to rush straight to Fresh (Funny story that, Tim and I legged it up two flights of stairs and with 10 seconds to go made it into the studio before I had to speak. A breathless intro ensued... and then Jase didn't rock up and I did most of the show alone).

Now it's a day later I can reflect a bit better... the win and everything else seemed to be a bit overshadowed - albeit for a good reason (you know, having a new PM and all). But watching The World Cup Show last night (when I was meant to have finished this), Les Murray brought it all back into perspective. His use of Winston Churchill's quote that 'success is never final, failure is never fatal' was absolutely spot on and I felt so moved and inspired by his words; so proud to be an Australian with a team full of fighting spirit. I remember feeling much the same post-2006 when Murray did a similar speech after the loss to Italy. I love how sport can move people much the same as things like music and family. Murray always knows what to say in these situations and I'm so glad I actually tuned in to watch it. And then Craig Foster (deservedly) went and bagged Verbeek. Gold.

Oh, and among all this was also the information that I'd missed history in the making with the longest tennis game ever at Wimbledon. Up to 59-all in the fifth set?! Ridonkulus.

Dear Diary,

Again, I've been slack. Night Eleven didn't bring a later night than normal, so felt rather meh about it yesterday. Although it was entertaining. Walk in to see Portugal score their second goal against North Korea and thought 'alright, that makes sense'... keep doing my business, three minutes later another one. Thought 'ok, talk about good timing.' Then as I'm at my laptop every few minutes there's an 'OHHHHHH!!!' and I look to see Portugal scoring yet again.

I thought the Socceroos' loss to Germany was bad. This was annihilation. I felt embarrassed for them (and admittedly also relieved there was a bigger loss than the one involving us). And it was interesting also to see Cristiano Ronaldo score - I honestly don't think I've ever watched a game and seen him get it through. Then I find out it's his first international score in two years. That's a long time between drinks. Or Castrol ads.

Hours of sleep: estimated at 7.5 (but that really sounds wrong). Fell asleep in front of computer and then realised when I woke up I hadn't set my alarm :/

Then last night: Greece vs Argentina. Against all plans I ended up staying at home watching it el solo. What an awesome display by the Greek defence. Now, I prefer an attacking game (in any sport mind you), but the resilience against the strength of the Argentinians for three quarters of the match was incredible. I'd gone into it hoping for a draw and it really looked like we'd get there. Samaras was cutting through the centre backs and was unlucky to score, and on the other end goalie Tzorvas was easily the man of the match. Messi was limited in his fancy footwork, and in a game where all three subs were used on both teams it proved an almost miracle contest. A real shame about the two late goals to send Greece home. They were also hoping Nigeria could beat South Korea but alas only failure.

Hours of sleep: 5.5. Curves opens at 6:30 so pretty much got changed and went straight after the game.

Imagine the possibilities if Samaras was a Socceroo (he WAS born in Melbs after all)... have him up front and have the double whammy, Jesus 1 & 2. That would be an awesome Aussie attack... I've been sad today, knowing that one of my teams are out for this Cup. And very nervous about the others' fate tonight. I'm hoping third time lucky - NO red cards, NO goals conceded. We have the ability to play well against Serbia, and I so dearly hope it shows.

Dear Diary,

I've found my groove again. Small sacrifices are necessary for the bigger picture. But I still don't have the best knack of choosing the best game of the three to focus on watching, which is frustrating. Take last night: out of Paraguay vs Slovakia, Italy vs New Zealand and Brazil vs Ivory Coast I picked the latter. I thought it was a no-brainer - six-time champs against a top African team led by Chelsea's Didier Drogba... but my doubts got to me when I awoke from my slumber at 4am, finding two texts from Penny mentioning how awesome it was that Italy and NZ drew. I couldn't fathom this at 4am. I still can't fathom it now. THEY DREW??? 1-ALL?? Wow, so New Zealand are the surprise packet of the tournament so far, holding the reigning champions and a decent European side to draws. It's astounding - THEY'RE DOING BETTER THAN AUSTRALIA. There, I said it. And I'm actually annoyed that I haven't really seen them play properly. Therefore making the game vs Paraguay my must watch.

