Frank Arrigo: Family

Hello 2008.

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 06:30:44 GMT

Not much has been happening on this blog recently.

What with twitter, facebook and stuff I just dont find time to update this little spot on the web.

Anyways - here's to a good 2008

Photos of NYE in Sydney from the Sydney Morning Hearld

Seattle fireworks from the Space Needle, and let's not forget the Computer glitch which interrupted the fireworks

Attack of the Movies

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 01:38:20 GMT

Thanksgiving.

A time of spending time with family, giving thanks, eating and going to see the blockbusters at the movies.

I've take the kids to see a bunch of movies over the last few days

It's a tough job, but someone's gotta do it

On This Day : Nov18

Sun, 18 Nov 2007 17:57:40 GMT

On this day...
November 18: Independence Day in Latvia (1918), National Day in Oman (1940) . 1307 – William Tell, a legendary marksman in Switzerland, is said to have successfully shot an apple on his son's head with a single bolt from his crossbow. 1626 – St. Peter's Basilica, one of four major basilicas of Rome, was consecrated on the anniversary of that of the previous church in 326. 1905 – Prince Carl of Denmark became Haakon VII (pictured), the first King of Norway after the personal union between Sweden and Norway was dissolved. 1928 – Walt Disney's Steamboat Willie, the first completely post-produced synchronized sound animated cartoon, was released. 1963 - Frank Arrigo was Born 1985 – Calvin and Hobbes, a comic strip by Bill Watterson featuring six-year old Calvin and his stuffed tiger Hobbes, was first published. 1987 – An underground fire killed 31 people at London's busiest underground station at King's Cross St Pancras. 1991 – Croatian War of Independence: Republic of Serbian Krajina forces captured the Croatian city of Vukovar, ending an 87-day siege. 2007 - Frank Arrigo turns 44 More events on this day...

On this day...

November 18: Independence Day in Latvia (1918), National Day in Oman (1940) .

1307 – William Tell, a legendary marksman in Switzerland, is said to have successfully shot an apple on his son's head with a single bolt from his crossbow.
1626 – St. Peter's Basilica, one of four major basilicas of Rome, was consecrated on the anniversary of that of the previous church in 326.
1905 – Prince Carl of Denmark became Haakon VII (pictured), the first King of Norway after the personal union between Sweden and Norway was dissolved.
1928 – Walt Disney's Steamboat Willie, the first completely post-produced synchronized sound animated cartoon, was released.
1963 - Frank Arrigo was Born
1985 – Calvin and Hobbes, a comic strip by Bill Watterson featuring six-year old Calvin and his stuffed tiger Hobbes, was first published.
1987 – An underground fire killed 31 people at London's busiest underground station at King's Cross St Pancras.
1991 – Croatian War of Independence: Republic of Serbian Krajina forces captured the Croatian city of Vukovar, ending an 87-day siege.
2007 - Frank Arrigo turns 44

More events on this day...

More Autumn Colours

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 00:52:27 GMT

The New House

Sun, 04 Nov 2007 01:28:23 GMT

Lovely Autumn Day In Kirkland

Sun, 04 Nov 2007 01:20:23 GMT

For Sale : House and Cars

Thu, 05 Jul 2007 19:40:21 GMT

ST IVES

Ideal Family Home, Prized Location
Auction 4/8/07 5 MUDIES ROAD 4 bedroom House
flawlessly designed Meadowbank home maximising northerly light. superbly located in one of the area's most sought after streets. approximately 1180sq metres of level landscaped grounds. free flowing floor plan offers generous family accommodation of 4 bedrooms (ensuite) study or guest bedroom on the ground floor…

property details>>

AUDI, A4 CABRIOLET B6

VOLVO, XC90 2.5T LIFESTYLE EDITION LE 05 UPGRADE

16 Years

Fri, 09 Feb 2007 17:48:43 GMT

Today is my wedding anniversary - 16 years.

What is the special gift for 16 years?

I went looking and found that there is no traditional gift for 16 years. However, the modern gift is silverware. I dont know if Moira would like a new set of steak knives, so I am going to stick the the traditional flowers and some other special things.

And it just feels like yesterday we celebrated 15 years together

Happy Birthday Brice - 7 Today

Sat, 20 Jan 2007 22:46:59 GMT

Roland stars in his first video

Thu, 18 Jan 2007 05:43:13 GMT

The kids had some fun with Roland the puppy and Rigo caught it all on video.

roland vs his robe
04:09

That's My Boy Roland!

