Skins v5.0

SKINS

SKINS

SKINS

SKINS

SKINS

Yes, you are correct. Skins V5.0 is soon to arrive, and with it comes a flood of leaked information and trailers and such on the interwebs. If you know me, you may know that I am a big fan of the lads and ladies from Bristol. In the face of many negative comments on the cast for series 5,  I’m leaving my mind open for this one. Dark horse contender for best season yet? Hopeless epic fail? who knows.

Possibly feeding my love for skins is the fact my parents lived in Bristol for 2 years. This leads to many awkward situations when I watch my season 2 or 3 dvds, however. I lost track of the number of times mum would walk into the living room when there is a sex scene, drug deal, or drunk teens wandering a street only for her to stop, watch the x-rated scene, comment how she ‘remembers that part of bristol’ then walks off. Cool mum.

Anywhoo, heres the trailer:

And also (I don’t know if this is real, or fake. It looks legit, it probably is but i’ve been to lazy to check the E4 website) (don’t hate me cos i’m slack) this is the rumoured intro/opening. Not so sure about the song, it didn’t generate the same buzzzzzz that the themesongs of the first 4 season’s did.

Give it time, maybe.

Its set to be a hectic month. I need more money, thus I beg work for shifts, then I end up turning down half of them so I can go to parties and spend said money I don’t have. The plight of the teenager.

My car  (the TARDIS) is going well, considering my sister is learning to drive in it now. I cherish every trip in it now, because I can’t predict the day my sister and dad turns up with horrible news.

Bai.

One month, six days

Thats how long it is before I move to Hobart, and my oh my, I am KEEEEEN. I’m not saying that I hate Launceston, I love it dearly, but it prefer Hobart infinitely. Having the faculty of Fine Arts a 2 minute walk from salamanca, and having all my food cooked for me at college, meeting new people, and really getting into my graphics design course.

but im scared too, I dont want to leave all my amazing friends as they go to the other ends of the country.

Eh well. Merry christmas/new years period! I survived, just, and spent New Years with 16,000 of my closest friends, rocking out to Interpol and the Klaxons. Falls <3

I have a cold, and have so since before christmas. Eh. Night.

Berocca

Apparently I have to go into school tomorrow, for rehearsals or something. To make it clear, if I DO go in, which I will, it will to be to see my friends, and nothing more. I am done with school, and it is done with me.

I did some stupid things this weekend, annoyed some people, but I also had a good time. Life balances out, yin/yang.

Its 1:40 am and I need to be at school at 8:30. Ill get to sleep after this episode of Skins finishes. Berocca be my friend, help me through my dark, seedy and tired times.

Life is meh. 3 days.

Cheap but not nasty

I had haircut today.
I also bought four tshirts from Jay-Jays for thirty buckeroonies.
I am now entertaining myself by writing a new post, when realistically I should be studying for my psych exam, which is in EXACTLY a day and a half. But I’m not.
I’ve never really been one for exams, and especially not one for study. Formulas, write-learning, highlighting mountains of notes, these things arent for me. Lots of my friends relish the thought of doing maths or science for hours upon hours, and I say, good on them. But me personally? I prefer to learn by DOING, not by reading or writing. About a week ago i was trawling the internets, too busy not studying to study, when I found this quote on an obscure forum page somewhere;

A single conversation with a wise man is better than ten years of study. ~Chinese Proverb

Profound much? It struck a chord, because this is exactly the same oppinion I hold towards learning.
Maybe I could be a chinese philosopher one day?

And look like this guy:

Summer is nearly upon us…

… And so it was about time I updated my blog!

This is barely going to be even a lame excuse for a post, its more an excuse of an excuse for a post. Its like a psuedo-post (is that the right word?), a bit like the Inception of the blogging world: Its a post, but is it really?

I need to do more this summer. I’m not saying summers in the past have been pointless, far from it, it’s just that it would be awesome to start my adult life with a fresh batch of skills at hand. My list of things to do, in no particular order, are:

Post more blog updates, and get a few followers.