So the Brazil-Ivory Coast game was still good. Great plays by the Brazilians, especially leading to that first goal by Luis Fabiano. Genius. But Drogba didn't go unheard of, which is a relief for I.C. I'm sure. Loved that the Brazilian defenders missed him completely and couldn't do anything but stand there gaping. It's funny to watch.

I also discovered I love saying Cote d'Ivoire. If I was a commentator I'd always say that in a put-on husky voice with my newly learned French accent: 'Cote d'Ivoooooire...' Very intriguing.

Hours of sleep: 5. Had brekky before it ended and got ready for work just after it finished. Didn't fall asleep - because I left the heater off. Small sacrifices = bigger picture.

Dear Diary,

There wasn't much to say about night eight, except that it was important to watch Serbia vs Germany for a result to affect our game. Serbia's upset was surprising; Germany's Miroslav Klose - sent off?! That's HUGE for their game against Ghana, and good for us because we now need the Ghanians to win. More on that in a minute.

Only saw second half of the Serbia vs Germany game at Penny's... and again next thing I know I'm jolting in my seat. I'd fallen asleep before it was over and found her parents curiously looking at me. Time to go home. At the expense of USA's game I went to sleep and got approx 5.5 hours sleep (oh and night seven was something like five - Diary, I'm getting sloppy).

So night nine was the chance for the Socceroos to seek redemption and get the win we so sorely needed. Attempted the Rosemont again but it didn't happen. Made some friends in the line though, one of whom presented me with his Solo promo undies (which were seen on numerous heads and over jeans along Hindley Street for much of the night). We gave up 20 minutes before kick-off and we managed to get into the Casino's sportsbar a few minutes into the game. SO SQUASHY in there it was ridiculous. But when we scored, it went boonta. Surprised I didn't get hurt in such close confines. But I didn't like the set-up. Their big screen was too low so you couldn't see much unless you were right at the front.

I was only watching on a smaller screen (where I could see) when Kewell was sent off. The disbelief in the room was incredible. I didn't understand what had happened... I'm still in disbelief. Apparently some are saying any handball (intentional or not) in the goalbox or on the last line is an automatic red card. I've never heard that rule before, and for it to happen to frickin' HARRY KEWELL of ALL people, it's the most unfortunate thing our team has endured. World Cups really don't go our way, do they? As a fan I feel enormously frustrated at all the constant bad calls and lack of recognition for being there - imagine what would be going through their heads! Ffs, how long will it take before they realise we're there to play and not just making up the numbers!!!

Hours of sleep: actually did get some. 5.5 hours again I think. Feeling okay physically. Mentally, not so much, I can't believe the bad luck's returned. Talk about deja vu.

Dear Diary,

I'm a bit sad this morning... the World Cup so far has provided almost sleepless nights and interesting results but I let myself down overnight. The one day I was feeling fine (even on 2.5 hours sleep) and had time to relax at home what happens? I end up falling asleep on the couch BEFORE the start of Greece vs Nigeria - and then not even my brother could wake me up properly until his scream of 'Ohhhhh!' in the latter part of the second half. Shameful.

Had been hanging out ALL day, and then I was struck by stomach pains. So fine, it wasn't something I could control - besides lying down, but as soon as I do THAT what else is going to happen? Make me MORE awake? Pfft, sure. So I watched the last 20 minutes intently and by the end felt more awake than I had for half the day. Aaaaargh!

Found out some interesting things though. Chris reckons he tried waking me up at least twice last night - but did he emphasise that GREECE was on? Don't think so. I don't remember any of this, I must have been so out of it. Then he tells me when the Portugal vs Ivory Coast game ended a few nights ago and he woke me to go to bed I said: 'I have to wake you up at 6am to go to bed'. Or something. Rambling and not making any sense.

It got me thinking whether it's worth watching as much as I can at the expense of my inability to actually keep my eyes open. For some reason I feel like I'm missing out, like I'm not paying 100% attention to the good matches. Got shittier when I heard the commentator say how good a game it was. And it's not like I can really watch a replay when I'm back at work (and reality, yesterday was such a productive day off...). How frustrating. At least I found my Hellas scarf (authentic and all), I'll be wearing that today!

Oh yeah, (when I load it) I want to put a photo of me with a vuvuzela up. It's hilarious.