Tue, 09 Jan 2007 04:49:08 GMT

Parents are very proud of their little ones when they do well, or get some recognition.

Well our little Roland has hit a home run.

His image has featured in an article on New York Magazine, featuring Ten City Friendly Dogs

Check him out at #4!!!

A New Member of The Family - Roland

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 06:06:39 GMT

We got a new member of the family over the weekend

Roland the ShihPoo Puppy

He came to us from a place called Fluffy Puppies.

This is our second puppy - the last one didn't fare too well.

Good Luck Little Puppy - I hope you survive longer than a week.

Nintendo Nails It

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 05:33:50 GMT

Santa brought the kids a Wii this past Christmas.

It just rocks.

The last time I saw all 4 of them playing together was when they all got a Nintendo DS

Emma and Bricey visit Santa

Sat, 16 Dec 2006 04:46:25 GMT

You know that It's getting close to Christmas when the Santa photos start appearing

Aren't they cute!

Technorati tags: Santa, Christmas, Arrigo

Borat!

Sun, 26 Nov 2006 02:34:25 GMT

I took the big boys to see Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan

We like very much

Really Old Photo

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 06:07:53 GMT

I was scanning the photos on my laptop, using Windows Photo Gallery, and I found this horror for December 1996.

Who can it possibly be??????

Happy Birthday To Frank

Sat, 18 Nov 2006 21:39:06 GMT

Rita, Allegra, Luisa and Chris send me a special message

Happy Birthday to Frank

Technorati tags: Happy Birthday, Frank Arrigo

Barnyard : Boy Cows with Udders?

Mon, 16 Oct 2006 03:11:03 GMT

I took the little ones to see Barnyard this weekend - I am a sucker for talking animal movies.

What amused me was seeing the male 'cows' with udders.

Now, when I went to school, cows were female cattle, and Bulls or Steers were male - but this movie takes us into a relm of an alternate reality where cows can be male and female and the males have udders too. (which, since the animals talk it must be an alternate reality, so I guess boy cows can have udders)

Despite that, the movie was amusing and some of the music was terrific, especially the track Wild and Free by a Swedish band called Rednex

See and hear the song on YouTube

The Ant Bully IMAX 3D Experience.

Sun, 15 Oct 2006 18:57:11 GMT

We ventured to the city to see The Ant Bully IMAX 3D Experience.

We're all fans of 3D movies, and when you combine it with talking animated insects, well it's a winning combination!

Relief

Sat, 14 Oct 2006 02:22:25 GMT

I got this email today

-----Original Message-----
From: passports.online.service
Sent: Friday, 13 October 2006 11:16 AM
To: Frank Arrigo
Subject: YOUR PASSPORT IS COMPLETED.

THIS EMAIL IS AUTOMATICALLY GENERATED.

PLEASE DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS EMAIL.

FRANCESCO DANIELE ARRIGO

Application Form No: xxxxxxxxx

This email is to advise you that your passport application has been processed and your passport has been produced.

Applications lodged in Australia

If you lodged your passport application in Australia and asked for it to be mailed to you, it is now being despatched by registered post and you should receive it within 4-5 working days from the date of this message. If you are unable to receive your passport in person when it is delivered by Australia Post, a card will be left in your letterbox letting you know from which post office it should be collected.

If you nominated to collect your passport, it is now ready for collection.

Applications lodged in the United Kingdom or Washington DC.

If you lodged your passport application in the United Kingdom or Washington DC and asked for it to be mailed to you, it is now being despatched and you should receive it within 2-5 working days from the date of this message.

If you nominated to collect your passport, it is now ready for collection.

Applications lodged at all other Australian missions overseas

If you nominated to collect your passport you should allow 4-5 working days before collecting it from the Australian diplomatic or consular mission where you lodged your application. If you have arranged for the overseas mission to mail or courier your passport to you, please allow a few extra days for delivery.

Passports Online Service

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

www.passports.gov.au

WORLD FESTIVAL OF MAGIC TOUR

Sun, 08 Oct 2006 19:36:27 GMT

I took 3 of the kids to Luna Park to see the World Festival of Magic" show presented by the Bondi Lions (are they like the Brisbane Lions?)

There were 3 performers - JETON, SHIMADA and the Master of Ceremonies TONY LAFFAN

The kids all love a magic show - illusions, tricks, music, smoke and assorted sorcery. Not to mention juggling.

Me? Well, I liked the assistants.

It was good to get seats up the front.