Learn to play a stringed instrument.
I’m thinking of staying away from the ‘oh-look-at-me-I’m-a-muso’ guitar, or the ‘I’m-barely-an-instrument’ ukelele (I’m just being a bitch, these really are awesome instruments) and looking towards the banjo-ish zone. Maybe the sitar? Chances are these are all unrealistic (due to the fact I would need to purchase one and, you know, spend money) so I’ll probably turn back to the piano. Cos, you know, it actually IS a stringed instrument. But it would be awesome to be able to play an instrument I can carry. And sing along to at the same time. (sorry saxophone, you know I still love you.)

Get fitter.
This one is obvious: Uni = chicks. Bow-chika-wup-wow.
I really do crack myself up sometimes!

Learn to cook.

Spend more time outside.

Spend more time with my awesome friends.

Spend more time outside with my awesome friends.

Become a man.
12 days to go till I can cross this one off my list!

Film my zombie movie with Tom.

On the topic of zombie movie, we have the intro credits-slash-teaser trailer up on youtube. I can claim no rights in the production of this part of the film at least, It was made by my very talented co-director/actor/producer Tom Adams. Might I add, it sounds better with headphones.

Adios, untill my next *regular* post!

Trolololol, you’ve been SuckerPunch’d

So for this week’s (it seems to be becoming a weekly event, If that) post, I have decided I’ll post up a few video’s from youtube. If you have looked at my blog in it’s entirety, you would know I have a habit of posting these things.

Before I start though, in other news…

Facebook is used by an estimated 8% of the world’s population.

A recent study (by dr Karl (carl?) no less,) has suggested T-Rex’s had feathers (gay T-rex’s?)

And lastly, a bus which actually rides OVER THE TOP OF traffic is being developed. Check it out, it’s crazy! http://www.news.com.au/technology/take-the-high-road-with-fast-bus-of-the-future/story-e6frfro0-1225901245953

Anyway, onto the first of two video’s. I’m sure many people know the Trololol man, the guy who wrote a song in soviet russia back in the 60′s only to have all the words censored. Anyway, A friend of mine recently sent me a remixed version, check it out. I dare you to not bop along, its impossible!

The second video is of an AMAZING movie trailer that I saw on IGN. Does it not make you jizz your pants? Keep the tissues handy, fanboys. (Sorry, ladies, for my vulgarity. Just watch the video and It will be justified.)

Ross, signing out.

Liquor of Choice

It’s a funny name, I agree. But it struck a chord in me. How often these days does one go out on a weekend, call up a few mates, down a bottle of vodka, get in a fight, wind up in a gutter. All in the name of a good time?

Writing is a dying art. I have taken up the pen (or in my case, computed keys), and it has given my unmeasured enjoyment. Who would have though that stimulating the brain with words could (sometimes) be more fun than dulling it with alcohol?

Think on it, write a little.

I confess…

I confess, I’m a bit of a softie. But only some times. Well, once a year, if that. The charms of sitting at the computer on a chilly sunday evening, sipping hot chocolate, heat pumps blasting and listening to some Foals (the band, not the baby horse,) do not escape me. I’m even wearing an over-sized sweater.

Wait, what?

Yes, I confess even I am in possession of an oversized sweater. However, the way I came about this is an interesting story.  Actually, thats a lie. The truth is I bought 2 large sweaters at Just Jeans for $50 bucks, and one large was larger than the other large, which is actually normal sized. And has a cool check pattern. Go figure.

In another interesting turn of events, I have decided life isn’t all that bad (go figure). Today I returned my grandparents beat-up corolla to them, but on return home was given the keys to my mum’s old car, a 1999 honda CRV. Having ridden in this car for the better part of 11 years, it feels good to finally be in charge. Whilst only automatic, it does have a new sound system, meaning I can finally cruise around with my own music blasting. I went for an hour drive today, it was bliss. And my car, it’s blue. Very blue. I think i shall name it the Tardis, in honour of some other well known blue travelling device.

In a final note, I have decided to change my Blog’s name, if wordpress lets me. I’ll keep you updated.

Arrivederci, friends.

Ross’ list of sure-fire tips to assist in remaining alive.

