Weekend recap

I've recently bought a 365 book from Kikki.K (Every time I'm in that store I think of Eleanor now) and I've been surprisingly good at keeping up with it. I think I'm 12 days strong. Since I'm so committed there, and because it's mainly for secrets and feelings... I thought I'd try the blogging regularly thing again. Trying to post a snippet of my life every day, just because, so I can share with others and my future self.

So here's the first. My weekend. Was busy. And awesome. Busy awesome crazy fun.

Friday night I went to DJ's 21st at The Breakwater. It was so damn fun there was no time for photos. It was great to catch up with old friends and celebrate a great friend's birthday. Seriously, this guy. He helped me move my bed into my parent's house on his birthday. I had no idea until we were in the van driving down that morning that he was willing to give up 3 hours of his day for little old me. I'm planning on getting him a slushy machine for his birthday when I find one that's adequate. I don't want one that just crushes ice if you have it on hand. Ridiculous. Anyway yes, back to the point. Highlight of the night was meeting one Miss Rachel Jones. We became fast friends with talk of old email addresses and our mutual love of Missy Higgins. We attempted a San Churro's trip around the 'block' but the lady behind the counter told us they were closed. Devastated as the door was open and we sprinted the last 10 metres when we saw it. Haha. I can't wait for more nights like this one with DJ & co. They all live right near me!

Saturday at work was a surprisingly good day. My boss knows I get down and overwhelmed on Saturday usually so he caught me early and told me to get my Monday on. $18,000 or something later, I couldn't believe how well that philosophy works. And yes, it's a little weird that Monday's are my favourite (and best sales) days at work. If I thought at the time the day couldn't get any better, I totally eat my own thoughts. Ha. Yeah, it's hot and I'm melting here, brain included.

Point being, LAST NIGHT WAS AMAZING. It was a 50s party for a lovely lady's 21st. That lovely lady was Karen. I didn't know Karen, but I did know Mark. And it was destiny that he should ask me to go along. (when I found out the theme I was hoping he would!) Here's the only photo I got of us (again, little photos, lots of fun!) Doesn't he look dapper?

I spent most of the evening on a couch talking to wonderful people about everything from reality tv to the legalisation of mary jane. And when I wasn't, I was stuffing my face with cider, boiled egg thingys and Karen's amazing little lemon meringuey things! :D Seriously scrummy. The end of the night left me with an overwhelming sense that this was all meant to happen; I never would have never met these wonderful people if things weren't as they were. And that is definitely making this easy for me, getting over the breakup. I also left Karen and Ben's house that night with a handful of new best friends. We're going to have copious amounts of dinner parties! I can see it now. Quote of the evening: "Ebony, you are definitely getting an invite to my party on your own, wait, Mark can be your +1" - Karen. I love this girl. And these goodies. The Retro Cookbook by Women's Weekly is number one on my xmas list.


So today, after a cramp-filled sleep (my stupid calf decided to seize up!) at Mark's house we went for breakfast at The Imp. Despite the fact the owner told me to take a copy of the menu home at my own risk (and something about breaking my face. Weird sense of humour. He said it with the straightest of faces!) it was freaking delightful. I got waffles with lavender syrup and a side of eggs (what can I say? I felt like savoury and sweet) and they were jaw-dropping good. After re-fuelling we took a walk to Crow Books and I picked up some Perth guides, 'Just My Type' by Simon Garfield and The Goddess Guide. Nothing like a good book hunt (totally inspired by Karen's library!)


I said goodbye to Mark and then drove home just in time to be picked up by my new friend Beau! Beau was my personal trainer at first, and lately we've been doing more eating than training together. We're gonna find a balance this upcoming week and get back into the gym :) Anyway, today we'd agreed that he was gonna surprise me with a day out. In the past I've told people I don't like surprises, when really they're my favourite. Was good to be able to finally say this to someone, and recieve one! We took the ferry from the city to South Perth and headed to the zoo! I'd never been to the zoo in Perth before. In fact I hadn't been to a zoo since I was 6 or 7, so it was the perfect day out.