Gotta Get A New Passport

Fri, 06 Oct 2006 04:53:18 GMT

I've been jumping through hoops this week to get a new passport.

I went to the website, filled in my details, printed the form, found a person to vouch for me, got new photos printed.

Now I need to have an interview at the local post office.

10 business day guarantee to get it done.

let's hope so. i travel soon

Thinkgeek Purchases : Meh

Thu, 05 Oct 2006 01:14:19 GMT

I got my latest batch of tshirts from thinkgeek,


meh	ROFLcopter	binary joke :)

Some are for me and some are for Rigo. Can you guess who gets what?

Kicking Back on Holidays

Thu, 05 Oct 2006 01:03:49 GMT

This is the first week of a two week break.

Today (Wednesday), I took Billy to see Nacho Libre (after his failed attempt a few weeks back).

It was the Cinebuzz Club movie of the week, so we got a discount too! Funny movie. The trailers for upcoming movies looked interesting too, especially Flushed Away, the next movie from Aardman.

Once we got home, Moira had a couple of IKEA purchases which we need to build. I think I am going to outsource to Billy

Labour Day

Mon, 02 Oct 2006 23:30:20 GMT

Today is a public holiday in NSW - Labour Day. This holiday varies across the country.

Labour Day in Australia

In Australia, the Labour Day public holiday is fixed by the various states and territories' governments, and so varies considerably. It is the first Monday in October in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales and South Australia. In both Victoria and Tasmania, it is the second Monday in March (though the latter calls it Eight Hours Day). In Western Australia, Labour Day is the first Monday in March. In both Queensland and the Northern Territory, it is the first Monday in May.

I've let Moira celebrate her labour day and I have made her many cups of tea.

Stormbreaker

Mon, 02 Oct 2006 01:06:18 GMT

I took Brice to the movies this afternoon.

He has been wanting to see Stormbreaker for weeks, especially after I got him the Stormbreaker graphic novel

None of the other kids wanted to see the movie, so it turned out to be a cheap afternoon out.

So, how was the movie?

Bricey liked it. His favourite scene was when a security guard got "kicked in the goolies" (his words).

Global Corporate Challenge News

Sat, 30 Sep 2006 00:35:00 GMT

I had a little piece published in the September edition of the Global Corporate Challenge Newsletter

It's from my adventures at the PLC Garden Day last week

Saturday 23rd September, 2006

6.45am: Pedometer reading 0. The kids get me out of bed. Today is the PLC garden day and my wife needs to get there early to help setup the book stall.

8.45am: Pedometer reading: 1088. Car loaded, breakfast done, kids washed and dressed. I surprise myself with the pedometer reading. I think I went up and down the stairs about 10 times.

9.45am: Pedometer reading: 1506. I deliberately parked far away from the event. A round trip to the car is going to be about 1000 steps and I reckon I will do this trip a few times.

10.55am: Pedometer reading: 2134. Been at Kiddy Korner for almost an hour. Brice (my 6 year old) has been on all the rides. I buy tickets one at a time, so that I have to walk to the ticket seller. It's not far, but every little bit helps.

11.15am: Pedometer reading: 3130: Have to go back to the car to get a blanket. My cunning plan of parking far away will help drive up those steps.

11.30am: Pedometer reading: 3333. Quick rest stop and Devonshire Tea. The Year 11 girls are serving tea and scones. We have to do our part to help with the fundraising.

11.55am: Pedometer reading: 4326. Back to the car. Drop off some of the stuff the kids have bought and I no longer want to carry. I'd rather walk it back, than lug it around.

12.25pm: Pedometer reading: 5097. The girls want to look at the jewellery stalls, but Brice wants to buy something at the Black Rhino stall. These things are at the opposite end of the venue. Another opportunity for a walk across the school grounds.

12.55pm: Pedometer reading: 6100. The boys have had enough so we walk back to the car again and head home for a bit of a rest.

2.15pm: Pedometer reading: 9205. Brice wants to have a light sabre battle. I convince him to go for a walk around the block *WHILE* we have a battle. Imagine what the neighbours must think as we walk past trying to wack each other with these things.

5.30pm: Pedometer reading: 10012. Moira arrived exhausted from the garden day and delegates the dinner preparation to me. Oh Joy!

7.30pm: Pedometer reading: 10347. Get the little ones ready for bed. I agree to carry Brice up the stairs.

