So it’s been about 6 weeks away from the family. I dearly miss Georgine and Audrey. Looking forward to seeing them in 3 days in Hong Kong! So what have I been up to this weekend? Well my weekend started Friday after a night out in Shoreditch for a work colleagues leaving do. This is what happened:
On Friday I chilled out with some of Georgine’s friends. But now the guy who is G’s friend’s to be husband is now my friend! Hehe. Cool guy. We had some okay Korean food at Oppa in Richmond. The real test of this place was bringing a Korean who knows his food. The verdict: Average to Below Average. I was just to lazy to go to Hmart and get the real deal! Next time my friend.
Saturday was Rugby day – England vs. Australia. The best game I’ve been to so far at Twickenham stadium. England wasn’t too strong in the first half but still managed to pull within 3 by the half. The Second half was a much stronger performance. Way to go England. One thought that came to mind (actually several) while watching the game was the differences in this game compared to what I’m used to growing up watching American sports.
1. The National Anthem – God Save the Queen. I’m gonna have to learn this one for the sake of my daughter. If and when I become a British citizen it will be quite a transition. I truly am appreciative of what Britain has offered to me in the last 5 years. And I’m glad to be able to contribute to the society and become part of the way of life here. Only by living some place can you truly discern the attitudes and philosophy of the people.
2. Noise. The respect for the kicker is quite simply amazing. In Rugby the fans are all asked to ‘Respect the Kicker’ and be silent when he attempts to kick a field goal. In American sports, that would never happen. The loudest and crudest fans will do anything to distract the opposing kicker. Just think basketball and when the player is taking a crucial free throw.
3. Half time entertainment. In the game of Rugby the half time show had a singer. But it wasn’t your Beyoncé type singer with her flashy clothes and hyped up dancers. There was this lovely lady singing what almost sounded like opera. It was been beautifully sung and we were all mesmerised by her range of tones. I think this is to help calm people down as they’ve been drinking all day since 11am when the pubs open. So I see why now. Imagine if they had an energetic show with lights, fireworks and dancers! The crowd would go nuts! So probably a safe bet, as most of the guys already have anger management issues.
4. Crowd control. I love how the streets will be completely shut down for cars and open to pedestrians to walk freely to the stadium. It’s like we are all going to the Mecca. Men, boys and some females all walk the 2 miles or so from whatever pub they were just in and maybe even stop at a pub along the way for another pint. Simply unique experience.
5. Beer. There is a 4 pint per person limit. I think in American sports it is 6. But the interesting thing is you can start buying drinks a at 11am (match doesn’t start until 2:30pm) and then shortly after the match is done you can continue to buy beer and hang out and enjoy the after match party. Very fun and exciting atmosphere. We skipped out this time as we needed to get back to the family.
Hers some pics:
Sunday. I can proudly and happily say that I’ve been to Mass every Sunday since G and Audrey left for Hong Kong. I help and collect the money so have a sense of duty to be there. Plus I do enjoy the solemness of the Mass which is a good time to reflect on my weekend / weekday debauchery. Good times!