If there is one thing I pride myself on, it would have to be my ability to adapt. I can easily go from a conversation with a jock to a conversation to a muso, and not break my mental stride. I put this down to an un-diagnosed case of split-personality syndrome. I also make more than my fair share of social blunders, yet always seem to recover… somehow. However, a (possibly fantasy) medical condition isn’t my only way of staying reasonably sane through all this. Being a teenager is hard. Here is how i survive.

1) You WILL get hurt, many a time. Take it like a man.

In other words, learn from your mistakes. I have, I’ve had my fair share of hurt, but I don’t let it get to me. One of my friends, Declan, I’m sure can back me up on this. He has been witness to 90% of my falls-from-graces, and he has seen me get back on my feet each time, albeit a bit worse for wear. However I just shrug it all off and get back in the game, although a bit of whinging about how hard lived you are never hurt anybody

2) Girls are confusing and do not work to a logical set of rules.

If you already know this, then you will know as well as I do there is no point trying to comprehend them. However, this will still not prevent you from falling for their arcane, mystical charms.

3) Just because somethign seems too good to be true, doesn’t mean it isn’t.

This isn’t to say that if an ad pops up on a website offering a billion dollars you should click on it. Don’t. It WILL be a virus, and you WILL hate yourself for allowing your computer to be infected. Greedy bastard. But what this is to say is, sometimes the golden oportunity does come along. If you think you have a good shot, go for it. Carpe Diem.

4) Play a sport. It’s healthy AND fun.

Obligatory health section. But really, I wouldn’t stop playing hockey for the world. (Captain of Boy’s Hockey, FTW). I suppose sailing is good to, but its hardly a sport, more a leisure activity.

5) Don’t get drunk every single weekend.

Many teenagers don’t realise this, but you DON’T need to get drunk to have a good time with friends. Nearly all of my favourite moments have been at friends places, sober, just having a chat over pizza and watching a movie or two. Try it some time, it’s really great

6) Fuck rumours.

If they are about you, you alone know if they are or aren’t true, and that’s all that matters. Who cares what other people think? I sure don’t.

7) Have a sense of humor.

Some may argue I don’t. Don’t believe them, it’s a trap, they don’t know what they are missing out on . I just feel my sense of humour encompasses all areas of comedy, from slap-stick to sarcasm, to bad-joke making. This also helps with being able to laugh at your own shortcomings, something which I am greatly thankful in my ability to do. I do also make my fair share of good calls, among all the shitty jokes and puns

It’s a bit of a list, but it’s how I live my life and it has served me well to date. If you want to agree, disagree, or maybe share your own list, feel free to leave a comment

Adios, for now

Park Benches

-This is a short story I wrote for my English writing class. The topic of the assignment was “Death”. please, I would appreciate any constructive suggestions, so please leave a comment!-

Park Benches

By Ross Blackwood

Walter had never been in this park before. He strolled for a while and deeply breathed in the cool autumn air. He found the way the November sun filtered through the leaves of the tall oak trees quite relaxing.  He smiled, life was good. After a while (a long while, he was in no need to rush things along) he came across a comfortable-looking green bench. He was about to sit down on the bench when he heard a voice to his right call out.

“Sir, Sir!”

He looked to see a grubby man dressed in overalls and clutching a paint tin running down the path towards him.

“’Scuse me sir, but that there bench your about to sit on, it’s got wet paint on it.” He pointed to a sign. “See?”

Walter stepped away from the wet seat and thanked him for the warning about the paint, before enquiring as to where a dry bench may be.

“Just over yonder, sir, just past that big tree there.”

He thanked the man one more time and headed towards the large tree. Rounding the trunk, Walter saw the bench. It was the same green as the other one, but the paint was beginning to fade. Unlike the other bench, this one had an occupant. A pretty young woman wearing a long brown winter jacket was sitting on the far end of the bench reading a book. He approached and she looked up. He asked if he could share the bench.

“Of course,” She replied, motioning for him to sit down, “Be my guest.”

He smiled and thanked her. She returned the smile. As she did, Walter could not help noticing the way her eyes glittered. He sat down at the other end of the bench. After he was seated comfortably he reached into the brown leather satchel bag he was carrying and pulled out a pencil and a recently bought book. The printed title on the front stated boldly ‘The Ultimate Crossword Book’. Underneath that, in smaller type, there was a sub heading: ‘Over 300 crosswords, never be bored again!’