9.30pm: Pedometer reading: 19012. I get onto the treadmill and spend an hour or so walking before settling down for the night. Check team watch stats and discover we are the top team in the company and beating those guys from Readify. I can sleep soundly tonight!

Rigo has a new blog

Tue, 26 Sep 2006 19:03:29 GMT

My son Antony (or as he prefers to be know as 'Rigo) has started a new blog http://antonyarrigo.wordpress.com

He's tells me that he is going to start a videoblog too.

I'm curious to hear what he will have to say

First Swim of the Season

Mon, 25 Sep 2006 21:38:06 GMT

Emma and Bricey braved the elements and went for a swim on Sunday 24/9.

The first official swim in the pool for the season.

It was a good way to cool off on such a hot & windy day.

PLC Garden Day

Sat, 23 Sep 2006 23:49:38 GMT

A big day in the school year. Today is the PLC Garden DAY

Moira gets to sort books

Emma gets to drive Jeeps

Brice goes in inflatable things

We get to have Devonshire Tea served by the Year 11 girls

Bindi's Speech

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 19:22:18 GMT

What an awesome speech....

"My Daddy was my hero - he was always there for me when I needed him."

"He listened to me and taught me so many things but most of all he was fun.

"I know that Daddy had an important job. He was working to change the world so everyone would love wildlife like he did.

"He built a hospital to help animals and he bought lots of land to give animals a safe place to live.

"He took me and my brother and my mum with him all the time. We filmed together, caught crocodiles together and loved being in the bush together.

"I don't want Daddy's passion to ever end.

"I want to help endangered wildlife just like he did.

"I have the best Daddy in the whole world and I will miss him every day.

"When I see a crocodile I will always think of him and I know that Daddy made this zoo so everyone could come and learn to love all the animals.

"Daddy made this place his whole life and now it's our turn to help Daddy."

How I Became A Pirate:

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 04:53:27 GMT

I read this book to the kids tonight when I put them to bed

How I Became A Pirate:
by Melinda Long, David Shannon
# Harcourt Children's Books (2003)
ISBN: 0152018484

Lazy Sunday

Sun, 17 Sep 2006 22:41:59 GMT

Moira has taken Emma to the Sydney Fish Markers for a "Bambini in Cucina" session.

Billy has gone to see Nacho Libre with some of his little friends.

Antony and Brice wanted to stay home to play their new games - Star Wars Lego II.

They have just asked me to put on Star Wars Episode IV - A New Hope.

Me, I am the adult supervision at home. Moira gave me a list of chores to do (isn't she nice), so I had better go and change that lightbulb.

Monster House 3D

Sun, 17 Sep 2006 01:49:28 GMT

I took my 2 little ones to see Monster House 3D, at Castle Hill

They loved it.

The SMH has a review

Lots of 3D movies coming out too, which is interesting to note.

Qu'est-ce que c'est?"

Tue, 05 Sep 2006 05:43:25 GMT

Moira Brice, Age 5

Isn't she cute.

For those of you who don't know - Moira is my lovely wife

Kamberra - a meeting place of tribes

Sat, 02 Sep 2006 23:07:54 GMT

I find myself in Canberra this weekend with the family.

Moira's Grandmother passed away during the week, so the whole clan is meeting in Canberra.

We're off to the Rose Cottage Inn to celebrate her life and memories and give support to Moira's Mum - Alma.

I'm taking my lucky bottle of Irish Whiskey.

Flight 29 Down : Lost for Kids

Sat, 02 Sep 2006 02:49:45 GMT

The kids have been watching a show called Flight 29 Down.

It's kinda like LOST but for kids - minus the numbers. the hatch and the bad stuff.

The show is on Nickelodeon, Foxtel Digital Channel 701, at 7pm weeknights, with marathons on the weekend, covering all the episodes.

First Day of Spring

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 17:26:30 GMT

Spring has Sprung.

On the weekend we drove down to Palm Beach and the kids went for a run.

We Built A ToolBox

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 04:08:01 GMT

We went along to Bunnings for the Dad and Kids Night.

