Saturday, August 26, 2006

The Moose is Loose

We welcomed our newest house guest on Thursday night, Musstanser Tinauli from Islamabad. He is beginning his research work in our department at the University and needs a place to get settled and established for a week or so. After only one day, he's got his scholarship worked out, met with the Dean, bank account opened, cell phone activated and earned himself a new nickname... 'The Moose'. Although they don't have moose in his native Pakistan, he (says) he likes the name and went by it while doing graduate work in Malaysia. I am going to bet that in Malaysia, they didn't accompany the name with a cool hand gesture of palms open, thumbs on the temples to resemble moose antlers. That one is all me, baby. Please tell me it is not wrong to invite someone into your home for the sake of a humorous blog posting.

The Moose and I have been bouncing around Western civilization this weekend, checking out the Opera House and central business district. Went to a few bars to sample the best non-alcoholic drinks Sydney has to offer. Tonight, he's going to take us to school and teach us Badminton. The man packed four separate Badminton racquets, so he must be pretty good. I am hoping my experience at Sydney airport does not repeat itself, and that not all badminton players cut in line so arrogantly. All praises be to Allah, all y'alls.

posted by ncawthon at 5:41 PM

Monday, August 21, 2006

The End is Nigh!

Winter officially died last weekend. Two straight days of beach
weather brought the optimists out in all of us. Children running,
laughing, basking in the sun. Adults exercising with renewed vigor
and energy, determined to shake those winter pounds. Even a few
bikinis on the beach to complete the picture. We're looking forward
to really cranking the temperature up to the level where it is
uncomfortable to be inside. Sunglasses are at the ready, beach chairs
are being prepared and the umbrella has undergone stress testing.

posted by ncawthon at 4:39 PM