So the first round ended with the games overnight, with my pick of the three games on offer Spain vs Switzerland. The Swiss captain Alexander Frei is out, who I actually remember from four years ago (shame, he's fair good). That's what I'm loving about watching all these games; picking out those I remember from '06 and those I don't recognise. A lot are still around which is good. It bothers me that I don't watch a lot of soccer regularly so it's interesting to refresh yourself on players' strengths after so long.

Ok so to the games: saw last part of Chile vs Honduras - but saw the end of the first half while DRIVING in my car, on an iPhone. How am I excited about an iPhone? Oh how the times have changed; from me being totally against it the whole app/everything else thing I now find myself getting an iTouch as a replacement for my 3rd (or 4th)-gen iPod! Such is life. Anyway, I informed my friend Nav (see 'Navioli' blog) that because she's with Optus she has free live access to all the games. So she tried it, and it worked. And it's a really good picture too. Very clear. Considering the roads were wet it probably wasn't the best idea for me to be looking at the phone half the time - but I was impressed dammit! Meanwhile I've paid $8 for the month to access SBS unlimited on my own phone - but for some reason it won't connect! And it's not just SBS either, other channels are the same. So maybe there's something wrong with my connection :(

Watched most of Spain v Switzerland and was pretty impressed that the Swiss team held the favourites scoreless. Seems they needed Torres for longer than they had him on. Sure, he's been injured, but not on for the whole first half? Oh well, it was surprisingly worth seeing him anxious on the sidelines. And he's cut his hair - therefore looking a whole lot better.

Because of my radio work I'm up early on Thursdays anyway so figured I'd get up for South Africa vs Uruguay at 4. But instead I found myself setting my alarm for normal time and resting on the floor for half an hour. Saw Diego Forlan's amazing goal though, the yells from the commentators made me jolt up... So I watched the majority of all three games, a PB so far. Sleep count: 2.5hrs (uninterrupted, again another PB. Actually proud of this.). I have the entire day off, which is a miracle, but it's not one of rest so I'm going to be knackered. But hey, it's worth it.

I JUST TRIED BLOWING A VUVUZELA!!! That's the opportunity that live radio gives you... and I failed miserably. Jase had one in his shed from years ago and we dubbed today's show 'The Vuvuzela Special'... I actually managed to finally get a sound out of it, so so proud of myself! My South Africa experience is almost complete. Oh, and a small sidenote: a regular customer at Valleygirl comes up to me yesterday and says: 'Saw you on TV the other night!' She said I looked nice... that's reassuring. Greece tonight - I'm going to watch it regardless of how tired I am!!!

Dear Diary,

Well, I'm well underway of night six but I hit another low with night five. Key match was Portugal v Ivory Coast and was very keen after the surprise of New Zealand's 1-all draw with Slovakia. Decided to make myself a hot chocolate and crank the heater to make myself comfortable. Big mistake. I was toasty and warm and enjoying the first part of the game... but I again found myself drifting off.

Chris gets home from work, and when he sits down he starts barking at me for falling asleep. It's not my fault I can't keep my eyes open!!! (Ok so it is but still...) I keep hearing him waking me up and at half time I demand he leave me alone until it starts up again. I vaguely remember glimpses from there and next thing the TV's off and he's shaking me saying: 'It's 1:30, the game's over. Go to bed!' How SHIT. Why am I missing out? It's not fair! I don't have the luxury of watching replays on SBS Two during the day (which I didn't know were airing until today).

But do I feel I'm missing out, or is it that the games seem a little lacklustre so far? It's easy to get the impression that there haven't really been any standout games within the first round of group matches - sure, North Korea holding Brazil scoreless for a half is good, as were displays from Germany (grrr), The Netherlands and Italy. But the latter three are to be expected. I want to see games that will keep me awake in the wee hours of the morning because they're unpredictable.

Felt better today. Maybe that's because hours of sleep totalled five. And I could've had more, but I made myself visit the gym. Again, shock horror, two days running! Haha that's not possible tomorrow, but the point of trying to look after myself amidst the imminent trail of destruction of my sanity is being taken. For the love of the world game, it's all worth it.