We came home with a special Father's Day Gift

Yumm, Cannoli

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 00:08:13 GMT

We've finally found a good place for Cannoli in Sydney - Pasticceria Papa

Pasticceria Papa

145 Ramsay Street Haberfield

www.pasticceriapapa.com.au
Open:
Sun-Thur 7am-10pm,
Fri & Sat 7am-12 Midnight
There is a common thread that runs through the local businesses of Haberfield, a timeless formula of quality, hard work, tradition and community. Each business, be it coffee or cake, has its own story, and remains faithful to its roots.
Pasticceria Papa is perhaps Haberfield’s greatest example of this. Its Sicilian born owner Salvatore Papa migrated to Australia 17 years ago and for the last 13 years has been sharing with us his homemade recipes.
Pasticceria Papa is a patisserie, bakery and a café. Its display cabinet is longer than the eye can see and filled with fresh cannoli, profiteroles, biscotti and more. It also sells savoury food like pizza, as well as gelato and large cakes.
A world unto itself, Pasticceria Papa offers something genuinely unique. The atmosphere is always lively and bustling, and the quality of the food, consistently excellent. Perhaps this is why there is no better place for indulgences, however big or small.

Yummmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Emma in Costume

Thu, 31 Aug 2006 23:55:16 GMT

I went to see Emma perform in a play today. Isn't she cute!

From the Mouth of babes

Thu, 31 Aug 2006 23:42:40 GMT

Yesterday, while I was visiting Brice's classroom, I spotted the following on the class room notice board.

I so wanted to grab an eraser......

Father's Day Breakfast with Brice

Wed, 30 Aug 2006 19:58:17 GMT

Today was one of those days that really brings me joy.

I got to go to Brice's new school and be part of their Father's Day Breakfast. All the kids where there with their dads.

Brice was happy to have me there with him too.

I bought a ticket in the raffle and I won 3rd prize - a bottle of Irish Whiskey. Too Funny.

Snakes on a Plane - Do as I say and you'll live!

Mon, 28 Aug 2006 03:19:20 GMT

I took my two big boys - Antony & Billy - to see Snakes on a Plane. We went to Macquarie's Gold Class, as a belated birthday present for both of them.

Samual L. Jackson has some great lines

Overall, It was a hoot!

Brice continues to STAR!

Tue, 22 Aug 2006 05:41:58 GMT

Following the Merit Card, Brice came home with another award - The Star Student of the Week

As part of the award, he got to bring the class room mascot - Cuddles the Bear - home for the weekend

Cuddles went on a number of adventures. I wanted to start a Blog for Cuddles, but the family said "NO!"

Daleks Invade

Sat, 19 Aug 2006 20:39:03 GMT

Happy Birthday Rigo :15 Today

Sat, 19 Aug 2006 19:43:53 GMT

Today my eldest turns 15.

It feels like only yesterday he was a little guy sitting on my lap staring at my computer

Happy 15th 'Rigo. Have fun making movies

Look who got a Merit Card

Thu, 17 Aug 2006 19:43:27 GMT

So, it's been 10 days since we dragged Brice out of one school and dropped him into another

He seems to have coped with it really well.

He scored a merit card.

What a champ!

On This Day : Aug 11

Sat, 12 Aug 2006 03:56:37 GMT

August 11: Independence Day in Chad (1960)

3114 BC - Epoch of the current era in the Maya Long Count Calendar began.
480 BC - Spartan hoplites under Leonidas I, along with Thespians under Demophilus, fought to the last man in the Battle of Thermopylae, losing to a large Persian invasion force led by Xerxes I.
1919 - The Weimar Republic adopted its constitution.
1970 - A trademark application for the word "spork" was published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
1987 - Alan Greenspan (pictured) became Chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve.
1993 - Billy Arrigo Born

We have a rising star in the family

Fri, 11 Aug 2006 19:30:25 GMT

While on the subject of Billy.

He won an award for his inaugural Knox Rugby Union season.

He scored the "Most Improved Player" for all of the U13 teams. That's so cool!

A momentous occassion.

The first Arrigo to win a sports award that wasn't just for turning up and playing each week.

Happy Birthday Billy : 13 Today

Fri, 11 Aug 2006 19:11:48 GMT

My Big Boy Billy turns 13 today.

Happy Birthday and welcome to the teenage years

Census Night Tonight

Wed, 09 Aug 2006 04:50:59 GMT

Tonight is Census Night!

I wanted to complete the eCensus, but I was over-ruled by my wife who likes it 'old school'.

We sat around the table and filled in the form.

Most of the questions were fine and I tried really hard to not muck about with my answers.

However, I couldn't resist the following.

Q38 - Evangelism Manager
Q39 - Manage a Team of Evangelists

LOL - I wonder if ABS has a taxonomy for that!