We pottered about and saw the tiniest marsupials, gorgeous orangutans and an asian elephant going to the toilet. We had a lunch of quiche, chips, sushi and slushies in a clearing. We were disappointed that only kids were allowed on the carousel, (seriously, what gives) and before we knew nearly 4 hours had passed and our parking would have expired! We hopped back on the ferry and hallelujah! no ticket! Which put us in a high spirits again so we blasted Ball Park Music and drove to Hillarys Boat Harbour to finish the avo with San Churros sundaes! They will definitely be my treat of choice from now on. It was such a magical day; I have the best friends.



And yes that is some brand new style and colour I'm rocking lately. A change is as good as a holiday right? :) Well congrats if you got this far. I'm not sorry for the novel though, I had to gush it all before y short term memory fails me. Haha. It's really not that bad being 'Just Ebs'. In fact, I might change my blog name to reflect this new freedom. Thoughts?

Starting Now...

Today I was driving Rana's car to Claremont. Bopping along to Boys, Boys, Boys. Patting myself for getting 6 connects even though we had no new iPhones in stock. Thinking fondly of last night's festivities (upcoming post) and the great times I've had with amazing friends lately. And I realised something. I was doing this all on my own.

Sure, being single is more expensive; I spend a crap load on fuel getting to places and have almost gone over my cap already due to being so sociable. I also haven't settled into a routine of eating proper dinners yet, cooking for one blows. Especially after a long day at work. And living at my parent's place sucks when I go into pretty shops with Miss Carlie and I see cute housey things.
But man does it have it's advantages... being able to hang said amazing people and just a general sense of freedom. I seem to have so much more time on my hands in the mornings and I love pottering around enjoying my own company. I seem to always have a smile on my face and I have ME to thank for it. I'm making a lot more effort in everything.

I haven't cried due to feeling lost and trapped and not comfy with where I am in life since we split. That's not to say I haven't cried, because I miss Craig a lot. I miss the company and I miss that way of life; living in Vic Park so close to everything and the independence. But that feeling hasn't taken over since the start of the week so I'm on the right track :)
I am eternally grateful to the people that have helped with their words, advice, ears and company. I'm going to be ok. <3

A Rather Nice Day

I've been a regular customer at the dentist as of late. Wisdoms coming through, throat caning and caps coming off everywhere! This particular Saturday I really didn't feel like cruising into work and having to have my mouth constantly yapping. Ouch. Instead we slept in, took some Diflam (just me) and went to Ikea for a spot of lunch.

Meatballs, chips, quiche, 2 muffins, cheesecake, salad bowl, bread roll, sauce, iced coffee and a soft drink for less than $30? Bliss. We had a quick cruise around and then I was feeling rather sick again so it was nap time :)

Aaaand this is my boyfriend. He's a cutie. I'm smitten. We have fun.

ps. This album is amazing. We bought it from cdbaby.com and it got delivered in less than two weeks :) Obadiah's sound is very acoustic breakfast boppy. (John Mayer-ie with an edge.) That should be it's own genre. Craig and I both agreed if we owned a cafe this would be the number one played album. Plus the cover reminds me of Selise's blog. Happy times.

The Claw

As Hannah and I were on the hunt for a Cruella De'Vil wig earlier this evening we happened upon this. I think the photos speak for themselves.

No attendant. Just tinkly creepy music and a labyrinth of machines. Yeah. It claims you get free games until you win, after you spend $15 attempting which is pretty cool if you're into these games, but I definitely wouldn't go alone :p  It's amazing what you stumble upon when you're not looking.

Oh and we didn't come across a suitable wig.

City trekkin'

Yes I made it here ok! And although I've been by myself for a week because David had to go back to work, Perth has been fun. Meeting new people has been the highlight.