Dear Diary,

I couldn't bring myself to write in here again before now, I'm still crushed by the Socceroos' loss. After my last entry I slept in my sorrows for five hours and still felt like absolute shite when I had to get out of bed. Yes, even though it was a public holiday I still had to get up. Can't believe they're considering suspending Tim Cahill for TWO games because of the red card. If anything I would think FIFA had the authority to REVOKE the decision because it was unwarranted. However, the upside to yesterday was that I managed to get myself on TV. TWO stations (Nine and Ten), one as a vox pop with a comment (thanks Nick lol) and one belting out the national anthem with scarf above head. Sound embarrassing? It still is. But for some reason I find myself hilarious. Should I be admitting that? Now I feel like a comedian should when they laugh at their own jokes: like a douche.

Last night I have to admit I hit struggle town. Now, lately I've been okay with handling long hours at work and everything else, but I think adrenaline has a lot to do with it. Watched bits and pieces of Netherlands v Denmark (the og was HILARIOUS, at least the guy himself saw the humour in it), but I was really keen on Italy v Paraguay at 4am. So after sitting in front of the lappy until midnight I got my shuteye.

First half, I was fine. Saw Paraguay's goal, the Italians were panicking and noticed they had a few younger players in their squad (although it's interesting that they're still a VERY strong side and it's the oldest in the Cup). Second half, kept drifting off... 'woke up' at one stage to see a 1-all scoreline, nodding in agreement. Next thing I notice it's NOT 3-1 in Italy's favour. Guess the images I saw of two extra goals being scored were figments of my imagination. My bad. Before I know it, it's 6am and Mum's asking me to take her to work. And so began my day.

Hours of sleep: 4. Have slight headache, but that could be from straining my brain at French class before. I couldn't remember what 'vous vous appelez comment' meant when she sprang that on me. It's only what we learnt in the first lesson... Idiot.

OMG, NEW ZEALAND JUST SCORED. WHAAAAT??? First goal for NZ at the Cup in 28 years apparently. First POINT in Cup history (think I heard that right). HA, they've drawn with Slovakia. Wow, that's fair impressive. Go All Whites. Ok, looks like I'm ending this on a good note. Ivory Coast and Portugal to come. Brazil later a possibility.

Dear Diary,

It's 6:31am and I'm feeling awake - but I'm surely in a nightmare. I have to be; the Socceroos can't have just lost 0-4 to Germany...

Maybe I had too much expectation. There was certainly a lot from everyone else though so it wasn't all on me. The line at the Rosemont was crazy and we were lucky to get in after a half-hour wait. No regrets on going out - as my first real 'sport with people' experience, pre-match it was incredible. Drums, plenty of singing - and the place to be with the media, with AdelaideNow and Ten (at least) there with cameras. Could be on Ten tonight thanks to Nick (connections haha).

Watching the Socceroos unravel was heartbreaking. Schwarzer was rattled, and the ref was really off his game (except for dives, he pretty much picked all of those out). TIM CAHILL GOT A RED CARD FOR TRIPPING OVER HIMSELF? REEEEALLY?! It was beyond a joke, and now he's absent from the Ghana clash. Spewing. The first goal was also clearly offside, but we won't go there...

We had six in defense and still couldn't stop the (admittedly pretty good) plays from Germany. They're obviously a better team, but we could've been if Kewell, Kennedy and Bresciano were on. Perhaps Verbeek saw the game as a no-win and wanted to rest them - but what's the frickin' point? EARTH TO PIM: IT'S THE WORLD CUP! Kewell maybe, coming from injury, but not the other two. Why does Jesus never start? I don't get it. The Socceroos were afraid to attack - Cahill was quiet - and the only solid performers were Neill and perhaps Wilkshire. And Garcia (who I don't reckon I've ever watched play before) tried to create scoring ops, but there was no-one up front for support!

Hours of sleep: 3 (and that's WITHOUT watching Serbia v Ghana). Maybe that's why I'm so cranky. No, that's not it. It's that we can do so much better than that and it wasn't reflected on the scoreboard. I think I'm going to drown my sorrows in sleep. And then face the day looking forward to Saturday night's game with Ghana. If we don't win that one... oh man...

Dear Diary,

It's 3:10pm Sunday as I write this sentence, reflecting on the fact that Greece are the 'easybeats' of Group B (the commentator's words, not mine) and the huuuuge blunder by England's goalie against the US.