Brice's withdrawl from school letter

Tue, 08 Aug 2006 17:39:25 GMT

This is the letter we sent to Brice's old school

8th August 2006

Mr Fulcher
Principle
St Ives North Primary School
Memorial Ave
St Ives, NSW 2075

Dear Mr Fulcher:

We wish to advise you that we have withdrawn Brice Arrigo from St Ives North Primary School. Brice was not coping with the playground life at the school and we felt that he was not suited to such a large school. We have moved him to Wahroonga Preparatory School which is a much smaller school with only 150 children attending.

We would like to thank Miss Munro for her support and help throughout this year, we have appreciated her commitment to Brice’s education and he will miss her deeply.

Brice’s last day at St Ives North was Friday, 4 August 2006.

Yours sincerely,

Frank & Moira Arrigo

What we are saying without saying it, was that Brice was bullied at school. He was picked on because he was different. He stuck out and the kids picked on him and the school let it happen. This happened to Rigo as well, and we put up with it. Well, this time, we did something.

It is a sad end to a 10 year association at the school, but bullying is rife in primary schools and no amount of rhetoric by principals and teachers are going to stop it. It starts at home. If there is intolerance at home, it comes to the school - simple as that.

Brice's first day

Mon, 07 Aug 2006 23:35:28 GMT

Moira and I took Brice to his new school - Wahroonga Prep School - today.

I think he was happy

Ram Raid - St Ives

Mon, 07 Aug 2006 05:02:49 GMT

There's was a bit of an incident at our local shops this weekend.

What's going on in my sleepy suburb?

First we had the drug bust and now we have this ram raid!

What's next??

Police investigate Ram Raid - St Ives
NSW Police Online, Australia - 4 Aug 2006
Police are investigating a ram raid incident at St Ives in Sydney’s north this morning. About 4.50am today (Saturday 5 August ...
Ram-raiders target mall Melbourne Herald Sun
all 8 related »

Brice is going to a new school.

Mon, 07 Aug 2006 02:10:17 GMT

Bricey starts a new school this week.

He wont be going to St Ives North Primary School anymore. This ends our 10 year association with the school.

He starts at Wahroonga Prep School on Monday, and he is really excited. We are too. It's nice to see him enthusiastic about going to school.

Æon Flux - Better than Expected

Sun, 06 Aug 2006 04:54:05 GMT

Rigo convinced us to get Æon Flux on DVD.

You know, it's not a bad movie.

Kinda like a cross between Dr Who and Star Trek TNG - a cerebral science fiction action film.

Or maybe we're just suckers for Charlize Theron in spandex.

Boston Legal and the lawyer with Asperger's Syndrome

Wed, 02 Aug 2006 04:23:29 GMT

So I was watching Boston Legal on the telly last night (don't ask) and the particular episode had a story line with a lawyer who has been diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome.

Turns out it's a recurring character with an ongoing story line.

Jerry 'Hands' Espenson (Christian Clemenson) - a brilliant lawyer with Asperger's syndrome who earned his nickname by constantly placing his hands on his thighs. He was so irate over missing out on partner status that he pulled a knife on Shirley Schmidt, only backing down when Alan Shore agreed to be his lawyer. Shore convinced Schmidt to drop any charges against Jerry when his condition became known. He is currently working on his own, having left the firm after the incident.

Autism continues to move into the mainstream

BTW Boston Legal is a pretty good show. Anything with William Shantner is just pure gold.

Mozart and the Whale

Tue, 01 Aug 2006 04:19:51 GMT

We heard about Mozart and the Whale a while back and have been waiting for the movie.

It is the story of two people with Asperger's syndrome whose emotional dysfunction impacts their relationship.

Sounds good, and as parents of a child with Asperger's syndrome, we''ve been keen to see it

It didn't make it to the cinemas here in Australia and I had been watching Amazon for it's release.

Moira tracked it down to JB Hi-Fi today and we finally got it today.

We'll be watching it later this week.

And don't forget the program on SBS INSIGHT : Understanding Autism next week. Big week for autism awareness.

Cartesian Painting with Cabbage 2000

Mon, 31 Jul 2006 03:45:51 GMT

The exhibition opened and it was a full house.

Christopher Beaumont
Cartesian Painting with Cabbage 2000
Oil on linen
152 x 183cm
AUD$8,000

Eva Breuer Art Dealer - 83 Moncur Street, Woollahra NSW 2025

The 2006 Census is coming

Mon, 31 Jul 2006 03:33:08 GMT

We had an unexpected visitor today. It was the dude delivering the census forms.