On Saturday I made a friend while walking... to Subiaco. From The Rydges. For those of you who aren't aware that's a 40 minute walk up hill. But I missed my bus and didn't wanna sit on my arse for an HOUR!? for the next one, so I decided to leg it. Boy, was I glad when I finally go to the top of Bargot Rd! As I was nearing my destination, I stepped into line behind a nice young chap named Ian and we got talking about his mate's Dad, (who's a geologist like my guy, hence the 'obscure' topic), his cool 6br house and flatmates that need to find a new one and how university isn't for everyone. We were having a lovely time but I didn't want to impose myself on his solo lunch date (although, maybe he wanted me too?) so when I saw the infamous Mr Sparrow shop I decided to ask him for lunch advice and we parted ways.  I do hope I see Ian again.


Now, I wanted to show you in the guts of this b-eautiful little knick-knack store (my favourite kind of store) but the owner wasn't there to ask permission so I had to soak up all the wonderfulness myself (I left my ph number to hopefully gain permission in the near future,) and try  to ignore the fact I was sweating something shocking.

So much for debuting my new vintage dress in style. When I wasn't worried about how I smelt (I don't think it was at all bad but you know how you get...) I was having to hold it down because the city is so damn windy. *sigh* Things aren't often all they're cracked up to be. Luckily, Mr Sparrow was better. It's so much more vibrant in person! Lots of yellow and green and hanging-from-the ceiling plants and even a running bath-filled water feature! I wanted near everything, but limited myself to some eggs pants for my boiled eggs and a few other bitties I can't share as they're xmas presents.


I sat down for lunch at Cafe Verro after a little wandering and meeting the lovely Isabelle of 'Lucy in Disguise' (charming little vintage shop with good quality and good prices, well worth a visit!) Quick service, gorgeous alfresco area and $15 got me this. I later realised Brie doesn't agree with me, (not much does at the moment,) but that still didn't take away from the amazing salmon and brie crepes I stomached. Ok it does a little, but it's not their fault.



After a few hours of exploring, (much of the time spent in bookshops, not much beats that new book smell) I decided it was time to plonk my bottom on a bus stop bench and patiently wait out for the next one to the cbd. But not before I stopped in at the New Norcia Bakery (conveniently placed right next to Mr Sparrow) and got myself a piece of banana and chocolate cake. I mean I deserved it after all that walking, right?


Boy was I glad to get back and just chill in the aircon. This is the view from my hotel window. Houses as far as I can see is a drastic change. I spent the afternoon peaking down at King Street watching not one, but two bridal parties getting photos... made me tear up a little. So much happening in the city.


So after all that, I am still alive, here's your after shot. Never again I tell ya... Ok, maybe again but in more appropriate attire :)

See you later!

After spending the day scrubbing the shower with CLR (legendary stuff!) we are almost ready to go. The removalists are coming tomorrow and we're gonna be busy bees cleaning the walls, doors and cupboards as they clear it out. Wish us good luck!

Next time we chat I won't be calling this place home anymore... I honestly didn't care up until tonight when it hit me, yep I cried a little. I mean, I've spent more than a 3rd of my life in this town of Tom Price and although the last 2 years without some of my best friends have been hard, this is the place I grew up. This is the place I finished school, learned my strengths and weaknesses and met the love of my life. We went to thai for our last supper and Lily the owner shouted me a drink. Is that gonna happen in the big ol city? 

So thanks Tom Price, for giving me some kick-arse teenage years and my family for putting up with me through them. Thanks to David for being in the right place at the right time. (Bec, thanks for dragging me down to Touch Football.) Thanks to Bev for putting her Cat's babies up for adoption, so we could have a family. Thanks to my boss for being more like my 3rd Dad. And thanks to the people who have kept me afloat up here, both rl and online. I couldn't have done it without you.

See you sometime around mid-December when our net is back on! :) You can always email me on ebby_brooke(at)hotmail(dot)com

Chain Necklace

Feeling funky fresh this week despite the RIDICULOUS heat. I won't miss this. Outside was unbearable, so Rhiannon and I decided to find a place to eat in... since I'm going to my all-time favourite Thai tonight and we went to The Coffee House on Monday, Chinese was the go. I'm not too fond of that place; it's loud asian waitress (who's always quite rude to me!), it's tacky decor and it's undercooked food... but today the company was divine and the food was actually half decent. For $13.00 you get a dish with rice and a 'free' can of soft drink. Decided to go out on a limb and get a Fanta. I couldn't remember the last time I had a can of this amazing orange stuff. Perfect for the cool weather. So yes, in case you didn't catch that, I enjoyed lunch.