So viewing of Greece vs S.Korea was minimal because I was out - but a 0-1 deficit in the first 20 minutes wasn't a good sign. I get home later to find the 0-2 loss was a result of defensive slips. Disappointing. Saw last 10 minutes of Argentina vs Nigeria though, and Lionel Messi... well, he was unlucky to score. The guy showed so much brilliance (yes, even in just that 10 minute gap) and couldn't convert! It's a classic example of the world's best performing less than standard when playing in their national colours (Thierry Henry is another example if it must be argued).

Two hours of sleep later and I was up for England vs USA at 3:30am. My brother had stayed up and was surprisingly awake until about 5:30. I was surprisingly ok for about the same time. Ok, I lie: I kept 'resting my eyes' throughout. Kicks in the side provided a good incentive for me to do otherwise.

Good game; the US had more possession than I would've thought and the fact that it was a draw astounded me. The goal that England's keeper let through was ridiculous... wasn't behind the ball. It was like watching a train wreck with the various replays - the more intriguing the more you see it. Gerrard's goal was a great showcase of a strong attack and taking the lead four minutes in was actually a surprise. I wanted England to win (right now I feel it's important to pick any side against a particular team, and in 2010 the 'hate team' is the US. No hard feelings...) but I can handle a draw.

Then another 2.5 hours of sleep and I had to get up for the day. Therefore sleep count: 4.5 hours. Went to a movie before - and didn't even get close to dozing off (as some would know, I'm prone to doing that more and more these days). Very proud.

GEARING UP FOR THE SOCCEROOS AT 3:30AM TONIGHT!!! Scarf's ready to go, rounding up the crew and heading out to watch it amongst the people. Thank goodness tomorrow's a public holiday, we're allll gonna need it :D

Dear Diary,

Ok, so it's NIGHT one because it's not during the day in Australia. Just making that clear to possible international readers.

Missed the opening ceremony and analysis on SBS (Shitty? Yes. Even shittier because I could've taped it? To say the least, uh-huh.) because my friends and I decided to scout a few possible viewing locations around Adelaide... After a pitstop at Adelaide Uni's UniBar (non-soccer related), we found that the casino was not to our liking and The Rosemont (which I'd heard so much about but never ventured in) was TOTALLY what we were looking for. So we'll hopefully make the trip in for the Socceroos v Germany game.

Returned home just in time for the 2nd half of South Africa v Mexico. After refuelling with a bacon and cheese sausage roll (Adelaideans, Vili's was PACKED at midnight, more than usual...) I felt awake and was in awe of Siphiwe Tshabalala's goal. What an absolute cracker. Good to see the locals getting so behind their team. Suddenly, it was 20 minutes later and Mexico had equalled. So much for the refuel. Oh well.

Couldn't stay up for Uruguay v France, there wouldn't have been any point because I was dozing off already. Plus a 9am start at work doesn't help. A pity there isn't a game between 1:30 & 3:30am (ACST) - it either runs late or reeeeally early. But I'm still going to be proud enough to say I'm on (blank) hours sleep.

So how much sleep did I get? 5.5 hours. Slightly less than my non-World Cup average of 6.5 anyway. So feeling fairly good.

Tonight: going out (missing Greece v South Korea - boooo - GO HELLAS!), then doing my best to watch England v USA at 3:30. Just want to see the Yanks lose. Not entirely sure why. If anyone has suggestions, please, put them on the table.

And so begins my insomnia.

Ok, so I think I'm still recovering from the mindblowing experience that was last night's AC/DC concert. As one of the (according to different reports) 43-to-46,000 people at Adelaide Oval, I can truly say that their show was one of the biggest and most entertaining I've ever been to. They didn't deviate from the music very much, because the songs did all the talking.

Brian Johnson would have to be one of music's most charismatic performers. And what's even better is that he doesn't give off that impression, but it slowly builds. You watch him and you just stand there in total awe not believing it. I don't know if there's another way to describe it. Basically, for an oldie he's still got it. He moves to the songs in a way only a true artist can appreciate their music, and he has so much damn fun doing it. That's another appeal, when you can see the grins on their faces... it's almost as like he was singing for himself but inviting us all in at the same time.