Tuesday August 8st is Census night. woohoo!!!! And this year, it can be completed online, thanks to eCensus. w00t++ . I wonder how many Jedis live in Australia?

The 2006 Census is coming...

The Census aims to take a "snapshot" of Australia every five years - collecting vital information on the social, economic and housing characteristics of Australian society.

A successful Census provides benefits to all Australians and the communities they live in.

To find out more about the 2006 Census; why we have one, what you have to do and how the information is used - start here with What you need to know

There are links to Census Data from 2001 and 1996, Census Products, or Census Reference and Information.

If you have a question about the Census, check out the Available Assistance

Hope those Russian hackers stay away from the ABS

High School Musical : Grease for the Tweenies

Sun, 30 Jul 2006 03:31:25 GMT

For Tweenies, Disney's High School Musical is the new hotness.

As the parent of a Tween, High School Musical is on high rotation at our place. And the High School Musical Soundtrack is the only CD in the family car when we all head out together.

Haven't heard of High School Musical? Well this thing is big and it's going to get bigger.

Moira reckons it's going to be like Grease, and the story has parallels with that Travolta/Newton John classic - boy meets girl while on holodays, they then meet up at school but are from different gangs. There's songs and a happy ending.

High School Musical - it's the next big thing.

Still Life with Potatoes 2005

Sat, 29 Jul 2006 22:23:31 GMT

Today's the day!!!

See his other paintings @ Eva Breuer Art Dealer - 83 Moncur Street, Woollahra NSW 2025

Christopher Beaumont
Still Life with Potatoes 2005
Oil on linen
41 x 51cm
AUD$3,800

More on SBS: INSIGHT : Understanding Autism

Sat, 29 Jul 2006 04:33:58 GMT

Some more info about the upcoming program on SBS, which is to broadcast on TUESDAY 8st August at 7.30pm

INSIGHT – Understanding Autism

A staggering 100,000 Australian children are directly affected by autism and an even greater number of adults. The incidence has dramatically increased in the last decade and affects boys in three out of four cases. The traits include a lack of social skills, communication difficulties, and obsessive behaviour.

Often a diagnosis of autism is not given until the child is around two. Up until then families believe their child is normal – they reach all milestones like crawling, walking and first words. But then the child changes, leaving families shattered.

Many questions surround what has been dubbed the ‘silent epidemic’. Why is it on the increase? What causes autism? And is there a cure? Research is still in preliminary stages, and although a series of therapies have been tried – all of them are costly and controversial. Some families have been forced to shell out their life savings, sell their family home and dig into their superannuation, to fund these treatments.

And what happens to these children when they become adults? What sort of life can they expect to lead?

INSIGHT brings together desperate families searching for answers, autistic adults who can reflect on their struggle as well as leading experts and researchers.

“Understanding Autism” will be broadcast on TUESDAY 8st August at 7.30pm on SBS.

Still Life with Grapes and Skull 2005

Fri, 28 Jul 2006 22:24:34 GMT

Another featured painting from the Chris Beaumont exhibition opening on Saturday.

Have a look at his other paintings @ Eva Breuer Art Dealer - 83 Moncur Street, Woollahra NSW 2025

Christopher Beaumont
Still Life with Grapes and Skull 2005
Oil on linen
41 x 51cm
AUD$3,800

SBS: INSIGHT – Understanding Autism

Fri, 28 Jul 2006 17:25:43 GMT

SBS has an interesting show coming up next week. As a parent of 2 children diagnosed with Autism, I'm going to be watching.

INSIGHT – Understanding Autism

A staggering 100,000 Australian children are directly affected by autism and an even greater number of adults. It has been dubbed the ‘silent epidemic’. Why is it on the increase? What causes autism? Is there a cure?
And why are some families pushed over the edge in trying to deal with it?
Jenny Brockie speaks to Daniela Dawes about what drove her to suffocate her ten year old son two years ago. Former Deputy Prime Minster Tim Fischer reflects on his life with his autistic son Harrison.

“Understanding Autism” will be broadcast on TUESDAY 1st August at 7.30pm on SBS.

BTW Moria reckons I am an undiagnosed one too.

Still Life with Chicken Stock 2006

Fri, 28 Jul 2006 17:07:21 GMT

A featured painting from the Chris Beaumont exhibition opening this week.

Christopher Beaumont
Still Life with Chicken Stock 2006
Oil on linen
76 x 84cm
AUD$5,600

Pandora's Cabinet 2005

Thu, 27 Jul 2006 23:17:23 GMT

Todays featured painting from the Chris Beaumont exhibition opening this week.