The other point of this post is to show off my chain necklace. It was originally the chain on my favourite bag - but after it broke off (*sniff* was my own fault) I decided to hang onto it. This morning I decided to hang it around my neck. Still hoping I can finding the pieces to fix the bag though, it was my favourite.

Ok, the heat has gotten to me. I just rambled about my lunch and broken bag. Yeah, stellar post.

A Series of Actual Events!

Well that was a fun weekend. And yes I'm only posting about it now because yesterday was my first day back at work since Friday :) Considering I normally only get 1 1/2 day weekends, 3 days was an absolute luxury. And because it was David's last weekend in town before starting his 9 days away, 5 days home roster - we decided to try extra hard to make the most of every minute!

Friday night we had our first game of Touch Rugby for the season. We won! And David and I both got a try (not that it's unusual for him - he's a playmaker of sorts, so if he isn't scoring them he's the direct assist *sigh*) When we got home Armageddon was on tv. I'm a sucker for movies they make me cry... and even though we owned it on DVD we sat through 3/4 of the movie with the ad breaks until finally deciding to switch to the disc :p hahah



Saturday morning was my morning off and we decided to go out to our favourite dinnertime restaurant for brekkie, as we'd never been. David got the big breakfast and I got pancakes (with a special order of a hash brown on the side, I say special because it actually isn't on the menu... hehe!) which were delicious. The tea was awful hot because they just use ikea cups and it wasn't the best, but I am partial to T2 tea now ;)


After that we browsed all 5 shops that are downtown in Tom Price. Blockbuster were having an ex-rental sale but there was nothing special there. I did however pick up these gorgeous tea spoons by Robert Gordon which matched the set I already had (from my bday last year). Hello future tea parties!



Saturday evening I spent no less than 4 hours stressing about what I wanted to wear to Liza's 21st, before going with what I first had in mind anyway! I know, 4 hours is a little completely ridiculous... but it had been so long since I'd been out at night to an actual 'event' I was stressing majorly. I had forgotten what other people wore! Looking back at it, I already laugh.


After dancing the evening away, I opted to go home relatively early (we're still talking 2am) to my man. It's nice going out, but I can see why I don't do it all that often... there was a bit of a tiff between a girl and me after I asked her if she needed to be so rude after she spilt her own drink at the bar and had a go at the bar manager (who happens to be a close family friend) and just a bit of general cattiness. Beks and I were the only ladies I saw actually eating the cake. Girls hey?!



Sunday my feet hurt. I prided myself the night before on keeping my heels on all night at the party (I walked to and from in flats.. I'm not silly) but the next day I wasn't so sure. We headed out to Hamersley Gorge anyway... I decided I could deal. After almost going arse up with my camera bag 3 minutes after arriving, it was pretty smooth sailing. Cept we didn't get to swim in Spa pool because there was a tonne of people there.. people hey?! It was awesome getting out of the house though, nice change of scenery.


Even though we took my SLR down there, the last photo was taken by David on his Canon underwater camera and it was easily the best :p We've decided he's the scenery shooter, I'm the portrait taker.

Monday I took a well deserved sick day and we did some cleaning. After going to the local car boot sale early Sunday morning we decided we really should have taken part... It was great motivation to get all our unused stuff together... and I've asked a bunch of my gfs if they're interested in having a big joint yard sale.


And now it's Thursday morning and the boy left yesterday on his 9 away, 5 days home roster. I'm a little sad but am just gonna have to get used to it. He drives 2 hours each away to the minesite at the moment, when we move in 6 weeks (6 WEEKS! That's all!) he'll fly from Perth :) At least then we'll have fun stuff to do on our days together. It's all happening!