“That looks interesting”

He looked up, it was the women who had spoken.

“The crossword book I mean.”

He nodded, and told her that he found crosswords a very relaxing way to spend a pleasant autumn afternoon. He then inquired as to what the book was that she was reading.

“Farenheit 451, it only came out this year. It’s my new favourite,” she replied, “It’s about… Oh bollocks, where are my manners!”

She extended her hand. “Melinda.”

Walter took her hand and shook it, introducing himself. He enquired about the plot of the novel she was reading, and so began an interesting and pleasant conversation that ran for the next few hours.

As it was beginning to turn dark Walter excused himself. He explained that he had to return home to get ready for work the next day.

“Oh, of course Walter.”

He wished Melinda farewell. He turned to leave and was setting down the path when she called out to him,

“Same time next week?”

He turned to her and nodded, smiling. Same time next week.

***

Walter walked through the rusty wrought iron gates into the park. It was a cold November day, on the cusp of winter. He pulled the collar of his old jacket up around his neck to warm himself from the harsh biting wind. He slowly limped down the path, walking under trees where the sunlight used to filter. There was no sun today, only overcast clouds. Eventually he came across a green bench and lowered himself down, arthritic bones creaking in protest. Just as he was comfortable a young man wearing overalls and listening to a music device shuffled past, texting on his mobile phone and carrying a paint can.

“Wet paint, mate.” He muttered, without even acknowledging the old man.

Walter cursed and stood up as quickly as he could manage. After a quick check he found there was now a dark green strip across the seat of his grey slacks. He called after the young man asking where another bench was, but he was not louder than the man’s music and was ignored. The man sighed, beginning down a path towards a large oak tree.

After a few very long and painful minutes Walter reached the tree. He rounded it slowly. When he did he found an old, faded green bench. He hobbled over and carefully sat down. He just sat for a while, his mind lost in a fog of memories. After a few minutes he came to. He reached into an old and beaten leather satchel bag he was carrying and pulled out a pencil and a book. The pencil was barely a stub and the book was was very warn, the pages well thumbed. The faded cover was barely legible, the heading meekly suggesting ‘The Ul   m te C  os w   d  ook’. He turned to the last page. On it was an empty crossword puzzle and a list of clues. The page was bookmarked with a small photo. He held the photo carefully, sadly admiring it. It was of a young man with a satchel bag kissing a young woman in a long brown coat. He carefully placed in into his pocket and began on the crossword.

Hours later Walter placed the pencil next to him on the bench and sighed deeply. He had finally finished the crossword, and consequently, the book. He was now so tired though, brain throbbing after all that thinking. A quick nap won’t hurt, he thought to himself as he closed his eyes.

***

Peter put the radio mouthpiece back into the socket and turned off the siren. He sighed and slowed the speed of the ambulance down to the limit. He turned to the paramedic in the passenger seat.

“We were too late, he’s gone.” He muttered dejectedly.

The paramedic, whose nametag stated “Alex” sighed. “Ah well. The girl who called in said he looked about eighty anyway, it’s not like he didn’t live a long life.”

Peter, who was now concentrating on guiding the ambulance through the empty streets, muttered something in reply.

“What was that mate?” Alex enquired.

“I said true.” He continued. “Poor woman though, the one who found him. I’d hate to go up to who I thought was an old guy having a nap on a bench, only for him to have a heart attack as soon as he saw you”

Alex pondered this silently. “Yeah.”

More silence.

“Apparently she said something about him recognising her and asking her name before he had the heart attack.”

“What did she say her name was? Out of curiosity.”

There was a brief break in the conversation as Peter pulled up the ambulance behind a police car which was parked on the road outside the old wrought iron gates. They got out, and went around to the back of the vehicle. Peter paused as he was about the open the door, “I think it was Matilda, or Melinda, or something.”

“Ok.”

They opened the door and pulled out the stretcher. A young woman was standing near the gate, being comforted by a policewoman, who had offered her a thermos of tea. Peter noticed the young woman was wearing a long brown coat. He was snapped out of it by Alex, who had sworn at the stretcher. He helped Alex un-jam the stretcher, then started wheeling it towards the gates.