Christopher Beaumont
Pandora's Cabinet 2005
Oil on linen
76 x 84cm
AUD$5,600

His exhibition of his work opens in Sydney on Saturday 29th July 2006

Have a look at his other paintings @ Eva Breuer Art Dealer - 83 Moncur Street, Woollahra NSW 2025

Still Life with Quince, Artichoke and Ivy 2006

Wed, 26 Jul 2006 20:04:09 GMT

Another painting from the Chris Beaumont exhibition opening this week.

Christopher Beaumont
Still Life with Quince, Artichoke and Ivy 2006
Oil on linen
76 x 84cm
AUD$5,600

Still Life with Chillies and Eggplants

Tue, 25 Jul 2006 21:21:47 GMT

In the lead up to the Chris Beaumont exhibition opening this week, I thought I would feature a painting or two from the collection each day.

Christopher Beaumont
Still Life with Chillies and Eggplants 2005
Oil on linen
41 x 51cm
AUD$3,800

Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day!

Sat, 22 Jul 2006 01:15:37 GMT

The kids got together and bought their mum a Nintendo DS Lite and the Brain Age game

Haven't heard of Brain Age? Where have you been? Living under a rock???

Nintendo sent President Bush a DS Lite with Brain Age for his birthday! LOL

So, what are the kids telling their mother??

BTW -- This now takes the number of Nintendo DSs in our house to 5

My Latest Cock and Bull Story

Fri, 21 Jul 2006 17:10:48 GMT

On the weekend, Moira and I wanted to go to see the movie, "Tristram Shandy: A Cock and Bull Story" which we had heard about. It had a nice review in The SMH, and the gang from "At The Movies" said nice things about it too.

A rollicking adaptation of the classic 18th Century comic novel THE LIFE AND OPINIONS OF TRISTRAM SHANDY, GENTLEMAN, by Laurence Sterne. Set on a modern film set complete with insecure actors, scandal-hunting reporters and balky investors, the story folows the fortunes of one blood and one professional family, revealing the calamities, crises and flirtations that transcend the centuries...

Margaret: David:

But when we were checking movies times, it was no longer playing in the cinemas. What The??

So, I did what any self respecting geek consumer would do, I went over to Amazon and ordered it on DVD. It arrived yesterday.

The Long Tail Rules!

Oh, while I was at Amazon, I got a bunch of other DVDS, as one does.

My order consisted of:

Tyre Woes - A great start to the day

Thu, 20 Jul 2006 19:00:05 GMT

I was driving out of the garage this morning and 'Rigo noticed my rear left tyre was a little flat. So I went to the local servo and filled it with air. We drove off and the car wobbled and shook at bit. What The? Maybe I had over-inflated one tyre? I stopped at another servo and check the air pressure in all the tyres. Off we went again. Now it was shaking and rattling even more.

Panic sets in and I drive to the nearest tyre place I can find.

Luckily for me, they had no customers when I drove in and they looked at the car immediately.

Turns out there was a HUGE bubble on the tyre (which I couldn't see since it was on the underside of the car). This was a tyre blowout waiting to happen.

So, I waited for them to replace the tyre. $300 later, we're back on the road. Shakes have gone

And the good news, I got 'Rigo to school on time.

BTW - This isn't the first time

Christopher Beaumont ; Still Life Paintings 2006 in Sydney

Thu, 20 Jul 2006 06:45:55 GMT

My brother in law, the oh so talented Christopher Beaumont, has an exhibition of his work opening in Sydney on Saturday 29th July 2006

Have a look at his paintings @ Eva Breuer Art Dealer - 83 Moncur Street, Woollahra NSW 2025

Head over to www.chrisbeaumont.com for more details.

St Ives in the news for all the wrong reasons!

Wed, 19 Jul 2006 06:34:04 GMT

Moira called me at work this morning to tell me that there were lots of police cars in our local street, with news helicopters circling above.

Oh No! Has my use of µTorrent drawn some interest from the powers that be??

Not this time. My secret is safe

Turns out a local resident got raided and been arrested. I drive pass this house every day.

More news here .......

Pot bust a family affair
Sydney Morning Herald, Australia - 5 hours ago
... charged over a $2 million hydroponic marijuana setup across ... the drug squad and local police raided four ... in Cowan Road and Killeaton Street, St Ives, about 6.30 ...
Four arrested over hydro crop NEWS.com.au
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