Then there's Angus Young. The schoolboy. He lost his hat pretty quickly but definitely not his skill. He had so much time to shine throughout the night but it didn't seem enough. Even when 40-odd thousand were watching him do A TWENTY-MINUTE SOLO. That's right, and I wasn't even the one counting. I was just thinking of how his fingers hadn't fallen off and how much more sweat could come out of him. Again, total awe. Down the runway he went (which was at least 7ft high, we couldn't see the other half of the audience), then was raised up on a platform as confetti was blasted everywhere. And then he went back in front of the huge central screen for a while before teasing the audience at the end. Just incredible stuff. Now, I haven't seen many great guitarists, but I don't think I'd have much argument if I said he could well be the best guitarist ever. What he did was genius and you actually felt privileged to be there.

It's funny that I had 'It's A Long Way To The Top' stuck in my head the next day - considering it was the only major omission. Disappointed about that, but otherwise a great set list. I guessed 'Rock and Roll Train' as the opener (and sure enough, a huge train was the centrepiece of their stage), crowd favourites were 'Rosie' (with the biggest blow-up doll you've ever seen straddling said train) and 'TNT' before an awesome encore of 'Highway To Hell' and 'For Those About To Rock (We Salute You)'. Here was where the experience changed for me...

I'd decided to try out my earplugs for the first time because I've been to enough shows that I think my ears may be permanently damaged... and I knew that this was going to be a whole different kind of loud. I heard it loud enough (and am grateful because my ears are fine), but thought I'd do it all justice and take them out for the encore. Wow. Blown a.way. It was loud, and it sounded AWESOME. Since, people down west-side claim they heard it all loud and clear. Crazy.

The show was pure entertainment. Supports Calling All Cars and Wolfmother impressed (although the latter's 'Mind's Eye' was oddly omitted), while Acca Dacca just let it all out. My dad pointed out that the great thing about them is the lack of ballads. It's all pure rock for them, and their style has such longevity that they'd never need one. For me, that's a huge plus and perhaps why I enjoyed this concert more than most others. For the males, it was probably the numerous women flashing themselves on the huge screens. Either way, a fun night, with their tribute to Bon Scott and massive fireworks to finish it off great touches.

Things I got out of it:
- Angus Young's guitaritry (for lack of a better word) is astonishing.
- You can be ageing and still have it. These guys do in spades.
- AN AC/DC T-SHIRT!!! Official, and awesome.

Today was just a normal day but from the beginning there were mixed feelings about everything. So not really 'normal' then huh?

Firstly, it's THE birthday date of the year, with at least seven people I know celebrating their birth today - hope they all had a great day. It was definitely nice to unexpectedly spend dinner with family for my grandma's birthday (and have awesome home-made cake and cream for dessert. Feeling quite full.).

Secondly, no-one told me it would be that frickin' cold when I stepped outside to walk to the bus stop. The Havvys weren't the best choice. But more importantly, when the 197 finally came and I hopped on, something clicked in my brain. The bus was full, which was to be expected considering it was at 8am - but with young adults and their backpacks and energy drinks, not workers with suitcases. Uni was back.

I strangely found myself making my way for the back row seats, not feeling comfortable with sitting elsewhere as everyone stared at me. Were they wondering if I was to become a regular perhaps? Alas, catching it at this particular time was rare for me. But not that they knew that.

Reading my magazine couldn't distract me from trying to sort out my emotions. On one hand I felt old - even though I obviously still look like a student (and was dressed like one for the most part too, total bum clothes today), and on the other hand felt a little sad. I knew I had grown to like the uni lifestyle a lot... and then it sank in. My card expired as of today. There's no anticipation of new classes, who's in them, and even to a small extent the impending assignments. There's the catch-ups in Aroma... aaaand complaining about the slow-moving line in Aroma, the cheap mochas from The Caf and the warm, sleep-worthy lecture room in the H building. Oh, I'll definitely miss that.

At the top of University Drive at Flinders Uni, all but about five of us got off and it felt horribly bare. It was still cold when I hopped off the bus at Marion to walk into the still-quiet centre, and it hadn't escaped me. Working made me realise that my life is (organised) chaos now, and not as rigid a routine as uni would have it. At some point I have to move on, and that's what I'm doing. It's just that today I realised it that little bit more.

I thought this was so incredible that I had to write a review whether it was published (on website Cut Print Review) or not. First time I've ever given a film five stars. Couldn't fault it...